Help Write Now

The End of the Auction

2011-05-18T23:29:00.001-05:00

Wow.

You guys are truly amazing. Despite technical difficulties, you fabulous donors and bidders raised $21,047 for storm relief. We are speechless and excited and flabbergasted and, above all, grateful.

My name was on most of the posts, but a lot of great people helped out behind the scenes, and I want to make sure they get the recognition they deserve. Bree, Cleolinda Jones, and Debra Driza, among others, were enormously helpful in soliciting donations. Michelle Schusterman, Kirsten Hubbard, Amanda Hannah, Kody Keplinger, Kristin Halbrook, and Bree were kind enough to help me contact winners and hook them up with their donors. And should I ever have to man a ship, Kaitlin Ward is my first mate, hands down. She is an organizational powerhouse.

There are still lots of ways to help online! Check out these other great causes:

All 4 Alabama is adopting a rural Alabama community affected by recent storms.
TLC Auctions is supporting an injured father and a 6 year old with leukemia.
Happy Like This benefits a family very dear to me: The parents are friends from high school, and their daughters Alex and Emma are both living with a rare terminal disorder. Funds will help them visit Disney one last time.

If you're waiting for emails from us, please be patient. We're making every effort to contact winners and donors as quickly as possible, but you know how it goes. Several of us will be out of town next week and the lovely Amanda has volunteered to bat clean up, so please be kind to her. ;)

To all the bidders who battled it out at 9:59; to all the donors who went out of their way to contact us, volunteer their time, or up the ante in the comments; and to all the people who spread the word: We can't thank you enough. But we'll say it again:

THANK YOU.

Reopening Bids

2011-05-15T23:53:00.004-05:00

Well, we waited the weekend, and though Blogger assures everyone that comments will be restored soon, as of now, we're still missing some. But we don't want to put these funds on hold forever, because people need them now!

SO. We're reopening bids on Days 7, 8, and 9. IF those missing comments reappear before auctions close, they'll count at the end, so keep an eye on your favorite items to make sure you're not outbid by someone from last week!

Our new closing dates are as follows:

Day 7 will close Monday, May 16, at 10:00 PM Central.

Day 8 will close Tuesday, May 17, at 10:00 PM Central.

Day 9 will close Wednesday, May 18, at 10:00 PM Central.

Thank you all for your patience!

ETA: Some of our labels are still wonky... we're hoping those will be repaired soon too!

The Blogger Incident

2011-05-13T13:44:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone!

First of all, we really appreciate all of you for your donations and your bids! This has been a great auction so far because of all of you. And I think we are all aware of Blogger's giant fail last night through this morning. Because of the problems this caused, and because a lot of comments and all of the posts from Day 9 are still missing, we're going to put the auction on pause until Monday. We're hoping that over the weekend, the rest of the comments and the missing posts will come back up.

So any bids from today and any placed over the weekend will be deleted for fairness and to minimize confusion, but as soon as Monday hits, you can start bidding again. Day 7 auctions will close Monday at 10:00 PM Central time rather than tonight.

We are so sorry because we know this is a little inconvenient, but we are hoping that this solution will end up creating less work and confusion for everyone.

Day 9 ~ Item 16: Partial Critique

2011-05-12T10:16:00.000-05:00

Author Kara Mustafa, intern to agent Elana Roth and represented by agent Suzie Townsend, will critique the first 50 pages of your novel + your query!

Day 9 ~ Item 12: Partial Critique

2011-05-12T10:11:00.000-05:00

From Lisa Schroeder, author of numerous books for kids and teens, including CHASING BROOKLYN (Simon Pulse, 2010) and IT'S RAINING CUPCAKES (Aladdin, 2010):
A critique of the first three chapters of your contemporary middle grade or young adult novel.

Day 9 ~ Item 18: Agent Critiques : TWO Winners!

2011-05-11T23:36:00.000-05:00

Agent Sarah LaPolla of Curtis Brown LTD. will donate 1 partial critique (25 pages) with concept notes and line edits when necessary to the highest bidder.

The second highest bidder will receive a query critique!

Day 9 ~ Item 17: ARC of SHATTER ME

2011-05-11T23:32:00.000-05:00

From author Tahereh Mafi:

"An ARC of SHATTER ME, and a 10 page MS critique

Synopsis:
Juliette hasn't touched anyone in exactly 264 days. The last time she did, it was an accident, but The Reestablishment locked her up for murder. No one knows why Juliette's touch is fatal. As long as she doesn't hurt anyone else, no one really cares. The world is too busy crumbling to pieces to pay attention to a 17-year-old-girl. Diseases are destroying the population, food is hard to find, birds don't fly anymore, and the clouds are the wrong color.

The Reestablishment said their way was the only way to fix things, so they threw Juliette in a cell. Now so many people are dead that the survivors are whispering war- and The Reestablishment has changed its mind. Maybe Juliette is more than a tortured soul stuffed into a poisonous body. Maybe she's exactly what they need right now.

Juliette has to make a choice: Be a weapon. Or be a warrior.

In this electrifying debut, Tahereh Mafi presents a world as riveting as The Hunger Games and a superhero story as thrilling as The X-Men. Full of pulse-pounding romance, intoxicating villainy, and high-stakes choices, Shatter Me is a fresh and original dystopian novel—with a paranormal twist—that will leave readers anxiously awaiting its sequel."

Day 9 ~ Item 15: Custom Extra Scene!

2011-05-11T23:29:00.000-05:00

From Stephanie Perkins, author of ANNA AND THE FRENCH KISS:

"This auction is for one written conversation of your choice between Anna Oliphant and Étienne St. Clair, the main characters of my novel ANNA AND THE FRENCH KISS.

If you win, you’ll send me a topic, and I’ll write a short scene in which Anna and Étienne muse upon it.

The scene will be added as a permanent “Extras” feature on stephanieperkins.com, and I’ll list your name (and link to your website, if you have one) as the dedication. I will also print a copy, sign it, and mail it to you.

Your topic must be brief, like “kumquats” or “Dr. Who.” In other words, if you send this idea to me: “Étienne breaks up with Anna to date Michelle Huffernagle, aka me, the winner of this auction,” I will tell you to pick another topic.

I will also not write about anything that will spoil the companion novels to ANNA AND THE FRENCH KISS. Your topic idea cannot be “Lola,” “Cricket,” “Isla,” etc.

I will be open-minded, but I do reserve the right to refuse any idea that I deem inappropriate and to ask you to select another one.

The winner’s scene will be on my website (and the paper copy mailed) within sixty days of settling on the topic.

Thanks for bidding, and good luck!"

Day 9 ~ Item 14: Signed FALLEN Trilogy!

2011-05-11T23:25:00.000-05:00

From New York Times bestselling author Lauren Kate:

Signed/personalized hardcovers of FALLEN, TORMENT, and the just-about-to-be-released PASSION!

Day 9 ~ Item 13: FIVE Middle Grade Query or Partial Critiques

2011-05-11T23:21:00.000-05:00

For our five top bidders: Project Mayhem team-member will critique either your query or the first 10 pages of your manuscript.

Project Mayhem is a group of middle-grade authors and bloggers who love all things middle-grade. You can check us out at http://www.project-middle-grade-mayhem.blogspot.com/.

Please note: Only increasing bids count!

Day 9 ~ Item 10: Super YA Critique from Real YAs!

2011-05-11T23:16:00.000-05:00

From Noveltee(n):

"Write YA? Seven teen writer/readers want to help you out! The winning bidder will receive the following critiques/reads:

Query and first 20 pages:

Sarah Kressin
Kate Coursey (agented by Edward Necarsulmer)
A Writer Gone Mad (Authoress's assistant)

50 page critique and FULL read for "overall teen reader impressions":

Amanda Kurka
Renee Kurka

Full manuscript read for "overall teen reader impressions":

Lizzy

FULL manuscript critique:

Taryn Albright

All have experience critiquing or writing agented work."

Day 9 ~ Item 9: Signed MORTAL INSTRUMENTS Series!

2011-05-11T23:09:00.000-05:00

From Nikki Meiggs at Wicked Awesome Books:

"A brand new paperback boxed set of The Mortal Instruments series (including City of Bones, City of Ashes, and City of Glass) all signed by Cassandra Clare. City of Ashes is also signed by Elka Cloke, whose poem, 'This Bitter Language,' is featured at the beginning of the book.

The set was opened only to get the books signed."

US only, sorry!

Day 9 ~ Item 8: TWO Full Critiques + THREE ARCs!

2011-05-11T23:03:00.000-05:00

Two full MS critiques (YA, and up to 90K) from Abby Stevens and Sarah Enni

PLUS

Three "surprise" ARCs!

Abby and Sarah are both authors in the query trenches who have each critiqued several full-length books. We'll send you three surprise ARCs from the upcoming BEA and ALA conferences!

Day 9 ~ Item 7: Signed Poetry Collections

2011-05-11T22:50:00.000-05:00

2 signed collections of poetry and essay by, collected by Katharyn Machan, Professor at Ithaca College. Books include "Redwing: Voices from 1888" and "One For the Road."

Donated by the author

Day 9 ~ Item 6: Partial Critique

2011-05-11T22:46:00.000-05:00

From author Monica Bustamente Wagner:

"Manuscript Critique: First 10 pages

I’m a YA writer represented by Michelle Wolfson of Wolfson Lit. And I’ll critique the first 10 pages of a manuscript—any genre, though I’m better betaing YA novels and women’s fiction.
The critique includes thorough line-by-line comments (sentence structure, grammar, repetitive words, etc) and overall suggestions (characterization, pacing, etc).

I would love to critique 20 pages if the bidding goes over $30."

Day 9 ~ Item 11: Romance + $50 Gift Card

2011-05-11T22:43:00.000-05:00

From author Paula Graves:

"Signed copies of all seven Cooper Justice books, my Harlequin Intrigue series, plus a $50 eGiftcard to Amazon.com."

Day 9 ~ Item 5: Custom Notebook

2011-05-11T22:40:00.000-05:00

Writer's notebook with one-of-a-kind collaged front and back covers. Vintage stamps, international images, shopping lists from two continents and more. Can customize the subject matter.

Donated by S.L. (Sandi) Wisenberg

Day 9 ~ Item 4: Signed Book

2011-05-11T22:34:00.000-05:00

Image may not match
cover of item being signed

Signed copy of WAITING FOR AN ARMY TO DIE: The Tragedy of Agent Orange by Fred A. Wilcox. This first edition is no longer available elsewhere!

Donated by the author

Day 9 ~ Item 3: Partial Critique

2011-05-11T22:24:00.000-05:00

From S.L. (Sandi) Wisenber, proprietor of Red Fish Studio Writing Workshops and co-director of Northwestern University's MA/MFA in Creative Writing program.

Critique (global or line-by-line) of first 10 pages of literary fiction or nonfiction.

Sandi has taught writing for a quarter-century and is the author of a story collection, essay collection, and chronicle based on her blog.

Day 9 ~ Item 2: Picture Book

2011-05-11T22:22:00.000-05:00

From author Douglas Esper:
"This is a picture book I self-published with a Columbus, Ohio artist named Jeff Fernengel. It follows a young, friendly creature named Sammy as he searches for his friends on his birthday. The followup, Sammy's New Neighbor, will be released later this year. This auction will include 2 signed copies of the book and as many bookmarks for your children's school as you would like.

My parents live in Birmingham, Alabama and though they made it through the storms unharmed, their friends and neighbors need our help!!!"

Day 9 ~ Item 1: Partial Critique

2011-05-11T22:16:00.000-05:00

From best selling author Laura Kreitzer:

35k word manuscript critique/edit of any genre of fiction

*Manuscript must be sent by July 1st, 2011. Critique turn-around time will depend on the manuscript received.

Day 8 ~ Item 23: Manuscript Copy Edits

2011-05-11T10:22:00.009-05:00

From Heather McBride:
"I will copy edit one full-length novel for the winner of the auction. My copy editing is primarily focused on grammar, punctuation, and spelling, but I will note any other concerns I have, should anything come up. My editing style includes at least two reads of the book, one for content, the other for in-depth editing. I don't do fact checking. I am available after the process to answer any questions or offer further guidance for that same novel."

Heather has edited:
Nyphron Rising by Michael J. Sullivan
The Emerald Storm by Michael J. Sullivan
Wintertide by Michael J. Sullivan
Finding Reason by Bryce Anderson
Of the Ashes by Kristen Taber (not yet published)

Day 8 ~ Item 22: Signed Book from Neil Gaiman!

2011-05-11T10:21:00.000-05:00

A signed copy of a surprise book from New York Times bestselling author Neil Gaiman, winner of 3 Hugos, 2 Nebulas, 1 World Fantasy Award, 4 Bram Stoker Awards, 6 Locus Awards, 2 British SF Awards, 1 British Fantasy Award, 3 Geffens, 1 International Horror Guild Award and 1 Mythopoeic.

Donated by the author

Special thanks to Samantha Mabry for soliciting the donation!

Day 8 ~ Item 21: Agent Partial Critique + Skype Chat!

2011-05-11T10:20:00.002-05:00

Agent Liz Jote of Objective Entertainment will critique 30 pages of your manuscript over Skype chat!

Day 8 ~ Item 20: Agent FULL Manuscript + Query Critique!

2011-05-11T10:19:00.000-05:00

From agent Weronika Janczuk at the D4EO Agency:

Query + full manuscript critique, up to 100,000 words, to be completed within one month of materials sent. Any genre.

Day 8 ~ Item 19: FOUR Partial Critiques ~ Science Fiction or Fantasy

2011-05-11T10:18:00.000-05:00

Sarah Brand, Lara Donnelly, Rachel Halpern, and Kendra Leigh Speedling will all critique up to 10,000 words (about 40 pages) of the winning bidder's SF/F manuscript -- either a short story or part of a novel is fine.

Sarah, Lara, Rachel, and Kendra were all finalists in the 2011 Dell Magazines Award for Undergraduate Excellence in Science Fiction and Fantasy Writing.

Day 8 ~ Item 18: ARC

2011-05-11T10:17:00.000-05:00

Advanced reader copy of TEMPEST RISING by Tracy Deebs

Donated by:
Heather McBride

Day 8 ~ Item 17: YA Super Pack!

2011-05-11T10:16:00.000-05:00

From Novel Novice:

Fallen by Kate Lauren

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl

Signed copy of The Space Between Trees by Katie Williams

ARCs
The Rites and Wrongs of Janice Wills by Joanna Pearso
The Lovely Shoes by Susan Shreve

Bumped by Megan McCafferty

PLUS!

Novel Novice buttons
Novel Novice bookmarks
Eclipse buttons
New Moon pens
Wicked Lovely temporary tattoos

Day 8 ~ Item 16: Signed Book + Crit

2011-05-11T10:15:00.000-05:00

From author Karen Kincy:
"A signed copy of my debut novel, OTHER.

PLUS

A critique for the first 10 pages of a manuscript OR a query letter critique, whichever the winner prefers.

BONUS: If the bids pass $200, the winner gets to name a character in my third novel, FOXFIRE, though I reserve the right to veto anything too crazy."

Day 8 ~ Item 15: FIVE YA Books!

2011-05-11T10:14:00.000-05:00

From author Jennifer Echols:

Copies of my YA novels:
MAJOR CRUSH
THE BOYS NEXT DOOR/ENDLESS SUMMER
THE EX GAMES
GOING TOO FAR
and
FORGET YOU

Day 8 ~ Item 14: Nook + HUGE E-book Bundle!

2011-05-11T10:13:00.002-05:00

You guys won't believe how huge this is!

Includes:

1 Refurbished Nook (3G & WiFi)

$100 Gift Certificate to Samhain Publishing

DIGITAL ADVANCED READER COPIES (12)
(All ebooks in ePUB or PDF format for easy reading on the Nook.)

Cipher by Moira Rogers
Kisri by Moira Rogers
Rising, Freestyle by Vivian Arend
Silent Storm by Vivian Arend
Ghost Soldiers by Keith Melton
Push Pull by Joely Skye
The Seven Year Witch by Jodi Redford
Keeping Pace by Dee Carney
The Secret Guide to Dating Monsters by Sierra Dean
Something Secret This Way Comes by Sierra Dean
A Little Harmless Addiction by Melissa Schroeder
Negligee Behavior by Shelli Stevens

EBOOKS (52)
(All ebooks in ePUB or PDF format for easy reading on the Nook. Genres include: Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, Erotic Romance, GLBT Romance & Historical Romance)

Moira Rogers: A Safe Harbor, Undertow, Cry Sanctuary, Sanctuary Lost, Sanctuary Price, Sanctuary Unbound, Crux, Crossroads, Deadlock, Wilder's Mate, Sabine

Vivian Arend: Wolf Signs, Wolf Flight, Wolf Games, Wolf Tracks, Tidal Wave, Whirlpool, Turn it On, Turn it Up, Falling Freestyle, Stormchild, Stormy Seduction

Inez Kelley: Myla By Moonlight, Salome at Sunrise, Lipstick on His Collar, Sweet as Sin, Coming Clean

Lauren Dane: Trinity, Revelation

Vivi Andrews: Serengeti Sunrise

Lorelie Brown: Jazz Baby

Joely Skye: Wolf Town

Jorrie Spencer: Strength of the Wolf

Yolanda Sfetsos: The Soul Dealer: Redemption, The Soul Dealer: Deception

Jodi Redford: That Voodoo You Do

Owen Kennedy: Bound by Christmas

Keith Melton: Zero Dog War, Blood Vice

Lee Ann Sontheimer Murphy: Love Tattoo

Ashleigh Raine: Lover's Talisman

Sonya Clark: Mojo Queen

C.M. Torrens: His Soul To Take

Stacey Kennedy: Whatnots & Doodads, Bless the Beauty - Special Agent Fang Book One

Rhian Cahill: Coyote Home, Coyote Wild

KT Grant: For the Love of Mollie

Alisha Rai: Veiled Desire, Veiled Seduction

Eliza Gayle: Untamed Magick, Malcom

(ARCs & ebooks provided by the authors. Nook provided by Moira Rogers. $100 gift certificate provided by Samhain Publishing.)

Day 8 ~ Item 13: Signed Book + Specialty Package from France!

2011-05-11T10:12:00.000-05:00

From author Amy Plum:
"I'm an Alabama native. So I want to make this BIG!

I'm donating a signed copy of DIE FOR ME, complete with signed bookmark. AND...a box full of hand-picked French specialties from my local supermarket here in the French countryside. I can go really classy (spices, canned patés, fine chocolates) or really trashy (cookies and candy)...whatever you specify, and quality according to the bid. Shipping worldwide.

And I will match the bid with my own donation! Merci, and thanks y'all!"

Day 8 ~ Item 12: Signed Book + Partial Critique

2011-05-11T10:11:00.001-05:00

From author Kristi Cook:

"A signed copy of my debut YA paranormal novel, HAVEN, *plus* a first chapter (up to 30 pages) manuscript critique."

Day 8 ~ Item 11: Original Manuscript With Notes + Manuscript Critique

2011-05-11T10:10:00.002-05:00

From author Jeanne Kalogridis:

"The original paper manuscript of THE DEVIL'S QUEEN, my 33rd novel published by St. Martin's Press in hardcover a few years ago. Includes my typewritten notes to myself, my handwritten notes to the editor, and the editor's handwritten query flags.

I can also offer a detailed 2-3 page critique of someone's manuscript, limit 90,000 words."

Day 8 ~ Item 10: Signed Book + Partial Critique ~ YA

2011-05-11T10:09:00.002-05:00

From author Trish Milburn (aka Tricia Mills):
Signed copy of WINTER LONGING and critique of the first 15 pages (double spaced) of a young adult manuscript.

Day 8 ~ Item 9: Signed Book

2011-05-11T10:08:00.000-05:00

From author Alex Bledsoe:
"A signed copy of my latest novel, DARK JENNY, along with my personal DVD of the movie 'Excalibur.' (Both movie and my book are Arthurian-related, and the movie was a real inspiration for the book)."

Day 8 ~ Item 8: TWO Books

2011-05-11T10:07:00.003-05:00

From editor Sacchi Green:

"One copy of Lesbian Cowboys: Erotic Adventures, edited by Sacchi Green and Rakelle Valencia for Cleis Press, winner of the 2010 Lambda Literary Award for lesbian erotica.

PLUS

One copy of Lesbian Cops: Erotic Investigations, edited by Sacchi Green for Cleis Press ."

Day 8 ~ Item 7: Nonfiction Proposal Critique

2011-05-11T10:06:00.000-05:00

Erin MacPherson, author of THE CHRISTIAN MAMA'S GUIDE TO HAVING A BABY, will critique your nonfiction proposal.

Day 8 ~ Item 6: Signed ARC

2011-05-11T10:05:00.001-05:00

A signed advanced reader copy of THE BOOK THIEF by Markus Zusak

Donated by:
Jennifer Hoffine

Day 8 ~ Item 5: Critique

2011-05-11T10:04:00.000-05:00

Aspiring author & current MA student Kristi Buckel is "more than willing to critique anything she can for a good cause."

Day 8 ~ Item 4: Signed Book

2011-05-11T10:03:00.000-05:00

An signed and personalized copy of FREEFALL by Mindi Scott.

Day 8 ~ Item 3: Adorable Stuffed Animal!

2011-05-11T10:02:00.000-05:00

From Anna Sylvester:
"My auction is for one, handmade, one-of-a-kind sock animal. I can make an elephant, unicorn, butterfly, walrus - anything you want! Most animals are about 9"-15" long, depending on what type of animal it is. The winner bidder will tell me what kind of animal, approximate size, and preferred color."

Day 8 ~ Item 2: Partial Critique + Nine E-Books

2011-05-11T10:01:00.002-05:00

From author Christine Bell (Chloe Cole):

"An in depth, three chapter, query and synopsis critique. In order to give the bidder an experience as close to a true edit as possible, I will complete the initial critique, send it back, then do a second pass once the three chapters have been edited. PLUS a copy of all of my e-books (nine). I write romance under my name, Christine Bell, and erotic romance under the pen name Chloe Cole. I am published with Ellora's Cave, Carina Press, Loose Id and Cobblestone Press."

Day 8 ~ Item 1: SIX Signed Books PLUS Early Copy!

2011-05-11T10:00:00.000-05:00

From author Christy Reece:
"Signed copies of all six books of my Last Chance Rescue series, RESCUE ME, RETURN TO ME, RUN TO ME, NO CHANCE, SECOND CHANCE, LAST CHANCE. Plus an early copy (when I get it) of my August LCR release, SWEET JUSTICE."

A Note of Thanks

2011-05-11T01:35:00.002-05:00

This might be the hardest thing I’ve ever written. Being a writer myself, that truly says something. Often in emotional moments I deflect to sarcasm or humor, but this situation calls for neither.

We’ve never met. The sad but realistic truth is, we likely never will. A few of you I might know from Absolute Write or an occasional tweet back and forth. You might follow the blog I write for, yahighway, and I might follow yours.

We’ve never met, but you’ve done something incredible for me.

Vilonia, Arkansas is a small town of around 3000 people, built along a stretch of highway in the center of the state. It has one stoplight. One grocery store. One school system. I lived there for twenty-four years, but no matter where I go, it will always be home. I wish nothing more than to be back there helping clean and rebuild, but the universe had other plans.

Vilonia was only one small town touched by the storms and flooding. I can’t speak for other people and the horrible effects the storms have had on them, and will continue to do so for many months to come. Only that there’s been a great loss. I could go on and on relaying stories of tragedies, homes lost, and the sadness that echoes in every picture and video that surfaced after the storms. But this isn’t a post about that. It’s a post about how money raised through auctions like this support groups that have kept food, water, medicine, and morale in places that were without.

Gratitude is a strange thing. Much like when given a compliment, our automatic response seems to be to shy away from truly accepting it. To believe something we did changed another life might feel overindulgent. Maybe even too close to those dreaded posters in a guidance counselor’s office back in school, that one small act of kindness can change a world.

Help Write Now might not have changed the world, but the unbelievable amount of money being raised from the writing community will change lives. And for that, I’m whole-heartedly grateful to each and every one of you.

Kate Hart. My fellow yahighwayer, and fellow Arkansan—even though you’re a sometimes traitor when rooting for a football team that shall not be named ;) When you first mentioned a charity auction with this scope, I thought you were insane. You have a family, your own writing, and without a second’s hesitation, you dove into planning something of grand proportions. Now, glimpsing just a taste of the time and work required, I know you are insane. You’re also a beautiful, inspiring woman with an amazing heart.

To all the others who jumped on board to help: Bree, Cleolinda, Kaitlin, Michelle, Kody, Kirsten, Kristin(s), Lee, Leila, Kristin, and Emilia. For using your connections to gather donations, and your time and work seeing this thing through.

To those who donated, whether it was an item or your time. To those who bid in the auction. For every person who tweeted, blogged, spread the word: Thank You.

Don’t shrug the gratitude off, or pass it on to someone you think is more deserving. You did something selfless for places you might never go and people you might never meet. That’s no small thing.

~Amanda Hannah

Day 7 ~ Item 19: Agent Phone-Critique Session!

2011-05-10T10:18:00.000-05:00

From agent Joanna Volpe at Nancy Coffey Literary:

"I am happy to donate a phone-critique session. I will read your partial manuscript (no more than 30 pages) + a query, then offer up a 10 minute phone conversation where we will discuss the pages editorially, and I will answer your publishing/submission questions."

Day 7 ~ Item 18: Signed Book

2011-05-10T10:17:00.000-05:00

From author Myra McEntire:

"A signed, finished advance copy of my debut, HOURGLASS, with 'director's commentary' in the margins!"

Day 7 ~ Item 17: 39 Clues Backpack

2011-05-10T10:16:00.000-05:00

Barnes & Noble store #2772 in Las Vegas has put together 39 CLUES backpack filled with the first 10 books SIGNED by each author. The authors are: Rick Riordan, Gordon Korman, Peter Lerangis, Linda Sue Park, Jude Watson, Patrick Carman, and Margaret Peterson Haddix. (Some authors wrote more than one of the 10 books and in that case, both books are signed.)

And don't forget! Use code bookfair #1048605 at any Barnes & Noble to send 10% of your purchase to the United Way! More details here.

Day 7 ~ Item 16: Signed ARC

2011-05-10T10:15:00.000-05:00

Signed advanced reader copy of WOLFSBANE (Nightshade Book 2) from New York Times bestselling author Andrea Cremer!

Day 7 ~ Item 15: Beta Read Bonanza!

2011-05-10T10:14:00.001-05:00

The MCRW Chapter out of Nashville, TN, is offering up its joint services for a beta read bonanza! We're guaranteeing a minimum of 5 beta reads of your first three chapters, 55 pages or so, and, if desired, your synopsis. We can beta read romance, women's fiction, YA, mystery, urban fantasy and sf/f

Participants in the bonanza will include published authors and experienced judges of the long-running Melody of Love contest, now in its 13th year. The only thing we ask is that you not schedule your bonanza in September/October 2011, because that's when we'll all be judging the first round of our contest.

Bonanza organizer Jody Wallace is the current Melody of Love contest coordinator, a published author, one of the beta read providers, and a grammar wench who promises not to be cranky while reading your manuscript.

Day 7 ~ Item 14: Erotica Anthologies

2011-05-10T10:13:00.000-05:00

Romantic Interludes 1: Discovery and Romantic Interludes 2: Secrets, edited by Radclyffe and Stacia Seaman, both signed by Stacia Seaman

Editors Stacia Seaman and Radclyffe have edited five previous anthologies together, including the Lambda Literary winner Erotic Interludes 2: Stolen Moments and the Independent Publishers Gold medal winner, Erotic Interludes 5: Road Games.

Romantic Interludes 1: Discovery
An anthology of passionate, sensual love stories about falling in love, being in love, and celebrating the love between women of every age—yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Discover the passion, the thrill, and the heartwarming satisfaction of love time and again with the tales from today’s best-selling romance writers: Ali Vali, Cate Culpepper, Clifford Henderson, Erin Dutton, Gabrielle Goldsby, Gill McNight, Gun Brooke, JD Glass, Jennifer Harris, Jlee Meyer, Jove Belle, Julie Cannon, Kim Baldwin, Larkin Rose, Lee Lynch, Lisa Girolami, Meghan O'Brien, Merry Shannon, MJ Williamz, Nell Stark, Rachel Spangler, and Radclyffe.

Romantic Interludes 2: Secrets
Imagine the excitement when everything you thought you knew about love becomes so much…more. An anthology of sensual love stories about women sharing passion, surprises, and secret desires. Discover the thrill of love as you never dreamed it could be with more than twenty selections from best-selling romance authors: Ali Vali, Cate Culpepper, Clifford Henderson, Erin Dutton, Gabrielle Goldsby, Gill McKnight, Gun Brooke, JD Glass, Jennifer Harris, JLee Meyer, Jove Belle, Julie Cannon, Kim Baldwin, Larkin Rose, Lee Lynch, Lisa Girolami, Meghan O'Brien, Merry Shannon, MJ Williamz, Nell Stark, Rachel Spangler, Radclyffe, and others.

Day 7 ~ Item 13: Kindle Case

2011-05-10T10:12:00.001-05:00

From author Rachele Alpine:
"This case protects your third generation Kindle (the newest model) and opens up so it feels like you're reading an actual book. You can read your Kindle without removing it from the case.

Your Kindle tucks into the corners and can easily be taken out for easy handling.

The outer cover protects your Kindle, while the inside has small pockets to tuck notes and other items into. It closes with a button to keep everything in place!"

Check out her Etsy store too!

Day 7 ~ Item 12: E-Book

2011-05-10T10:11:00.000-05:00

From author N. L. Snowden:
"IN AND OUT OF MADNESS: the collision of a sex addict with a mentally ill woman, explodes into an ending that leaves the reader gasping.

Lee Thames could draw horses before she could print her name.She was crazy about them--until 1998. Lee is bipolar and suffers from disassociative identity disorder. On the night of May 5, 2003, she spends hours meandering through her house, while waiting to lure her ex-husband home to kill him in the perfect murder. Joe Thames is a sex addict. He cheats on Lee one too many times and she hacks into his e-mail to prove it. She ends their marriage of twenty years. She is obsessed over Joe and decides if she can't have him, no one can. Since she is mentally ill, she knows she'll get away with murder. Or will she?"

Day 7 ~ Item 11: Apocalypsies Package 2!

2011-05-10T10:10:00.003-05:00

Did you miss out on the first one? Don't worry! The super generous members of the Apocalypsies (debut 2012 MG/YA/PB authors) have joined forces for a SECOND get-it-before-it’s-too-late package. The winning bidder will receive:

A critique of the first 50 pages of an MG or YA manuscript by Apocalypsies:

Suzanne Lazear (INNOCENT DARKNESS, Flux, Spring 2012)
Lynne Kelly (CHAINED, Farrar, Straus, & Giroux, Fall 2012)
Zoraida Córdova (THE VICIOUS DEEP, Sourcebooks Fire, Winter 2012)
Debra Driza (MILA 2.0, Katherine Tegen Books, Fall 2012)
Leigh Bardugo (THE GRISHA, Holt Children's, Fall 2012)

A critique of a query for an MG or YA manuscript by Apocalypsies:

Erin Lange (BUTTER, Bloomsbury, Fall 2012)
Zoraida Córdova (THE VICIOUS DEEP, Sourcebooks Fire, Winter 2012)
Debra Driza (MILA 2.0, Katherine Tegen Books, Fall 2012)
Leigh Bardugo (THE GRISHA, Holt Children's, Fall 2012)
Marissa Burt (STORYBOUND, HarperCollins Children's, Winter 2012)

A critique of a synopsis (up to three pages) for an MG or YA mansuscript by Apocalypsies:

Erin Lange (BUTTER, Bloomsbury, Fall 2012)
Zoraida Córdova (THE VICIOUS DEEP, Sourcebooks Fire, Winter 2012)
Debra Driza (MILA 2.0, Katherine Tegen Books, Fall 2012)
Leigh Bardugo (THE GRISHA, Holt Children's, Fall 2012)

An ARC of THE NEAR WITCH, by Victoria Schwab (donated by Lynne Kelly) and an ARC of THE MARBURY LENS by Andrew Smith (donated by Leigh Bardugo).

And, as a bonus, a critique of the first ten pages of a MG or YA manuscript by agent Taylor Martindale of the Sandra Dijkstra Literary Agency (Debra Driza’s agent).

As the Apocalypsies like to say, bid like there’s no tomorrow!

*Debra Driza will act as the winning bidder's contact and help facilitate the exchange of submission and critiques. (And given the propensity for the world to end, the submissions for critique must be made by the winning bidder within 6-months of the end of the auction.)

Day 7 ~ Item 10: Signed Book

2011-05-10T10:09:00.000-05:00

From author Joyce Scarbrough:
Autographed copy of SYMMETRY

Day 7 ~ Item 9: Partial Critique + Signed Book

2011-05-10T10:08:00.000-05:00

From author Carrie Harris:
"A signed copy of my upcoming YA, BAD TASTE IN BOYS (once books are available) and a 50 page YA or MG manuscript critique."

Day 7 ~ Item 8: Outline Critique

2011-05-10T10:07:00.000-05:00

From author and MFA candidate Corrine Jackson:
"For the outline-challenged, a review of a novel outline, plus advice and guidance on how to use an outline to create a story with more layers and a stronger arc."

Day 7 ~ Item 7: Graphic Design + Books ~ FIVE Winners!

2011-05-10T10:06:00.002-05:00

From author Heather Paye:

Each of the TOP FIVE bidders receives:

an e-copy of Heather's novel, A GIFT FROM ABOVE
an e-copy of Heather's poetry anthology, FOR YOU, FROM ME
AND one graphic design service!

Services can include one book layout, book cover design, banner, bookmark, business card, poster, postcard, etc.

ONLY INCREASING BIDS COUNT TOWARD TOP FIVE.

Day 7 ~ Item 6: Kindle + Entire Romance Backlist!

2011-05-10T10:05:00.000-05:00

From author Melissa Schroeder:
A Kindle!

PLUS

Every book that is still in print in her digital backlist!

Day 7 ~ Item 5: Partial Critique

2011-05-10T10:04:00.000-05:00

From author Seleste deLaney (Julie Particka):
A twenty-five page manuscript critique

PLUS
If bidding goes over $30, I will add a query critique.
+
If it goes over $50, I will also critique a brief synopsis.

Day 7 ~ Item 4: Signed Middle Grade Book

2011-05-10T10:03:00.002-05:00

From author Jacqueline Houtman:
A signed copy of the award-winning middle grade novel, THE REINVENTION OF EDISON THOMAS (Front Street 2010), sciency fiction featuring an inventive boy with Asperger's syndrome and a bully problem.

A Read On Wisconsin! Selection
Tofte/Wright Award for Children's Literature
"...A perceptive look at a complicated mind, the novel is steeped
in the world of science ... and the quirky humor and authentic
characters should have wide appeal."--Publishers Weekly

High bidder will also receive some sciency swag.

Day 7 ~ Item 3: E-Books

2011-05-10T10:02:00.000-05:00

S. Reesa Herberth & Michelle Moore are offering digital copies of their first two Ylendrian Empire books.

Day 7 ~ Item 2: Signed Book

2011-05-10T10:01:00.001-05:00

A signed copy of SEAN GRISWOLD'S HEAD from author Lindsey Leavitt

Day 7 ~ Item 1: Partial Critique

2011-05-10T10:00:00.001-05:00

From author Janice Hardy:
A one chapter critique: Any genre, any market.

Day 4 Auction Are Closed!

2011-05-09T23:31:00.000-05:00

Another day, and we're over $10,000! Unbelievable. Donors, bidders, people spreading the word-- the reaction has been amazing. Thank you all, from the bottom of our hearts.

A couple of notes...

- A few people have asked if they can donate directly to the Red Cross and forward us their receipt. Yes, absolutely-- just wait, please, until you've received our email confirming you as a winner, because we'd have no way to refund your money if a mistake was made.

- When you pay for your item or forward your receipt, PLEASE mention which day and item you're paying for. It helps us so much!

- Auction endings are tweeted from the @helpwritenow account. We try to do a 2 hour, 1 hour, and 15 minute warning so that no one misses their last chance at an item.

- Please note that in auctions with multiple winners (i.e. "top 2 bidders win"), ONLY INCREASING BIDS count. If you underbid a previous bidder, we'll either ignore or delete your comment.

- We're officially closed to donations now, but All 4 Alabama is adopting a rural Alabama community and they can use your help!

- THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for your amazing support, and come back again tomorrow for more amazing items!

Day 6 ~ Item 16: Editor Partial Critique

2011-05-09T10:15:00.001-05:00

From St. Martin's Press editor Vicki Lame:
"I will provide a critique of the first 75 pages of your YA or Adult novel. You will receive at least two full pages of notes and/or questions designed to help you think about where your book is going and things you might want to consider throughout the editorial process."

Day 6 ~ Item 15: Tuition to MatadorU Travel Writing Program

2011-05-09T10:14:00.000-05:00

From Matador Network, the world’s most-read independent travel publication, and recipient of a Lowell Thomas award for excellence in travel journalism:

Complimentary tuition for the MatadorU travel writing program (value $350), which is designed to allow someone with very little or even no writing experience to be able, within 3 months, to have a solid foundation in writing, to know how to pitch a query or story to an editor, to build an online presence and audience, and, in general, to begin working as a new-media professional, whether a freelance writer, blogger, or unique mix of jobs that allows one to live off of travel and writing.

MatadorU includes 12 weeks of rigorous coursework, lessons, recommended reading, and weekly assignments critiqued by editors and peers in areas such as:

the history and context of travel writing
narrative nonfiction writing
researching, interviewing, finding stories
guidebook writing
developing a “publication mindset”
finding, landing, and preparing for press trips and other paid assignments
“stacking” multiple assignments to create viable income
optimizing online presence
dealing with advertisers and monetizing your website

The courses have ongoing admission and start dates; whenever you register, that’s when you begin. Though each course is organized into 12 chapters, you’re encouraged to move through them at your own pace.

After completing all 12 chapters, as an alumnus you’ll continue to have lifelong access to the curriculum as well as the forums, Market Blog and all future Continuing Education or Bonus Modules (supplemental courses that explore the latest in branding, SEO, and new media).

Learn more here - MatadorU Travel Writing Curriculum Overview - or by checking out this video:

MatadorU - New Media School from Matador Network on Vimeo.

Day 6 ~ Item 14: Book Trailer or Charcoal Portrait

2011-05-09T10:13:00.001-05:00

From Bailey Hammond:
One book trailer for the WIP or character of your choice.

OR

A charcoal portrait (8.5x11) of a character/person
(can be anyone, but I prefer to work from photographs if at all possible)

Day 6 ~ Item 13: Partial Critique

2011-05-09T10:12:00.000-05:00

From Rene Sears:
"As the slush reader for Pyr, I see a lot of first chapters. I usually know within a few pages whether I want to read more. I am offering a critique of the first ten pages of your manuscript. I will tell you in detail what works and what doesn't."

Day 6 ~ Item 12: Princess Package!

2011-05-09T10:11:00.000-05:00

From author Lindsey Leavitt:
A princess pack including signed copies of PRINCESS FOR HIRE and THE ROYAL TREATMENT, plus princess swag and goodies!

Day 6 ~ Item 11: Partial and Query Critique

2011-05-09T10:10:00.001-05:00

From Susan Dennard, author of SOMETHING STRANGE AND DEADLY (HarperCollins, 2012):
50 page manuscript critique and query critique

Day 6 ~ Item 10: FIVE Query Critiques!

2011-05-09T10:09:00.002-05:00

FIVE query critiques from author Heather Petty:
"I'm the co-regional coordinator for SCBWI Northern Nevada, where I run the novelist critique group and teach workshops on writing queries and synopses. I'm represented by Eleanor Jackson of the Markson Thoma Literary Agency."

*ONLY INCREASING BIDS COUNT TOWARD TOP FIVE.

Day 6 ~ Item 9: Digital ARC

2011-05-09T10:08:00.000-05:00

From author Lauren Dane:
1 digital ARC of NEVER ENOUGH

Day 6 ~ Item 8: TWO Signed Books

2011-05-09T10:07:00.000-05:00

Author Erin MacPherson is giving signed copies of her book, THE CHRISTIAN MAMA'S GUIDE TO HAVING A BABY to the TWO highest bidders on this auction!

Day 6 ~ Item 7: Smart Bitches, Trash Books Package

2011-05-09T10:06:00.002-05:00

From author Sarah Wendall:

One copy of BEYOND HEAVING BOSOMS: THE SMART BITCHES' GUIDE TO ROMANCE NOVELS (2009).
One ARC of EVERYTHING I KNOW ABOUT LOVE, I LEARNED FROM ROMANCE NOVELS (Oct 2011).
A minimum of TWENTY FIVE assorted romances from historical and contemporary authors, in hardback, trade and mass market paperback.

Day 6 ~ Item 6: Agent Query & Partial Critique

2011-05-09T10:05:00.000-05:00

Agent Susan Hawk of the Bent Agency will critique your query and first ten pages of your YA or MG novel OVER THE PHONE!

(Organizers' note: She's also new to Twitter-- go follow her!)

Day 6 ~ Item 5: ARC

2011-05-09T10:04:00.000-05:00

An advanced reader copy of ABANDON by Meg Cabot, in perfect condition

Donated by:
Stephanie Pellegrin

Day 6 ~ Item 4: Signed ARC + Signed Book + Crit + Unicorn!

2011-05-09T10:03:00.000-05:00

From NYT bestselling author Kiersten White:
"A signed ARC of SUPERNATURALLY, a signed hardcover of PARANORMALCY, and a query OR first ten pages critique. Your choice.

Also a baby unicorn. But only if I can get ahold of IPCA in time, and they aren't returning my calls lately."

Day 6 ~ Item 3: Signed Book

2011-05-09T10:02:00.000-05:00

From author Ann Aguirre:
A signed copy of any of her five books

Day 6 ~ Item 2: SIXTY Volumes of Manga

2011-05-09T10:01:00.001-05:00

From Audry T.:
"This is for a box containing sixty brand new volumes of manga published by Go! Comi from 2006-2009. Includes English-edition series by manga artists Mick Takeuchi, You Higuri, Ryo Takagi, Chika Shiomi, DUO BRAND, Hideyuki Kurata, Yuki Amemiya, Yukino Ichihara, and more. Winner can contact me directly after the auction if they want to choose which manga to include from a list, or I can send the winner a random selection. All volumes of manga were comp copies I was given when I worked at Go! Comi and have been kept in storage in brand-new condition.

Box can be shipped by Media Mail with Delivery Confirmation to anywhere in the United States. If someone outside of the United States wants it, they'll have to pay exact shipping costs for their country, which I can't predict as the box will be heavy."

Day 6 ~ Item 1: Manuscript Critique

2011-05-09T10:00:00.000-05:00

From Stephanie McGee:
"I'm offering a full manuscript read for big picture issues, such as characterization, pacing, plot, etc. This is not a line-edit. I'm strongest in fantasy genres, though I am a fair hand in romance (please keep it clean and mild on the heat level); all genres but horror allowed. (I scare too easily.) No limit on word count. This will be most helpful to writers who don't already have a beta reader or who need their work seen by a writer who hasn't seen it time and time again."

Day Three Is Closed!

2011-05-08T22:22:00.000-05:00

YOU GUYS. Wow! Three days, over $8000, and still tons of incredible stuff coming up! Thank you all so much for your generosity.

A couple of housekeeping notes:
1) In case you missed it, please check out the awesome Barnes & Noble code that author Lindsey Leavitt set up. 10% of your purchase will benefit the Red Cross.

2) Donations have been absolutely astounding. Right now, we're looking at nine days total, which means bidding won't end until next Saturday! While we'd love to keep raising money for a month, that seems a little excessive, so we're closing to donations as of tomorrow evening at 7:00 PM CST. If you've been waiting until the last minute, this is it! The donation form is here.

3) Another great group of writers will be opening an auction soon, and they are also looking for donations. All 4 Alabama will use their proceeds to adopt a rural Alabama community, so check them out!

4) THANK YOU ALL!

Day 5 ~ Item 16: Author/Agent Combo Crit!

2011-05-08T10:15:00.000-05:00

Author J.A. Souders will do 50-page critique of your manuscript. THEN, once you've had to time to revise, her agent, Natalie Fischer, will read the 50-pages and give her feedback!

Day 5 ~ Item 15: Prize Pack from The GotYA!

2011-05-08T10:14:00.003-05:00

The girls from the GotYA –- a long-standing blog dedicated to all things YA -— are giving away:

A 10 page ms crit from editor Claudia Gabel of Katherine Tegen Books, an imprint of Harper Collins.

A 50 page YA or MG manuscript AND query critique from the following GotYA girls:

Jamie Blair (represented by EmmanuelleMorgen of Judith Ehrlich Literary Management)
Debra Driza (represented by Taylor Martindale of the Sandra Dijkstra Literary Agency. MILA 2.0, the first book in her YA trilogy, debuts 2012 from Katherine Tegen Books, an imprint of Harper Collins.)
Krista Ashe (represented by Fonda Snyder of Creative Management)
Susanne Winnacker (represented by Julia Churchill of the Greenhouse Literary Agency. THE OTHER LIFE, first in a two-book series, debuts 2012 from Usborne and Marshall Cavendish.)

Assorted books:

SHINE by Lauren Myracle.
MAGNOLIA LEAGUE by Katie Crouch
GIRL WONDER by Alexa Martin
IN FRONT OF GOD AND EVERYBODY by KD McCrite
CRYER'S CROSS by Lisa McMann
WHITE CAT by Holly Black

And a GotYA tote bag (logo designed by Kathleen Peacock, author of the upcoming HEMLOCK trilogy).

BONUS: If bidding goes over $200, Jamie and Deb will critique 50 extra pages!

Day 5 ~ Item 14: Partial Critique

2011-05-08T10:13:00.001-05:00

From Caitlin Kittredge, author of the Iron Codex trilogy from Random House:
"Manuscript critique: First 50 pages

I'll critique the first 50 pages of your YA fantasy, paranormal romance, horror or dystopian manuscript. A crit includes line edits and a brief write-up where I tell you what I liked, what I think needs work and a summary of points."

Day 5 ~ Item 13: Book

2011-05-08T10:12:00.000-05:00

From author Lili St. Crow:
"One copy of DEFIANCE, the latest in the STRANGE ANGELS series. If you are in the US, your copy will be signed & personalised. If you are outside the US, your copy will be free and sent through Bookdepository.com."

Day 5 ~ Item 12: Signed Book + Ten Bookmarks

2011-05-08T10:11:00.000-05:00

From authors Lisa and Laura Roecker:
1 signed copy of THE LIAR SOCIETY plus 10 signed bookmarks!

Day 5 ~ Item 11: Hand-stamped Jewelry

2011-05-08T10:10:00.000-05:00

From artist and writer Christina Lee:
A hand-stamped typewriter key necklace with any letter and any color freshwater pearl or Swarovski crystal.

Day 5 ~ Item 10: Partial Critique

2011-05-08T10:09:00.001-05:00

From author Kaylea Cross:
A one chapter critique. "As I'm a romantic suspense author I'd be best suited for that genre, but I'm happy to look at anything. I'll do up a critique and make suggestions as to how I think the piece might be strengthened."

Day 5 ~ Item 9: Partial + Query Critique ~ SF/F or YA

2011-05-08T10:08:00.000-05:00

From author Corinne Duyvis:
"I'm offering up a critique for a query and the first 5000 words of an adult SF/F novel, or anything YA. I'm probably not the best person to come to for historicals, omniscient PoV, or literary work.

My critiques include basically all of my thoughts as I read: grammar, sentence flow, style, continuity, clarity, character motivations, pacing, etc. If you want feedback on a particular aspect, I'd be happy to give it; I can be as nitpicky or global as desired.

As for me: I'm a YA SF/F writer who's represented by Michael Carr of Veritas Literary. My novel ALWAYS READ THE FAE PRINT is currently on submission.

There's only one catch: I'm going to be attending Clarion West this summer, which means I'm working hard to finish my current novel and get all the preparations done before then. While I may be able to fit critiquing your work into my schedule before then, there's a very good chance I won't get around to it until August at the earliest.

If you still need to do significant work on your novel, I'd also be happy to wait until you're ready, as long as you're reasonable about the turn-around time."

Day 5 ~ Item 8: Signed ARC + Book

2011-05-08T10:07:00.000-05:00

From author Jennifer Armentrout:
A signed ARC of HALF-BLOOD and printed copy of DAIMON.

Day 5 ~ Item 7: Book

2011-05-08T10:06:00.000-05:00

From author Leonard Jacobson:
"IN SEARCH OF THE LIGHT is a 1,500-word children’s picture book for ages 4 and up. The rhyming dialogue tells an enchanting story of animals in the meadow who experience a sudden eclipse of the sun. Not knowing what has happened, they believe that somehow the sun has lost its way, and they are concerned that it could mean the end of light. Considering the situation to be most urgent, they form an expedition of four who journey to unknown places in search of the source of the light.

The first of three chapters introduces the four who journey in search of the light. Ned, the horse is the leader. Peter, the rabbit is his reluctant and somewhat fearful companion. They are joined by Bert, the brave little bumblebee and timid but very sweet Molly mouse.

Chapter Two takes them into a forest of darkness, which turns out to be the forest of fear. They encounter all sorts of frightening things, including witches and ghosts hiding in shadows. Just when things seem hopeless, the wind speaks to them offering advice to seek a guide who has his own inner light. Shortly afterwards, they encounter Frederick Firefly, who guides them to a land where nothing seems right.

Finally, in Chapter Three they walk down the “path of the opposites” and a bird with a very large beak offers guidance. They discover that when they are beyond all judgment, desire and fear, they discover that the source of the light is within them, and that it always has been.

The story opens children and adults to a magical and childlike world of innocence where a beautiful and simple message of truth is revealed. This uplifting, suspenseful adventure invites an independence of spirit, encouraging the return to love and oneness and strength within.

IN SEARCH OF THE LIGHT is beautifully illustrated by Italian illustrator, Fiammetta Dogi, who lives in Florence."

Day 5 ~ Item 6: Marketing Plan

2011-05-08T10:05:00.001-05:00

From book blogger Pam van Hylckama Vlieg:
"I am willing to give away a personal social network marketing plan designed by me to an author with a book coming."

Day 5 ~ Item 5: Two Thrillers

2011-05-08T10:04:00.001-05:00

Best-selling thriller author A.J. Scudiere, who lives in Nashville, is donating a copy of each of her novels:

VENGEANCE SYNOPSIS: Claymore Beller tried to do the right thing. It was the last thing he did. In retaliation for his efforts, his mafia bosses laid waste to his family. Only the youngest–Cynthia–came up fighting. Three years ago, Lee Maxwell made the same error. His wife and daughter paid for his mistake. In a haze of booze and regret, Lee disappeared.

RESONANCE SYNOPSIS: As if you didn’t have enough to worry about in today’s world already, consider the fact that the Earth is long overdue for another magnetic shift. When the next shift happens (and recent findings suggest it can happen much more rapidly than previously believed), the fact that South is the new North will be the least of our problems. Mankind may, in fact, be lucky to survive it at all.

Day 5 ~ Item 4: Name a Character!

2011-05-08T10:03:00.000-05:00

From author Laura Anne Gilman:
"The chance to have your name used as a secondary character (aka "Tuckerization" ) in the next Cosa Nostradamus novel published by Luna Books."

Day 5 ~ Item 3: FOUR Signed Books

2011-05-08T10:02:00.001-05:00

From author Karen Sandler:
Four autographed romance novels, including HIS MIRACLE BABY, HER MIRACLE MAN, THEIR SECOND-CHANCE CHILD and THE FAMILY HE WANTED.

Karen Sandler is the author of the upcoming YA dystopian novel, TANKBORN (Sept. 2011, Lee & Low Books).

Day 5 ~ Item 2: Manuscript Critique

2011-05-08T10:01:00.002-05:00

One full manuscript critique from Jenna St. Hilaire, freelance writer, aspiring novelist, grammar stickler, and leader of her local writers' group. Jenna specializes in YA and speculative fiction, but will accept other genres as well.

Day 5 ~ Item 1: Awesome Italian Food Package!

2011-05-08T10:00:00.009-05:00

You're bidding on a box of authentic Italian food sent straight from Italy!!!! Contents include:

Risotto – Milanese and Parmigiana
Emiliane tortellini – ricotta and spinach
Ragu alla Bolognese pasta sauce
De Cecco spaghetti
Baci dark chocolate with hazelnut candy
Toffee – fruit flavors
Grissini – thin bread sticks (may break during shipment)
Tiramisu – not pictured, will be purchased prior to shipment to ensure freshness.

Donated by:
Catherine Williams
@mrscmwilliams

Another Way To Help: Use This Code at Barnes & Noble!

2011-05-08T00:09:00.001-05:00

Thanks to author Lindsey Leavitt, you can buy books AND support relief efforts!

Between May 7th-14th, use code bookfair #10486058 when making a Barnes and Noble purchase online or in store. 10% of sales using this code will go to the United Way's West Alabama chapter to help tornado relief efforts.

If we raise over $2500, the percentage goes up to 15%; if we raise $10,000, the percentage is 20%!

Day 2 Items Are Closed!

2011-05-07T22:42:00.002-05:00

Wow! Another amazing day of bids. Our grand total is already up to $5720! Thank you so much for your bids!

Winners have been mentioned by name in the comments of each post -- keep an eye out for an email from us with details on how to pay for and receive your item.

Days 3 and 4 are still open, and we do it all again tomorrow at 10:00 AM CST with even more great auctions!