I Am Therefore I Write Archives

Who Could Use a Kate Spade Tote?

September 26, 2019 in Giveaways, I Am Therefore I Write

So, that’s an unfair question, I know. Most of us could probably use a new Kate Spade tote, even if it’s just to tote around books we want to read while waiting at the airport, doctor’s office, or car repair shop. But this Kate Spade tote, which currently resides in my office, will have a new owner come Monday. Interested?

Are you on Facebook? Because this bag and its secret contents will be given away to one person who comments on the live interview I’ll be doing Monday night in the My Book Tribe Facebook group. What is this group I speak of, you ask? Well, there are eleven authors–I’m one of them–who got together and started this cool online book club called (you guessed it) My Book Tribe. It’s a quiet corner of the internet for folks who enjoy our books to chat about, well…books.

Perhaps you’re already a member. If so, visit the group and scroll to Denise Grover Swank’s post from this morning (Thursday, September 26, 2019). Actually, I just marked it as an “Announcement,” so you don’t have far to scroll. It’s right at the top. Click on the button in the bottom right with a star that says “Get Reminder.” This will remind you to join the conversation Monday, September 30 at 8 PM EDT. We’ll be talking about Lowcountry Boil (Liz Talbot Mystery #1) and anything else y’all want to discuss. Comment on Denise’s post from today if you have a question for me. We’ll get to ask many of them as we can on Monday.

If you aren’t a member of My Book Tribe, join now so you’re ready on Monday.

Then, come Monday, September 30, join Denise Grover Swank and me at 8PM EDT for a live chat. The bag will be given away to one random commenter on that interview post. Because not everyone will be available at that exact time, you have 24 hours to comment on that post. That’s the only way to enter. Comments on posts from earlier in the month announcing the contest do not count as entries.

I hope to chat with you on Monday–come see me!

Warmly,

Susan

*** Complete Contest Rules ***

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE DOES NOT IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

1. Promotion Description: The ‘Kate Spade Tote Giveaway’ (“Sweepstakes”) begins on 09/30/2019 at 8:00 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) and ends on 10/01/2019 at 9:00 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) (the “Promotion Period”). By participating in the Sweepstakes, each entrant unconditionally accepts and agrees to comply with and abide by these Official Rules and the decisions of Susan M. Boyer (“Sponsor”), which shall be final and binding in all respects. Sponsor is responsible for the collection, submission or processing of Entries and the overall administration of the giveaway. Entrants should look solely to Sponsor with any questions, comments or problems related to the Sweepstakes.

2. Eligibility: Open to legal residents of the USA, Canada, UK, Australia, and New Zealand who are 18 or older. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. Sponsor and their respective parents, subsidiaries, affiliates, distributors, retailers, sales representatives, advertising and promotion agencies and each of their respective officers, directors and employees (collectively, the “Promotion Entities”), and members of their immediate families and/or persons living in the same household as such persons, are ineligible to enter the Sweepstakes or win a prize.

3. Winner Selection: The winner of the Sweepstakes will be selected in a random drawing from among all eligible Entries received throughout the Promotion Period. The random drawing will be conducted by 48 hours by Sponsor or its designated representatives, whose decisions are final. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible Entries received. Winner will be notified by Facebook Comment and Facebook Message on or about 48 hours after the random drawing. Potential winner must accept a prize by email as directed by Sponsor within 48 hours of notification. Any winner notification not responded to or returned as undeliverable may result in prize forfeiture. The potential prize winner may be required to sign and return an affidavit of eligibility and release of liability, and a Publicity Release (collectively “the Prize Claim Documents”). No substitution or transfer of a prize is permitted except by Sponsor.

4. Prizes:

– 1 (#) winner(s) will receive [(1) Kate Spade Sydney large double-zip black satchel (approximate retail value or “ARV”: $200) with surprise contents, ARV $100

Only one prize per person and per household will be awarded. Gift cards and gift certificates are subject to the terms and conditions of the issuer. Prizes cannot be transferred, redeemed for cash or substituted by winner. Sponsor reserves the right in its sole and absolute discretion to award a substitute prize of equal or greater value if a prize described in these Official Rules is unavailable or cannot be awarded, in whole or in part, for any reason. The ARV of the prize represents Sponsor’s good faith determination. That determination is final and binding and cannot be appealed. If the actual value of the prize turns out to be less than the stated ARV, the difference will not be awarded in cash. Sponsor makes no representation or warranty concerning the appearance, safety or performance of any prize awarded. Restrictions, conditions, and limitations may apply. Sponsor will not replace any lost or stolen prize items.

Prize will only be awarded and/or delivered to addresses within the USA, Canada, UK, Australia and New Zealand. All federal, state and/or local taxes, fees, and surcharges are the sole responsibility of the prize winner. Failure to comply with the Official Rules will result in forfeiture of the prize.

5. Online Entry: Enter the Sweepstakes during the Promotion Period online by commenting on the live interview Facebook Post in the My Book Tribe Facebook group on September 30 at 8 PM and for 24 hours after. The entry “form” (post) can be found on the following website at https://www.facebook.com/groups/MyBookTribe/.

Automated or robotic Entries submitted by individuals or organizations will be disqualified. Internet entry must be made by the entrant. Any attempt by an entrant to obtain more than the stated number of Entries by using multiple/different email addresses, identities, registrations, logins or any other methods, including, but not limited to, commercial contest/sweepstakes subscription notification and/or entering services, will void that entrant’s Entries and that entrant may be disqualified. Final eligibility for the award of any prize is subject to eligibility verification as set forth below. All Entries must be posted by the end of the Promotion Period in order to participate. Sponsor’s database clock will be the official time keeper for this Sweepstakes.

6. Privacy: All entrants acknowledge that if they are chosen as a winner, certain of their personally identifying information may be disclosed to third parties at least as required by law, including, without limitation, on a winner’s list. All personal information submitted as part of the Sweepstakes may be shared by and between the Promotion Entities, and each of the Promotion Entities will use such information in accordance with their respective independent online privacy policies. The privacy policy of Susan M. Boyer can be found at https://susanmboyer.com/privacy-policy/

7. Limitation of Liability: Sponsor is not responsible for any incorrect or inaccurate information, whether caused by website users or by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Sweepstakes or by any technical or human error, which may occur in the processing of submissions in the Sweepstakes. Sponsor assumes no responsibility for any misdirected or lost mail, or any error, omission, interruption, deletion, defect, delay of operation or transmission, communications line failure, theft or destruction or unauthorized access to, or alteration of, Entries. Sponsor is not responsible for any problems or technical malfunction of any telephone network or lines, computer online systems, servers or providers, computer equipment, software, failure of email or players on account of technical problems or traffic congestion on the Internet or at any website or combination thereof, including injury or damage to entrant’s or any other person’s computer related to or resulting from participating downloading materials in the Sweepstakes. If, for any reason, the Sweepstakes is not capable of running as planned, including infection by computer virus bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention, fraud, technical failures, or any other causes beyond the control of Sponsor which corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness, integrity or proper conduct of the Sweepstakes, then Sponsor reserves the right in its sole discretion to cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the Sweepstakes. In such event, Sponsor may, in its sole discretion, perform the random drawing from among all eligible Entries received prior to or after such cancellation, suspension, or modification.

In the event of a dispute concerning who registered online to participate in the Sweepstakes, the registration will be declared to have been made by the authorized account holder is defined as the natural person who is assigned to an email address by an internet provider, online service provider, or other organization (e.g., business, education institution, etc.) that is responsible for assigning email addresses for the domain associated with the submitted email address. A potential winner may be requested to provide Sponsor with proof that the potential winner is the authorized account holder of the email address. If a dispute cannot be resolved to Sponsor’s satisfaction, the entry will be deemed ineligible.

8. Winner’s List: To obtain a copy of any legally required winners list or a copy of the Official Rules, send the applicable request and a self-addresses, stamped, #10 envelope to Susan M. Boyer cc: Kate Spade Tote Giveaway at 5000 Old Buncombe Road Suite 27-273 Greenville, SC | 29609 US. Request must be received no later than 48 hours + 6 MONTHS for the name of the winner and, by the end of the promotion, for a copy of the rules.

9. Sponsor: The Sweepstakes is sponsored by Susan M. Boyer, 5000 Old Buncombe Road Suite 27-273 Greenville, SC | 29609 US, susanmboyer@gmail.com

10. Facebook Disclaimer: Entrants should understand that they are providing their information to the Sponsor and not to Facebook. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook.

11. This promotion may be modified at any time at the sole discretion of the Sponsor.

Lowcountry Boomerang Preorder Celebration Giveaway

July 25, 2019 in Giveaways, I Am Therefore I Write, Lowcountry Boomerang, The Liz Talbot Mystery Series

Hey Y’all—Giveaway Alert! Lowcountry Boomerang (A Liz Talbot Mystery #8) releases on September 3! Preorders for all formats except the Audible download are live. The audio release date is September 30.

Let’s start celebrating early with a giveaway, why don’t we? On the morning of September 3, I’ll draw a random winner from everyone who pre-ordered Lowcountry Boomerang and/or followed the instructions below to enter. The prize? A $100 gift card to the book retailer of your choice, PLUS one of the handmade Stella Maris mugs, PLUS a Stella Maris T-shirt, PLUS a charter named after you in the next Liz Talbot Mystery. I’ll also draw for five runner-up prizes—two additional Stella Maris mugs and three T-shirts. Entering is easy, but please read carefully.

If you’ve already preordered, thank you so much! Skip the rest of these bullet points and go directly to the Rafflecopter below!
If you haven’t preordered your copy, links to several retailers are HERE.
Greenville area friends–I sure hope you’re coming to the launch party at Fiction Addiction on September 3! Just in case you can’t make it to the party, to get your signed, personalized copy (either shipped or for pickup) please preorder from Fiction Addiction. If you are coming, please get your free ticket from Fiction Addiction and then enter the giveaway.)
Charleston area friends–the Charleston launch party will be at Buxton Books, September 5, from 5:30 – 7:00 pm. I so hope you can be there! We’ll have drinks to toast with along with a lovely cheese and charcuterie board from Goat Sheep Cow. The ticket price includes your copy of the book. Get your tickets HERE.
Pawleys Island / Litchfield / Grand Strand area friends–I’ll be at Oceans One on Tuesday, September 17, at 11:00 for a Moveable Feast Literary Luncheon. I so hope to see you there! Tickets are available HERE. This time, the tickets include the book, so if you’ve bought your ticket, be sure to check that box on the Rafflecopter entry form below.
There are multiple contest entry options, including one for folks who are waiting on the audio version and one for folks who read from their local library. Please sign in to the Rafflecopter giveaway below using either your email address OR Facebook account and click on the first question to see all the entry options.

I hope to see you soon!

My best,

Susan

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Legalese & Whatnot –this is no fun, but I gotta do it:

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE DOES NOT IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

1. Promotion Description: The ‘Lowcountry Boomerang Preorder Giveaway’ (“Sweepstakes”) begins on 07/26/2019 at 12:00 AM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) and ends on 09/02/2019 at 12:00 AM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) (the “Promotion Period”). By participating in the Sweepstakes, each entrant unconditionally accepts and agrees to comply with and abide by these Official Rules and the decisions of Susan M. Boyer (“Sponsor”), which shall be final and binding in all respects. Sponsor is responsible for the collection, submission or processing of Entries and the overall administration of the giveaway. Entrants should look solely to Sponsor with any questions, comments or problems related to the Sweepstakes.

2. Eligibility: Open to legal residents of the USA and Canada who are 18 or older. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. Sponsor and their respective parents, subsidiaries, affiliates, distributors, retailers, sales representatives, advertising and promotion agencies and each of their respective officers, directors and employees (collectively, the “Promotion Entities”), and members of their immediate families and/or persons living in the same household as such persons, are ineligible to enter the Sweepstakes or win a prize.

3. Winner Selection: The winner of the Sweepstakes will be selected in a random drawing from among all eligible Entries received throughout the Promotion Period. The random drawing will be conducted by 48 hours by Sponsor or its designated representatives, whose decisions are final. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible Entries received. Winner will be notified by email at the email address provided in the Entry Information on or about 48 hours after the random drawing. Potential winner must accept a prize by email as directed by Sponsor within 48 hours of notification. Any winner notification not responded to or returned as undeliverable may result in prize forfeiture. The potential prize winner may be required to sign and return an affidavit of eligibility and release of liability, and a Publicity Release (collectively “the Prize Claim Documents”). No substitution or transfer of a prize is permitted except by Sponsor.

4. Prizes:

– 1 (#) winner(s) will receive [(1) [$100 Gift Card] [to the book retailer of your choice] [_PLUS_ a Stella Maris T-Shirt] [_PLUS_ a Stella Maris Mug] [_PLUS_ a Character] [named after you] [in the next Liz Talbot Mystery]] (approximate retail value or “ARV”: $150)

– 1 (#) winner(s) will receive [(1) [Stella Maris Mug]] (approximate retail value or “ARV”: $25)

– 1 (#) winner(s) will receive [(1) [Stella Maris T-Shirt]] (approximate retail value or “ARV”: $25)

Only one prize per person and per household will be awarded. Gift cards and gift certificates are subject to the terms and conditions of the issuer. Prizes cannot be transferred, redeemed for cash or substituted by winner. Sponsor reserves the right in its sole and absolute discretion to award a substitute prize of equal or greater value if a prize described in these Official Rules is unavailable or cannot be awarded, in whole or in part, for any reason. The ARV of the prize represents Sponsor’s good faith determination. That determination is final and binding and cannot be appealed. If the actual value of the prize turns out to be less than the stated ARV, the difference will not be awarded in cash. Sponsor makes no representation or warranty concerning the appearance, safety or performance of any prize awarded. Restrictions, conditions, and limitations may apply. Sponsor will not replace any lost or stolen prize items.

Prize will only be awarded and/or delivered to addresses within the USA and Canada. All federal, state and/or local taxes, fees, and surcharges are the sole responsibility of the prize winner. Failure to comply with the Official Rules will result in forfeiture of the prize.

5. Online Entry: Enter the Sweepstakes during the Promotion Period online by signing into the entry form and perform the tasks provided. The entry form can be found on the following website at https://susanmboyer.com/2019/07/19/lowcountry-boomerang-celebration-giveaway/.

Automated or robotic Entries submitted by individuals or organizations will be disqualified. Internet entry must be made by the entrant. Any attempt by an entrant to obtain more than the stated number of Entries by using multiple/different email addresses, identities, registrations, logins or any other methods, including, but not limited to, commercial contest/sweepstakes subscription notification and/or entering services, will void that entrant’s Entries and that entrant may be disqualified. Final eligibility for the award of any prize is subject to eligibility verification as set forth below. All Entries must be posted by the end of the Promotion Period in order to participate. Sponsor’s database clock will be the official time keeper for this Sweepstakes.

6. Privacy: All entrants acknowledge that if they are chosen as a winner, certain of their personally identifying information may be disclosed to third parties at least as required by law, including, without limitation, on a winner’s list. All personal information submitted as part of the Sweepstakes may be shared by and between the Promotion Entities, and each of the Promotion Entities will use such information in accordance with their respective independent online privacy policies. The privacy policy of Susan M. Boyer can be found at https://susanmboyer.com/privacy-policy/

7. Limitation of Liability: Sponsor is not responsible for any incorrect or inaccurate information, whether caused by website users or by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Sweepstakes or by any technical or human error, which may occur in the processing of submissions in the Sweepstakes. Sponsor assumes no responsibility for any misdirected or lost mail, or any error, omission, interruption, deletion, defect, delay of operation or transmission, communications line failure, theft or destruction or unauthorized access to, or alteration of, Entries. Sponsor is not responsible for any problems or technical malfunction of any telephone network or lines, computer online systems, servers or providers, computer equipment, software, failure of email or players on account of technical problems or traffic congestion on the Internet or at any website or combination thereof, including injury or damage to entrant’s or any other person’s computer related to or resulting from participating downloading materials in the Sweepstakes. If, for any reason, the Sweepstakes is not capable of running as planned, including infection by computer virus bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention, fraud, technical failures, or any other causes beyond the control of Sponsor which corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness, integrity or proper conduct of the Sweepstakes, then Sponsor reserves the right in its sole discretion to cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the Sweepstakes. In such event, Sponsor may, in its sole discretion, perform the random drawing from among all eligible Entries received prior to or after such cancellation, suspension, or modification.

In the event of a dispute concerning who registered online to participate in the Sweepstakes, the registration will be declared to have been made by the authorized account holder is defined as the natural person who is assigned to an email address by an internet provider, online service provider, or other organization (e.g., business, education institution, etc.) that is responsible for assigning email addresses for the domain associated with the submitted email address. A potential winner may be requested to provide Sponsor with proof that the potential winner is the authorized account holder of the email address. If a dispute cannot be resolved to Sponsor’s satisfaction, the entry will be deemed ineligible.

8. Winner’s List: To obtain a copy of any legally required winners list or a copy of the Official Rules, send the applicable request and a self-addresses, stamped, #10 envelope to Susan M. Boyer cc: Lowcountry Boomerang Preorder Giveaway at 5000 Old Buncombe Road Suite 27-273 Greenville, SC | 29609 US. Request must be received no later than 48 hours + 6 MONTHS for the name of the winner and, by the end of the promotion, for a copy of the rules.

9. Sponsor: The Sweepstakes is sponsored by Susan M. Boyer, 5000 Old Buncombe Road Suite 27-273 Greenville, SC | 29609 US, susanmboyer@gmail.com

10. Rafflecopter Disclaimer: This promotion is powered by Rafflecopter. Metric Feat LLC (“Rafflecopter”) does not sponsor, administer or endorse this promotion. By entering this promotion, Participants agree to Rafflecopter’s Privacy Policy (http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/privacy/). For technical information about the Rafflecopter widget, please visit http://blog.rafflecopter.com/2012/08/anatomy-rafflecopter-giveaway/.

11. Facebook Disclaimer: Entrants should understand that they are providing their information to the Sponsor and not to Facebook. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook.

12. This promotion may be modified at any time at the sole discretion of the Sponsor.

In Which Liz Appears in a Video Wiki

July 1, 2019

Happy Monday Y’all!

Here’s a fun bit of news from the weekend. I received a notification that Lowcountry Boil, the first Liz Talbot mystery, had been selected for a video wiki. What is a video wiki, you might ask (because that’s the very first thing I did)?

It’s like Wikipedia, but in video. Sounds fun, right? I thought so. And I was naturally thrilled that Liz garnered a mention in their post on lighthearted mysteries. Thank you so much, Ezvid Wiki!

You can see the video here…just click on the book covers to play the video.

Have a great week!

Susan

Lowcountry Bookshop Preorder Celebration Giveaway

March 22, 2018 in Giveaways, I Am Therefore I Write, Lowcountry Bookshop

Hey Y’all—Giveaway Alert! Lowcountry Bookshop (A Liz Talbot Mystery #7) releases on May 29! Let’s start celebrating early with a giveaway, why don’t we? On the morning of May 29, I’ll draw a random winner from everyone who pre-ordered Lowcountry Bookshop and/or followed the instructions below to enter.

The prize? A $100 gift card to the book retailer of your choice PLUS one of the handmade Stella Maris mugs. I’ll also draw for three runner-up prizes—additional Stella Maris mugs.

Entering is easy, but please read carefully.

If you’ve already preordered, thank you so much!
If you haven’t preordered your copy, links to several retailers are HERE.
Greenville area folks–I sure hope you’re coming to the launch party at Fiction Addiction on May 29! Just in case you can’t make it to the party, to get your signed, personalized copy (either shipped or for pickup) please preorder from Fiction Addiction. If you are coming, you can still preorder from Fiction Addiction and then enter the giveaway.)
Details are coming soon about an exciting pre-launch celebration on May 19 in Charleston, in conjunction with Buxton Books. A preorder option is included with the VIP ticket.
There are multiple contest entry options, including one for folks who are waiting on the audio version and one for folks who read from their local library. Please sign in to the Rafflecopter giveaway below using either your email address OR Facebook account and click on the first question to see all the entry options.

Please Note: I anticipate paperback and hardcover versions will be available for preorder on Amazon and B&N around the end of April–they are definitely coming!

I’m hopeful the audio version will be available by release day.

For now, preorders of trade paperbacks and hardcovers are available exclusively through Fiction Addiction or by purchasing a VIP ticket to the pre-launch celebration in Charleston in conjunction with Buxton Books.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Legalese & Whatnot –this is no fun, but I gotta do it:

By entering, Entrants agree to be bound by all the following Terms and Conditions.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE DOES NOT IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

1. Promotion Description: The ‘Lowcountry Bookshop Preorder’ (“Sweepstakes”) begins on 03/20/2018 at 12:00 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) and ends on 05/28/2018 at 11:59 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) (the “Promotion Period”). By participating in the Sweepstakes, each entrant unconditionally accepts and agrees to comply with and abide by these Official Rules and the decisions of Susan M. Boyer (“Sponsor”), which shall be final and binding in all respects. Sponsor is responsible for the collection, submission or processing of Entries and the overall administration of the giveaway. Entrants should look solely to Sponsor with any questions, comments or problems related to the Sweepstakes.

2. Eligibility: Open to legal residents of USA & Canada who are 18 or older. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. Sponsor and their respective parents, subsidiaries, affiliates, distributors, retailers, sales representatives, advertising and promotion agencies and each of their respective officers, directors and employees (collectively, the “Promotion Entities”), and members of their immediate families and/or persons living in the same household as such persons, are ineligible to enter the Sweepstakes or win a prize.

3. Winner Selection: The winner of the Sweepstakes will be selected in a random drawing from among all eligible Entries received throughout the Promotion Period. The random drawing will be conducted by 48 hours by Sponsor or its designated representatives, whose decisions are final. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible Entries received. Winner will be notified by email at the email address provided in the Entry Information on or about 48 hours after the random drawing. Potential winner must accept a prize by email as directed by Sponsor within 48 hours of notification. Any winner notification not responded to or returned as undeliverable may result in prize forfeiture. The potential prize winner may be required to sign and return an affidavit of eligibility and release of liability, and a Publicity Release (collectively “the Prize Claim Documents”). No substitution or transfer of a prize is permitted except by Sponsor.

4. Prizes:

– 1 (#) winner(s) will receive [(1) $100 Gift Card to the book retailer of your choice PLUS an Exclusive Stella Maris Handmade Mug] (approximate retail value or “ARV”: $125)

– 1 (#) winner(s) will receive [(1) Exclusive Stella Maris Handmade Mug] (approximate retail value or “ARV”: $25)

Only one prize per person and per household will be awarded. Gift cards and gift certificates are subject to the terms and conditions of the issuer. Prizes cannot be transferred, redeemed for cash or substituted by winner. Sponsor reserves the right in its sole and absolute discretion to award a substitute prize of equal or greater value if a prize described in these Official Rules is unavailable or cannot be awarded, in whole or in part, for any reason. The ARV of the prize represents Sponsor’s good faith determination. That determination is final and binding and cannot be appealed. If the actual value of the prize turns out to be less than the stated ARV, the difference will not be awarded in cash. Sponsor makes no representation or warranty concerning the appearance, safety or performance of any prize awarded. Restrictions, conditions, and limitations may apply. Sponsor will not replace any lost or stolen prize items.

Prize will only be awarded and/or delivered to addresses within USA & Canada. All federal, state and/or local taxes, fees, and surcharges are the sole responsibility of the prize winner. Failure to comply with the Official Rules will result in forfeiture of the prize.

5. Online Entry: Enter the Sweepstakes during the Promotion Period online by signing into the entry form and perform the tasks provided. The entry form can be found on the following website at .

Automated or robotic Entries submitted by individuals or organizations will be disqualified. Internet entry must be made by the entrant. Any attempt by an entrant to obtain more than the stated number of Entries by using multiple/different email addresses, identities, registrations, logins or any other methods, including, but not limited to, commercial contest/sweepstakes subscription notification and/or entering services, will void that entrant’s Entries and that entrant may be disqualified. Final eligibility for the award of any prize is subject to eligibility verification as set forth below. All Entries must be posted by the end of the Promotion Period in order to participate. Sponsor’s database clock will be the official time keeper for this Sweepstakes.

6. Privacy: All entrants acknowledge that if they are chosen as a winner, certain of their personally identifying information may be disclosed to third parties at least as required by law, including, without limitation, on a winner’s list. All personal information submitted as part of the Sweepstakes may be shared by and between the Promotion Entities, and each of the Promotion Entities will use such information in accordance with their respective independent online privacy policies. The privacy policy of Susan Boyer can be found at

7. Limitation of Liability: Sponsor is not responsible for any incorrect or inaccurate information, whether caused by website users or by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Sweepstakes or by any technical or human error, which may occur in the processing of submissions in the Sweepstakes. Sponsor assumes no responsibility for any misdirected or lost mail, or any error, omission, interruption, deletion, defect, delay of operation or transmission, communications line failure, theft or destruction or unauthorized access to, or alteration of, Entries. Sponsor is not responsible for any problems or technical malfunction of any telephone network or lines, computer online systems, servers or providers, computer equipment, software, failure of email or players on account of technical problems or traffic congestion on the Internet or at any website or combination thereof, including injury or damage to entrant’s or any other person’s computer related to or resulting from participating downloading materials in the Sweepstakes. If, for any reason, the Sweepstakes is not capable of running as planned, including infection by computer virus bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention, fraud, technical failures, or any other causes beyond the control of Sponsor which corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness, integrity or proper conduct of the Sweepstakes, then Sponsor reserves the right in its sole discretion to cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the Sweepstakes. In such event, Sponsor may, in its sole discretion, perform the random drawing from among all eligible Entries received prior to or after such cancellation, suspension, or modification.

In the event of a dispute concerning who registered online to participate in the Sweepstakes, the registration will be declared to have been made by the authorized account holder is defined as the natural person who is assigned to an email address by an internet provider, online service provider, or other organization (e.g., business, education institution, etc.) that is responsible for assigning email addresses for the domain associated with the submitted email address. A potential winner may be requested to provide Sponsor with proof that the potential winner is the authorized account holder of the email address. If a dispute cannot be resolved to Sponsor’s satisfaction, the entry will be deemed ineligible.

8. Winner’s List: To obtain a copy of any legally required winners list or a copy of the Official Rules, send the applicable request and a self-addresses, stamped, #10 envelope to Susan M. Boyer cc: Lowcountry Bookshop Preorder at 5000 Old Buncombe Road Suite 27-273, Greenville, SC 29609. Request must be received no later than 48 hours + 6 MONTHS for the name of the winner and, by the end of the promotion, for a copy of the rules.

9. Sponsor: The Sweepstakes is sponsored by Susan M. Boyer, 5000 Old Buncombe Road Suite 27-273, Greenville, SC 29609, susan@susanmboyer.com

10. Rafflecopter Disclaimer: This promotion is powered by Rafflecopter. Metric Feat LLC (“Rafflecopter”) does not sponsor, administer or endorse this promotion. By entering this promotion, Participants agree to Rafflecopter’s Privacy Policy (http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/privacy/). For technical information about the Rafflecopter widget, please visit http://blog.rafflecopter.com/2012/08/anatomy-rafflecopter-giveaway/.

11. Facebook Disclaimer: Entrants should understand that they are providing their information to the Sponsor and not to Facebook. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook.

12. This promotion may be modified at any time at the sole discretion of the Sponsor.

When Things Turn Out Better Than Planned

March 2, 2018 in books, Lowcountry Bookshop, The Liz Talbot Mystery Series

When I start writing a book, I have a particular title in mind. In fact, the titles are often writing prompts for me. When I first started working on Liz Talbot’s next adventure, it was going to be Lowcountry Boughs of Holly, and it was going to be a Christmas book. But then there were things I wanted to include in the book that didn’t fit with a Christmas setting, so it became Lowcountry BOLO–as in Be on the Look Out.

But that title didn’t fit the book exactly right, (and to be honest, I had to explain it to a few folks, and that’s never good). After much thought and discussion with everyone involved, we settled on what I think is the exact right title for this particular book, Lowcountry Bookshop.

The characters and plot are exactly the same as when I first started writing the book, but the new title lent itself to this lovely cover, which I’m delighted to share!

It will be up for preorder soon–stay tuned for details and for info on the launch party in Greenville on release day, May 29, at Fiction Addiction, and an exciting pre-launch event in Charleston on May 19. Save the dates!

My best,

Susan

What’s With All This Following, Already?

June 14, 2017 in I Am Therefore I Write

I recently learned that I should ask readers to follow me on BookBub. If you don’t know what BookBub is, and you read eBooks, you might want to check it out. It’s a daily newsletter with deals on eBooks. My mother purely hates email. But she loves her daily BookBub. I digress.

I feel like I’m always asking y’all to follow me somewhere–on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Goodreads, Instagram. Good grief, what will be next? Oh–and make sure you get my newsletter because I have contests and such that are exclusively for newsletter subscribers. When is enough of me enough? you might reasonably ask.

Here’s the thing…I get author newsletters, too. But some days I just don’t have time to read them all. Newsletters from my very favorite authors sometimes go straight into the recycle bin because I’m overwhelmed with email at the moment they arrive–or my sister calls, or my neighbor texts to let me know one of the kids left the garage door open, and I forget about that upcoming release. But I really do want to know when the author’s next book comes out, or that a title I missed two years ago is on sale, et cetera.

Maybe you’ve liked my Facebook page, (thank you!) but I’ll bet you rarely see my posts. Sadly, Facebook shows posts to a small percentage of people who like any given page. And if you follow me on Twitter, unless you’re on at the exact time I post about an upcoming book, you won’t see it.

BookBub and Amazon send out these super-short, sweet, to the point notices about new release and preorders for authors I follow. If I’m really busy, and I miss one, I catch the other. BookBub also notifies me of eBook deals.

So please make sure you’re getting my newsletter. An exclusive contest starts tomorrow! And by all means, like my Facebook page so we can chat there. If you’re on Goodreads, I’d love to connect with you, so we can see what each other is reading and loving. And I’d love to chat with you on Twitter, and share recipes, vacation dreams, and scenes from Liz’s books on Pinterest.

But whatever else you do or don’t, please follow me on Amazon and BookBub. I want to make sure you don’t miss a thing.

My best,

Susan

Lowcountry Bonfire is Almost Here!

June 5, 2017 in I Am Therefore I Write, Road Trip

I’m so thrilled that LOWCOUNTRY BONFIRE (A LIZ TALBOT MYSTERY #6) will be released on June 27. If you’re anywhere near Greenville, SC, please join us at Fiction Addiction Bookstore for the launch party from 5:30 – 8:00.

This is a drop-in party. Pop by and say hey, or come early and stay late–whatever fits your schedule. Gingersnaps Catering will be on hand with book-inspired appetizers, and we’ll have wine and other beverages.

If you don’t live in the Greenville area, or you will be out of town, you can preorder your copy to be signed (and personalized if you like) and shipped on launch day. Just call Fiction Addiction at (864) 675 – 0504 or click one of the buy links on the LOWCOUNTRY BONFIRE page to reserve your copy. Once you’ve preordered your copy, shoot me an email (susan@susanmboyer.com) to tell me where you ordered it and enter to win a $100 gift card to the book retailer of your choice. You can also enter on my Facebook page.

I’ll be traveling a bit around the release, and I hope to see as many of you as possible–check out my schedule here. Two of the events are before the launch date. I will not have copies of LOWCOUNTRY BONFIRE at the pre-launch events, but will be there to chat and sign the earlier books.

I hope to see you soon!

My best,

Susan

In Which Dreams Come True

January 15, 2015 in Conferences, Cover Reveal, I Am Therefore I Write

Like many freakishly voracious readers, I have a long list of favorite authors. But, I confess I once paid little attention to bestseller lists. Until the day somewhere in the 2005-2006 timeframe when I figured out I needed to see what was selling, because after all, I was a novelist with aspirations of publication.

I went to the Barnes & Noble website and pulled up mystery books. The top six bestselling mysteries were the first six Sookie Stackhouse books by Charlaine Harris. Vampires? I’d never read vampires.

I went to Barnes & Noble and bought the first one. I needed to see what this was all about. When I got home, I read Dead until Dark from cover to cover in one sitting. Then I raced back to Barnes & Noble and bought a copy of every single Charlaine Harris book they had in the store. A fan was born. Since that day, I have snapped up everything she writes as fast as it’s published and promptly binge-read it. She’s a fabulous storyteller. And I am her biggest fan.

I first met Charlaine at Sleuthfest in 2012, six months before my first book was released. I came early to a panel and sat in the center of the room in the third row. Charlaine and her friend sat down beside me. Of course I knew immediately who she was–I had her photo on a growing collection of books. I said something like, “I’m trying really hard not to be an annoying fangirl.”

She replied, “I was just thinking how much I like that sweater.” She introduced me to her friend, and we had a lovely conversation about how we liked a certain clothing store. If I’ve ever met a more charming, warm, down-to-earth person in my life I can’t recall it.

Imagine how overjoyed I was when I got my panel assignments for Bouchercon this past year and discovered I was on a panel with Charlaine Harris. I danced around the house on air for days.

Our panel was scheduled for Saturday. On Thursday afternoon, as I took a seat to watch another panel, I noticed Charlaine was seated behind me—y’all, I swear I was not stalking her, though I did joke that I was. I turned around and said hello, and we chatted for a few minutes. I told her the unvarnished truth—that I was her biggest fan and would try my very best not to stutter, blubber, et cetera on our panel. She put me immediately at ease. I had a wonderful time on the panel. And the photo of me beside her on that stage has been blown up and framed for my office.

All of this to explain how positively ecstatic I am to share with y’all the cover for the third Liz Talbot Mystery, LOWCOUNTRY BONEYARD, which releases April 21. The cover quote has been shortened a bit to fit, but here it is in its entirety:

“LOWCOUNTRY BONEYARD has everything you could want in a traditional mystery: a credible and savvy protagonist, a meaty mystery, and setting that will make you want to spend time in South Carolina. I enjoyed every minute of it.”

~~ Charlaine Harris, New York Times Bestselling Author of Day Shift

I am grateful beyond measure. To have an author you so admire read and like your work is both humbling and intoxicating. To have her comments on the cover of your book is a trip on Cloud Nine.

My best,

Susan

Of Chocolate & Peanut Butter

August 14, 2013 in I Am Therefore I Write, Marilyn Moments

From somewhere way back in one of the cobwebbed corners of my memory, I recall a TV commercial for Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Someone had a chocolate bar that accidentally landed in someone else’s peanut butter. An argument ensued along the lines of “You got peanut butter on my chocolate.” “You got chocolate in my peanut butter.” The idea, of course, is that they tasted great together. I love Reese’s Peanut Butter cups. I always overbuy them at Halloween so I can have the leftovers and rationalize eating them by telling myself that wasting them would be sinful. I digress.

What I really want to say is that Amazon and Barnes & Noble have started shipping the new Liz Talbot mystery, Lowcountry Bombshell–YAY! The eBook versions will be up soon–likely a few days before the official launch date of September 3. And I’m so, so excited!

But I also wanted to say to readers, y’all know these books–the whole series–they’re like Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, right? They are mysteries, but there is also a romance that plays out over the course of the series. In the first book, we get some of Liz’s relationship angst, but she isn’t really in a romantic relationship. There are hints of one to come, to be sure. And it does, in book two, and it will be a part of every other book in the series.

So, I’ve gotten romance all over the traditional mystery, or put mystery in the romance, depending on your perspective. Like Lowcountry Boil, Lowcountry Bombshell has many cozy elements–a small town setting, family interaction, humor, etc. But, also like Lowcountry Boil, it contains a few elements which are not cozy. In Lowcountry Boil, there was a bit of sexual content and some bad language. Lowcountry Bombshell has more sexual content, but less bad language. These weren’t arbitrary choices, but where the story took me.

I know–because I’ve heard from readers–that many are eager for Liz’s romantic life to take off. Most have a particular guy in mind for her. I hope you’ll all be happy with where the story goes. I also know that some readers will not care for the sexual content. So, I’m doing everything I can think of to let readers know what to expect. I’ve put an author’s note on Amazon. I’ve made it clear–I think–in the back cover copy. If it were a movie, Lowcountry Bombshell may well be R-rated. (We’re not talking Fifty Shades of anything here, really. Just a private investigator getting to know her boyfriend a lot better.)

One lovely lady who reviews for our local independent bookstore described Lowcountry Bombshell this way:

Store pick: Another sharp, sassy, intriguing mystery from Susan Boyer, after her Agatha winning debut Liz Talbot mystery. Lowcountry Bombshell is again filled with unique southernisms, gracious charm, and a cast of eccentric characters. They include Liz’s client, Calista, a Marilyn Monroe look alike who is afraid for her life. Lowcountry Bombshell is a cozy feeling, hard boiled PI novel with a little romance thrown in. The best of three genres all mixed together. –Nancy M., store volunteer

Can I just say how much I love Nancy? I hope y’all enjoy this book as much as I enjoyed writing it. If you’d like a signed, personalized copy, but can’t make it to one of the events, the books can be ordered through Fiction Addiction here in Greenville. I run by the store and sign them before they’re shipped.

My best,

Susan

Fabulous Weekend at SC Book Festival!

May 21, 2013 in Conferences, I Am Therefore I Write

I’m just back from the annual SC Book Festival. Wow, what a ride!

Friday, friend and fellow author, Kim Boykin, and I set up our booth. We couldn’t have asked for a better spot. We were right next to Barnes and Noble, and across from where the book signings were held after panels. Five different Master Classes were on the schedule for Friday, and all of them sounded fantastic, but Kim and I had decorating to do. Friday evening’s opening reception was held at the F. Hollings Special Collections Library at the Thomas Cooper Library at the University of South Carolina. Oh my stars! So many of my literary heroes in one room–and a feast, and an open bar. Saturday, May 18, was officially declared Pat Conroy day AND Paula Watkins day. You may have heard of Pat Conroy–he’s published a few books. Paula Watkins is the super hero at the SC Humanities Council who has made SC Book Fest a reality for the past seven years.

Saturday, the exhibit hall opened at 10:00 am. I was bowled over when Barnes and Noble sold out of Lowcountry Boil shortly after noon–only a little over two hours into the festival. Fortunately, another super hero, Jill Hendrix, owner of Greenville’s wonderful independent bookstore, Fiction Addiction, had ordered stock for our exhibit booth. My first panel, Women of Mystery, was at 3:20. Other authors on the panel were C. Hope Clark, Sue Duffy, and Sasscer Hill. We had so much fun, and such a great turnout! And what a wonderful surprise on Sunday morning when a friend told me we had made the front page of the State newspaper Metro section!

But, I’m getting ahead of myself! Saturday was full of meeting new friends and reconnecting with friends I haven’t seen in a while. My favorite moment of the entire day was when one of my very favorite authors, Mary Kay Andrews, bought a copy of Lowcountry Boil and asked me to sign it. I know I babbled like an idiot. But it was a moment I’ll remember the rest of my life.

Then, Saturday evening, The Literary Vine was a party that would have been the result if someone had said, Susan, what is your idea of the perfect party?” It was held at the Richland Library, and featured four floors full of wine tastings and food from local restaurants–and a jazz ensemble. And a photo booth with masks and boas. And prizes. The wines were incredible, and I’m still dreaming about the crab cakes and the Vidalia onion dip–so much good food.

Sunday morning, I was scheduled to have breakfast with a friend, and through a series of fortunate events, I ended up also having breakfast with Mary Kay Andrews before she headed out to a local flea market. I thought my day couldn’t get any better until I arrived at the exhibit hall and found out about the newspaper article. My panel Sunday afternoon was with friends and fellow mystery writers Sasscer Hill and James M. Jackson, and our friend Paula Benson moderating–another fun panel!

Before we knew it, it was four o’clock and time to start breaking down the exhibit booth. The weekend flew by–so many wonderful memories. I’m home and still unpacking. But I’d love to start over with Friday and ride that ride all over again!

Holiday Sale!

December 10, 2012 in I Am Therefore I Write

I’m tickled pink—is that a Southern thing? I never know, because Southern is my native language, and some things I’ve been saying my whole life are regionalisms, while others are things folks everywhere say. I digress…

I’m over the moon about Betty Webb’s review of Lowcountry Boil in the hot-off-the-press holiday issue of Mystery Scene Magazine. She likes it! And Michael Connelly is on the cover! Okay, there’s no connection whatsoever, but that still makes me happy.

In other happy news, my publisher, Henery Press, is having a Holiday Sale! From now until January 13, the eBook version of Lowcountry Boil is on sale for 99 cents across all platforms. The Kindle and Nook versions are live, and the iBook and Kobo versions will be soon.

Here are the links. If you read eBooks and enjoy female PI novels, now is a good time to meet Liz Talbot!

Kindle Nook iBooks Kobo

Warm wishes for a happy holiday season!

Susan

I Make Things Up and Write Them Down

October 18, 2012 in Family, I Am Therefore I Write

That line, “I make things up and write them down,” used to be my short bio somewhere–maybe it was Facebook, back before my Facebook page was a part of my ONLINE PRESENCE. But it’s true. That’s what I do. In a few minutes, October 18 will be here, and my debut novel, Lowcountry Boil, will be a month old. The last month has flown, and it’s been so incredibly wonderful I get teary-eyed just thinking about it. We’ve taken lots of photos, and the web gurus are making a special page for them. (This is my first post on the new website, and I’m trying not to blow it up.) My guess is that for most authors, the launch of a first novel is all cupcakes, champagne, friends, and fireworks. Okay, there were no fireworks, but my brother-in-law fired his cannon. I digress.

Because I have been blessed beyond the imagination of most normal folks in the colorful family department, my relatives simply do not believe they are not in the book. Some of my friends are convinced they must be in there, too. On several occasions over the last month, as we’ve celebrated this milestone various family members and friends have pulled me aside and asked, “Who am I in the book?” [Read more…]

And Then Things Started Happening

May 31, 2012 in I Am Therefore I Write

I came back from Sleuthfest in Orlando on Sunday, March 4. A lot of normal stuff happened during March, but the quantity was daunting–life, y’all know what I mean.

Then, late in March I got an offer from Henery Press to publish LOWCOUNTRY BOIL, the first in my mystery series about a private investigator named Liz Talbot. At the time I had an agent, who still had submissions outstanding. My instincts were screaming bloody murder to go with Henery Press. I have had so many conflicting feelings about which direction I should travel on the publishing road–there are many forks these days–but suddenly I was no longer conflicted. I knew what I wanted. [Read more…]

Some of the Nicest People are Planning a Murder

March 8, 2012 in Conferences, I Am Therefore I Write

Some of the nicest folks you’ll ever meet are planning a murder–or three. Seriously, it’s a puzzlement, when you think about it. Mystery writers–folks who spend their days plotting inventive ways to kill people and hide the bodies–are, as a group, so pleasant.

I’m just back from Sleuthfest in Orlando. This annual event is a writers’ conference sponsored by the Florida chapter of Mystery Writers of America. I saw old friends and met many online friends in person. Everyone I came in contact with was open, friendly, and helpful.

A few standouts (for me) among many workshops offered Thursday were Daniel Palmer’s “Coming up with Your ‘What If?'” Reed Farrel Coleman’s “Building 3-Dimensional Characters,” and Hank Phillippi Ryan’s “Get Your Motor Going.” In addition to presenting helpful content, these folks were all genuinely entertaining. I’m positive all the workshops were just as wonderful, but my efforts to clone myself have been largely unsuccessful, and thus I could only attend one in each time slot–I had to choose. I hate to choose. I’m horrible at making decisions. I digress.

One of the (many) highlights of the conference for me came Friday morning. I arrived early for the panel discussion, “The Traditional Mystery,” (one of my favorite panels) and chose a seat near the front center. I like to make sure I don’t miss anything. Anyway, I’d been there a few moments, flipping through my program, when I looked up to see Charlaine Harris walking towards me with a friend. For the record, Charlaine Harris is one of my very favorite authors–I know, me and millions of other folks, right?

I’d set my purse on the seat to my left. Charlaine sat in the next seat over. We smiled and said, “Good morning.” I tried so hard to act normal and not at all like a lunatic fan. I was mostly succeeding and was so proud of myself that I felt the need to share this information. I turned to her and said, “I’m trying really hard not to act like a total fangirl.”

She smiled real sweet and said, “I was just admiring your sweater.”

“Coldwater Creek,” I said.

And then we had a lovely conversation about how we both loved shopping online in general, and Coldwater Creek in particular, and how if she’d seen that sweater she’d have bought it. Something about Charlaine put me instantly at ease. You know how some famous people travel with an entourage and give off this vibe that screams, “Back off, I’m far too important to be bothered by the little people?” These people are the polar opposites of Charlaine Harris. (None of those folks were at Sleuthfest, of course.) She introduced me to Paula, her friend and assistant, who was equally charming. Truly, I have never met more delightful people.

Charlaine’s keynote on Saturday was fabulous as well–humorous, and inspiring. My only disappointment was that I already own all of her books, and had forgotten to bring one to have it autographed.

But you see, she makes my point. This warm, friendly woman has come up with enough creative ways to kill people, not to mention vampires, shape shifters, fairies, and all manner of supernatural creatures, to fill a shelf in my bookcase.

I think maybe writing about murder must be therapeutic. Getting all of your frustrations out by killing off the people who get on your last nerve, even if it’s just on the page, must release a happy hormone or some such thing. That’s my theory, anyway.

Peace out,

Susan

The Striptease

February 7, 2012 in I Am Therefore I Write

A friend of mine and I were solving the problems of the world via protracted phone chat/bon bon eating marathon last week when the conversation turned to her work in progress. Her local critique group felt that she needed to front load more backstory. I cringed.

I hadn’t read her current project, but I’m not a fan of this strategy. When I’m reading a mystery or romantic suspense novel–and that’s the genre pool she and I read and write in–I want to experience the story through the close point of view of the main character. And I want the protagonist to reveal the story bit by bit, as she lives it–dances it–like a striptease.

If a striptease artist walked on stage fully naked, (or nekkid, as we say in the South, when one is unclothed and up to something) it would be something other than a striptease. Some may get their jollies this way–in states where this is legal–but not me.

I love the mystery, the suspense–the tease. I want to see the dancer all dolled-up in layers of clothes and accessories–fur, jewelry, hat, scarves, belt, gloves, high heels, skirt, jacket, blouse–you get the idea. Then, piece by piece, each article–each clue–is peeled away, revealing the next. The striptease is a long, sensual dance, an art form unto itself. Reveal too much too soon, and you ruin the dance for me. I don’t want to see the garter belt until the very end.

Y’all know we’re talking books here, right?

Peace out,

Susan

P.S. Mamma, I swear I’ve never seen a strip tease dance in my life. You well know I was raised better than that.