Mickie Sherwood!

Ana welcomes Mickie Sherwood, today's Friday Friend:

Where's Your Website?

You've just signed your first book contract. Your publisher lets you know that you need a web presence. A promo hook, if you will. Huh? A website? Yes, a website. So, now, what do you do?

You haven't had your first round of edits, yet. The first sale of your new novel is months away. But, still—you need a way to make the announcement to the world. After agonizing over it, you narrow down your options to two. Hire someone or put your own creativity to work. TIP: Either way, you make the best decision for you.

Because you want to flaunt your creativity, (or maybe due to a lack of disposable funds), you choose the DIY method. There is nothing wrong with that. I'm here to support your decision. Now, here comes the part where you put a lot of thought into just what that web presence will initially look like. I say initially because as your confidence in your newfound adventure of writing grows, your website needs will change. Until then, here's a place to start.

My suggestions:

1.     Choose a name for your site. Whether it's your author name or some catchy phrase is up to you.

2.     Whatever name you choose, register it with a domain name registration company.

3.     Now, explore the Internet for platforms best suited for your venture. Do you want to pay for a hosting company, and someone to build your site? Or will you take on the challenge and tackle the job?

4.     DIY website platforms are available—free. (Well, you should know. Actually, nothing is free. Read the Terms and Conditions, and all the other small print.)   :)

5.      I have tried the following three platforms and found them easy enough to navigate, even for a novice webmistress. (This list is in no particular order.)

A. Wix.com

B. Webs.com

C. Blogger.com

Should you choose the DIY route; the experience will give you another sense of accomplishment. I urge you to do your research. I, also, wish you great success.

Now, enjoy this snippet from my newest romantic release.

Cherished Moments

Tagline: Kissed, Loved, Lied, Left

Genre: Sweet Romantic Suspense

Price: $2.99

Blurb:

Senator Jordan Dupré is reluctant to revisit her past. That thought crumbles at the sight of Deacon Burke. His commanding presence and charming smile transports her back to her youth. Back then, she kissed, loved, lied, and left him—taking a life-changing secret with her.

Scorned by Jordan’s dishonesty, Deke swears he never wants to see her lying face again. However, his heart knows better, and he never stops thinking of her. When Jordan’s husband is killed, Deke is summoned to the Senator’s aid, by an unlikely source—Unfortunately, he brings a secret of his own.

Will secrets from their past reignite their cherished moments?

Scene: It's Deke to the rescue after Jordan's horrifying experience.

Excerpt:

…Even in the moonlight, his athleticism was obvious.

Her timing was impeccable. She flung the door open at the same time he approached it.

Bringing in a gust of wind, Deke threw his arms around her, locking out the world. Jordan doubted that any harm could come to her while wrapped in the security of his embrace. Hearing his heartbeat thunder, she snuggled deeper into his chest. Seemingly, of their own volition, her arm encircled his waist.

She stood perfectly still, basking in the feeling of contentment flowing throughout her.

"I was so worried about you.” In the darkness, he gazed into the shimmering light of her eyes. “I’m so glad you’re safe. I'm going to kiss you."

From the sounds of it, she knew Deke meant business. His was a declarative statement to which she had no objections. Her anticipation heightened. Breathy wisps of air caressed her skin, a prelude to his lips getting closer. At last, the jolt that started with the touch of his lips. The kiss intensified with the tilt of his head, and exploded into ecstasy over her body.

Buy links:

Topaz Publishing: http://www.topazpublishingllc.com/contemporary-romance.html

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/CHERISHED-MOMENTS-MICKIE-SHERWOOD-ebook/dp/B00JSWLXNY/

B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/cherished-moments-mickie-sherwood/1119365472?ean=2940149550272

Find me at:

http://www.mickiesherwood.com/blog

https://www.twitter.com/MickieSherwood

http://www.goodreads.com/Louisiana_Lady

http://www.blurbsinbloom.com

Bio:

Mickie Sherwood is an author and a novice photographer. Using her

backyard as the backdrop for her inspiration, she loves taking pictures of

nature. Her love of photography incites her creativity for writing. Spending

time with her family and cruise vacations, also stokes her imagination.

With all of her interest combined, fascinating characters and intriguing

circumstances can develop.

Mickie also enjoys a good laugh. Revel in the humorous stories she

shares about life, at her blog—Mickie's Mutterings.

Thanks, Ana, for this opportunity to introduce your visitors to my sweet romance.