Latest Entries »

Friday, March 12, 2010

INTERVIEW WITH DARREN HUMBY





Skipping Rocks Across The Pond
An Interview with Darren Humby

March 12 at 9:54am


Hello Darren, I'd like to thank you for giving me the chance to speak with you today.



I know you have a few things that you're working on I was hoping you could tell us a little bit about each one?


"Well I am currently working on a couple of new projects; the first though would be the redrafting and finalising the sequel to “To Walk Amongst Angels” but the two main new projects are a series of books based upon the world of angels with a vampire twist. The first book has been finished and is attracting interest with regards to publication. The second project which I am really excited about is a stand alone novel called “Known Unto God” which is set during the Great War in 1917."


When you start your day Darren do you already have an idea of which piece you'll be working on?


"Yes, I always end my writing day knowing exactly where I am going to continue. I end a writing session excited about the next part or on a cliffhanger; I enjoy writing, but this brings a little bit of personal excitement to the next day!"


How would you describe the setting around you when you write?


"When I began to write from a serious standpoint; I thought I should be writing in a quiet room; me, a table, paper and ink. But it drove me mad! I actually need a little chaos around me when I write, helps me focus. So I either have music on, or a film, or favourite setting of all would be comedy DVDs. In England there have been some really popular ‘sitcoms’ called Only Fools & Horses and Dad’s Army….these tend to be on all the time when I write. But if I am into a particular scene or setting I put on a piece of music which complements what is happening, this helps my creativity greatly."


In the four years that you've been writing what would you say has been your most gratifying experience?


"Two things to be honest. The first but not the most would be completing my first novel. I think one of the hardest things about writing is actually doing it and having the discipline to complete it, so many people have said to me how much they would love to write, have started a chapter, of a few but it never went any further than that. But, the most gratifying experience would be when I received a formal contract from Fullproof Publishing Inc. They are an independent publisher in America, and for someone to believe in your work so much that they are prepared to take a ‘risk’ and publish you is a very humbling experience."


You've got quite a talent for writing Angelic Fantasy Darren, I wonder if you could write any other genre (regardless if you feel you'd be terrible at it) What genre would you love to try and have a go at? Romance maybe? Could you see yourself writing a romantic novel?


"Absolutely! In fact I have started one. My comfort zone has always been writing about the world of angels, and immersing myself into theirs and my fantasy world. But I do believe that you have to at least try to broaden your horizons as a writer and try to work in a genre which does not come particularly easy top you. But, for me I think it is all about the story, if I come up with the foundations of one, start through to end, then I can take myself and the characters on the journey. My new project “Known Unto God” has not got one angel in it, so I suppose we shall see if I am able to actually write within another genre or not."


On your website in your biography you wrote and I quote "My fiction is based around the world of angels. Angels have been important to me in my life, whilst not being overtly religious or living my life to a strict doctrine; I am spiritual." May I ask you to elaborate on that for me?


"I am spiritual and believe in angels, I believe that we all have a guardian and that they accompany us on our life’s journey, but I am not religious. I believe most doctrine is completely man made and it just is not for me. That is not to say that I do not understand why it is important to a lot of people, but for me I just need my own personal inner belief."


Your newest book released "To Walk Amoungst Angels" has been doing well in the States. Is there any further update on it's release in Europe and the rest of the world?


“To Walk Amongst Angels” came out in the US in February, so I would imagine that it would come over to Europe/Worldwide in approx three to four months time. Still early days, the feedback so far has been extremely positive and now working very hard to get the word spread far and wide."


One might wonder what inspires you to write? {Might it be a particular author, person, you started writing four years ago what started you on your path as a writer?}


"Fell into it really. I was going through some tough personal issues and used the writing as a mode for relaxation and escape. It was purely a hobby with absolutely NO intention of getting anything published. But, friends and family were very persuasive, I sent the draft off to a critiquing company, awaited their response which was very positive and made me take note that maybe I could go on to do something with the written word. So, after some thought I decided to take it on very seriously and see where it would lead me. The results I could never have imagined, I have been very lucky."


When you're not writing Darren what might one find you doing?


"Well I am not a full time writer, I am a charge nurse and have been nursing now for many years. So that takes up a lot of my time, the when not writing I am researching for the writing. Especially with my new project."


What do you do to relax?


"Relaxing is very important to me. I play a lot of golf, madly trying to get my handicap down into single figures. I enjoy time with my partner and we travel quite a bit. I enjoy cooking, and reading of course, music is a great source of inspiration; not sure I could ever live without my ipod touch! For me though the writing is a massive source of relaxation! "


That was Darren Humby from the United Kingdom.

w.s.scotti


When I first thought about doing the interview with Darren my mind went wild in thought... here I could ask him anything and I wanted to not only ask the mundane questions but ones that would give you an idea of the man on the back cover of the books. Darren may have fell into writing like I fell into promoting but one thing is certain we are both enjoying very much the career paths we have fallen into. Not only does he enjoy writing but from my own personal opinion I find Darren to be not only a TALENTED NEW AUTHOR across the way but a new inspiration a "BECKON" for those trying to have the dream that he is dreaming.


You can find Darren's books on http://www.amazon.com/ . This is one new author you'll want to keep tabs on because he will certainly be published again and again. Be sure to check out his website http://www.darrenhumby.com/ where you may feel free to leave him a message. Darren enjoys hearing from his readers.



New Cover "To Walk Amoungst Angels"






Hello everyone, I just received a new update from Darren and I couldn't wait to share it with you....


Darren Humby "New cover to the book can now be seen on amazon.com, will update the website today."
http://www.darrenhumby.com/



Well here it is...



You can see from previous posts what the other covered looked like for the book. Darren recently posted this update last week when he announced the cover was to be changed.





Posted March 1 2010


Darren Humby "The cover to my book is changing making the current book on sale a potential massive collectors item, which could be worth a considerable sum! Get a copy now on www.amazon.com and tell all. "


This is great for me because now I have one of each! The first order I placed had the old cover on it later I turned around after hearing the news of the cover change and placed a new order for two more books. Yes two..I decide I wanted to get one as a gift. So now I have TWO of Darren's book "To Walk Amounst Angels" with each book cover.

BE SURE TO GET YOURS TODAY!!!!

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Publishers Want To Know You Have Promoting Ideas



The past few days I've realized a lot of writers don't know how to promote their work or even where to start. I've been researching a lot of discussion forms and find the same questions asked again and again. Do I need an agent? How do I get my book noticed? Start by believing in You and by all means social media network til your heart is content...Agents and Publishers want to know you have promoting ideas and are willing to work hard for your success. Network with other writers join discussion forums. I know you might find it hard but "Talk up your book like you just had the best sex ever."

Now don't laugh..I know that's funny but it's true! Agents and Publisher want you to feel passionate about your work. And if you're promoting it in everyway possible known to you they're going to take you serious.

Start by networking on sites like facebook and myspace. Join writing forums and discussion groups. If you haven't decided to start a website to showcase your work "THINK ABOUT IT". And by all means NETWORK get your links out there enjoy your fellow writes, let them enjoy you!

One thing you might find helpful is reporting local news. What? Yes, that's what I said. I love writing and what a better way to get your foot in the doctor than being seen and known for reporting news as it happens. LOCAL EXPOSURE..get your face seen and be known. I've reported a number of local stories and was interveiwed. I started to get known for it and people would call me with the news. YES LAUGH THAT'S FUNNY!!! I'd get a call from my mom saying so and so called her and they thought I should go catch it out and call it in. I'd reply "Can't they call it in?" I'd go check it out see the potential in the story and I'd call up the station or send them a quick e-mail. I'd get a call back and there it was on the news that night.

What ever it is that gets you started in the right direction use it, learn from it and keep going.

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

BOOK REVIEW BY W.S.SCOTTI




BOOK REVIEW:
TO WALK AMONGST ANGELS
Author Darren Humby
Yesterday at 10:15am


United Kingdon Author Darren Humby Seems To Be Making A Name For Himself In The States
March 8, 2010
By "w.s.scotti"

Amazon.com

Author Darren Humby's latest book "TO WALK AMONGST ANGELS" was no short coming to the rising authors talent. From the moment I opened the book his creative writing style was not only CAPTIVATING but carried an INTELLECTUAL INNOCENCE of angelic beings that sent me on a magical journey once again. Darren's books bridge the genernation gap being both suitable for young and old to read. Other Books published by Darren Humby: "The Vision of Aquinas" and "The Mark Of An Angel" As of March 7 2010 it was currently marked as unavailable on amazon be sure to check back! Certainly "A MUST HAVE TRILOGY COLLECTION" about the world of angels and a young boy named Cameron. Great for those who enjoy this particular genre of Angelic Fantasy. Darren Humby is an AUTHOR OF GROWING TALENT and UNIQUENESS. I look forward to supporting his written works and buying them for my own personal collections.

"IN A SEA OF AUTHORS.. AUTHOR DARREN HUMBY IS A RARE FIND"

Be sure to keep your eye on his site to see what he has in store of us next. http://www.darrenhumby.com/





--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Your Tags: darren humby, angelic fantasy, angels, young teen-fantasy
Tracking: You will receive e-mail when customers comment on your reviews

Promoting Darren Humby





Darren Humby
Author of Angelic Fantasy
Writing Industry


March 2010 – Present (1 month)

Wendy has decided and is very pleased with the decision to promote Author: Darren Humby from the United Kingdom. While promoting Darren, Wendy will be writing informative updates on his latest books coming out and giving a personal review on those she has read. Wendy will also be introducing Darren and his work to others in the Writing Industry and make the required connections for possible interviews and one on one contact with Darren.

Promoting Vaughan Adams



Vaughan Adams
Musician and Songwriter
Perth Australia
Music Industry


January 2009 – Present (1 year 3 months)

NOTE: I have enjoyed promoting Vaughan and his music. It was a great learning experience promoting a musician. I fully support Vaughan and wish him all the best in his success. I thank him for the oppurtunity he has given to me and I look forward to watching him grow as a musician.

Wendy writes the "Grace On Vaughan Blogs" keeping Vaughan's fans informed of his lates work coming out and writes about the Man, the Musician and the Music. She also manages Vaughan Adams Official Fan Site. While promoting Vaughan, Wendy introduces Vaughan and his music to others in the Music Industry and makes the required connections for interviews and one on one contact with Vaughan.

Monday, March 8, 2010

Promoting A Musician

It takes a lot of work promoting a musician not only did I get in contact with many people in the record business but I also wrote the blog on Vaughan's page "Grace On Vaughan" which kept his fans informed about his music and what he was up too.

Vaughan at one point had a very close relationship with his fans and as his music started taking off there were more demands for him to be in the studio. The blog helped bridge that transition period between Vaughan and his fans and built a more respectful following of Vaughan's music and himself.

It's important for a musician to draw the line clear for fans as to where staying in contact is welcomed but disrespectful comments are not. Everyone wants to hear "I LOVE YOUR MUSIC" but when you're called hun, babe, sweetness unless your single and not 100% ready to prove yourself as a professional those things are just not exceptable. If you want to be taken seriously the line needs to be drawn. And that was part of my job as I worked Vaughan's pages for him and the blog. I have to say it went over quite well once the fans knew Vaughan position and his determination to succeed in the music world the fans had no problem supporting him and the few that didn't well there's always a few in every bunch but those few disappeared making way for more supportive fans to emerge in their place.

Promoting a musician meant a lot of phone time and computer time. E-mails went out time and time again. Updates were constantly being posted and there were always new people to get in touch with. Yes, there were a lot of No's and there will always be a lot of people saying "No not interested" for one reason or another but the true promoter perseveres.

I have nothing but the deepest respect for Vaughan as a musician. He produces and edits his own work himself in his home studio. You have to remember a lot of musicians out there have five six people working everything for them and their just performing. It has been an honour and a learning experience and I wish Vaughan nothing but the best in his career.

How I Got Started Promoting

Vaughan Adams a musician from Perth Australia and I had known each other for sometime and we had been talking on the phone like we normally did on a daily bases. He was saying during one of our many conversations how frustrating it was not to have the time to keep in touch with his fans...that the music was requiring more and more of his time and he felt like he was letting the fans down.

I mentioned the idea of a blog being posted where he could briefly tell the fans what he's doing, the idea of a video blog and that he should even start thinking of a fan site. A few weeks later Vaughan asked me to do it!

We started up the "Grace On Vaughan" blog on his page which at this point is exclusively being posted on the fan site and that's really how it all started taking off.

I started the blog, put up the fan site, started getting into touch with labels, A&R personal, radio stations and talking to people about interviews. It was long hours and a lot of work ahead of me.