__________________________________________________________________
Interview of Jo-Anne Vandermeulen by Rhonda Rowe
Yorkton This Week Newspaper
Staff Writer
"I enjoyed feeling the characters become real in all forms--physically, mentally, intellectually and spiritually. Their personalities developed and grew as the story unravelled."
The road to becoming a published author is not an easy one and for
many, the dream never becomes a reality.
Jo-Anne Vandermeulen is someone who has walked that road and seen just
what it takes to go from the dream state to reality. It takes more than
just a simple desire to write to get things rolling and off the ground.
“I always wanted to write,” Vandermeulen commented, “but never had
time.” As a busy mother of two, a full-time teacher and after school
coach, there just weren’t enough hours in a day.
“I taught for 20 years,” said Vandermeulen. “Teaching was my life and
I never really thought about doing anything else.”
All that changed in the spring of 2006, when Vandermeulen began to feel
extremely lethargic and generally unwell.
“I had no concentration and was losing my memory and was suffering from
chronic fatigue,” she said.
Almost overnight Vandermeulen went from being an extremely active
person, involved in everything, to sitting at home on her couch.
“I went to the Doctor on a Wednesday and I was out of class by Friday.”
The diagnosis: Fibromyalgia.
Vandermeulen said it was very hard to go from being such an active
person, to not being able to function normally.
With a lot of time to be alone with her thoughts, Vandermeulen
mentioned that “Circumstances lead me to say, ‘I’m going to write.’”
And that is exactly what she did.
With more than enough time on her hands and limited energy,
Vandermeulen found this to be the perfect opportunity for her to dust
off her dream to write.
Seventeen days after making her decision to write, she penned the final
words to her first book, “Dare to Start Over,” an inspirational
Romance, in September 2006.
“I sent letters to New York, etc,” said Vandermeulen, informing agents
of her book. “Agents wanted to see partials and full manuscripts.”
Secular agents suggested that she try Christian agencies, but
Vandermeulen was turned down by them, because her plots were ‘too
explicit’.
Vandermeulen continued to write and completed a trilogy, taking out the
Christian element and then went back to the secular agents with her
145,000 word edition of the three books in one called, “On Guard.”
“Kensington Publishing granted me a seven minute pitch to promote ‘On
Guard’, “said Vandermeulen, adding that this was a key step towards
getting published.
“But, it’s who you know,” she said commenting that eight months later,
she received notice that her book as not accepted for publication.
“I also pitched the book to Catherine Lyre, of Harlequin, in Toronto,”
said Vandermeulen, but again, disappointment.
“I must have applied to 800 agents,” Vandermeulen recalled.
The book is now, ‘under her bed’, a term used by authors to indicate
that it has been shelved as a non-published item.
But disappointment did not deter Vandermeulen.
She learned a lot from her initial experiences as an author trying to
get her work published, and decided to keep learning and writing.
“I entered contests like crazy. Judges would give their input and I
also read anything on the craft of writing.” Vandermeulen also took
online workshops and would spend days in the resource section of the
library reading anything pertaining to writing.
In September of 2009, her determination, self-directed study and hard
work paid off. Vandermeulen became a published author of a work of
fiction, called, “Conquer All Obstacles.”
“It’s a total work of fiction,” said Vandernmeulen, adding that she did
glean some ideas from personal experience, and from people she has
known.
“It’s not a telling book,” she said, “But an action book that is very
intriguing.”
Vandermeulen said that she had so much fun writing the book that she
couldn’t wait to see how each character would develop.
“I enjoyed feeling the characters become real in all forms —
physically, mentally, intellectually and spiritually. Their
personalities developed and grew as the story unravelled.”
Vandermeulen is now promoting her book across the country.
Is this a money making venture? Vandermeulen says ‘No’.
“I have to physically sell 200 books to break even.”
And her dream would be to sell her own books, “But the shipping costs
are too high!”
Shipping costs set aside, one published book in one year is still a
tremendous accomplishment for an author, and Jo-Anne has reached that
goal and is looking forward to releasing a second book.
“People were asking me, ‘Can I buy your book?’ (on Marketing) and I
said, “I don’t have one.” So, Vandermeulen sat down and compiled all
her articles on Marketing and put them into a book format.
“Premium Promotional Tips for Writers” is a work of non-fiction that
Vandermeulen is set to release this month, or you can visit her website
for Free Marketing tips for writers at: www.joconquerobstacles.com.
Vandermeulen’s final words of wisdom, for would be authors, are: “Start
your author platform before you publish, and market yourself.”
Vandermeulen will be signing copies of her book, “Conquer All
Obstacles” at Coles Book Store in Yorkton on Thursday, November 19 from
12 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, December 5 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
___________________________________________________________
Vandermeulen’s new fiction release,
“Conquer All Obstacles”, hit the stands less than 3 weeks ago.
“Conquer All Obstacles” is an emotional thrill ride as it pulls on the heart strings, fans the flames of anger, and tugs at the smile within. This book is a must have for those with a penchant for an edge of your seat pulse pounding love story.” >Brian Knight Book Review from PPS<
The exposure is set in motion.
http://www.booktour.com/author/jo_anne_vandermeulenThursday afternoon, November 12th, she drove from Yorkton into Rocanville, Saskatchewan (her home-town) and hosted an hour presentation. A festive occasion beginning with welcoming hugs, the topic of discussion (“Journey to Publication”), and cheers of congratulations of having her dream come true.
+005.JPG)
Again, the joyous occasion was duplicated that evening in Moosomin, Saskatchewan. Vandermeulen sizzled with energy, sharing her writing story with a new and interested group. Book signing, huge smiles and clapping ended the evening.
An attention grabber, the author, Jo-Anne Vandermeulen, and her novel, “Conquer All Obstacles” set the stage. On the jet black cover, the vibrant green scarf loosely swags into a heart-shape, symbolizing the unveiling romantic events of this turn-pager story.
From the first word, Vandermeulen’s passion for writing and storytelling takes center stage. Instantly, you are immersed in Tara’s life. With each passing page, it is virtually impossible not to care for the characters in “Conquer All Obstacles”. You will find yourself connecting with them on multiple levels. >Brian Knight Book Review from PPS<
+006.JPG)
Yesterday (Nov. 14), McNally’s in Saskatoon was buzzing. Several times, people lined up in front of Vandermeulen’s book signing table to purchase books. Eyes scanned her cover to “Conquer All Obstacles”, fingers flipped the pages, and greeting exchanged. For Vandermeulen’s 2 hour Book Launch old time buddies, book-club group members, Facebook friends, family, and new acquaintances shook hands, exchanged hugs, and requested her book to be signed.
“The first step in selling your book is exposure.” Said Vandermeulen.
“Sometimes a viewer has to see the book several times before purchasing. After exposure comes the ‘buzz’. Now the buzz takes time...often 3-6 weeks. Once your book is read and enjoyed by a few, they will share this with their friends. Their friends will tell others, and so on...Viral promotion is like a snowball rolling down a hill. It gets bigger and bigger.” Vandermeulen continued.
So where’s Vandermeulen off to next?
November 19th at Coles Book Store in Yorkton, she will make an appearance from noon – 4:00. Taking advantage of the Thursday marketing crowd in the Mall, Vandermeulen will be ready to sign her books and answer any questions.
Her weekend will be filled. Saturday, A Book Launch is set for 2:00pm in the Capital City. During the afternoon, She will be available to sign “Conquer All Obstacles at The Books and Brier Patch in Regina. And on Sunday, Vandermeulen heads back to her home-crowd. At 2:00pm in the Uptown Library, Vandermeulen will have her books there for sale and will be happy to sign even more.
Author Jo-Anne Vandermeulen’s debut novel, is sure to take the world by storm. I see a bright future for this up and coming author as more titles follow this engaging tale of love and survival.” >Brian Knight Book Review from PPS<
If viewers miss the opportunity to catch Vandermeulen during her book tour, her novel, “Conquer All Obstacles”, can be purchased online from her site at:
http://vandermeulen.laurusbooks.com/Order.htmlOr through Amazon at:
http://astore.amazon.com/premiumpromotionalservices-20/detail/098416801X
___________________________________________________________
A WOMAN WHO WANTS TO FIND LOVE …Middle-aged divorcee, Tara Robstead, wants more than a secret love affair with her boss, Josh Henderson.
WILL DO WHATEVER IT TAKES FOR A HAPPILY-EVER-AFTER …Yet, her search for a happily-ever-after costs her more than a price paid in blood—her soul is slaughtered.
EVEN TANGLING WITH A PSYCHOPATH …Now confined in a mental hospital, she must confront her greatest fears in order to break a psychopath’s control over her fractured mind.
YET, LOVE HAS THE POWER TO …Against the ticking clock, Josh must face his true love for Tara before it’s too late.
CONQUER ALL OBSTACLES 
Interview with Jo-Anne VandermeulenWhy did you write this book?
When I wrote “Conquer All Obstacles” I was having a lot of internal conflict. I’d just returned from the Neurologists (after performing several tests) to confirm or rule-out the possibility of early Alzheimer’s. Thankfully, the tests turned out negative. The symptoms I’d been experiencing would have to be further examined.
In “Conquer All Obstacles” there are passages woven throughout the novel, taking the reader into the ‘NOW – at Gladstone Central Mental Hospital’. The main character’s collection of semi-comatose internal conversations, are the actual confused (or I call it practically insane) thinking I was experiencing—making this suspense/romance a very interesting read. The reader is taken from the NOW to the past (starting at 6 months prior) and gradually lead into the present time. “Conquer All Obstacles” is a real page-turner with a built in story structure that hooks the reader right from the start--the reader cannot help but wonder why a strong independent woman could end up in such a confused mental state, and how will she be able to conquer this internal battle that’s happening within her mind.
“Conquer All Obstacles” is a testimony for all who suffer...an inspirational message that confirms our internal strength can overcome whatever ailment or barricade that a person may have to face. Love, passion, and the true spirit of hope can work as weapons; battle and win against obstacles. An inner strength that most don’t realize we have.What did you enjoy most about writing it?
When I wrote “Conquer All Obstacles”, I enjoyed feeling the characters become real in all forms—physically, mentally, intellectually, and spiritually. Their personalities developed and grew as the story unravelled.
What was hardest to write?
The most difficult part to write “Conquer All Obstacles” was the first 50 pages. I must have revisited and revised those pages anywhere between 30-40 times.
What do you hope people will get from your book?
By the time the reader completes “Conquer All Obstacles”, I hope they are inspired with new discoveries about love, courage, and internal strength of mentality. The readers will feel growth as they become each character—experiencing the truth about love, the power of courage; and the knowledge of making choices...the means to conquer all obstacles is controlled from within thy self.
What's next for you?
I live one day at a time—a journey that’s already predetermined by God. Yes, I plan; but, I don’t plan the outcomes. Expectations just get me into a lot of trouble.
Over the next 4-6 months, I plan to market “Conquer All Obstacles” through local and Internet promotions. I’ve become my own publicist, distributor, and marketer which leaves little or no time for writing.
Within this time frame, I will continue with the edits to my soon-to-be-released (November 2009) “Premium Promotional Tips For Writers” and keep building my author platform. Once this non-fiction is released, I will continue to take the rolls mentioned with a shift in targeted audiences—exchanging interests from suspense/romance to more writers and authors who are searching for practical tips to market their books. Having a fiction and nonfiction released fairly within the same time period should prove very interesting (which I’m up for the challenge).
There’s no way I can stay away from writing for a 6 month period. I plan to write another fiction. My readers will dictate whether or not there will be a sequel.
Corresponding with my fans is very important. I’m looking forward to our exchange of ideas and the building of relationships. Opportunities have a way of just showing-up behind all doors I open._______________________________________________________________
To view Karina Fabian's site:
http://bit.ly/vDLFo_______________________________________________________________
To purchase "Conquer All Obstacles" from the Author, click
HERE.
To purchase paperback through Amazon, click
HERE.
To purchase hardcover through Amazon, click
HERE.
_______________________________________________________________
READ IT, READ IT, READ ALL ABOUT IT...
TODAY, JO-ANNE VANDERMEULEN OFFICIALLY REACHES AUTHOR STATUS—“CONQUER ALL OBSTACLES”HITS THE STANDS!Physically, she flips through the crisp pages. In cyber, “Conquer All Obstacles” can NOW be purchased through all major retail websites.
I’ll tell yeah, the poor delivery boy didn’t have a choice...
Jo-Anne grabbed his arm and flung him inside, slamming the door behind. His eyes grew as big as saucers, staring at this hysterical woman who’s feet appeared not to touch the ground...lol.
So I was solo, and didn’t have anyone to snap the pictures. I wanted to record this moment for ALL to see...
Finally,
Jo-Anne ripped open the box, buried her head inside the cardboard box, and sucked-in the fragrance of HER VERY OWN BOOKS. 
“CONQUER ALL OBSTACLES” IS OFFICIALLY PUBLISHED! LET’S CELEBRATE!!!
Here’s where the fun begins...
Have you got your Merlot in one hand and the dark chocolate in the other? No better combination.
Now sit back and relax—enjoy reading the first chapter of “Conquer All Obstacles”. No, no, put your money away. This one’s on me – Click
HERE.
What? You want to read the entire book but the cash is tight this month. Heck, no problem...here’s the eBook that’s 33% cheaper than the paperback. Oh, and I should also mention that there’s no charge for shipping. Click
HERE.
Ah, you’d like me to get the most profit from my own book by purchasing it through ME rather than through other distributors? Excellent idea. How’d you get so smart? Click
HERE to buy this book through the author.
Yes, “Conquer All Obstacles” can be purchased nearly everywhere else on the Internet. Purchase throught the author (yes, that's me...lol) just click
HERE. You can buy through
Amazon or
Barnes & Nobles.
I guarantee you won’t be disappointed if you enjoy reading
Suspense/Romance – Twists, dramatic characters, all within interwoven plots that strategically come together for an explosive ending.
“Conquer All Obstacles is an emotional thrill ride as it pulls on the heart strings, fans the flames of anger, and tugs at the smile within. This book is a must have for those with a penchant for an edge of your seat pulse pounding love story.”>Brian Knight, PPS - Book Title Promotion<
Here, I’ll prove it...read this 5-Star review by clicking
HERE.
Please help me spread the word...let’s work together and share with others. Your support always amazes me...
You'd like to MEET & GREET me and have "Conquer All Obstacles" signed? Sure, no problem. In November, I don't think I'm going to be home...lol. Planning on a BOOKTOUR--traveling to Moosomin, Rocanville, Saskatoon, Regina, and then back to Yorkton. For exact times, dates and locations, click
HERE.
You mean the party’s at your place next time? Wonderful, I’m there for you!
Oh, and don’t forget your coat on the way out, although I can always bring whatever you forgot for the next time we see each other.
Blessings to ALL my friends.
+005.JPG)
+006.JPG)
