Paid at Last! Paid at Last!

Last week, after over-extending its stay by about eight months, the one month free offer for the ebook version of Painless ended (except on AmazonUK...long story).

During this time, readers would often thank me for making it free, or feel sorry for the poor author who was forced to give his book away like a tag sale flyer and provide condolences. While appreciated, neither of these responses is really accurate (although I will still accept the $$ from those offering to send to me out of pity!). The free ebook offer actually was a great opportunity that unexpectedly took Painless to places I never thought it would travel - and I think deserves its own blog entry.

At this time last year I was a big ebook skeptic - the concept didn't seem logical (why would anyone spend $$ to buy a device to read and then have to buy the book on top of it? Why not just buy the book?). So I didn't think much of it early last summer when I made Painless available for free in response to a promotion for this strange new tablet-looking thing Apple put out called an iPad. It led to this conversation with Mark Coker, the head of Smashwords, my ebook publisher:

Mark: Just wanted you to know that Painless was downloaded 1,500 times on Apple
Me: Wow, that's way more than I thought - what's that, like a few hundred a month?
Mark: No, I meant it was downloaded 1,500 times last week.

This got my attention, but was nothing compared to my surprise when those numbers multiplied by 30 the week after Xmas (I think everyone got an iPad for Xmas xcept me!) or that it became the most downloaded free ebook on AmazonUK in January of this year. And while stats and numbers are great, the best part was the feedback I got from readers in Melbourne, Australia to Tulsa, Oklahoma to London, and so on, along with being able to participate in Operation Ebook Drop, which provides free ebooks for soldiers overseas. And let's be honest, if you're reading this blog entry it's most likely because you came across the book on the free offer, right?

I have no idea how many of those who downloaded the book actually read it (although I do know that almost 2,000 people on iBooks have rated and reviewed it) and no clue what percentage of those who read it: liked it, hated it, or were somewhere in-between, but I do know that the free offer gave the book what any author would want - a vehicle to get their book into readers hands, and allow the readers to determine its fate. I would compare it to owning a restaurant that nobody knows about, and don't have the advertising budget to reach people - wouldn't that restaurant want to give away free meals to hopefully attract future patrons to the restaurant? In the pre-ebook world, it would be too cost prohibitive to give away free meals, but it's a whole new world now in the book industry (a topic that probably also deserves its own blog entry).

The Painless ebook will now be selling for $6.99, so it will still be much cheaper than the meals at the fancy restaurants from the big publishers. Thanks again to everyone who participated in the free offer!

Final Blog Entry of 2010!! New Year's Resolution

Note: If you are reading this at a place that isn't the Derek Novel Ideas Blog (i.e. Facebook) you can click here to go to blog.

2010 resolution: To get as many people as possible to read Painless.

When asked how many that would be - perhaps influenced by too much champagne, or maybe the sight of Ryan Seacrest as the new Dick Clark just made anything seem possible - I pointed at the zillions celebrating in Times Square and said "that many."

Final results: While I'm sure it didn't meet the Times Square standard, I do have enough numbers and feedback to be able to confirm that a lot of people did read Painless in 2010, and since I have never ever kept a NYears Resolution, I will grade myself on the curve and say it was a successful resolution!

The big question on Jan 1, 2010 was: how could Painless reach potential readers outside of my footprint, especially without the resources of a major publishing house behind the it? And the answer came in the form of Kindles and IPads, and all the ebooks and e-readers that took over the world in 2010. Mainly because of the ebook phenomenon, Painless was able to reach readers from Seattle to Oklahoma to Australia to the UK, and so on. And when it was made free to IPad users, it ended up in the top 10 free downloads for all Apple ebooks and remains #1 in the Mystery & Thriller section. The more traditional print book also grew in 2010, especially thanks to the many who purchased it as Christmas gift this year.

2011 Resolution: To put another book out there for people to read

Final Results: Check back next year!!

Thanks to everyone who supported the book and this blog.
Have a fun (and safe) new years! And wishing you a happy and healthy 2011!!

Imagine what his reaction will be like...

when he opens that autographed copy of Painless tomorrow morning. Maybe I should have gone with the video game (-:

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas!!!!
and thanks to everyone who didn't "hate books for Christmas" this year

(If you're reading this at some place that isn't the Derek Novel Ideas Blog, i.e. Facebook, and the video isn't showing up, and therefore makes no sense what I'm talking about, just click here to go to the blog)

Thanksgiving

So much thanks to give to all those who took a chance on an unknown book by an even more obscure author this past year! Especially those who:

bought the book, read it, told a friend about it, told lots of friends about it, supported this blog, joined the Derek Ciccone Book Club on Facebook, made Painless one of the most downloaded books on iBooks for Apple, sought me out to speak about the book at their venue or to do a newspaper article on Painless, emailed me feedback, posted a great review of the book anywhere - Amazon, Facebook, Goodreads, or wherever, sent me encouragement, sent me constructive criticism or pointed out a grammatical flaw, had their book club read it, purchased it for a gift for someone, businesses that gave it to clients as a gift, soldiers in Operation Ebook Drop who actually thanked me for providing the book when I really should be thanking them, helped me with all the technological stuff that was way over my head (thx Dirt!), brought the book to school for show & tell for their 2nd grade class, and everyone who asked me when the next one will be coming out and tell me they can't wait!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Mail Bag #2

Back in August I did a mail bag here at the blog that answered common reader questions. Didn't get to all of them, and also have received a bunch of awesome feedback since then that is full of great questions - which leads us to Mail Bag #2!!

If you missed the first one that covered such topics as: when/if there will be another book, how I came up with the Carolyn character, and where I get my ideas, check out here

All feedback is welcome at derekbkclb@yahoo.com

Now on to the mail bag...

How can I get a signed copy of Painless?
I must admit, signed copies were not something I factored on and I don't really have a good solution for, BUT that doesn't mean I can't get you one. Of the readers I have worked with, they had contacted me via email and I ended up sending them a signed book, and in turn, they sent me a check for the book to an address I provided them (I am working to set up a PayPal account to make this process easier) Obviously this takes some trust on both sides, but those who contacted me were really interested in getting a signed copy and I was really interested in getting them one, so it was able to work out well.

I think Painless would make a great movie!
Okay, this is more of a comment than a question, but probably the most common mention I have received. It also makes me chuckle because the first advice someone from the "industry" ever gave me was never say the book would make a good movie or that your grandmother likes it (for the record, grandma thought it was okay but the ending could of been better). But hey, I'm all for it becoming a movie one day - closest thing we have is a cool book trailer - I currently own the movie rights, but I'm really not qualified or funded to make a movie, so it will require someone, to steal a line from a movie, to make me an offer I can't refuse. Who would play Billy or Carolyn? Now that sounds like another blog entry for another day.

How come the price is different in different places?
For the print version, I set the price ($15.99 paperback) when sold through my web site or publisher. But I have little say over what Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other affiliates do if they want to raise or lower the price. The ebook version is much different, because the price can be changed at any point, and often is. The popular free Apple/IPad offer is a good example of this - while such an offer is not possible at Amazon Kindle.

Will you be offering any deals for the holidays?
I think the real question here is where did 2010 go? Wow. But yes, I plan some discounts for those looking to give Painless as a gift. And if I don't say so myself, the hard copy version really makes a nice gift. Stay tuned!

What do you read?
Unfortunately, I have found becoming a "writer" makes a lot less time to be a "reader." The books are stacking up on the nightstand!! I am currently "working on" Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson, but I don't think I've done it justice with my constant starts and stops. My two favorite writers are Harlan Coben and Nelson Demille and I gobble up anything they write. I think I mentioned in a blog entry from long long ago that the Firm by John Grisham was an inspiring book for me. As far as the classics, I'm a big Gatsby fan and have often referenced it somewhere in stories I write (don't think I did in Painless, but not totally sure).

I'm interested in the Peanut Butter & Jelly childrens book that Billy writes in Painless. Any chance you'll write a version in real life?
Picking myself off the floor laughing. This is by far the most surprising question I get, and truthfully I am probably not even qualified to be babysitting children, much less writing a childrens book. But when I think about it, I do like the idea of it, and I love writing different types of stories (currently working on a Christmas themed thriller), so you never know...

I joined your "Book Club" on Facebook? Is it a book club or a fan site - I don't get it!?
The Derek Ciccone Book Club on Facebook is a "fan" site for Painless and myself, but it is really belongs to the "Bookclubbers" who've joined. The name was an attempt at being clever that turned out to be confusing - I get people all the time messaging me, asking if my "bookclub" will read their book, to which I respond, will your book club read my book? They tell me they don't have a book club, and I tell them, neither do I. Like I said, confusing. But the last time I checked, Facebook doesn't allow me to change it while maintaining the current site, and it's kind of entrenched now. But it's a great place to find more information on the book, updates on possible future books, get links from the blog, and a chance to post your thoughts on the book and discuss it with other "Bookclubbers." Join today and tell your friends!!!!!

PS My grandmother really did like the ending.

Picture source: Savage Chickens (Doug Savage)

Video Killed the...Author?

For those who didn't get the link to the Painless video trailer, I finally figured out how to upload a video to a blog entry.It will be up soon at the Web site and the Book Club @ Facebook.

Can also be found at popular video sharing sites, including:

You Tube, Daily Motion, Trailer Spy, Metacafe

Pertaining to the title, despite rumors of its demise, video never was able to kill the Radio Star (Lady Gaga comes to mind), just as new technologies won't kill the author or the publishing industry, whether that is new ways to read books such as Kindles and IPads, or marketing techniques like book trailers. Some resist the changing landscape, while the Video Generation often searches first for books in places like YouTube. In the end, things like book trailers are just another tool in the toolbox for authors to get their work in front of an ever-evolving audience, and from Shakespeare to Stephen King that's always been the point, right? And even Shakespeare has a book trailer online!

The Quick & Painless Newsletter...Cliff Notes Version

For those who didn't receive my recent SPAM...errr...informative email newsletter, below are a few highlights - topics include a link to the new Painless trailer, a free Apple IPad giveaway gone crazy, and some grammatical renovations that will be seen in the near future.

Anyone interested in receiving the complete e-newsletter - and don't fear, only send them occasionally when there is a relevant to communicate, and would never distribute your email address - just send me an email at derekbkclb@yahoo.com and simply say you want to get the email updates.

Painless enters the video age!
Be sure to check out our new book trailer on You Tube.


How Bout Those Apples...
This past summer Painless was the most downloaded "free title" in the Mystery/Thriller category on Apple iBooks (until some guy named James Patterson decided to offer a free sample of his latest book, knocking Painless to #2, where it currently stands) and as high as #8 for all books. Click here to check out the latest status.

This was obviously pretty surprising news to me, to say the least. When the last Q&P newsletter came out, Apple had just introduced the IPAD. For what I thought would be a brief promotion, Painless was offered for free on Apple products, with little expectation. But obviously I underestimated the power of "word of mouth."

Thanks to not just those who downloaded it, but also those who spread the word. And for the the great feedback I've received from those who've read it - Painless has received over 550+ reader ratings (4 star out of 5 average) on iBooks. To put that in perspective, the aforementioned James Patterson's summer blockbuster Private has been rated approx 280 times. While the free offer probably hasn't made the best bottom-line business sense, I don't think there is any way to put a price on having the opportunity to have Painless reach places around the globe I never could've imagined. So the plan is to keep the free offer going for a while longer - so keep taking advantage, Apple users!


Summer Renovations:
In an effort to continually improve the product, I recently had Painless editorially reviewed, with the goal to remove any grammar or proofreading glitches. Thanks to everyone who brought some of these to my attention. And thanks to Hillel at ProEditing and Amber at DogEar Publishing to help make this happen. These adjustments should be seen in the very near future, and only consist of a few structural elements - the story hasn't been altered in any way.

The Mail Bag (Part One)

I have received lots of questions lately about the book and all things related. Really appreciate the interest and feedback (keep 'em coming!) Many questions had a common theme, so I attempted to group the most commonly asked ones together and answer them here at the blog:

How did you become a writer? Did you always want to do it?

I'm still not sure I'm a writer. More like a storyteller who happens to use this format as a way to tell the story. I've had an "overactive imagination" since I was a little kid, so I've been coming up with stories and creating interesting (at least I think so) characters since as long as I can remember. But only in the recent past did that turn into writing fiction novels, which became a great hobby that I love doing. But the idea of having one of my books published for all to read seemed like a crazy (and scary) idea to me, so it isn't something I always wanted to do, but so far it's been a great experience!

Where do you get your ideas? Where did you get the idea for Painless?

As mentioned in first question, the "overactive imagination" thing is what drives the ideas for my stories - and no matter how hard I try, it never happens when I attempt to come up with one. The good news (for me) is I'm getting better at writing the ideas down when they do pop into the head, so I spend less time racking my brain for the "brilliant" idea I can't remember for the life of me. Funny how all the ideas I've lost are brilliant, yet the ones I do remember, not so much (-: In the case of Painless, I was on an airplane reading one of those inflight magazines stuffed in the seat pocket and there was a story about a kid who had the "issue" in which Carolyn has in the story. From there, the overactive imagination took over.

I love the character Carolyn Whitcomb - how did you come up with her? And is the ____ she has a real thing?

The most common questions I get concern the Carolyn character, and I'm going to do a full blog entry on in the near future. So I'll answer that question there - stay tuned. But yes, the ____ she has is a real thing. Very rare - less than 100 in the US.

When is the next book coming out?

I take this question as a huge compliment, and it sure beats the more expected - how can I get my money back?! The answer is: I have been so focused on trying to get people to read Painless that I haven't been able to focus on a next book. But I have written others and this has been a fun experience, so I'm really looking forward to putting more out there in the future. I will update the blog when there is any news.

What are your other books about?

Like Painless, most of my other books are at their core, mystery/thrillers - stand alones that usually feature everyday people who get caught up in the unthinkable and then the mayhem begins - but also I like to mix a bunch of different genres together. For example, The Trials of Max Q has legal thriller elements in it. The Heritage Paper is features some DaVinciCode-esque conspiracy theories about the Nazis. The Jack Hammer is about some people who come across a former Soviet spy spending his post cold war days in the US, sort of a modern day spy novel (sorry, she's not in it). So I guess the best answer is - much different subjects, but similar style.

I've written/am writing a book, do you have any advice? Writing tips?
I'm the new guy myself just trying to figure things out. So I'm really not qualified to be giving advice. A good place I found for advice were writer's conferences, and I would recommend the Marymount Manhattan WC - I went a few years ago and thought it was great.

So my only piece of advice is: write for yourself - and if you write a book that you like, there is probably someone out there who likes the same things you do. And with the Internet, ebooks, social media, POD publishing, and whatever technology is probably being invented while I'm writing this, there are a lot of vehicles to reach those people that weren't available even a couple years ago, so I think it's a good time to be a writer. Good luck!

Painless Gets the Spa Treatment

Reading and relaxation have always gone hand and hand, so I think it was a natural for Painless to partner with the Aetheria Relaxation Spa in New Canaan, where I'm happy to announce the book is now being sold.

We are are always looking for partners and sponsors beyond the traditional book store to promote and/or sell the book, especially organizations that feature an independent spirit and are built on positive word of mouth like Aetheria - traits that Painless strives for and luckily has been able to embody so far.

Aetheria is located in a comfortable Victorian on Cherry Street in downtown New Canaan. And as you might know, New Canaan is a key setting in the story of Painless. It's run by Elizabeth McCarthy, who when she isn't relieving people's stress, is championing great causes and somehow finds time to be on the board of the New Canaan Chamber of Commerce.

To find out more about Aetheria try here, and be sure to check out their great blog called Aetherial Living.

Gunn Memorial Library & Museum: July 22nd

I will be speaking about Painless @ the Gunn Memorial Library & Museum this Thursday from 6:30 - 7:30 (p.m.) in Washington, CT, as part of the Gunn Writers' Series. Open to everyone - no charge, refreshments served.

I've attended a few of the author events at Gunn - and it is a great, informal environment to discuss the book that allows the author and audience to really connect. And the historic building is worth the trip by itself. So if you get a chance to come out, it should be a fun evening. Directions below:


Gunn Memorial Library
5 Wykeham Road
Washington, CT 06793
(see map and directions)

Review: A Taut, Compelling Page Turner

REVIEW: Painless (Derek Ciccone)
Posted by Apex Reviews on July 7, 2010
Link

Reviewed By Josee Morgan
Official Apex Reviews Rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars

A Taut, Compelling Page Turner
Having lost everything that matters to him, Billy Harper rents a cottage from the Whitcomb family in the upscale Connecticut town of New Canaan and attempts to put the pieces of his shattered life back together again. Resigned to going the rest of his life with an unfeeling, frozen heart, Billy is in for quite the pleasant surprise when he meets Carolyn, the Whitcombs’ four-year-old daughter, who encourages him to thaw out his heart and live again; however, a series of strange incidents soon convinces Billy that Carolyn is quite the “unnatural” being, and when a rogue military organization learns of her special abilities and attempts to use her for their own purposes, Billy is ultimately forced to put his renewed life on the line to save the little girl without whom he never would have regained it...

With a rich cast of characters and taut, compelling plotlines, Painless is a veritable page turner. Skillfully crafted by author Derek Ciccone, Painless chronicles the personal transformation of a man wounded by life who ultimately learns to trust, hope, and love again – only to be faced with having everything he fought so hard to regain be taken away from him. The damning prospect of repeating the cycle of painful loss is the last thing Billy wants to experience, and Ciccone draws the reader into the gripping internal struggle with which he contends to prevent lightning from striking twice in the same place.

With superb character development and riveting, escalating action, Painless is an all-engrossing read offering invaluable life lessons about the virtues of never giving up – no matter how difficult the roads we travel. An enjoyable literary treat.

Location Location Location

The last couple months we've added a lot of new places to find Painless. So here is a summary of places where the book can be purchased, previewed, and you can find more information about it.

To purchase direct (through publisher)

1. Through my Web site: http://www.derekciccone.com/
2. Official Painless Page
3. Dog Ear Publishing (paperback)
4. Dog Ear Publishing (hardcover)

NOTE: If anyone is interested in a signed copy, please contact me via email (derekbkclb@yahoo.com) prior to purchase and I'll work with you to get you a signed copy.

Online Sellers

1. Amazon
2. Barnes & Noble
3. Indie Bound
4. Books-a-Million
5. Tower Books
6. Promise Angels Bookstore
7. A1 Books

Note: I listed the most popular online sellers of Painless. To find other online locations, Google Reads provides an extensive search and provides links. They also have a generous preview - about 1/3 of book - for anyone who wants to check it out.

Good old brick & mortar Bookstores

1. Borders (Southbury, Ct)
2. Elm Street Books (New Canaan, Ct)
3. Hickory Stick Bookshop (Washington, Ct)
   

As An Ebook:
Smashwords (can get every ebook platform here, or download preview). But if you prefer to get it directly from the source of your device, here is a list of the most popular.

1. Amazon (Kindle)
2. Barnes & Noble (Nook)
3. Kobo
4. iPad

Libraries

1. Danbury Library (Danbury, Ct)
2. Heritage Village Library (Southbury, Ct)

Book Communities

1. Goodreads
2. FReado

And lastly, in honor of World Cup - International

1. UK: Book Depository, AbeBooks, AmazonUK
2. Japan: Amazon Japan
3. France: Amazon France
4. Germany: Amazon Germany
5. India: Infibeam (free shipping in India!), Flipkart
6. Italy: Bol.it

Memorial Day Weekend!

When I think of Memorial Day I think of the B's -
Beach...Barbecues...Burgers...Baseball...

And now with the unofficial start of summer...Books. So if you're looking for that sizzling summer read: www.painless-ciccone.com/

But also be sure remember this Memorial Day that the reason we can enjoy our B's is because someone put their A's(ses) on the line, or more specifically, in the line of fire. One of the coolest things that has happened to Painless was becoming part of Operation Ebook Drop - a program that sends free ebooks to soldiers abroad. I even heard back from one serviceman in Afghanistan who actually thanked me for providing the book. I think he had it backwards. So I want to send out a Memorial Day salute to all those in OEBD and all their brethren overseas, in honor of those who have been lost.

Wishing everyone an enjoyable and safe Memorial Day Weekend!

Ebook Update (IPad, Kindle, and all sorts of good stuff)

Painless has been available as an ebook via Smashwords since January. Smashwords, a leading ebook publisher of independent books, and their site offers the reader one-stop-shopping for all major ereader devices - Kindle (.mobi), EPub (most popular ebook format used in Barnes & Noble Nook to name one), or for Sony Ereader (LRF). Also the popular Stanza ereader app for iPhones. Price ranges for Painless @ Smashwords from $0 to $4.99, and a free preview is available for the first 20% of book.

But for those who prefer to buy ebooks at the specific site for their device, here's a few updates.

Painless is now available on the new Apple IPad through ibookstore. $4.99

Kindle users can now get Painless directly from Amazon site. $4.99

Offered directly through Barnes & Noble site for Nook. $4.99

Also available at Kobo, whose Kobo eReader just partnered with Borders. $4.99

The Ebook world seems to change by the minute. So I will provide constant updates of how that affects Painless. Also, would love to hear any feedback from readers who purchase Painless as an ebook. How does it look in your specific format? Were there any issues in either purchasing it, or how it dispayed on your device?

And for any of you who have no idea what this ebook stuff is all about (like me, when I started this thing) here is a helpful article perfectly titled How to Navigate the Confusing E-Book Landscape.

Southbury Borders

Painless is now going to be carried in the Borders store in Southbury, CT (Located in Southbury Plaza right off Exit 15 of I-84). This is something we've been working on since the day Painless came out, so glad to see it come to fruition. The book is now on order, so it should arrive sometime next week.

If Barnes & Noble is the Coke of the bookselling industry, then Borders is the Pepsi, and I hope this is this first step in being carried by Borders nationwide.

The Southbury location is especially appealing for me in many areas. For one, it is the town I spent most of my formative years growing up, so it has some sentimental value. And the area has been a great champion of the book so far, so this gives just another option for people there to acquire it. Another cool aspect is that the Southbury Borders location is a Borders Concept Store, one of 14 to open up around the US in 2008. The concept store goes beyond the normal book/music buying experience, including a digital center where the customer can download music or books, burn CD's, print pictures, etc. So if you're in the area it's a great place to spend some time, even if you already have your copy of Painless.

Speaking of Southbury: They held a ceremony today for the Old Cowboy, my grandfather Aubrey Jay Mays, who was also one of my biggest fans. Two trees were planted in honor right above the famous "Southbury" sign he created from flowers each year on the hill above the firehouse. On behalf of my family, I want to thank Catherine Palmer of the Southbury Historical Tree Restoration Committee and First Selectman Davis, amongst countless others who came out today for the ceremony. They really got it right.

Elm Street Books

Painless is now being carried by Elm Street Books, in New Canaan, Connecticut.

It was the end of the road for Billy Harper, both literally and figuratively. From the literal standpoint, the end of the road was a well-groomed cul-de-sac in New Canaan, Connecticut with stately mansions staring back at him. The figurative was much more complex and hurtful.

This is the first paragraph in the first chapter of Painless - a story that both begins and ends in the town of New Canaan. That is one of the reasons why I'm thrilled that the book is now being carried in the most influential bookstore in New Canaan. You can find it in the "Thriller" section.

So why did I choose New Canaan as such a key setting for the book?
Besides the obvious familiarity - I lived in the neighboring city of Norwalk - it all goes back to a sign I saw once at the New Canaan Train Station that read, "Next Station to Heaven." In other words, it is an idyllic, affluent town where nothing bad is supposed to happen. But fiction heaven is when that perfect cocoon is shattered, as it is in Painless.

The Hickory Stick Bookshop

I'm proud and to announce that Painless is now being sold in the famed independent bookshop - The Hickory Stick Bookshop - located in Washington, Connecticut. They will be selling both the paperback and hardcopy versions, and they will be signed by the author, whoever he is. It also will be available to order through their online bookstore.

The Hickory Stick Bookshop has been a Connecticut institution for over 50-years and a haven for "local" authors ranging from Arthur Miller to Candace Bushnell of Sex in the City fame. This was recently highlighted in an article by the Danbury News Times this past Sunday about famed Roxbury writers giving back to the community, Hickory Stick playing a large role.

Even if you've already have your copy(ies) of Painless, it's still a great place to venture for any reader who is in the Connecticut area. And the independent and local bookstores can always use the help in this Amazon world we now live in. I love Borders and B&N as much as anyone else, but indie stores are the heartbeat for readers and writers in every community, and the Hickory Stick Shop is right at the top of the list.

A News-Times file photo of the late noted author and playwright Arthur Miller,of Roxbury, signing books at the Hickory Stick bookstore in Washington Depot, Ct. Photo: File Photo / The News-Times File Photo

I'm going on vacation, what would you recommend for a good beach read?

Sadly(for me), I'm not

The title refers to an encounter I had in a bookstore last week with a woman - who, perhaps thinking I worked there, turned to me and said, "I'm going away for vacation, what would you recommend for a good beach read?"

Doing what any fake store employee would do - I handed her a card for Painless and whispered in between-you-and-me style, "This book is better than anything in here, you can get it from Amazon or go to the author's web site."

She appeared excited about the covert, insider trading info I hooked her up with, and enthusiastically asked, "What's it about?" When I told her, I focused on how it's a run-for-your-life page-turner filled with suspense and intrigue.

Painless is more than a traditional thriller, as it also includes a heart-warming story of redemption and inspiring characters, but I think that sometimes my promotion focuses too much on the "more than" part and gets away from the fact that at it's core, Painless is a Patterson-esque-type thriller meant to entertain. In fact, I've been told by a few readers that after reading the preview they expected a story of a personal journey, and were pleasantly surprised it turned out to be much more...

...such as a perfect beach read!

Beach read musts for me
1. Fast paced: Need to be able to start & finish it on vacay. Turn those pages!
2. Tight: I don't want to read 3 pages of poetic prose about beautiful scenery when I can just look up from the book and observe real life beautiful scenery. Get to the point!
3. Light: As in not too dark. I thought The Lovely Bones was compelling, but doesn't work for me under a palm tree sipping on a Corona.

Wrapping up "National Read an Ebook Week"

Last week was National Read an Ebook Week.

My reaction to hearing this was probably the same as yours - What? For Real? - so I didn't have high expectations, to say the least, when I agreed to make Painless available for a week long promotion in which the ebook version would be downloadable at a reduced or no cost.

But then the first Purchase Notification arrived in my email

And then another.

And another.

And they kept coming until it ended this past weekend.

Not only did Painless reach a whole new audience, but made this skeptic become a believer.

When Painless was first published last fall I took a wait/see attitude with ebooks. I envisioned them playing a big role in the future (although I don't think they will ever replace the printed book), but wasn't sure the future had arrived yet. And since my family was the first on our block with a Betamax, I had learned at a young age the value of taking a patient approach in regards to trendy new technologies.

Then around Xmas time the Kindle and Nook hype began. I remained skeptical - and to prove the point, I walked a packed NYC-bound train during rush hour, searching for any sign of any E-reader device, finding none. But then this December 28th headline made me do a double-take:

AMAZON: KINDLE BOOKS OUTSOLD REAL BOOKS THIS CHRISTMAS

Huh?

One month later, Painless was published as an ebook by Smashwords. The results during the first month certainly didn't match the tantalizing headline - almost all of them were through a great program called Operation EBook Drop, which provides ebooks to soldiers overseas - so not until last week did I realize that the future is now.

Operation E-Book Drop

I mentioned Painless' inclusion in Operation E-Book Drop within a blurb of the most recent newsletter. It's a program in which authors provide free e-books to soldiers abroad. When I was approached to be involved, I thought it was a great idea and didn't think twice about signing up. But after receiving a couple positive reviews from a few soldiers who had read Painless, and they actually thanked me for being involved in OED, it made me take a closer look at how this single idea of one man so quickly grew into something much larger.

For reasons such as how easily transportable they are, Kindles and other types of e-reader devices have become very popular amongst the many troops stationed abroad. I'm guessing it's not easy to be carrying a pile of the latest hardcovers and paperbacks through the rugged terrain of Afghanistan or Iraq. Which is exactly the thought that sparked author and former military man, Edward C. Patterson, to come up with the idea of Operation E-Book Drop. It started out as a discussion on a Kindleboards Internet messageboard back in September, and now only about 6-months later, Operation E-Book Drop has grown to 351 authors and over 400 titles! How 21st Century is that?

The best part about any really good book is that it sucks you in and truly becomes the Great Escape. So hopefully these books can provide a small window of escapism from the daily rigors of sacrifice for these courageous men and woman, and the tug of being away from their families. And I'm honored that Painless is part of it. Happy reading, and stay safe!

The Quick & Painless Newsletter

If you are on the email mailing list, you probably already received this. But in case you missed it...the newsletter is brief recap of what has been going on with Painless that I hope to send out a couple times a year. In this first edition, you'll find updates on ebook status, Operation Ebook Drop, an ongoing discount, among other interesting information. If you'd like to be included on the mailing list, just send your email address to derekbkclb@yahoo.com with a quick note that you want to be included.

1. Thank You!!!

The initial response to the book has been tremendous. Wasn't really sure what to expect when I got myself into this, but I think it's safe to say whatever the expectations were, they were surpassed. Thanks to all those who took a chance on Painless.

2. Painless is now an E-book!
Did you get a Kindle or Nook for Xmas? Painless has partnered with the E-book site Smashwords to publish as an E-book, and now can be purchased on all major E-book formats, whether that be Amazon Kindle (mobi), B&N Nook (epub), Sony ereader (LRF), and the most popular apps for iPhone (Stanza), to name a few. Currently can do one-stop-shopping by clicking on the Smashwords link above, which will take you directly to the Painless page, where you can purchase your E-book in whichever format you require. But within weeks should be able to purchase at specific sites, if desire (i.e. purchase Kindle download @ Amazon site). I will update that on the blog. E-books are new territory for me, and the industry in general, so interested to hear back from those E-bookers out there on how Painless stacks up as far as look, accessibility, price, etc. And as E-books continue to evolve, so will we.

3. Operation E-book Drop

Very proud to say that Painless has enrolled in Operation EBook Drop. It was created by a soldier and writer named Ed Patterson, and what it does is provide free E-books to soldiers abroad. From what I've learned, E-books have become very popular with military members, since they don't take up much space and are good for traveling. I think it's a great idea, and I'm excited that Painless is part of it!

4. Spreadin' the News
Painless has been out for nearly 4-months now, and has really developed a great word of mouth. The hope was that the book would inspire readers to tell a friend, and so far that has been the case - thanks to the efforts of many of you. So what are some things that can be done to continue spreading the word? Here are a few:

• Join the Facebook fan site Derek Ciccone Book Club and suggest to your friends (just sign in to your FBook page, click on Book Club, then either join, if you haven't already, and then click "suggest to friends" button and pick the friends you want to send an invitation to) Facebook is great advertising for the book.



• Reviews - I have received a ton of great feedback about Painless, whether by email or in person. That said, Painless is in need of reader reviews on Amazon or Barnes & Noble. It's a simple process, and here are some examples of reviews that have been posted.



• Forward this newsletter to friends of yours who might be interested in a good book. And anyone you know who wants to get on the mailing list, just have them drop me an email at this address.

5. Xmas Sale a hit! 20% off the hardcover was offered during the holiday season, hoping to accomodate those who wanted to give a hardcover version of Painless as a gift. I was thrilled to see so many take advantage of this. So I'm going to make the discount permanent going forward. All you have to do is use this code during purchase: 20WhoL20

Note: Can only be used if purchase it through my print publisher - which can be accessed through the link or via my Web site. I'm not allowed to alter the prices @ Amazon or any online sellers. If anyone has questions, or is interested in getting them signed, contact me through email, and we'll work something out.

6. Border(s) War: Unfortunately, Painless currently isn't being carried by Borders or Borders.com. This is a Borders corporate decision, and affects many new authors across the board. Too bad, but Painless is doing great in the two top online sellers - Amazon and Barnes & Noble, and is available at all other major online retailers.

7. Book Clubs: Had no idea that so many people were involved in a book club of some sort. I want to accommodate any book club that might be interested in reading Painless. I have no official programs directed toward book clubs, but if you're interested, contact me and I'll work with your group on things like group cost discount and my availability to meet with group to answer questions on the book.

Note: Carolyn Mueller writes a great weekly series for the Danbury News Times newspaper called Page Turners. It highlights local book clubs. If your club is interested in becoming "famous" and at least 2 members live in Greater Danbury area - Newtown, Redding, Ridgefield, etc,, you get the idea, she'd be interested in hearing from you : CMueller@newstimes.com

8. Where is Painless available?
Full print list @ Google Books
One of the most frequently asked questions I've gotten the last few months has been - I'm going to buy Painless, do you care where I buy it from? The simple and copout answer is, "It doesn't matter to me." While there are differences, the key is that the book is getting out there, and hopefully inspiring someone to tell a friend. Here is a brief list of the most popular destinations to get the book so far:

Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Dog Ear Publishing
Books-A-Million
IndieBound

Picture source: originalworks.com

And the Judges Say...

Okay, not those judges

Thought it would be a good time to share feedback for Painless from the most important reviewers - THE READERS!

Here's a small sampling:

I can't put it down. Lovin' it!...Laurie (Buffalo Grove, Illinois)

I stayed up until 2 a.m. to finish it. I was on an emotional roller coaster...Rosalie (Charleston, SC)

I was sorry to have it end. I read tons of books and have read most of the mystery authors in the current market. Derek can definitely hold his own with these well known writers in story development, character development, and writing style...Jude (Phoenix, AZ)

I started to read it and couldn't put it down. You are a great storyteller, the characters are really well developed - I loved or hated all of them...Charles (Parts Unknown, Connecticut)

I gave Painless to my dad to read, he is 85 years old and thought it was great. He was amazed at all the intricacies of the characters. He said it was a real page-turner...Barbara (Tampa, Florida)

One of the things that stands out from the early returns, is how Painless seems to cross all lines of gender, age, and geography, when it comes to those who are enjoying it. I think that is a great sign. It is also being embraced for the way it is able to combine genres - both a fast-paced thriller combined with a heartwarming story of redemption.

Thanks to everyone who has sent me feedback so far. While I'm thrilled that it's been overwhelmingly positive, critical suggestions are equally valuable to me. For all those who've read it, love to hear what you think: derekbkclb@yahoo.com.

Also looking for readers willing to write a brief review on Amazon, - here's an example from a reader.

Picture Source: American Idol/FOX

Hope...

...you got everything you wanted under your tree!

Special thanks to all who gave Painless as a gift this holiday season. Appreciate it!

And for those of you who got an e-reader for Christmas (Kindle, Sony Reader, Nook, etc.) Painless will be available very soon on all e-formats. I will send an announcement when it is available.

The big day is getting CLOSER....

One week to go! No time to waste for you last minute shoppers, so just the basics.

Who: The person in your life who remains un-gifted

What: Painless

Why: A fast paced thriller, mixed with heartwarming story of redemption. Interesting characters and a storyline that will draw you in. Affordable, unique gift.

Where: Amazon

Hardcover is 20% off if buy it here (Discount code is 20WhoL20)

Also available @ all these places

When: Did you know there is only one week until Xmas?

Two weeks 'til XMAS!!

Not sure how that's even possible, but that's what my calendar says

• Still looking for that elusive gift?
• The person who's impossible to buy for?
• Need a gift for your Secret Santa?
• Cutting back this year - affordability is priority, but still want quality?
• Looking for something unique?

Let me see if i can come up with any ideas for ya. Hmmm.................

And FYI, if you don't already know - Amazon offers their Free Super Saver Shipping for the holiday season (on orders $25 and above).

20% holiday discount on hardcover

With the holiday season now upon us, I want to try to better accommodate those interested in giving the hardcover version as a holiday gift this year. So I am including a 20% discount coupon on the hardcover version.

Note: The discount can only be used when purchased through my publisher. Unfortunately, I'm not allowed to control the prices at Amazon or the other online booksellers.

Here is a direct link to the publisher site for the hardcover
Or can get there from my web site

The only extra step from a normal order is to put the code listed below in the section called "Special Promotion"
discount code: 20WhoL20

For those interested in having the book inscribed or signed, please contact me (preferably before you purchase it) and I will work with you to make it happen.

Happy Thanksgiving!

I'd like to take a moment on this Thanksgiving to give thanks to...John Grisham?

So why in the world am I taking up space in the blogosphere to single out the king of the legal thriller, when I should be giving thanks for family, friends & supporters (you're the best!), eating food I would normally never eat (yams? really?), and watching bad football (I'm talking to you, Detroit Lions)?

I read Grisham's book The Firm when I was in college, and it had the biggest impact on my writing life, especially in two major ways:

1. By the time I finished, I had caught the writing bug, and at that point decided I would write a fiction novel one day (even if it took me another decade to put pen to paper)
2. The book made me realize that I wanted no part of going to law school. And in retrospect, I think the US justice system is much better for it.

I hadn't read a Grisham novel in many years, but recently I received a copy of his latest publication called Ford County Stories. I haven't read this one either, but I was struck by the book's dedication. It read:

When a Time to Kill was published twenty years ago, I soon learned the painful lesson that selling books was far more difficult than writing them. I bought a thousand copies and had trouble giving them away. I hauled them in the trunk of my car and peddled them at libraries, grocery stores, coffee shops, and a handful of bookstores. Often, I was assisted by my friend Bobby Moak.

I don't know if I'll ever end up selling a gazillion books like John Grisham, but I can imagine one day writing similar words in a book dedication. The only difference being, I would replace Time to Kill with Painless, and replace Bobby Moak with your name.

But I figure - why wait twenty years to thank you for the incredible support, belief, and assistance you've given me and the book. Thank you - I appreciate it!

Happy Thanksgiving!

A Friday shoutout from Carolyn Whitcomb

Here's to everyone who became a "fan" on the Painless fan site on Facebook this week, aka the Derek Ciccone Book Club!

Facebook has turned out to be a great "word of mouth" for Painless, so I hope you like what you saw and inspires you to suggest it to all your friends. Especially those friends interested in reading a fast-paced thriller, mixed with a heartwarming story of redemption. And if that's not enough, it features Carolyn Whitcomb, the scene-stealing four-year-old who amazingly...

Well, I can't tell you that part. But if you want to know, you can get it at Amazon, or purchase it here.

Thanks for the support! Have a great weekend!

PS: I would like to thank the model/actress, Alexandra, who beat out numerous candidates to play the much-coveted role of Carolyn Whitcomb for this blog entry, despite being a little young for the role. Hopefully her parents won't blame me in eighteen years when she drops out of college to move to LA and become an actress.

The old cowboy rides off into the sunset

One of my biggest fans left us this week

Aubrey Jay Mays was born on Valentines Day 1917 on the prairie of Oklahoma, and left this planet on a crisp November day in New England in 2009. As the ferocious fiction reader that he was, he must've been impressed by the many plot twists of his 92 years, and I'm sure he never saw coming the surprise final chapters to his life, which took him across the country to Connecticut and surrounded him with a family that he didn't meet until he was already beyond the halfway point of his life. A family that will miss him greatly.

Grandpa Jay, as he was known, is acknowledged in Painless as the first person to read each of my manuscripts (along with Christina, my great typist). And I would always say that if an 80-something year old man from Oklahoma and a twenty-something girl from Connecticut were excited about the same material, then I knew I was onto something. That didn't mean he didn't want to change things or get out his pen like a high school English teacher. This didn't hurt my feelings, since he would often get out the pen to correct what he deemed to be errors in library books, often written by some of the classic authors throughout history! And it didn't bother me that I was only his second favorite author after Robert Parker; I took it as a compliment. And when health began to decline the last few years and he was no longer able to read my manuscripts, I felt like they weren't completely done without his critique.

Grandpa Jay was never comfortable being the lead character, but that didn't make him any less important to the story or any less compelling. Many knew him as the folksy gardener who spoke in a soft Oklahoma drawl. The man who became a local celebrity in Southbury, Connecticut (click on above article) in his "retirement job" when he transformed the town grounds from a blacktopped eyesore into an exquisite garden of flowers. And created the famed "flower sign" on the hill above Main Street, in which he wrote out a sign each year in marigolds, whether it was the 100th anniversary of the local fire department or a supportive message for US troops overseas.

But like all great characters, there were many layers to him. He was fascinated by the universe and nature, and man's role in it. He would passionately teach my brothers and I about astronomy, black holes, and the speed of light, to name a few. He would read Isaac Newton and other great scientific minds like some people read Stephen King. He loved music and photography. He was always creating, whether it be his flower designs or his many quirky inventions.

Most people never got to know or fully understand all the layers of AJ Mays, and perhaps just knew him as the folksy gardener. But that was okay with him. It reminds me of when religious groups would knock on his door and he would always tell them he was an atheist. They would tilt their heads with sadness and question his lack of belief. He would always respond by raising his right hand and saying in his Oklahoma drawl, "I swear to god I am." They would leave and he would smile coyly. Nobody ever got the joke, at least initially - an atheist doesn't believe in God, why would he swear to him? But then sometime later on it would hit you, and you would suddenly get it, and then you would smile. I think that is how people will eventually think of AJ Mays. One day it will hit them, and then they will suddenly understand him and see all the layers, and then they will smile.

RIP, old buddy.

Election Day

Ted Kennedy to my LEFT, Glenn Beck to my RIGHT...election day...get it?!

Oh, that Political Science degree keeps paying off!

But besides the bad political joke - and another opportunity to shamelessly plug Painless - just a reminder to make sure you go out and vote today.

And after exercising your constitutional rights, I think the best way to salute our Founding Fathers who fought long and hard for freedoms such as the freedom of speech, including the written word, would be to go out and buy a book!

I think George Washington would recommend this great mystery/thriller
http://www.painless-ciccone.com/

Although Thomas Jefferson wasn't such a fan of fiction novels, which were was spreading like wildfire across America in the late 18th Century. In fact he once wrote something titled "The Dangers of Reading Fiction" where he said:

A great obstacle to good education is the inordinate passion prevalent for novels, and the time lost in that reading which should be instructively employed. When this poison infects the mind, it destroys its tone and revolts it against wholesome reading. Reason and fact, plain and unadorned, are rejected. Nothing can engage attention unless dressed in all the figments of fancy, and nothing so bedecked comes amiss. The result is a bloated imagination, sickly judgment, and disgust towards all the real businesses of life.

Wow, I wonder how he would feel about crack and video games. Little did he know that America would become the country it is, based on the ingenuity that came from great imagination. But must admit I agree with TJ on one point - a good fiction novel can be powerful and can hook one in.

Painless Party!!!

And here I thought a Painless Party was when the sixth drink starts to kick in - shows what I know (-:

This great photo comes courtesy of the Turpins, who reside in the suburbs of Chicago. Thanks guys - too funny!

Wishing a HAPPY HALLOWEEN to everyone!

Halloween also means its the one-month anniversary of the "launch" of the book. And since its just as much about the great support its gotten from you, as it is me, Happy Anniversary to us!

And last but never least, today is the sixth birthday of Jackson Thomas Ciccone, which makes no sense, since it seems like he just got here yesterday. Jack is my nephew, one of the great 5-year-old (now 6) baseball players anyone will ever see, and as Carolyn Whitcomb might say - he's got a great imagination, and he's just not gonna apologize for it. Happy Birthday, buddy!

A Great First Week!

We just finished the first full week since the launch on October 1st, and I've heard from many of you over the last couple days that your book(s) has arrived. So it seems like a good time for an update.

I don't know exactly what my expectations were for the first week, but whatever they were, it certainly surpassed them. I have heard from so many of you who have purchased the book - thanx! Painless has also been selected by a few book clubs/groups for their next book. And the local Borders has been very enthusiastic about a possible display and "signing." But what has really blown me away is the number of responses I've gotten from people from all over who heard of Painless because "so and so recommended it for me."

Thanks so much for everybody's support! I should have an update about the Web site and hardcover sometime next week.

Enjoy the book!
And what's left of your Columbus Day weekend
(even if he was totally overrated - discovered an already inhabitated place and actually thought he was in India, and he gets a holiday? C'mon!)

Derek

Painless On Sale Now!!

Purchase from Publisher


From Amazon

Currently in paperback. Hard cover will be ready in a couple weeks.