Tuesday, May 2, 2017

67 Places to Find Writing Jobs Online in 2017

There are a lot of people looking for writing jobs online right now. Most people who are looking to build a career around working for themselves or working remotely are doing it. Hell, even I do it, as a freelancer myself.

But, for many, this can be the big sticking point. They know they want to write, but they don't know where to start.

And there's lots of conflicting advice out there. Read 10 sites and you'll probably get 10 different opinions. Yes to UpWork, NEVER to UpWork, don't use job boards, job boards are awesome…

And so on.

The thing about getting these jobs is there is no one good answer. Probably not what you want to hear, but it's true. What works for me, or Sean or Marco might not work for Stef or Julie or Pedro, and vice versa.

What I have found is that great pitches and persistence can pay off. (If you want some tips on improving your pitching, I recently wrote this post with tips.)

Sometimes the slow drum beat of consistency, keeping lots of irons in the fire, and luck can come into play just at the right time. But, being a good writer, with a good portfolio, and a great pitch is going to help. So never stop trying to improve those. In this post, we want to keep it simple. This is a list of sites you can use, right now, to find writing jobs online. So, if you've been struggling with where to find potential writing gigs, save this post.

Job Boards

You might hear people poo-pooing job boards. A lot of it is about due diligence. But there are some actual quality boards out there that tend to post good gigs more often than not, so that's what this list is for. I've personally gotten some very good long term clients off some of these sites. So they can work for you too.

  1. ProBlogger Job Board – You'll often find lots of higher profile sites on here looking for blogging content.

 

  • UpWork – You hear a lot of conflicting views about this site, but if you dig deep and work your pitch, you can find lots of potentials.

 

 

  • Blogging Pro Job Board – As with ProBlogger, you'll find lots of copy and content gigs here from more established brands.

 

 

  • We Work Remotely – This site has lots of jobs covering everything from writing to programming and web design.

 

 

  • Freelancer – Another big job board that covers everything from writing to app design, but specifically geared towards freelancers.

 

 

  • nDash – This site has a database of companies who are looking for writers, you pitch your ideas and go from there.

 

 

  • LinkedIn Profinder (US only) – I've been able to nab a few high paying quality clients off Profinder.

 

 

  • LinkedIn Jobs – Don't forget there's a job feature to LinkedIn, most are full-time but you can also apply and pitch yourself as a remote worker.

 

 

  • Contently – They don't have updates posted as frequently as some other sites, but Contently does typically feature higher paying writing jobs.

 

 

 

 

  • Creative Circle – You might think staffing brands can't help you find creative or writing jobs, not true with Creative Circle.

 

 

 

 

  • All Freelance Writing – Another smaller list of jobs but it's nice you can see the pay range of each right from the jump.

 

 

  • The Writer's Job Board – This site pulls in a number of flexible, remote, and part time writing jobs in a variety of fields.

 

 

  • HubStaff – HubStaff is relatively new, the brands are there with gigs and you submit your pitches, there is no bidding, and you set your rates.

 

 

 

Paid Sites

There are a few very good job boards out there that are protected behind a paywall. Some of these are strictly job boards while others are more like membership sites for writers that have job board perks. Typically, these will spend much more time curating high-quality posts, so you won't find a lot of bad jobs on here.

  1. Freelance Writer's Den – Carol Tice of Make a Living Writing runs this job board so you know it only has high-quality posts.

 

  • Freelance Success – The forum is the big feature here, but being a member includes a newsletter that features quality listings.

 

 

  • Travel Blog Success – This membership site and job board is geared towards travel writers so if that's your jam, check it out.

 

 

  • FlexJobs – You can search for free on FlexJobs but to get access to the good stuff, the paid feature provides a lot more information.

 

 

  • Contenta – Currently closed, but will be opening soon for new members again (ask to be put on the waiting list). It curates a bunch of writing jobs from all over the web.

 

 

 

Social Media

Don't forget about social media! I keep track of a number of accounts on Twitter because you never know where something that's perfect could pop up! I also follow lots of influencers in my field too. They will also often share job postings from their sites or friend's sites on their social media accounts. Lastly, you can even do a Twitter search, try searching: "we're hiring," "work with us," or "job posted" to start.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Also, don't forget there is always the potential to offer your services inside any Facebook groups you join. Remember, don't spam, become a part of the community, offer value, and then showcase your skills. Follow the tips Olivia lays out for making the most of Facebook groups, Follow the tips Olivia lays out for making the most of Facebook groups, in this post.

Sites that Pay for Guest Posts

You can also get your feet wet doing guest posts. These are not only great to build up your brand, but some sites actually pay for posts too. Now, you're not going to get rich pitching these sites, but you might catch a good break down the road. The key with these is to read the instructions. It's all there. Unfortunately, way too many people ignore the directions and plow forward. I know this because I get multiple emails a week from people who don't read the directions on our write for us page and then don't get their pitches accepted. Read these pages a few times and then craft your pitch. Getting an accepted post on any of these sites can be a nice boost to your freelancing career. For the sites below, most have their pay rates right on the page. Others will offer payment for really high-quality stuff.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unless they specifically spell out that there is no payment for posts, you don't know. So when you do send in your pitch, it never hurts to ask. I recently had a pitch accepted for a guest post on a site that didn't mention payment at all. Afer the post was published, the editor reached out and asked me where he could send a check for the post.

Even More Sites

Some of these don't fit neatly into the categories above, but I still think they are really useful. So, check out a few of them and see if they are a good fit for you.

  1. @whopayswriters – A good look at the sites out there that pay freelancers and how much they actually pay per word or project.

 

  • Get Apprenticeship – Taylor Pearson created this site for people who are looking to embrace the apprenticeship model, lots of potential here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • Location Rebel Academy – Sure, we'll pitch ourselves. We've got a member's only job board and we do post up remote gigs we see floating around online.

 

 

 

Cold Pitches

Oh yea, that. The cold pitch. All in all, when you mine for writing jobs through reaching out directly, you have the potential for a higher quality client. If you've been thinking about getting into business to business (B2B) writing, then get very friendly with the cold pitch. For more tips on cold pitching, sign up below: For more tips on cold pitching, sign up below:

Final Thoughts

Well, there you have it. If you've been struggling with where to find more writing jobs online, hopefully, this will help.

Keep all of these sites and tactics in mind when you set out to search for gigs. More often than not, having lots of pitches out there over time will start to pay off.

Did we miss any secret gems? Let us know if you've got a few go-to sites in the comments.

The post 67 Places to Find Writing Jobs Online in 2017 appeared first on Location Rebel.



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IndieView with Mary Ann D’Alto, author of He Counts Their Tears

Women will be fascinated by the way Aaron lures his targets. Men will finally get an answer to the looming question; why is it that women fall for the bad boys, and not the nice guys?

Mary Ann D’Alto – 2 May 2017

The Back Flap

Science calls him a Psychopath. Women call him, “the one I will never forget.”

Aaron Stein is the quintessential gentleman.  But his charm is pure Illusion.  Behind the benevolent façade is a monster; a destroyer of souls who lusts after power and control. Aaron plays his ruse again and again with unsuspecting women who genuinely believe they have met their soulmate.  Emotionally skinned alive after his abrupt departure, they continue to miss him, in spite of everything.

But suddenly his secret life is threatened by a series of events he never anticipated.  Will his devoted cousin, Constance, succeed in protecting him?  Are they merely cousins or, perhaps, something more? Did Aaron learn his evil ways from her, or is he the incarnation of Evil?  Will he be found out? Will his secret be revealed to the world, or will he manage to silence those who know him for what he truly is?  In the end, these answers will make no difference in the lives of the women who, each in turn, are charmed into becoming his victims.

About the book

What is the book about?

This book is about “that person” whose name still sends a chill up your spine; the one who got into your head and just never left.  Nearly everyone has met at least one person like that in their lifetime, or knows someone who has.  It’s not necessarily a romantic relationship (they might have presented themselves as a “new best friend”, a business partner, or perhaps a co-worker) but it was definitely a fake relationship.  These are the false people, the charming strangers who prey on others for the thrill of power and control over another person.  They are the ones who seem “too good to be true”, because they are!  They are the Psychopaths, the toxic people living among us, hiding in plain sight.

Aaron Stein, fertility specialist, devoted husband and quintessential gentleman, is one such Psychopath. He trolls for prey ( also known as “new best friends”)  moving seamlessly from one target to the next, playing his game with women’s minds.  That is what it really is to him; a game.  Each time, it is the same; meet someone new, gain their trust, figure out what they want most in life, pretend to help them realize that goal, and then leave, abruptly.  By the time he’s left, he’s taken their sanity, their self respect, and their sense of self.   They will never be quite the same ever again. It is then, in the leaving,  that Aaron relishes his victory, and counts their tears.

There’s a whole lot of mind control that takes place in the course of these fake relationships, all designed to give Aaron power over his unsuspecting “new best friend”.  That he is consistently able to play the game, move on, and not get caught is a disturbing testament to the power men like Aaron possess.  Even more disturbing is the fact that the women Aaron preys on are neither foolish nor naive.  Yet each, in turn falls under his spell. It happens because Aaron, being a Psychopath, knows how to gain a person’s trust and exploit it.

In the course of the book, Aaron merrily moves through the paces of his life, while playing his wicked game on the side.  Power is his goal, and getting caught is the ever-present danger.  Callous, ruthless, and lacking in empathy, Aaron is self-centered and easily bored, which is why he craves risk taking.  But he takes things too far with one target, and, circumstances being what they are,  it seems he is about to be found out.  That, of course, will never do.  And so Aaron takes matters into his own hands, to protect his secret.  But secrets, of course, often have lives of their own.

When did you start writing the book?

I started writing the book in the middle of a very long, exhausting day.  I had been thinking about the human mind, and how it is that some people are able to control the minds of others, like pulling the strings of a marionette.  I just picked up a pencil and started writing.   There, on the page, was a sentence, “Aaron had never noticed how thin his shoelaces were.”  I kept writing, just to see what would happen next.   The end result was He Counts Their Tears.

How long did it take you to write it?

I wrote this book over the course of one year.

Where did you get the idea from?

I had been planning to become a psychotherapist. I am an Attorney, and I got the bright idea to add to my repertoire.  I should have known this was not my dream calling when several people told me “Keep practicing law, because you’ll make a terrible psychotherapist.”  Well, the school rejected me, saying I was “just not suited”.  There I was with all this psychology knowledge, gained in anticipation of my new career.  The book sort of tumbled out of that experience.

Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?

Yes indeed! The most crucial scene in the book was a real struggle for me.  I will say this in a way that does spoil the book for those who have not yet read it.  At one point, Aaron and one of his “new best friends” share a kiss.  She is very ill and is bleeding internally, manifesting all of the symptoms of an impending stroke.  While they kiss, Aaron tastes blood on her mouth.  This was such an important scene and yet I agonized over it and in the end I was never entirely happy with it.  You see, I cannot taste (or smell) anything (from a childhood illness).  So, I have no idea what blood tastes like, and absolutely no frame of reference to understand it.   I tried asking people, but well meaning responses did little to help.  “You know, blood”; No, I don’t know.   “Sort of like tin”  I had no idea what that meant.  “Like jam gone bad, really bad.” But I’ve never tasted jam!  So, I resorted to a google search.  In the end the scene lacks any real description, which actually suits the cold-minded creature who experienced the kiss.  Even so, I would have liked to play that scene out with more deliberation.

What came easily?

The book arrived quite easily.  I would sit in front of the computer with a cup of tea, and type away.

Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?

He Counts Their Tears is a work of Fiction.  Entirely.

We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?

I was most influenced by Dr. Robert Hare, who developed The Hare Psychopathy Checklist and wrote, Without Conscience: The Disturbing World of the Psychopaths Among Us.

Then, of course, there is the amazing E. L. James, Fifty Shades of Grey.

And Ayn Rand. I still have my catered copy of Atlas Shrugged, from college days.

Do you have a target reader?

He Counts Their Tears is intended for adults, both men and women, who want a good read and a journey into the type of hell that prevails right under the radar of everyday life.  Women will be fascinated by the way Aaron lures his targets.  Men will finally get an answer to the looming question; why is it that women fall for the bad boys, and not the nice guys?

About Writing

Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?

I do now, for the second book.  But for He Counts Their Tears, it was more a matter of just finding the time to write.  I was working full time and, quite often, very long hours.  It was very difficult to find time to write.  I would write on the subway, on the way to work, late at night, and all weekend.  I stopped playing golf, and I missed the last two seasons of Downton Abbey.

Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?

I do now, with the second book.  But I had no idea what an outline was when I wrote He Counts Their Tears.

Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?

I edited the book when it was finished.  Then I arranged for an Editor at Dog Ear Publishing to conduct a professional edit of the book.

Did you hire a professional editor?

He Counts Their Tears was professionally edited by an Editor affiliated with Dog Ear Publishing.

Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?

I listen to Mozart (Eine klein Nachtmisic, Serenade No. 13 for strings in G major).

This is the same music that saw me though Law School and the New York State Bar exam.   

 About Publishing

Did you submit your work to Agents?

Would you believe I did not even know about Agents when I wrote He Counts Their Tears! How would I? I was not even planning to write a book!  But there it was; this book!  I simply could not leave it just sitting there. So, I did some investigating, and discovered that writers sent their work to Agents.  I thought that was a good, orderly process, quite logical. In fact, the relationship between Agent and Writer sounded to me very much like the relationship we, as Lawyers, have with our Clients.  “I want that!” I thought to myself as I learned about Agents.  The only trouble was that I had very little time to devote to publishing this book, and no idea of how to approach Agents, much less the time to find one.  It was a bit like falling down the rabbit hole. I was a Lawyer, not an Author (or so I thought).  So, after a little more investigating I discovered that I could publish my book myself, which is what I did.  I own the rights to He Counts  Their Tears in the entirety, which was a main point for me in choosing a self-publishing company.

I am now seeking an Agent, for He Counts Their Tears and for its as of yet unpublished (but completed) sequel,  The Suffering  Room. I am completely amenable to the idea of treating He Counts Their Tears (and, of course, The Suffering Room) like a manuscript, and revising it.

What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?

As I’ve said, I was entirely clueless about this process!  Courtrooms I know.  New York  law, I know.  Publishing was an alien universe.  But I’ve discovered it to be a marvelous one, and I am beyond delighted to be part of it.

Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?

My brother (an Engineer and an Artist) designed the cover for me.  I knew I wanted a cold, stark cover, in keeping with the theme of the book.  That is why it contains nothing more than the title.  The black and white speaks to the mindset of the Psychopath, and the words are spaced in a manner that evokes the off-balanced feeling of an encounter with a man like Aaron Stein.

Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?

I have a marketing plan.   But beyond that, I am actively seeking a Literary Agent.

Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?

Keep writing.  Whatever happens, never give up, never lose your focus, and keep writing.  Oh, and support your fellow authors.  Always.

About You

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in New York.  My childhood was as close to magical as a childhood could possibly be.  I come from a family of artists, so creativity was encouraged, always, in all of its forms.  I was read to by my father from before I could distinguish between a book and a person.  I knew every New York Museum before I’d even started school.  My mother nurtured in us a genuine love of classical music, using child-like stories to explain the various symphonies.  I remember learning the Hyde’s Surprise Symphony by hearing the story of a King who asked Hayden to write a piece of music to awaken his guests, who always fell asleep after dinner at the palace.  Central Park was our wonderland, where I learned about nature, history, and my own imagination.

Where do you live now?

I live in New York.  I still love the Museums.

What would you like readers to know about you?

That I have something to say.  Here it is:

Dear Reader,  Thank you for reading my book. He Counts Their Tears tells the story of the evil that lurks in our world, hiding in plain sight.  I would love to hear your impressions of it, whatever those impressions may be!  Please leave a review on my Amazon site.  I want to know what you think of Aaron, and men like him.  Oh, and tell me your impressions of the women he’s ruined.  You will be seeing them again in the sequel, which is due out next!

What are you working on now?

I am editing my next book, which is  the sequel to He Counts Their Tears. It remains unpublished as I seek out a Literary Agent.   The Suffering Room picks up right where He Counts Their Tears ends.  Our wicked boy has a bit of a problem, and the proverbial walls are closing in on him.  You see, Aaron’s life takes a rather public turn when he becomes a Political Candidate.  The ever present concern that he may be “found out” is escalated by the Election.  Selfish to the core, he returns to the women he’s ruined, one by one,  in an effort to keep  them from revealing  the truth about him. In the end, well, you will just have to read The Suffering Room to find out what happens!

End of Interview:

For more from Mary Ann, like her Facebook page or follow her on Twitter.

Get your copy of He Counts Their Tears from Amazon US or Amazon UK.

 



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IndieView with Mary Ann D’Alto, author of He Counts Their Tears

Women will be fascinated by the way Aaron lures his targets. Men will finally get an answer to the looming question; why is it that women fall for the bad boys, and not the nice guys?

Mary Ann D'Alto – 2 May 2017

The Back Flap

Science calls him a Psychopath. Women call him, "the one I will never forget."

Aaron Stein is the quintessential gentleman.  But his charm is pure Illusion.  Behind the benevolent façade is a monster; a destroyer of souls who lusts after power and control. Aaron plays his ruse again and again with unsuspecting women who genuinely believe they have met their soulmate.  Emotionally skinned alive after his abrupt departure, they continue to miss him, in spite of everything.

But suddenly his secret life is threatened by a series of events he never anticipated.  Will his devoted cousin, Constance, succeed in protecting him?  Are they merely cousins or, perhaps, something more? Did Aaron learn his evil ways from her, or is he the incarnation of Evil?  Will he be found out? Will his secret be revealed to the world, or will he manage to silence those who know him for what he truly is?  In the end, these answers will make no difference in the lives of the women who, each in turn, are charmed into becoming his victims.

About the book

What is the book about?

This book is about "that person" whose name still sends a chill up your spine; the one who got into your head and just never left.  Nearly everyone has met at least one person like that in their lifetime, or knows someone who has.  It's not necessarily a romantic relationship (they might have presented themselves as a "new best friend", a business partner, or perhaps a co-worker) but it was definitely a fake relationship.  These are the false people, the charming strangers who prey on others for the thrill of power and control over another person.  They are the ones who seem "too good to be true", because they are!  They are the Psychopaths, the toxic people living among us, hiding in plain sight.

Aaron Stein, fertility specialist, devoted husband and quintessential gentleman, is one such Psychopath. He trolls for prey ( also known as "new best friends")  moving seamlessly from one target to the next, playing his game with women's minds.  That is what it really is to him; a game.  Each time, it is the same; meet someone new, gain their trust, figure out what they want most in life, pretend to help them realize that goal, and then leave, abruptly.  By the time he's left, he's taken their sanity, their self respect, and their sense of self.   They will never be quite the same ever again. It is then, in the leaving,  that Aaron relishes his victory, and counts their tears.

There's a whole lot of mind control that takes place in the course of these fake relationships, all designed to give Aaron power over his unsuspecting "new best friend".  That he is consistently able to play the game, move on, and not get caught is a disturbing testament to the power men like Aaron possess.  Even more disturbing is the fact that the women Aaron preys on are neither foolish nor naive.  Yet each, in turn falls under his spell. It happens because Aaron, being a Psychopath, knows how to gain a person's trust and exploit it.

In the course of the book, Aaron merrily moves through the paces of his life, while playing his wicked game on the side.  Power is his goal, and getting caught is the ever-present danger.  Callous, ruthless, and lacking in empathy, Aaron is self-centered and easily bored, which is why he craves risk taking.  But he takes things too far with one target, and, circumstances being what they are,  it seems he is about to be found out.  That, of course, will never do.  And so Aaron takes matters into his own hands, to protect his secret.  But secrets, of course, often have lives of their own.

When did you start writing the book?

I started writing the book in the middle of a very long, exhausting day.  I had been thinking about the human mind, and how it is that some people are able to control the minds of others, like pulling the strings of a marionette.  I just picked up a pencil and started writing.   There, on the page, was a sentence, "Aaron had never noticed how thin his shoelaces were."  I kept writing, just to see what would happen next.   The end result was He Counts Their Tears.

How long did it take you to write it?

I wrote this book over the course of one year.

Where did you get the idea from?

I had been planning to become a psychotherapist. I am an Attorney, and I got the bright idea to add to my repertoire.  I should have known this was not my dream calling when several people told me "Keep practicing law, because you'll make a terrible psychotherapist."  Well, the school rejected me, saying I was "just not suited".  There I was with all this psychology knowledge, gained in anticipation of my new career.  The book sort of tumbled out of that experience.

Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?

Yes indeed! The most crucial scene in the book was a real struggle for me.  I will say this in a way that does spoil the book for those who have not yet read it.  At one point, Aaron and one of his "new best friends" share a kiss.  She is very ill and is bleeding internally, manifesting all of the symptoms of an impending stroke.  While they kiss, Aaron tastes blood on her mouth.  This was such an important scene and yet I agonized over it and in the end I was never entirely happy with it.  You see, I cannot taste (or smell) anything (from a childhood illness).  So, I have no idea what blood tastes like, and absolutely no frame of reference to understand it.   I tried asking people, but well meaning responses did little to help.  "You know, blood"; No, I don't know.   "Sort of like tin"  I had no idea what that meant.  "Like jam gone bad, really bad." But I've never tasted jam!  So, I resorted to a google search.  In the end the scene lacks any real description, which actually suits the cold-minded creature who experienced the kiss.  Even so, I would have liked to play that scene out with more deliberation.

What came easily?

The book arrived quite easily.  I would sit in front of the computer with a cup of tea, and type away.

Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?

He Counts Their Tears is a work of Fiction.  Entirely.

We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?

I was most influenced by Dr. Robert Hare, who developed The Hare Psychopathy Checklist and wrote, Without Conscience: The Disturbing World of the Psychopaths Among Us.

Then, of course, there is the amazing E. L. James, Fifty Shades of Grey.

And Ayn Rand. I still have my catered copy of Atlas Shrugged, from college days.

Do you have a target reader?

He Counts Their Tears is intended for adults, both men and women, who want a good read and a journey into the type of hell that prevails right under the radar of everyday life.  Women will be fascinated by the way Aaron lures his targets.  Men will finally get an answer to the looming question; why is it that women fall for the bad boys, and not the nice guys?

About Writing

Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?

I do now, for the second book.  But for He Counts Their Tears, it was more a matter of just finding the time to write.  I was working full time and, quite often, very long hours.  It was very difficult to find time to write.  I would write on the subway, on the way to work, late at night, and all weekend.  I stopped playing golf, and I missed the last two seasons of Downton Abbey.

Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?

I do now, with the second book.  But I had no idea what an outline was when I wrote He Counts Their Tears.

Do you edit as you go or wait until you've finished?

I edited the book when it was finished.  Then I arranged for an Editor at Dog Ear Publishing to conduct a professional edit of the book.

Did you hire a professional editor?

He Counts Their Tears was professionally edited by an Editor affiliated with Dog Ear Publishing.

Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?

I listen to Mozart (Eine klein Nachtmisic, Serenade No. 13 for strings in G major).

This is the same music that saw me though Law School and the New York State Bar exam.   

 About Publishing

Did you submit your work to Agents?

Would you believe I did not even know about Agents when I wrote He Counts Their Tears! How would I? I was not even planning to write a book!  But there it was; this book!  I simply could not leave it just sitting there. So, I did some investigating, and discovered that writers sent their work to Agents.  I thought that was a good, orderly process, quite logical. In fact, the relationship between Agent and Writer sounded to me very much like the relationship we, as Lawyers, have with our Clients.  "I want that!" I thought to myself as I learned about Agents.  The only trouble was that I had very little time to devote to publishing this book, and no idea of how to approach Agents, much less the time to find one.  It was a bit like falling down the rabbit hole. I was a Lawyer, not an Author (or so I thought).  So, after a little more investigating I discovered that I could publish my book myself, which is what I did.  I own the rights to He Counts  Their Tears in the entirety, which was a main point for me in choosing a self-publishing company.

I am now seeking an Agent, for He Counts Their Tears and for its as of yet unpublished (but completed) sequel,  The Suffering  Room. I am completely amenable to the idea of treating He Counts Their Tears (and, of course, The Suffering Room) like a manuscript, and revising it.

What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?

As I've said, I was entirely clueless about this process!  Courtrooms I know.  New York  law, I know.  Publishing was an alien universe.  But I've discovered it to be a marvelous one, and I am beyond delighted to be part of it.

Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?

My brother (an Engineer and an Artist) designed the cover for me.  I knew I wanted a cold, stark cover, in keeping with the theme of the book.  That is why it contains nothing more than the title.  The black and white speaks to the mindset of the Psychopath, and the words are spaced in a manner that evokes the off-balanced feeling of an encounter with a man like Aaron Stein.

Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?

I have a marketing plan.   But beyond that, I am actively seeking a Literary Agent.

Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?

Keep writing.  Whatever happens, never give up, never lose your focus, and keep writing.  Oh, and support your fellow authors.  Always.

About You

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in New York.  My childhood was as close to magical as a childhood could possibly be.  I come from a family of artists, so creativity was encouraged, always, in all of its forms.  I was read to by my father from before I could distinguish between a book and a person.  I knew every New York Museum before I'd even started school.  My mother nurtured in us a genuine love of classical music, using child-like stories to explain the various symphonies.  I remember learning the Hyde's Surprise Symphony by hearing the story of a King who asked Hayden to write a piece of music to awaken his guests, who always fell asleep after dinner at the palace.  Central Park was our wonderland, where I learned about nature, history, and my own imagination.

Where do you live now?

I live in New York.  I still love the Museums.

What would you like readers to know about you?

That I have something to say.  Here it is:

Dear Reader,  Thank you for reading my book. He Counts Their Tears tells the story of the evil that lurks in our world, hiding in plain sight.  I would love to hear your impressions of it, whatever those impressions may be!  Please leave a review on my Amazon site.  I want to know what you think of Aaron, and men like him.  Oh, and tell me your impressions of the women he's ruined.  You will be seeing them again in the sequel, which is due out next!

What are you working on now?

I am editing my next book, which is  the sequel to He Counts Their Tears. It remains unpublished as I seek out a Literary Agent.   The Suffering Room picks up right where He Counts Their Tears ends.  Our wicked boy has a bit of a problem, and the proverbial walls are closing in on him.  You see, Aaron's life takes a rather public turn when he becomes a Political Candidate.  The ever present concern that he may be "found out" is escalated by the Election.  Selfish to the core, he returns to the women he's ruined, one by one,  in an effort to keep  them from revealing  the truth about him. In the end, well, you will just have to read The Suffering Room to find out what happens!

End of Interview:

For more from Mary Ann, like her Facebook page or follow her on Twitter.

Get your copy of He Counts Their Tears from Amazon US or Amazon UK.

 



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Monday, May 1, 2017

ULA Catalyst Backpack Review

The Catalyst is a bomber backpack perfect for backpacking in spring conditions when you need to carry your winter gear and your summer gear at the same time.
The Catalyst is a bomber backpack perfect for backpacking in spring conditions when you need to carry your winter gear and your summer gear at the same time.

The ULA Catalyst Backpack is the largest volume backpack in ULA's line of ultralight style packs with over 75 liters of volume. Weighing 44 -48 ounces (depending on configuration), it's a durable backpack that can carry an enormous amount gear and food, packed inside its main compartment or lashed to the exterior. I affectionately refer to it as the "moving van" of the ULA product line because it can carry so much. That said, the Catalyst is a great lightweight pack option for people who plan to take extended trips into the backcountry and need a pack that can carry a lot of extra food, cameras, or technical equipment in addition to your normal backpacking gear. It's also an excellent pack for professional guides who need to bring extra equipment or carry their clients' loads, when they need a little extra help.

Specs at a Glance

  • Total Volume: 4,600 cu in /about 75 liters
  • Rec'd Max Load: 40 lbs or less
  • Rec'd Base Weight: 20 lbs or less
  • Fabric: 210d Robic standard, or 500d Cordura available
  • Torso Lengths: 15″-24″
  • Hip Belt Sizing: 26″-42″
  • Gender: Men's and Women's-specific shoulder straps available.

Main Compartment and Storage Capacity

The ULA Catalyst an ultralight style roll top backpack with a large main compartment, rear stretch mesh pocket, and large side water bottles pockets, with large zippered pockets on the hip belt. Several optional interior pockets come with the pack for storing a hydration reservoir (there are two hydration ports on the sides) or personal effects, but can be non-destructively removed with the plastic clips that hold them in place.

The Bottom of the Catalyst is curved rather than square in order to bring the heaviest items in close to your core where they can be carried most efficiently.
The Bottom of the Catalyst is curved rather than square in order to bring the heaviest items in close to your core where they can be carried most efficiently.

The main compartment is enormous with a long extension collar. It closes with a roll top, that's clipped to webbing straps attached along the sides of the back panel below the shoulders. When the top is rolled close, the position of these webbing straps helps pull the load forward over your hips for maximum load transfer. There's also a piece of webbing that runs over the roll top from between the shoulders to the top of the rear mesh pocket, providing additional top compression for keeping the load under control.

Rather than being square, the bottom of the pack rounds inward instead of having a square bottom in order to bring the heaviest items, typically placed at the bottom of your pack, as close to your lumbar back area where they can be carried most efficiently. Clever design.

The side water bottle pockets are solid, not mesh, to protect them from abrasion and tearing. They're also quite large and you can fit 2 x 1 liter bottles in each side, easily reachable while wearing the backpack. Both water bottle pockets have drains at their base and are covered with solid 210d robic fabric for extra durability, including reinforced pocket bottoms. The top of each pocket has an elastic cord than can be cinched closed and secured with a cord lock to keep items from shifting or dropping out. If you habitually rip up mesh water bottle pockets, these should keep you out of trouble.

The front of each side pocket has a small hole you can stick you hand into although that's not the intention; it's part of the shoulder strap suspension system which terminates at the base of each pocket. But be forewarned, small items can fall out of the side water bottle pockets and shouldn't be used for that type of storage.

Like many ultralight style packs, the Catalyst has a full length rear mesh pocket that's ideal for storing wet gear or layers you want fast access to during the day without having to open up the pack's main compartment. The mesh is very fine and heavy-duty so it won't snag on protruding items or tear. I typically store my rain gear, water filter, and an empty wet reservoir in the mesh pocket when I hike, or a wet shelter, so I can pull it out easily to dry during rest stops and keep it away from my dry clothing inside the main compartment.

The Catalyst has a large rear mesh pocket good for storing wet or loose items you don't want to keep inside your pack. The outside of the pocket has a heavy duty criss-crossed elastic strap good for hanging wet gear or securing snowshoes to the back of your pack.
The Catalyst has a large rear mesh pocket good for storing wet or loose items you don't want to keep inside your pack. The outside of the pocket has a heavy-duty crisscrossed elastic strap good for hanging wet gear or securing snowshoes to the back of your pack.

Finally, there are two large zippered pockets on the exterior of the hip belt, large enough to store a hat and gloves, a camera, snacks, Aqua Mira bottles, bug dope, and such. The fronts of both pockets are hard faced to prevent tearing with heavy-duty zippers for durability.

External Attachment and Compression System

The Catalyst has two primary mechanisms for compression, the roll top w/ top webbing strap for squishing your load down vertically, and a single tier of side compression straps for pulling gear in the main compartment closer to your back and core muscles. When fully loaded, carefully balancing the weight inside the pack and pulling the side compression straps tighter results in an easier carry. At 75L, the Catalyst has a larger capacity than most ultralight style packs and pack compression becomes more important for comfort and carry efficiency than on smaller volume packs.

In practice, I've also found it easy to store long items such as fishing rod tubes and umbrellas in the side water bottle pockets together with a water bottle, using the one compression strap to keep the longer items secured against the side of the pack. But the water bottle pockets are so large, you can store much bulkier items in them like a two person tent rolled up (held in place with the top compression strap), although I'd recommend balancing the weight on the other side of the pack with something that's equivalent in weight.

The Catalyst as a long webbing strap the loops over the roll top to provide additional top compression
The Catalyst as a long webbing strap the loops over the roll top to provide additional top compression.

Having just one pair of side compression straps makes it a bit difficult to secure a pair of snowshoes to the sides of the backpack over the water bottle pockets (two straps are preferable). Snowshoes weigh 5 pounds per pair, making them one of the heaviest and most awkward items you might carry on a backpacking trip. While you can secure snowshoes under the elastic strap over the rear mesh pocket, there's nothing stopping you from rigging up your own ad hoc side compression straps using cord and cordlocks between gear loops on the outside of the water bottle pocket and the perimeter of the rear mesh pocket. You just need to be a little creative.

One area where the Catalyst is very strong, is the ability to attach gear to its shoulder straps. This is great on wilderness trips where you want to keep electronic devices or map cases within easy reach. The front of the Catalyst's shoulder straps have daisy chains attached to them, plastic gear loops, and four elastic water bottle holders (the latter are also easy to remove nondestructively.) Want to attach an umbrella to your shoulder straps? It's quite easy with the rich set of shoulder strap attachment points provided on the ULA Catalyst backpack.

Backpack Frame and Suspension System

The frame, shoulder strap, and hip belt customization options on the Catalyst and ULA's other packs are what sets their packs apart from most off-the-shelf backpacks you can buy at retail stores. In addition to 4 torso sizes ranging from 15″ to 24″ and 5 hip belt lengths ranging from 26″ to 42+",  you can further refine the sizing and fit of the Catalyst  in several important ways to get an even more personalized fit.

Frame

The ULA Catalyst has a fairly beefy frame as ultralight style packs go, with two interior foam panels and two aluminum stays that terminate in the lumbar pad that holds the hip belt in place.

The Catalyst has two pre-bent aluminum stays that terminate in the packs lumbar pad. They're accessible inside the main compartment so you can shape them further if you need a more personalized fit.
The Catalyst has two pre-bent aluminum stays that terminate in the pack's lumbar pad. They're accessible inside the main compartment so you can shape them further if you need a more personalized fit.

The foam panels are used to keep angled objects from poking through the pack bag and int0 your back. The rear panel holds two pre-shaped aluminum stays (flat-sided metal rods) that terminate in the lumbar pad of the hip belt behind the small of your back. They do most of the work in transferring the load to your hips.

The aluminum stays are pre-shaped when you receive the pack and will work as-is for most people, but can be removed and bent further for a custom fit. You can't do this with most off the shelf backpacks or don't use a stay system. If you've never bent frame stays before, I recommend you contact ULA customer support for expert advice on how to go about doing it or undoing it, if you botch it up. Bending frame stays can significantly enhance the fit of a hip belt if you find that it slips constantly or give your head more clearance if it touches the top of your pack.

Hip belt

The hip belt is available in multiple lengths independent of the torso length of the backpack, making it possible to get a near custom fit. The hip belt is held in place with velcro on the front and back where it runs through the pack frame.

If you want to fine tune the torso length of your Catalyst, you can raise or lower the hip belt about 2″ by unsticking the velcro and moving it up or down, adjusting the torso length in the process. Reconnect the velcro – it holds solidly – providing yet another way to really dial in a personal fit with the ULA Catalyst. I never really appreciated this feature on ULA packs until I used it on the Catalyst. It made a big difference in load-to-hip transfer when I had to carry a lot of heavy gear and getting the right torso length was critical.

You can fine tine the torso length of the Catalyst by raising or lowering the location of the hip belt in the lumbar region where it connects to the frame
You can fine tine the torso length of the Catalyst by raising or lowering the location of the hip belt in the lumbar region where it connects to the frame

The Catalyst hip belt is quite wide and has two interlocking straps on each side that let you tension the top and bottom half of the belt to fit your precise body dimensions The top and bottom straps on the hip belt are actually one strap (if you make the top longer, the bottom gets shorter). I usually make the top strap tighter than the bottom, to prevent the hip belt from slipping down over my hip bones. But hip belt fit is a very personal thing that can be affected by your dimensions, how much body fat you have on your hips, and the curvature of your lower back. Experiment and contact ULA for fitting advice if you need it. They're very responsive on fit issues.

The sides of the hip belt also have what are called hip control straps that pull base of the pack bag closer to your back and help dampen lateral sway when scrambling. This is important for a high-capacity backpack like the Catalyst to help reduce momentum that can make you lose your step and tumble when carrying a heavy load.

Both the hip belt, back panel, and shoulder straps are covered in padded spacer mesh which is cushy without being too soft. The holes in the spacer mesh have a tendency to collect debris like spruce or pine needles however, if you wander off-trail.

Shoulder Straps

The Catalysts shoulder straps are available in too styles, J-shaped or S-shaped, to accommodate people with breasts or barrel chests. Ladies, S-curved shoulder straps are better than the so-called "unisex" shoulder straps provided by other pack makers. ULA is one of the few lightweight pack makers that provides features and sizing that are tuned for a female fit, something to seriously consider if you plan to wear a backpack for the six months at a time, especially if you need to haul more gear in a pack that's the size of the Catalyst.

In addition to the numerous attachment points (discussed above) the shoulder straps have front load lifter adjustments, which slide down the front of the shoulder pad to let you adjust the angle of your load lifters if they're too flat (a 45 degree angle is ideal). Most of these shoulder pad options are usually only found on high-end expedition or custom packs costing much more than the Catalyst.

The ULA Catalyst is a great backpack for gnarly trips above treeline - shown here climbing Mt Washington in New Hampshire's White Mountains
The ULA Catalyst is a great backpack for gnarly trips above treeline – shown here climbing Mt Washington in New Hampshire's White Mountains.

Recommendation

The ULA Catalyst is one of the largest sub-three pound ultralight style backpacks that you can buy with 75 Liters of carrying capacity. It's ideal for more experienced backpackers who need a high-capacity backpack to carry a lot of extra gear or supplies into the backcountry, but want a minimalist style backpack that's all function with little extraneous fluff. Like ULA's other packs, the Catalyst is available with a wide variety torso lengths and hip belt sizes, so you can get a great fit, with additional capabilities that let you tune the fit to your personal dimensions – really an essential when carrying heavier loads. The Catalyst is also a durable and proven pack for tough trips, one that's earned near legendary status among guides and backcountry adventurers.

While the Catalyst can be used by backpackers transitioning from more traditional gear and a heavy pack to a lighter one, I would encourage you to look at the 68 liter ULA Circuit backpack if most of your trips are going to be four days or less. The Catalyst is a high-capacity backpack that is really best used for larger loads and longer trips.  While the two packs are very similar and can even be difficult to tell apart for the untrained eye, the Circuit is a better sized pack to get if you intend to further reduce your load and gear volume over time. For more information about the ULA Circuit, read my review.

See also:

Disclosure: ULA loaned the author a Catalyst backpack for this review. 


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ULA Catalyst Backpack Review

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Wedding hairstyles – braids and ponytails

After last week’s wedding hair love, I’ve found myself drawn back to more wedding hairstyles.

Then these gorgeous images landed in my inbox. Part of the Marchesa couture bridal show, these two styles are perfect in their simplicity.

So often a half-up braid or ponytail can seem to simple but it’s all about the styling and how you wear it.

I just adore these two styles and the whole look is so achievable for a formal or prom as well. Created by Moroccanoil Artistic Director, Kevin Hughes, these timeless styles are perfect for a modern bridal or prom look.

Bridal braids – how to get the look

  • Blowdry your hair with a round brush for volume.
  • Part your hair in the centre and clip away the front section for the braids.
  • Curl the rest of your hair using a 1 1/4 inch barrel curling wand. Use a hairspray to help hold the curl.
  • Unclip the front section and use Moroccanoil Dry Texture Spray to add grip to the hair prior to braiding. Create two parallel Dutch braids on each side, that join up at the back of the head with a clear elastic band.
  • Use hairspray to tame flyaways and finish the style.

Bridal ponytails – how to get the look

  • Blowdry your hair with a round brush to add shape to the ends of your hair.
  • Create a centre part and use Moroccanoil Dry Texture Spray to add volume and grip to the the hair.
  • Curl your hair back away from your face with a 1 1/4 inch curling wand.
  • Gather your hair into a ponytail, low at the back of your head, just below the occipital bone.
  • Loosen the hair around your face by pulling it forward to soften the style.
  • Add a little more texture spray to finish the look.
  • Tie a velvet ribbon around your ponytail for the perfect finishing touch.

The ribbons make such a difference, don’t you think?

It’s amazing the effect a simple hair accessory can have. It changes the entire style from an ordinary ponytail to something extraordinary.

Which is your favourite look?

PS. If you’re looking for more hair inspiration, you might like my 30 Buns in 30 Days ebook – it’s your solution to saving bad hair days with simple styles you can wear anywhere.

Photos by Jason Carter Rinaldi for Moroccanoil

The post Wedding hairstyles – braids and ponytails appeared first on Hair Romance.



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Wedding hairstyles – braids and ponytails

After last week's wedding hair love, I've found myself drawn back to more wedding hairstyles.

Then these gorgeous images landed in my inbox. Part of the Marchesa couture bridal show, these two styles are perfect in their simplicity.

So often a half-up braid or ponytail can seem to simple but it's all about the styling and how you wear it.

I just adore these two styles and the whole look is so achievable for a formal or prom as well. Created by Moroccanoil Artistic Director, Kevin Hughes, these timeless styles are perfect for a modern bridal or prom look.

Bridal braids – how to get the look

  • Blowdry your hair with a round brush for volume.
  • Part your hair in the centre and clip away the front section for the braids.
  • Curl the rest of your hair using a 1 1/4 inch barrel curling wand. Use a hairspray to help hold the curl.
  • Unclip the front section and use Moroccanoil Dry Texture Spray to add grip to the hair prior to braiding. Create two parallel Dutch braids on each side, that join up at the back of the head with a clear elastic band.
  • Use hairspray to tame flyaways and finish the style.

Bridal ponytails – how to get the look

  • Blowdry your hair with a round brush to add shape to the ends of your hair.
  • Create a centre part and use Moroccanoil Dry Texture Spray to add volume and grip to the the hair.
  • Curl your hair back away from your face with a 1 1/4 inch curling wand.
  • Gather your hair into a ponytail, low at the back of your head, just below the occipital bone.
  • Loosen the hair around your face by pulling it forward to soften the style.
  • Add a little more texture spray to finish the look.
  • Tie a velvet ribbon around your ponytail for the perfect finishing touch.

The ribbons make such a difference, don't you think?

It's amazing the effect a simple hair accessory can have. It changes the entire style from an ordinary ponytail to something extraordinary.

Which is your favourite look?

PS. If you're looking for more hair inspiration, you might like my 30 Buns in 30 Days ebook – it's your solution to saving bad hair days with simple styles you can wear anywhere.

Photos by Jason Carter Rinaldi for Moroccanoil

The post Wedding hairstyles – braids and ponytails appeared first on Hair Romance.



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