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Showing posts with label John 316 Marketing Network. Show all posts
Showing posts with label John 316 Marketing Network. Show all posts

Saturday, December 22, 2012

Shop 'Til You Drop, 40 FREE Kindle Books, After-Christmas Sale


I’m totally excited about the Shop ‘Til You Drop Books and More sale going on over at Body and Soul Publishing. Partly because my four Kindle books, Seventh Dimension – The Door, Children of Dreams, The Donkey and the King,  and How to Launch a Best-Selling Christian Book are all included in this free sale. Sale starts on December 26. I am one of forty authors participating, and the sale runs through December 28th, 2012. Readers can score over 40 FREE Christian books – AND one lucky reader will walk away with a $25 Amazon gift card.

Besides my books, bestselling authors such as Shelley Hitz, Staci Stallings, Heather Bixler, Krystal Kuehn, Marcia Laycock, William Burt, Amanda Stephan, Bob Saffrin, Grant Carroll, Carol Round, Martin Roth, Deborah H. Bateman, Roberto Ornan Roche, Carol Brown, Deborah McCarragher Pauline Creeden, Krystal Kuehn and Janet Perez Eckles are just a few of the names that readers will see on the books that are included in this sale. 

The books range from Christian romance to  fantasy novels, to international thrillers, to Bible study, to book marketing, and even children’s books. Readers can rack up savings of over of $140 on books during this sale. Make sure you check it out, especially if you received a new Kindle for Christmas at: 


While you’re there, don’t forget to enter to win the $25 gift card.

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Another Opportunity to Share My Passion for the John 316 Network

0 of 4 people found the following review helpful
2.0 out of 5 stars
How to self publish, April 20, 2012 
By A. Domanska "Coffee Addict" (Port Stephens, Australia) 
This review is from: How to Launch a Christian Best-Seller Book, The John 316 Marketing Network Manual (Kindle Edition) 

"If being successful using the print on demand medium and a network of enablers is your goal, you may get something out of this book."



Here is my response: 

Please note that most of the authors in our network are not published by Print on Demand but are traditionally published.
My books are published by Print on Demand, but I am in the minority rather than the majority. I chose to publish this way for a variety of reasons. But we don't make a distinction. The question I asked myself when I started the Network is does God really care how books are published? I mean, publishing is a man-made invention. Scripture was written by hand in letters to people, to churches, and others. Oftentimes, it becomes a source of pride if an author isn't careful. Again, we deliberately don't make a distinction.

Enablers -- yes we are definitely enablers. We are enabling the reader to have choices.
They are the gatekeepers now of what they want to read rather than it being determined by an overworked, oftentimes underpaid editor sitting at a slush pile. There is always gold in those slush piles, some gems that probably in the past missed being discovered. Limitations put on the editor by a publishing house and economics in the past dictated many of those decisions.

We are enabling Christian worldview books to have greater exposure.
We are enabling all Christian authors to help each other get their books rated higher as they compete against books that do not present a Christian worldview. One of the best ways to do that is through social networking and "enabling" Christian authors to connect. In so doing, we are spreading the Gospel to the reading world on many different levels, just as the church preaches it from the pulpit, just as missionaries share the Gospel on the missionary field. We do it with our "pen."

 As is stated in the Bible, "They will know we are Christians by our love." We fight a spiritual war and the best way to win that battle is through love. Thanks for your review. I always look at the lowest review of any book as it tends sometimes to say more about the value of a book and the reviewer than any of the five-star reviews. You have given me another opportunity to share my passion for the John 316 Marketing Network.

Sunday, November 27, 2011

John 3:16 Network to Release Taste and See First Chapters Book Soon

A new book by the John 3:16 Marketing Network will showcase the work of 58 authors who have banded together to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ through their writing talents. Slated for release in early December, Taste and See, a Sampling of First Chapters by John 3:16 Marketing Network Authors, will be available in various ebook formats.

"I am excited to offer this book completely free through the Christmas holidays," says Lorilyn Roberts, the network's founder, who is editing the book. "I had no idea initially if anyone would be interested or if publishers would let us reprint a first chapter, but the response has been overwhelmingly positive."

"After the first of the year, people will need to sign up for the John 3:16 ezine to get Taste and See for free, but until January 1, everyone can download as many copies as they want from Smashwords and other distribution sites, including Apple, Kindle, Nook, and Sony with a coupon."

Lorilyn started the John 3:16 Marketing Network, which is free to join, as a means of collaborating on book launches and other marketing endeavors. As of this writing, the network has grown to 150-plus members. In addition to launching books, the network offers book showcases, reciprocal blogging, monthly prayer meetings via teleconferences, a bulletin board, an active Facebook page, a site to post book reviews, and tutorials for some of the more technical aspects of marketing. Lorilyn has also written a book, How to Launch a Christian Best-Seller Book, to help authors reach best-seller status on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. A storefront is run in affiliation with the New Christian Books Magazine, operated by network member Cheryl Rogers.

Taste and See, a Sampling of First Chapters, features fiction and non-fiction aimed at readers of all ages, plus a few surprises," says Lorilyn.

The John 3:16 Marketing Network plans to publish the Taste and See book annually to enable readers to enjoy new authors' books. "We write and publish a lot of books each year," Lorilyn adds. "I am sure we will have many new books to include in another sampling next year."

Again, the sample book will be free through the holidays; sales links to the full works are included. Taste and See will retail for $3.99 at Smashwords.com after the holiday promotion. It will continue to be free after the new year if you sign up for the John 3:16 ezine.

Distribution is planned through Smashwords.com and its retail network, the John 3:16 Marketing Network website and blog, New Christian Books Online Store, and network member blogs and websites.

The book's cover features mini book covers submitted by authors, in a collage format. "My goal was to showcase all the authors and their books in a visually pleasing way," says Rogers, who designed the cover and assisted with the book's formatting. Rogers, who has authored a number of books aimed at Christians of all ages, publishes New Christian Books Online Magazine as a free service to Christian readers and writers.

Monday, October 17, 2011

Subject: Press Release for "Lonely Hearts" by Amanda Stephan

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Press Release for the John 3:16 Marketing Network
For Immediate Release
John 3:16 Marketing Network Book Launch
Tuesday, November 1,  2011
Amazon 
Lonely Hearts
by
Amanda Stephan
Lonely Hearts
by Amanda StephanLonely Hearts 

One lonely mother. Two matchmaking kids. Three eligible bachelors, and some very yummy apple pie. 

When widow Becky Callis moves to a new town, she thought it would be easier to start over in a place where she's not reminded of her dead husband. Her kids, on the other hand, take it as a chance to help their mother start over romantically. The only problem is, there seems to be quite a few eligible bachelors they can choose from.They soon realize it's easier to find someone to like their mother than it is to figure out which man is best for her.  
Even though this handsome cowboy is younger than Becky, Scott makes his interest plain and starts courting her almost immediately to the delight of both kids. 

Jack and Becky have been friends since childhood. When they're reunited years after their lives have taken very different paths, this lonely preacher begins to wonder if God has brought her back into his life for a reason.  

Pearce Morgan is a single parent raising his young daughter when his wife deserts them soon after Emily's birth. Divorced and disillusioned, an unlikely friendship arises between him and Becky when his shy daughter decides she loves Becky and her kids. True love is harder than it looks. 

Lonely Hearts, a story of second chances, choices, and yummy apple pie will be released in October through TreasureLine Publishing. Exclusive Apple Pie recipe included!





What Others Are Saying


Lonely Hearts ... tugged at my heart and made me laugh and cry
~ Ursula Gorman, Author of Old Acquaintances

 
Author Amanda Stephan does it again! She has a wonderful way of weaving faith in the Lord, everyday life, heartache and romance into terrific stories ~ Kelly Hagen, author of Jake & Jesus

 
Beautifully written story about second chances at love and life. The characters were genuine and seemed real to life. I was captivated at page one of the book, and read it in only one day! I will recommend this book to my friends and family ~ Anastasia@www.artfire.com/users/mattscraftywife

I LOVED this story. From beginning to end it kept me totally enthralled and wondering how it would all work out. Loaded with zippy dialog and great characters made for a fun and very satisfying tale.
 I felt happy, sad, excited, angry, and frustrated. You know a story is good when it has that effect. The theme running though the story is "things may not always be as they appear." It's a great reminder that man looks on the outside but God looks at the heart. If you enjoy an easy-to-read, fun and entertaining story with a great message, I highly recommend Lonely Hearts.
~ Sherry Kuhn ~ Avid reader and Reviewer

This book will capture your heart and like Becky's kids, your heart will flip-flop as you embrace one bachelor and then the other for Becky. Who will win Becky's heart and how will the others handle her decision? This book is full of hope, anticipation, optimism, faith, and possibilities. If you have lost a love, this book will restore your faith that the possibility of true love has not withered as a flower in the hot summer sun. Amanda will capture your heart from the first page with this delightful story.
~ Theresa Franklin, author of Journey to Fulfillment

You'll find yourself nodding with delight at Becky's courageous reactions, cheering her on and sighing with her during her ups and downs of life. But even in the fresh humor that's sprinkled through her experiences, you'll admire her rare quality to uphold what's important. Although romance wasn't a priority, God's ways usher Becky to unforeseen encounters with what often is inevitable when you trust in God's lead, hold on to your convictions, and are deliciously surprised in the end. ~ Janet Perez Eckles, author of Amazon #1 bestselling, Simply Salsa: Dancing Without Fear at God's Fiesta, Judson Press, 2011

Just when I thought I had the story figured out, Ms. Stephan would throw in an unexpected twist, tossing a monkey wrench into her characters' lives--and a rather large monkey wrench near the end of the story. If you like romance, a touch of sweet humor, and characters who face life head-on, this is the perfect book to curl up with!
~ Karin Kaufman, author of The Witch Tree

 







  
Amanda Stephan 
Amanda Stephan is just a normal, everyday country girl. She resides near Columbia, TN with her husband and children, three cats, one dog, and multiple roosters that roost under their bedroom windows. She loves to laugh, have a good time, and read a good book.
 
Out of love for her family and God, she finds writing to be an opportunity to share God's love for others in a fun and entertaining way. Her first novel, The Price of Trust, was published in May of 2010, and her Slade series was just picked up by TreasureLine Publishing.

If you were to ask her to share one thing about herself that most people don't know, she'd have so many to choose from that she'd probably hesitate for a moment. Not quite a recluse, she's rather camera shy, doesn't like to be in the spotlight, and absolutely LOVES to have her feet tickled. But she would say her most interesting accomplishment is that she laughs like Scooby Doo.        




 
Purchase Lonely Hearts from Amazon.com on Tuesday, November 1st, and you can win a Nook (and many other free egifts). To learn more details, to go to Books by Amanda 




Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Why Should I Stay a Member of the John 316 Marketing Network After I Have Launched My Book? Part 6 of 6, John 3:16 Marketing Network


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Why Should I Stay a Member of the John 316 Marketing Network After I Have Launched My Book?
Part Six of Six
John 3:16 Marketing Network

By Lorilyn Roberts


Why Should I Stay A Member of the John 316 Marketing Network After I have Launched My Book? Everyone will ask themselves this question following a launch. A few have left, but most have stayed. Why? I think the following comment from Bernard Boulton, a member of the John 3:16 Marketing Network, will help to answer that question.


Last year was my first full year after I released my first novel in December 2009. My promotional plan was to sell thousands of books and the only way I knew to do this was to travel and organize events that people would come to and buy my book.

After visiting seven cities from February to November I decided that that was not the best way to promote my novel. I did sell 200 copies but the cost to travel left me far behind the profit ratio. I did have a lot of fun meeting different people but I didn't reach my objective.

At the leading of the Holy Spirit I took the month of December to look back over my year and devise a plan on how I would promote and sell books. The plan I produced was to seek education from those who could teach me how to increase my sales without increasing my travels in 2011. I asked the Holy Spirit to send me a teacher that could mentor me and teach me how to reach my goal for 2011. His answer to my prayer was Lorilyn Roberts and the John 3:16 Marketing Network, but I have received so much more, which is the way that God operates.

From the first I have loved the energy in this groupThe sense of purpose and the unity that is manifested here almost daily is life-giving. And to be connected to best-selling authors is phenomenal! I'm going to release my second book in a few months and I hope that I can be as successful using Lorilyn's program as the rest of you.

Right now I'm a little skeptical that it can work for me, and I'm frightened that it might. Sometime the smell of success gets to me like that. I can keep going but I'll stop now. I love all of you and I love being a part of this dynamic expression of genuine fellowship and partnership.

To God be the glory for sending Lorilyn for such a times as this.



Bernard Boulton - author


Tuesday, May 24, will be our LAUNCH DAY on the membership drive. If you summit your application to join at http://www.lorilynroberts.com/john_3_16_marketing_network.html

On Tuesday, May 24th, you will be able to download free e-gifts offered by some of our authors. The only requirements are: You believe in John 3:16 and you have a blog or website.

As part of the membership drive, our member authors are hosting a blog tour featuring eight of our John 3:16 Network authors.


Today we will meet three authors, Lorilyn Roberts, D. McCarragher, and JD Holiday.


Lorilyn Roberts is the founder of the John 3:16 Marketing Network and is the author of two books, The Donkey and the King and Children of Dreams.



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The Author Jeopardy Question to win Lorilyn's book Children of Dreams during the Facebook Event on Tuesday (today), May 24, 8-9pm, will come from this question:

                           


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Question: Where have you felt closest to God?

Lorilyn Roberts: I have scuba dived all over the world-the Red Sea, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Caribbean. Thirty minutes from my home in sunny Central Florida, dozens of cold, clear, springs bubble up and lure divers from all over the country to dive in the caves.


On many of these dives, particularly in the Red Sea, away from the noise and distractions of a busy life, I have been overcome with the immense beauty and vastness of the world beneath the ocean. On one particular night dive in the Florida Keys many years ago, my dive buddy and I were at about seventy-five feet, which is rather deep for a night dive.  We were diving off a shipwreck, and when I shone my underwater light on the rustic red side of a sunken boat, I discovered a brown caterpillar-like creature with tons of legs. He was edging his way along at a rather slow pace. I probably stunned him by the intrusion of my bright light in what was otherwise total blackness.



As I floated beside the ship and examined the peculiar worm, I wondered why, in the middle of the vast Atlanta Ocean, I would stumble upon this rather ugly creature.


Asking questions of seeming insignificance can lead to discussions with latent deeper meaning. Why did God create me? Are the things we stumble upon in life purely by chance?


I am convinced I am here for such a time as this (and so are you). The books we write bear witness to the lives God has given us, from comedy to romance to tragedy. We feel God's pleasure in the stories that touch us deeply, whether written by us or others. On that night dive way back long ago, when I was much younger and fitter, it is not surprising that God used a worm to reveal something about His nature-I have never forgotten it some twenty years later.


There is also a story in the Bible about a worm that God used in a powerful way. In the book of Jonah in the Old Testament, God sent Jonah to warn the people of the city of Nineveh to repent of their ways. After being eaten by the whale, Jonah traveled to the wicked city and did as God had asked him. But when God didn't destroy the city and spared the inhabitants, Jonah brooded over God's mercy to Israel's enemies. Then God supplied a plant to give Jonah shade as he sat angry in the hot noonday sun. The next day, however, God provided a worm to eat the plant.


Sometimes life seems like that. I can't figure it out. But diving into the depths of the ocean for me is like diving into the depths of God's love. I see His creativity in the world of worms, garden eels, and sea urchins; manta rays that glide over the sea wall, nurse sharks that hide under rocky ledges, and barracuda that amass in the hundreds. God's underwater paradise gives me hope that harmony with the world through Him is possible. I may not understand it all, but I don't have to. Perhaps God just wants me to enjoy the journey more and channel His creativity that I so much love into my soul.


As my kids get older, I look forward to once again putting on the weight belt, BC, tank, and octopus. I always enjoyed spitting into my face mask to clean it (after all, how many times in life is that acceptable behavior); and, of course, getting that last strand of hair out of the mask so as not to burn my eyes with seeping saltwater. I can't wait to push in that regulator button and hear the compressed air spew out (pretty important down there to be able to breathe) and I will waddle like a duck in all my gear to the back of the boat and wait my turn (imagining I look better than I feel with  the cumbersome tank on my back).


I will make sure I remember all those hand signals (the out-of-air one might come in handy) and, hopefully, heave off the back of the boat in a spectacular somersault. The rising bubbles as I sink and the sound of the regulator imitating my breathing will bring me back to my favorite pastime. I will be wooed once more to enjoy God's presence in a fabulous world of unparalleled beauty. And for a brief moment, nothing else will matter.


Our second author today that I want to introduce is Deborah McCarragher. I read Deborah's book, Mission Possiblewhich is full of Biblical insights on the value and holiness of marriage. At a time when traditional marriage is under attack, this book is refreshing and a welcomed reminder of how beautiful a Godly marriage is.


                                          

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The Author Jeopardy Question to win D. McCarragher book, Mission Possible,  during the Facebook Party on Tuesday, May 24, 8-9pm EST, will come from our discussion below:


Deborah's mission is to encourage women through Scripture to believe in God's Word, to transform their husbands by challenging women to minister to their spouses in a way that glorifies God. The author's candid approach makes this book an easy read, and compels the reader to join her in her quest to reach her husband for Christ. Alabaster Box Publishing's motto is: Books to stir your mind & stretch your Soul!


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Her primary goal is to share her personal testimony with others while bringing hope and practical help through her books.

Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to stand in the gap for your mate's soul. Mission Possible  is a powerful tool for any woman who is married to a man who does not share her passion for Jesus. It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for her spouse and their future together. You can influence your home for Christ even within a spiritually mismatched marriage.       


Question: What is your favorite book besides the Bible?

Deborah McCarragher: My favorite book is The Pilgrim's Progress  because when I was a new Christian, someone in my Sunday school class told me about the book and encouraged me to read it. I was fascinated by the story. I was intrigued by the allegorical meaning of the characters and their purpose in the overall plot of the book. Christian gave me a picture of perseverance in the face of difficulty and how life as a believer had struggles and triumphs. It revealed to me that we have Supernatural help available to us, and that the Word of God gave great strength and guidance. The Celestial City presented by John Bunyan as a serene and beautiful destination for the weary Christian has always given me hope and confidence to press on to my eternal home with persistence. And to behold my Savior Jesus will be the greatest gift I could receive.


Lorilyn: And I echo a great AMEN to that.

Our third and final author on this blog tour is JD Holiday. JD Holiday is the author and illustrator of two children's books: Janoose the Goosea beautifully illustrated children's picture book; and a chapter book for six to eight year olds, The Great Snowball Escape. A chapbook of her short stories, Trespasses, was published in 1994. JD has published many short stories in literary magazines and written numerous articles about creative writing. She is a member of The Society of Children's Writers and Illustrators, (SCBWI) and Small Publishers of North America, (SPAN.)


                                    

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Janoose the Goose likes life in the barnyard very much. She is there visiting her cousin, Molly Duck, and her baby, DeeDee. Her vacation is over and Janoose must go home because there are no job openings on the farm.

When her flight home arrives, the fox has begun a crime spree. Though the farm animals had a farm watch program once, they were no good at it! Janoose is the only one who can stop him.
                                    
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Read the question below and remember the answer for a chance to win a copy of this book. If you can type the fastest, you will surely win the book Janoose the Goose

Question: When did you meet your husband and how long have you been married?
JD Holiday: I've known my best friend and husband, Angelo since we were 15 and 16 years old. We are married 41 years.
This concludes our blog tour-be sure to go to Facebook tonight for our Facebook Event (May 24, 8-9pm EST).  You will have an opportunity to win eight free books. During that hour, we will have many members online to answer questions, and we will be offering some technical tips on how to do things that will help authors. These tutorials/tips will include:

How to upload a .jpeg to Facebook/blog

How to resize a .jpeg and load it Facebook/blog

How to copy and paste widgets on websites
How to set up a twitter account.

Knowing how to do these things will help you in your marketing efforts My sincere thanks to Amanda Stephan for putting these tutorials together.


For information on the John 3:16 Marketing Network and to submit an application to join, please visithttp://www.lorilynroberts.com/john_3_16_marketing_network.html.


Make sure you wait to Tuesday to submit an application to join so you can download several free eBooks.


My thanks to everyone who contributed in various ways to make this blog tour and Facebook Event possible. As with any endeavor, lots of people make things happen. The following authors below helped me to pull this off:




Below is a complete listing of all the articles and authors featured on the John 3:16 Marketing Network tour this week. The articles can be viewed at: http://lorilynroberts.blogspot.com.


Featured Author: Jay Miller
Featured Book: Sal and Sally
Featured Author: Sherrill Cannon
Featured Book:  The Magic Word

Featured Article: Are There Secret Formulas or Short Cuts for Making the Best-Seller List on Amazon-Part One of Six on the John 3:16 Marketing Network
Featured Author: Dr. Ray W. Lincoln
Featured Book: InnerkineticsTM
Featured Article: 
What it Takes to Have a Winning Team-Part Two of Six, John 3:16 Marketing Network
Featured Author: Dr. Robert McGinnis
Featured BookParadise is Where You Find it
Featured Article: Roaches That Eat Your Best-Seller Dreams-Part Three of Six, 
John 3:16 Marketing Network 
Featured Author:  Elaine Marie Cooper
Featured Book: The Road to Deer Run

Featured Article: What is a Book Launch Anyway-and Slowly, Please, I am New at All of This - Part Four, John 3:16 Marketing Network

Featured Author: Lynn Dove
Featured Book: Shoot the Wounded


Featured Article: 
Why Should I join the John 3:16 Marketing Network

Part Five of Six, John 3:16 Marketing Network


Featured Author: Lorilyn Roberts
Featured Book: Children of Dreams



Featured Author: Deborah McCarragher
Featured Book:  Mission Possible


Featured Author: JD Holliday
Featured Book: Janoose the Goose


Featured Article: Why Should I Stay A Member of the Network After I Launch My Book-Part Six of Six, John 3:16 Marketing Network

FINAL BIG EVENT

Tuesday Night, May 24, 8-9pm EST
Location: John 3:16 Facebook Fan Page at 
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Christian-Book-Launches-John-316-Marketing-Network/145412252147289Featured event: learn marketing tips, win free books, meet some John 3:16 Authors, ask questions, join the John 3:16 Network and download fee e-gifts!

Final comments from Lorilyn Roberts
In the John 3:16 Marketing Network, we share our thoughts, insights, knowledge, blogs, successes, prayer requests, and dreams. What started out as a way for authors to launch books has become so much more. I am not sure where God will take it, but I am trusting Him for the future. As I love to say, the best is yet to come!

To visit our information page and submit an application go to:

http://www.lorilynroberts.com/john_3_16_marketing_network.html
Last day to join for a long time will be Friday, May 27th.
DON'T FORGET THE FACEBOOK EVENT, Tuesday, May 24, 8-9pm, on the John 3:16 Marketing Network Facebook page.


Monday, May 23, 2011

What is a Book Launch Anyway-and Slowly, Please, I am New at All of This, Part 4 of 6, John 3:16 Marketing Network

Part Four
John 3:16 Marketing Network
By Lorilyn Roberts

A few years ago at the Florida Christian Writers Conference, I took Randy Ingermanson's marketing class. If you ever have an opportunity to do so, take advantage of it because he is thorough, honest, and entertaining. Now that's not something you can say about most physicists! At the time he was working on one of his many books and made the comment that his goal was to hit number one on Amazon when it was released.

Of course, being the newbie that I was, I didn't know exactly what he meant, but it sure sounded impressive. I had no idea how one would even begin to accomplish such a feat.

I have found many authors are pretty much like me when I took that marketing class. And while they may be on Facebook, they don't know how to use it very well (or how to make a fan page). Most groan when you mention Twitter, struggle with uploading a .jpeg, don't know how to resize one (you've seen those monstrosities that take up a whole blog page), don't know how to use widgets-the first time I heard the word, I thought it was a wizard-or make a video, use an URL shortener, or follow someone's blog (where is the button), or the importance of even having followers.

Authors know how to do one thing-they know how to write. That is what they are passionate about. I would also rather write than do marketing. I would pay someone to do it-except I am too poor. But I don't want to take my baby (my book) that I gave birth to and present it to another writer's conference and have no one look at it.

When an agent and an editor told me to "Come back and see me when you have a thousand on your opt-in list (I had twenty-six at the time), my thought was, you just wait. I was challenged to do something that two people at the conference made me feel like I couldn't do, and I wanted to prove them wrong.

I set about doing all the things writers do to begin marketing when they don't know what they are doing-except I had just taken Randy's marketing class, which ran for four days, and I learned A LOT.

And then the reality set in. Have you ever tried to get a thousand followers on an email opt-in list? Even though it's easier now than before with the growth of Facebook and Twitter, it still takes time and effort.

Recently I went into the hospital to have an outpatient procedure done (one of those rites of passage when you turn fifty). The pre-op stuff was a lot less fun than the actual procedure itself, but unless I did the pre-op, the doctor wouldn't have been able to see what he was looking for. It's the same with a book launch. You must do all the steps I have talked about up to this point in order to have a successful launch.

One of my goals with the John 3:16 Marketing Network has been to help authors who come into the network who can't do the above things. I am surprised at the number of authors who join who are still using a 54K dial-up modem. An author will be at a huge disadvantage if she doesn't upgrade to something faster. I can't imagine being handicapped to that degree and being successful at marketing, though anything is possible. But I would recommend a person have a cable modem or a fast connection, much faster than dial-up.

I was told when I took a class, "How to Launch a Best-Seller," that people would be more than willing to help. That has not been true for me. Most people never respond to my emails unless they know me personally. Getting reviews is not always easy (many don't know how when you ask them or are too intimidated to post anything on Amazon). Getting someone to read my book is hard (authors who like to read books and write reviews are already overcommitted, including myself). I have sent several copies of my book to people and never heard back from them. Sometimes I think those are the books that show up later  on Amazon for a bargain price that you don't get a cut of. I found it to be a lot harder to get partners than I ever thought it would be.

That is when the idea of the John 3:16 Marketing Network was born. If we had authors who were willing to come together and help each other, who understood the process and cared about others in the network, it would be a dream come true not only for me but for others as well. There are far too many authors like me with good books waiting to be read and no way to effectively market them.

Out of my need for a way, God laid it on my heart to form the John 3:16 Marketing Network for Christian authors. I thought about what impact we could have, changing the landscape of book marketing and publishing with sheer numbers and personal commitment, pushing Christian books higher in sales to best-seller status, and impacting what kids and adults read with a Christian worldview.

That leads to the question, "What is a book launch anyway?" A book launch is a 24-hour event. You tell everybody in your little world (or big world) about your incredible, awesome, one-of-a-kind book, and then you get all of those people to tell everybody in their little world (or big world) about your incredible, awesome, one-of-a-kind book-and, as a result of the amazing world of mass media, everybody will hear about your book, and able to receive all the unique, one-time free e-gifts that will be offered if  he buys your book on "launch day." The other key factor is all the sales must go to one specific location; i.e., Amazon. The book sales over that period will surge, enabling you to hit best-seller status in one or more categories. Again, to incentivize people to buy your book on your launch day, you offer free e-gifts that are immediately downloadable; but only on launch day. Then the e-gifts go away.

We have over 125 authors as of this writing in the John 3:16 Marketing Network. Some are beginners and some are pros, but we are all Christians. We are individuals blessed with the passion for writing.  We help each other with book launches, blog postings, book reviews, following each other on social networking sites, and on and on.

I am reminded of Hebrews 12:1 from the New Testament in the Bible: "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the AUTHOR and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."

One of our members, Amanda Stephan, is preparing some tutorials for the John 3:16 Marketing Network which will be available Tuesday night during the Facebook Event to be held on the John 3:16 Marketing Network page, 8-9pm EST (the tutorials are listed toward the end of this article).

We have marketing gurus who offer free advice on the forum. And I guarantee you, if there is some marketing opportunity out there that you have a question about; i.e., is it worth the money? Is this a good publishing company to use? Is this business venture a waste of my time? With the numbers we have now, somebody will know the answer, and the best answer is usually from someone who personally knows or has experience dealing with whatever it is you are asking about.

When the big day arrives, what happens? Your partners will send out Facebook and Twitter announcements. Those with big opt-in lists will announce your book to their subscribers. Some of your partners (friends) will feature you on their blog, host an interview by you or post some of your articles. Hopefully glowing reviews on Amazon and other sites will entice the public to push that "buy" button; and, you will have some fabulous bonus gifts for your buyers-free downloadable e-gifts available right after the buyer receives his confirmation email-available nowhere else!

What is a good launch? At the John 3:16 Marketing Network, we look at rankings. If we hit best-seller status in a category, we are thrilled. If our rankings get pretty low in terms of book sales, we are happy.

It's important to note. Whether you reach best-seller status or not, you are gaining exposure. Others are tweeting, Facebooking, and sharing your book with their social networking contacts. It's all about exposure. Oftentimes, people have to hear a name many times before it starts to register, "I need to watch that movie," or "I need to buy that book." We tell our authors not to get discouraged if you don't sell as many books as you had hoped. Remember, it's all about process, not outcome.

From Wednesday, May 18th through Tuesday, May 24th, we are hosting a membership launch featuring some of our members in a blog tour. Our Facebook party will include many events which you won't want to miss. Mark your calendar-Tuesday, May 24, 8-9pm EST, when you will have an opportunity to win eight free books. During that hour, we will have members online to answer your questions, and we will be offering tutorials on how to do some technical operations for internet marketing. These tutorials/tips will include:

  • 1. How to upload a .jpeg to Facebook/blog
  • 2. How to resize a .jpeg and load it Facebook/blog
  • 3. How to copy and paste widgets on websites
  • 4. How to set up a twitter account.

The information will be useful whether you apply to the John 3:16 Marketing Network or not.

In addition to an opportunity to win a minimum of eight free books, on Tuesday, May 24th, if you submit an application to join the John 3:16 Marketing Network , you will be able to download free e-gifts

For more information on the John 3:16 Marketing Network and to submit an application, please visit my website at Lorilyn Roberts.

Again, Tuesday, May 24, will be the membership launch day. If you summit your application on Tuesday, May 24th, you will be able to download free e-gifts offered by some of our authors.

Today on our Blog Tour we will meet Elaine Marie Cooper.

Elaine Marie Cooper grew up in Massachusetts but now lives in the Midwest with her husband Steve, her three dogs and one cat. She has two married sons and triplet grandbabies, who are often referred to (by her) as "the most beautiful grandbabies in the world." Elaine's only daughter Bethany passed away in 2003 from a brain tumor.
A retired registered nurse, Elaine has been a magazine freelance writer for many years, and is a regular contributor to a blog on the Midwest called The Barn Door (http://www.thebarndoor.net/) and a blog on Christian living called Reflections In Hindsight  (ReflectionsInHindsight.wordpress.com) 

She is also the author of "The Road to Deer Run" and has just completed the sequel "The Promise of Deer Run" which should be available by fall.

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Elaine's debut book, The Road to Deer Run, received the following awards:
Honorable Mention in the Romance category at the 2011 Los Angeles Book Festival Awards

Finalist in the Religious Fiction category at the 2011 Next Generation Indie Book Awards

Winner "Best Romantic Moment" in the Clash of the Titles contest, February 2011


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The Author Jeopardy Question to win Elaine's book, The Road to Deer Run  during the Facebook Party on Tuesday, May 24, 8-9pm EST, will come from our discussion below:

Question: Who has been the most influential person in helping you to achieve your dream as a successful author?

I would have to say my husband Steve has most influenced me as a writer. I have been interested in writing since I was a child, penning poems and prose and lyrics for songs. When I was a stay-at-home Mom with three little ones, I began creating poems about the craziness of motherhood.

Steve worked at a newspaper at the time and decided to ask if one of the sketch artists could illustrate the four-liners. One of the editors there saw my writing and asked Steve if I'd be interested in trying some feature freelancing. I was thrilled beyond words! Steve coached me on a few key points and once I got the drift, I took off writing. Soon I was given two feature columns a week. Just to prove I could do more on my own, I went to another newspaper and offered to freelance for them as well. I was soon interviewing, arranging for photo shoots, and typing my fingers off.

When we moved for Steve's job to Iowa, most of my writing went on hiatus. I worked at a hospital part time and went to nursing school to get my RN. For several years my pen lay dormant, until I went part time as a nurse and started freelancing again, this time for magazines.

Steve really became my cheerleader when I decided to write my first novel. Even after a long day at work, he would come home and edit my chapters as I went. He has been my supporter, coach, and wonderful friend through many hours of editing. While I give God the credit for any talent I may have, my mentor in technique has been my husband and I count him as my greatest earthly blessing.

Don't forget, during our Author Jeopardy Game, you will have an opportunity to win Tuesday night, The Road to Deer Run, May 24, 8-9pm EST during our Facebook party at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Christian-Book-Launches-John-316-Marketing-Network/145412252147289

Monday we will be featuring, Why Should I join the John 3:16 Marketing Network, Part Five, from the John 3:16 Marketing Network. Our guest author will be Lynn Dove  hosted by Elisa Maria Crites (on her website).

Wednesday, May 18
Location: Lorilyn Roberts Featured AuthorJay Miller
Featured Book: Sal and Sally
Featured Author: Sherrill Cannon
Featured Book:  The Magic Word
Featured Article: Are There Secret Formulas or Short Cuts for Making the Best-Seller List on Amazon-Part One of Six on the John 3:16 Marketing Network

Thursday, May 19
Location: Paulette Harper
Featured Author: Dr. Ray W. Lincoln
Featured Book: InnerkineticsTMFeatured Article: What it Takes to Have a Winning Team - Part Two of Six, John 3:16 Marketing Network

Friday, May 20
Location: JD Holiday 
Featured Author: Dr. Robert McGinnis
Featured Book: Paradise is Where You Find it
Featured Article: Roaches That Eat Your Best-Seller Dreams - Part Three of Six on the John 3:16 Marketing Network