Craig Ferguson, I want to be a guest on The Late, Late Show

My motto for years has been "Dare to Dream...and Dream BIG!"

One of my dreams is to be a guest on Craig Ferguson's show. Maybe I should let him know this.

I love Craig. Ok, not the romantic kind of love, but more the 'I love his wacky sense of humor and he never fails to entertain me' kind of love. I watch his show almost every night. I've even sent in emails. And when I went to Las Vegas 2 months ago, I was stunned to find out he was performing live, so of course I had to get tickets. I've written about that. That was the time I was mistaken for a "movie star". God Bless that lovely young woman for making that mistake!

So Craig...here's the plan. You see, I've got it all figured out. You have had authors on your show before. And I know you often have people who are "on their way up" the success ladder. So, here I am a few rungs up and I could use a boost. Plus I like to talk. And I love meeting new people.

Craig, these are the TOP 10 REASONS why I'd be the perfect guest for you...

10. I am Scottish too. Ok, well my grandfather was Scottish. I never met him though; he died when my Mom was a child. I still have distant family in Scotland--in Glasgow--but I forget their names. Last name: McLellan. Do you know them? Are we related somehow?

9. I am apparently part Welsh, British and German too. Veener Schnitzel! I have no idea how this relates to you.

8. I am Canadian! You've said you like Canada and Canadians, so you should like me. In fact, I believe you said you came to Edmonton recently (how the heck did I miss you?) and enjoyed it. Call me next time you're in town and I'll personally escort you around West Edmonton Mall--as long as you don't mind getting lost.

7. I would bring your audience free books. Preferably copies of my bestselling suspense novels set in various Canadian locations. I can tell you and your guests about the mysterious Nahanni River--"the Bermuda Triangle of Canada"--which is the main setting in my thriller The River (close to your own book title--see how much we have in common?)

6. I seem to have no problems chatting about just about anything. You name the topic; I'll wing it. Antidisestablishmentarianism, you say? Sure thing. Of course, we can definitely talk about my favorite topic--killing people off. I do that regularly in my line of work. Uh, I write suspense fiction, in case you've forgotten already. You can even do your Angela Lansbury impression: "Has there been a murder?" To which I'll answer, "I'm plotting one right now."

5. My good friend Alexia Melnychuk is a sensational singer-songwriter. I'll bring her with me for one of your entertainment segments. You'll like her music. She'll give you a free CD that'll get you singing in your car or your chair. It could be an all-Canadian show. Except for you. And most of the audience. And the camera men...

4. I'll even shred the notes they leave you myself and throw them on the floor. This would be a case of Divine Intervention. I'll even bring my paper shredder if you'd like. We can do it right. Don't forget to recycle.

3. And if you invite me to come down soon, I may be able to get you and your guests a copy of my critically acclaimed novel Whale Song, which I've just been told will be going out of print soon. Maybe a publisher will watch your show, see me on it, contact my New York agent (yes, I have one) and offer me a major 5-book deal, then sell a movie about a Canadian author who really hits it big after being a guest on the Craig Ferguson show.

2. I can also show you my iPhone and tell you about the novel I'm writing on it. Finding Bliss has attracted a lot of media attention and 2 companies are already vying to be the first to release it. When I'm done showing you the iPhone and how it works, you'll want one too. Maybe Apple will give you one after they sponsor me and my novel.

1. And the #1 reason why you should have me on as a guest is because I'll bring you chocolate. I'll bring Bliss chocolates! They inspired my iPhone novel Finding Bliss. No, it's not a story about killer chocolates; the main character's name is Bliss. And yeah, she'll eat a few chocloates in the story. Probably while she's watching Craig Ferguson on The Late Late Show.

So Craig, Mr. Ferguson, Sir Ferguson...please have your people call my people ASAP.

Actually, please just email me. I don't really have "people" yet. Unless you count my husband. Or my daughter. Or my mother and father. Or my puppy. I'd be very happy to chat with Lisa Ammerman; she'd did a great job as your impromptu guest a few months back.

I will now wait with the phone in one hand and the other clicking the "receive/send email" button every 5 minutes--until I hear back from you...

Hello?

Darn, no email from Craig Ferguson yet.

Calling all of my fans!!!

Please email Craig Ferguson and tell him you'd like to see me on his show. Maybe let him know why I'd make a good guest. :)

craigferguson@cbs.com

Update 1: Calling all Cheryl Kaye Tardif fans! I need your help!

Update 2: Cheryl's "Craig Ferguson Campaign" grows

Update 3: Whale Song heads to CBS

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif,
author of Whale Song, The River and Divine Intervention
http://www.cherylktardif.com/

Writers: Learn about 'The Four Firsts and Chapter Hooks'

In fiction, suspense and foreshadowing create mood, tension and the desire for a reader to read more. You can do this, by using the Four Firsts rule and by using Chapter Hooks...

Read the article on The Four Firsts and Chapter Hooks.

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif, author of Whale Song, The River and Divine Intervention

"WHALE SONG is simply a compelling, magically enchanting story that SHOULD be made into MOVIE"

"Magically Enchanting!...WHALE SONG is a wonderful story written with a passion for family love and lots of spiritualism. Sometimes, if you have an extra belief, it helps to understand things more...to moralise for the better choices in life. WHALE SONG demonstrates just that. I LOVED THIS BOOK for the reason because there is simply many life lessons that teach the consequences and advantages for each situation. WHALE SONG is simply a compelling, magically enchanting story that SHOULD be made into MOVIE. If it were to be that case, then I would defentely be the first to see it. Afterall, the book is a read that I could barely put down and that has been read more than once."

Bianca Moon, a Chapters.ca reviewer

US readers can order from Amazon.com.

P.S. Whale Song will be going out of print soon, so get your copy now while you can!

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif,
bestselling author of Whale Song
http://www.cherylktardif.com/

Whale Song - "manages to touch the soul"

"Wonderful...Cheryl Kaye Tardif's lovely descriptions help add depth and realism to a beautifully written story about love, sacrifice, and forgiveness. The setting is Canada's Vancouver Island and the author deftly brings this world to life...few readers will fail to be moved by the children's excitement and awe as they hear the whales sing. Ms. Tardif has done a superb job with this thought provoking novel that somehow manages to touch the soul."

--L.C. Evans, author of Talented Horsewoman

Help keep the HOPE alive - Hope Mission, a place of healing

Many of you know that I lost my brother Jason back in 2006 and because of his death I was led to Hope Mission, an organization in Edmonton, Alberta, that provides so many wonderful services to the homeless, addicted or impoverished people in my city.

Everyone who works at or with at Hope Mission is a hero. And I applaud them.

Please take a few minutes to watch this video and to connect with what giving is really about. Please remember this Christmas that some people will be sleeping outside in the cold; some will be craving some warm food; others could use a hand in friendship.

They are people, with dreams that they are struggling to hold onto.

For 2009, I wish for them the gift of HOPE. And I'll do my part to see they have it.



To learn more about Hope Mission, please visit: http://www.hopemission.com

To donate to Hope Mission and give others HOPE, please visit: http://hopemission.giving-hope.org/

Thank you for taking a few minutes out of your life to remember those less fortunate.

Merry Christmas!

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif

Merry Christmas and the best in 2009!

I wish you all the very best in the New Year, and I hope you have a wonderful holiday with family and friends.

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif
http://www.cherylktardif.com/

News Alert! Whale Song is going out of print

A few days ago I received a letter from my publisher Kunati Books informing me that they have decided to make Whale Song "out of print", even though it continues to be their top fiction seller on Amazon and elsewhere.

While I don't completely understand their decision, I know that things are changing everywhere in the book world and publishers are scrambling to make decisions on what to do next. Rumor is, Kunati is going nonfiction.

What does this mean for Whale Song?

Well, it means that if you want to read it, you'd better order it now. Whale Song could be out of print and unavailable to the public in a matter of a week, maybe a few more.

I'd like to know that everyone who has wanted to read it has had the opportunity. I encourage you to pick up a copy for your mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, best friend. I encourage YA readers to check it out. Whale Song is even being used in schools for Language Arts studies, so if you're a teacher, please be sure to get copies for your classroom now, while you can. And if you're a librarian, order copies of Whale Song for your collection.

Whale Song is a novel that has a huge emotional impact on its readers. People's lives have been changed and are changing as a result. This novel explores themes of racism, bullying, tragedy, forgiveness and redemption, and it'll change how you view life...and death.

Whale Song has had a good solid run since 2003 when the first edition came out and I am still working on the movie angle. Who knows? For now, I'd like to thank every single reader who has taken a chance on my "heart book".

Thank you for every single review you've written and every email that you have thoughtfully sent me. Thank you for telling me your life changing stories and for sharing parts of your souls with me. I am working fervently to complete some new works that I hope you'll find just as meaningful and entertaining. And don't forget, Divine Intervention and The River are still available and going strong. :)

What's Whale Song about?

Thirteen years ago, Sarah Richardson’s life was shattered after the tragic assisted suicide of her mother. The shocking tragedy left a grief-stricken teen-aged Sarah with partial amnesia.

Some things are easier to forget.

But now a familiar voice from her past sends Sarah, a talented mid-twenties ad exec, back to her past. A past that she had thought was long buried.

Some things are meant to be buried.

Torn by nightmares and visions of a yellow-eyed wolf, yet aided by the creatures of the Earth and by the killer whales that call to her in the night, Sarah must face her fears and uncover the truth―even if it destroys her.

Some things are meant to be remembered―at all cost.

"Tardif again leaves a lasting mark on her readers...Moving and irresistible." --Midwest Book Review

"Whale Song is deep and true, a compelling story of love and family and the mysteries of the human heart. Cheryl Kaye Tardif has written a beautiful, haunting novel." -- NY Times Bestselling novelist Luanne Rice, author of Beach Girls

Chances are your local bookstore won't have any in stock--unless you're in Edmonton, Alberta, in which case you can pick up Whale Song from the following locations: South Point Chapters, Southgate Shopping Centre Coles, and Mill Woods Town Centre Coles.

Or you can order Whale Song from Amazon.com, Amazon.ca or Chapters.ca.

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif,
bestselling author of Whale Song
http://www.cherylktardif.com/

Sunday Salon: An Innocent Client by Scott Pratt

4 stars!

Recommended for: anyone who enjoys legal thrillers

Read this novel and you’ll be guilty of one thing: immense enjoyment in a clever thriller!

Defense attorney Joe Dillard is burnt out and sick of defending guilty killers. He wants nothing more than to throw in the towel and walk away from it all. But first he wants one thing that will make his career worthwhile; he wants to defend one innocent client.

Angel Christian is a beautiful young woman with a secret and troubled past. She’s moved to Tennessee to waitress at the Mouse’s Tail, a steamy strip club owned by Erlene Barlowe. After one of the customers—Reverend John Paul Tester, who used his church’s money to fund his after-hours entertainment—becomes aggressive with Angel, a murderer sets out to make the man pay. The Reverend's body is found in a motel, minus an important body piece.

Agent Phillip Landers from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) is a slimy, arrogant womanizer, and one of the least likeable characters in this novel. Landers will do anything to help prosecute this case and to settle old scores, even if it means convincing Dillard’s druggie sister to testify against her brother’s client and getting her to lie in court.

There are many other interesting characters, including Erlene Barlowe, the “madam” of the strip club who keeps her girls in line, even if it means telling them to lie. Her relationship to Angel is motherly, a trait that is intriguing. Erlene’s involvement in the case creates riveting twists and turns, and an unexpected conclusion that will leave you satisfied. And just when you think it’s over, the author throws in one last “hold your breath” scene.

An Innocent Client is an excellent thriller with compelling characters. Its only flaw is that the first half of the book has too much “tell” and not enough “show”, which bogs down the pacing. The second half is much tighter. Debut novelist Scott Pratt sets up the crime, invites us to the scene, allows us insight into the investigation, puts us in the jury box and delivers a strong close. Kudos, Scott!

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif,
bestselling author of The River and Divine Intervention

Textnovel interviews Canadian author Cheryl Kaye Tardif

I was recently interviewed by Stan Soper, CEO of Textnovel.com, a site that allows writers to pen text novels written on their computer or cell phone and to subscribe to such works. I serialized my suspenseful novelette REMOTE CONTROL on Textnovel, plus two short stories--OUIJA and SWEET DREAMS.

I invite you to read the interview, and please check out my stories through the links at the top of the interview page. I could use more votes. :)

Interview with Best-Selling Textnovel Author Cheryl K. Tardif

How Whale Song has inspired me...

Usually people ask me what inspired me to write each novel. Where did I get the idea, the characters, the plot, the setting? How did it all come together? Well, with Whale Song, I can easily answer those questions. And I will. But I must also confess that Whale Song has also inspired ME.

The idea for Whale Song came to me years ago now, from flashes of childhood memories--some good, some bad. Having lived on the Queen Charlotte Islands, north of Vancouver Island, BC, as a child for a number of years, I was surrounded by nature, animals, sea creatures and native folklore that set a young writer's mind spinning. Even now, the sound of native drums haunts me and ties me to the land beneath my feet far more than gravity ever will. The Charlottes have a mystery about them.

I heard as a child that if a killer whale came close to shore that it was a reincarnated soul coming to say hello (or goodbye) to his/her family. That legend stayed with me. I used to go to the Vancouver Aquarium and watch Skana, probably Canada's most famous killer whale, and wait anxiously for the magnificent mammal to splash me. A part of me wanted to dive right in with her, swim with her, ride her...and that was way before I'd heard of Whale Rider, the book and movie. Years later, the Free Willy movies caught my eye and engaged my attention.

Years later, I had glimmers of a story, flashes of light that began to develop, flowing from one thought to the next. Scenes of killer whales cresting the ocean, swimming close to shore...and a young girl emerged as the protagonist Sarah. So many people have asked if Sarah is me. I have to say 'No'; I write fiction. But then, in all honesty, there IS a lot of me in Sarah.

Whale Song opens with an adult Sarah reflecting on her life. Then she flashes back to a time where everything changed. She had to move because of her father's job. I had to move because my father was in the Canadian Armed Forces. Sarah moved to an isolated island where racism was ripe. I lived in Masset on the Charlottes, where being white was bad enough; being military was even worse. Sarah was bullied, yet had a best friend. I too was bullied, yet still maintained friendships with the locals and the other 'army brats'. But that is pretty much where the similarities end.

SPOILER ALERT!

Sarah faces a terrible tragedy in her young life, one that affects her many years later. Her mother, who is suffering from primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH), is nearing death and assisted suicide is the one thing she wants. Sarah's father must make an agonizing decision. It is this decision to end a life that haunted me and had me thinking. And I pose the question I asked myself many times to you: If someone you loved was nearing death and begged you to release them, to assist in their death, could you do it? Would you do it? It is a question that no one wants to ask...and no one wants to answer.

And THAT is why I wrote Whale Song.

Since writing this novel, Whale Song has inspired me to dig deep as a writer, to find my characters' emotions and bare them to the world. With a percentage of my royalties now going to help 3 Edmonton charities, Whale Song has become a meaningful and important piece of work.

To me, Whale Song is a beautiful, haunting, lyrical novel that takes you back to innocence and wonder, back to youthful oblivion, until LIFE pulls you back to reality. I invite you to take that journey with Sarah, to cry with her, to swim with the killer whales and to hear the most haunting of all melodies...a Whale Song.

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif
http://www.whalesongbook.com/

ORDER WHALE SONG NOW! :)

"The River is a great read"

"Thrills and suspense on the Nahanni River. Cheryl Kaye Tardif has done an exceptional job with her descriptions of a beautiful, but little known area in the Canadian wilderness. Her characters are well-drawn and interesting with plenty of conflict and romance to draw the reader into their lives...The River is a great read..."

--L.C. Evans, author of Talented Horsewoman

Vote for Remote Control on TextNovel.com!

You can read my novelette REMOTE CONTROL for free just by visiting TextNovel.com.

Vote for my suspenseful story by clicking on the small circular thumbs up symbol on REMOTE CONTROL's page:

Read REMOTE CONTROL on Textnovel.com.

Please vote now! :)

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif

Last minute gift ideas: Whale Song by Cheryl Kaye Tardif

Whale Song is a beautiful, heart-wrenching and inspiring story of a woman who moves to Vancouver Island when she's a child. Sarah is thrown into a native culture that creates fascination with customs and legends but also stirs up issues of racism.

This is a novel about family bonds, friendship, tragedy, grief and overcoming the past.

Whale Song has inspired people to make changes in their own lives, something I never expected from my novel, and it is perfect for anyone, any age. My youngest reader that I know of is 7; my oldest was 108 when she passed away.

Whale Song is a novel that will change how you view life...and death. If you enjoy family drama novels like those by Jodi Picoult, Luanne Rice and Sue Monk Kidd, you'll love Whale Song, and it's a novel I guarantee you won't soon forget.

For US readers, order Whale Song from Amazon using the Amazon Prime program and your book will arrive in 2 business days, with FREE shipping.

Canadian readers, order Whale Song from Chapters.ca.

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif, bestselling author

http://www.cherylktardif.com/

Cheryl Kaye Tardif's 'Whale Song' helps 3 Non-Profit Organizations

The following article appeared on Grow Mercy, a wonderful blog by a wonderful and caring person--Stephen Thomas Berg. Stephen invited me to share how Whale Song, my recent novel about love, lies, sacrifice and transformation, is affecting people's lives.

Begging for Change

First, I’d like to pose a few questions. If you saw a beggar on the sidewalk, hand out for a bit of change, would you scowl, judge him and walk by? Or would you say ‘Sorry, I don’t have any change.” Or would you buy him a coffee and donut? Or would you hand him some money?

I know that these questions pose a moral dilemma for most. The first thing that seems to come to mind is that the beggar will only use the money for nefarious purposes--booze or drugs. And we have an aversion to helping anyone with those addiction problems. We also judge these people. Some of us think, “I worked hard for my money. Why should I give it to him when he can’t be bothered to get a job?” Some of us feel that we should ‘protect them’, buy them food or drink so they don’t spend it on a bottle of rye. Some of us give the money, thinking ‘it’s his choice’.

A while ago I heard two girls in a downtown Wendy’s discussing a man pushing a cart outside. They called him a “bum”, laughed at him, and said he “should get a job”. In their callous naiveté, they thought a job would solve everything for this man. They had no concept of the fact that a person with addictions is physically and mentally unable to keep a job, without a lot of support and therapy.

Spurred on by a burst of anger, I stormed outside the Wendy’s with a nearly full container of fries and I asked the man if he wanted them. The light in his eyes was the only answer I needed. Everything he owned was in that shopping cart, with no money for the day’s meal. I talked to him for about 5 minutes, and that man had stories to tell. An avid reader and educated fellow, he once had a job, a family…everything. Then he lost them all. I gave him some money, let him make his own choice for his life.

The opinion of these girls is a common one, and I will admit that even I have had those thoughts, once, years ago. Until something happened to change the way I view other people, especially those begging for change. Something that made me want to face those girls and yell, “Don’t laugh at him! That could be your father! Your brother!” But I didn’t. Instead, I went outside and spoke with a man whose life was measured by the belongings in a rusty shopping cart. I’m glad I did. And I owe my actions to my brother Jason.

A number of years ago, I invited my younger brother to come stay with us in Edmonton, Alberta, to look for work and help him get a fresh start. He had been living on Salt Spring Island in BC, and like a typical young person, he’d been getting into some minor trouble. In his early 20s, he moved to Edmonton, and everyone thought his life was just beginning. We never suspected what would happen. Not really.

On January 23rd, 2006, my 28-year-old computer-genius brother with his crazy humor, copper hair and freckled face was brutally murdered. It happened early in the morning in a cold, dark alley not far from the Mustard Seed Church, with no witnesses. I try not to think of his last moments, but it is hard not to imagine him begging for help, or crying for my Mom. Even typing this now is difficult. It’s been almost 3 years since Jason died, yet sometimes it feels like yesterday. I miss him. I miss his laughter, his practical jokes and his generous spirit.

My brother led the life of that man with the cart. He had been homeless for a time, had tried numerous jobs, but his alcohol addiction overwhelmed him. He was on medication, off and on, for depression, and refused to keep in touch with our family. In some ways, he was determined to break free from his lifestyle; in some ways, he wanted us to be separate from it. Even though he lived in the same city, I never knew where he was from one day to the next, and long months would go by with no contact. To be truthful, I was relieved. There is nothing worse than watching someone you love spiral out of control and know that there’s nothing you can do to stop it. His choice, his life.

The morning that the police found Jason was a day like any other for me. I didn’t see the news, and even if I had, they had not released a name. So I went to work, writing in my office like any other day. I was finishing a second version of Whale Song in hopes that it would get picked up by a bigger publisher. And then someone knocked on my door…or the doorbell rang. I don’t remember. When I saw the two men on my doorstep I immediately assumed they were politicians. It was election day. They asked if I was Cheryl Tardif. I said yes. Then they asked me if I had a brother named Jason Kaye. I said yes and let them inside, thinking my brother was in trouble with the law.

It’s funny, that day--funny in a weird dreamlike way. Everyone in my family, including me, had always said that we were expecting a call from the police to say Jason was dead. We had even imagined that he’d end up in an accident, or stagger into a ditch and peacefully fall asleep. We knew he was an alcoholic and we knew he suffered from mental illness. But still, as I sat at my kitchen table with the two detectives, I didn’t really see it coming. Not at first. Not murder.

But someone was watching over me. My brother had left me some ‘gifts’. My husband showed up a minute later. He’d finished work extremely early that day. (Thank you, Jason.) When the detectives told me my brother was dead, that he had been murdered, there was no screaming or crying, no sinking to the floor like I would have imagined. Just a quiet calm that settled over my heart, and a quiet voice in my head that said, “This is the day you knew would come. Jason’s gone.”

The police told me that they had some problems tracking down Jason’s next of kin. After all, my last name is Tardif. I use Kaye, my maiden name, for writing purposes only. They called some Kayes in the area but none of them are related to us. And here was another gift. Jason had told his friends that his sister Cheryl (no last name) was an author in Edmonton who had wrote a book about whales. That’s it. That’s what the police had to go on. They Googled my name--and there I was.

Another gift: three months later, Whale Song was picked up by a bigger publisher and was re-released as a special, revised and expanded edition in April 2007, with a special dedication to my brother Jason. Whale Song is his book now. And as a result, I decided early on that it would benefit others who are struggling with life, addictions and mental illness.

That is why every time you buy a copy of Whale Song, you are helping three organizations: Hope Mission, Mustard Seed Church and the Bissell Centre. 5% of my royalties will go to EACH of these, to help combat poverty, homelessness and addictions. I invite you to order today, spare that bit of change, because I’m begging for it now…on behalf of those in need.

Order Whale Song from Amazon.com

Order Whale Song from Chapters.ca

Thank you again for letting me share my brother Jason with your visitors. For more information on Jason Kaye, please visit his memorial site at http://www.jaysporchmonkeys.com/

I am also begging for change—not money, but change in how we look at others. The next time you see a beggar with his hand out, I hope each of you will think for a moment, “There, but for the grace of God, go I.” Spare a little change in how you think, grow mercy…and gain a bit more soul.

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif, author of Whale Song, The River and Divine Intervention

http://www.whalesongbook.com/

http://www.cherylktardif.com/

Which actors do you think should play the lead roles in Whale Song, The River and Divine Intervention?

I thought I'd share a neat little site that is a lot of fun, especially if you like movies and movie stars. It's called Story Casting, where you can dream about who would play the movie roles of the characters from your favorite novels.

Since Whale Song is currently being read by a number of film companies, including some from Hollywood, I've had some time to think about this--plus I've already written the screenplay. Divine Intervention was considered for a possible TV series last year, and The River for a MOW (movie of the week). Those of you who have dealt with producers before will know that this can be a long, long process, and a "no" now doesn't mean they won't come back later when the timing is right--so who knows?

Here are the links to my book pages on StoryCasting.com. I hope you'll have some fun and pick out who you think would make the perfect Sarah Richardson (Whale Song) or Del and Jack (The River) or Jasi, Brandon, Natassia and Ben (Divine Intervention). And you can see who I picked. :)

Whale Song:
http://storycasting.com/work.aspx?id=058bc268-88d2-4788-86f0-f5cb4e03b42b

The River:
http://storycasting.com/work.aspx?id=9563e62f-fb41-4bb1-af6b-e176753681ba

Divine Intervention:
http://storycasting.com/work.aspx?id=24ff8951-98cf-4d7e-8bb7-03d1b390e21e

It's free to sign up! :)

P.S. When I think of Whale Song (the movie)...I can smell the popcorn yet! ;-)

Cheryl Kaye Tardif,
bestselling author
http://www.cherylktardif.com/

Last minute gift ideas: The River by Cheryl Kaye Tardif

The River, a fast-paced thriller, is the story of a woman's search for her father in the mysterious wilderness of the Nahanni River in Canada's Northwest Territories. This area, which is referred to as the "Bermuda Triangle of Canada" in real life, is frought with dangers, and not all of them are from nature.

In this conspiracy based thriller that has been compared to Michael Crichton's Timeline and Dan Brown's Angels & Demons, Del takes a group of near strangers down the Nahanni River in hopes of finding her father whom she'd thought was dead. What she finds is a secret underground river and a deadly world of nanobots and painful serums.

How far have we gone with our technologies before we've gone too far? And at what point have we become God?

The River is a mix of LOST and Mission Impossible--Canadian style. If you enjoy lots of action, explosive chase scenes and impossible odds, you'll love The River.

For US readers, order The River from Amazon using the Amazon Prime program and your book will arrive in 2 business days, with FREE shipping.

Canadian readers, order The River from Chapters.ca.

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif, bestselling author
http://www.cherylktardif.com/

Last minute gift ideas: Divine Intervention by Cheryl Kaye Tardif

Divine Intervention introduces you to CFBI Agent Jasi McLellan and her team of psychic government agents. Using their various psychic gifts, this specialized and covert group hunt down dangerous criminals.

Jasi, a Pyro-Psychic, must be careful when she enters the scene of a fire; one whiff of smoke can send her into the mind of a killer. Ben Roberts is a Psychometric Empath, and touching something or someone can set off disturbing visions. And then there's Natassia Prushenko, a Victim Empath who with a soft caress can enter the mind of a victim--regardless if they're dead or alive.

In the case of the Gemini Murders, someone is leaving a trail of smoldering corpses across BC, and the team steps in, unaware that a killer is watching...and waiting.

Divine Intervention is book 1 in a series--a suspenseful mix of CSI meets Medium meets Ghost Whisperer and is perfect for fans of Kay Hooper, Iris Johansen and J.D. Robb.

For US readers, order Divine Intervention from Amazon using the Amazon Prime program and your book will arrive in 2 business days, with FREE shipping.

Canadian readers, order Divine Intervention from Chapters.ca.

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif, bestselling author

http://www.cherylktardif.com/

Edmonton Event: Meet Cheryl at Starbucks on 50th St. this Sunday

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21st - SPECIAL STARBUCKS EVENT:

Meet bestselling author Cheryl Kaye Tardif at the new SE Edmonton Starbucks location

1:00 pm to 5:00 pm

4357-50th Street, Edmonton, AB

780-465-4173

Have your favorite coffee drink or my favorite Chai tea with 2 shots of Cinnamon Dolce and try some yummy samples.

Enter to win a fabulous gift bag filled with gifts and surprises.

No purchase required to enter. Just show up & bring your friends!!!

Come chat with me! I'm a bestselling Edmonton author who has been in the news a lot lately (I'm writing a novel on my iPhone 3G!). Pick up some personalized, autographed novels for yourself and for family and friends. All of my books make wonderful Christmas gifts.

Whale Song, The River and Divine Intervention will be ON SALE!

A percentage of all book sales will be donated to:

• Hope Mission
• Mustard Seed Church
• Bissell Centre
• and one Edmonton school

Come out and show your support! Bring your family and friends! The more the merrier!

ATTN. MEDIA:
I'm always open to interviews, so please drop by this event and set something up. OR email me if you'd like to do an interview before or after this event.

P.S. I really hope you all come out and have some fun celebrating this new Starbucks location and the Christmas season!

P.P.S. Please let your friends in the Edmonton area know about this event. I really want to pack Starbucks and keep them hopping! :)

Cheryl Kaye Tardif
author of Whale Song, The River and Divine Intervention
http://www.cherylktardif.com/
http://www.cherylktardif.blogspot.com/

Whale Song on street sign

Here's a street sign advertising Whale Song...

Doesn't it look like a poster advertising Whale Song - the movie? I wonder where it's playing and when? And did Kristin Kreuk get the lead role as the adult Sarah Richardson? Who's playing young Sarah?

Please note, this photo is fake too. I'm just having a bit of fun dreaming, and for anyone who knows me you'll know I love to dream BIG! It's my motto.

Photo courtesy of www.Photofunia.com.

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif

Author Cheryl Kaye Tardif on the cover of Vogue Magazine

It's not every day that I make the cover of such an illustrious magazine...

Well, I can dream...

Please note that although I wish I could say this was January 2009's cover issue, it isn't. In fact the cover is fake. But I had you going for a minute, now didn't I? ;-)

Cover courtesy of http://www.photofunia.com/)

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif

I am... (poem)

Although I’ve no house to call my home,
I live in the shelter of God’s gracious dome.
I don’t have a house full of food and drink,
But the food I receive makes me think
That though I am homeless, without much in hand,
I am still someone’s child and someone’s friend.

“Hey, get a job!” I’ve heard people say.
But it’s not quite that easy, ‘cause few will pay
Someone like me, with no current home,
Addicted to drugs, no clean clothes of my own.
Would you hire me to work by your side?
If not, then don’t judge me; I do have my pride.

My body is a prison, my spirit’s still free,
I am what I am; can you truly see me?
Don’t see the dirt on my clothes or my hair,
Don’t laugh, don’t sneer and please don’t stare.
The grime of the street has made me this way,
One hot shower can wash this away.

I am husband or wife, father or mother,
I am niece or nephew, or sister or brother.
You could be me, or so could another.
One bad choice can lead to one other.
So next time you see me, hands out in need,
Remember, like you, I breathe and I bleed.

I am one of the homeless, a face on the street,
Look into my eyes; don’t stare at my feet.
I am human like you, I laugh and I cry,
I’ve watched my street friends live and die.
I’ve lost much of what you hold so dear,
But I haven’t lost “me”—I’m still in here.


~*~

©2008 Cheryl Kaye Tardif

Note: I felt inspired to write this today, and it appeared first on Hope Mission's Facebook page. Although I haven't lived on the street, my brother Jason Kaye did. He lived and died on the streets of Edmonton, and he is always on my mind. I posted this poem here, because I hope it will inspire you. ~Cheryl

Please consider donating to Hope Mission through CanadaHelps.org.

Visit Hope Mission's website.

Whale Song is "a magical, mystical jewel"

Note from Cheryl: Normally when I ask to quote someone's review, I select the best parts, words I think prospective buyers need to hear to make their decision on whether to buy Whale Song. In the case below, I had to include the entire review because her words mean so much to me.

"A magical, mystical jewel. I don't know how to do justice to this book in a review. It's like trying to describe love or any other emotion--you have to experience it to really understand. And Whale Song is quite an experience!
The story seems straightforward, moving along in a way that constantly keeps your attention. But underneath are layers of complex feelings and meaning, and they will stir your heart in a big way. Have Kleenex handy! I went through a whole box while reading this. And not because it was sad--although there is definitely sadness in it--but because it is so beautifully written. It makes you think. I let go of a burden of bitterness I was holding inside myself, because of the wisdom I found in Whale Song. How many books can you actually say made you a better person and changed your life?
Every single voice in the narrative is completely authentic. From the young girl who tells the story to the wise old Indian woman called Nana, the characters are living, breathing people you wish you could meet. And the sense of place is so real that you can actually see the ocean and hear the songs of the whales.
There is fascinating Indian lore and legend, and a deep vein of spirituality running throughout the book. It's a tale of heartbreak and happiness, of shutting yourself in and letting yourself go free. After you dry your tears, the message you take away will be one of hope and strength. Cheryl Tardif definitely understands the human soul. And we are lucky that she has the words to tell us about it."

--Susan J. McLeod, author of Soul and Shadow

Read my interview of Betty Dravis, author of 1106 Grand Boulevard

I am aways interested in other authors, how they got started and what their life has been like, and today I'm very pleased to promote a lovely, great friend of mine, author Betty Dravis. I interviewed her on The Write Type ~ Multi-Author Musings.

Betty will be giving away one of her books, so be sure to read Parts 1 & 2 of her interview to find out how you can enter.

Betty Dravis was a journalist and during that career she interviewed many well known celebs, including Clint Eastwood. She is now the author of 3 novels and a number of Amazon Shorts.

Part 1:
http://writetype.blogspot.com/2008/12/part-1-of-interview-with-betty-dravis.html

Part 2:
http://writetype.blogspot.com/2008/12/part-2-of-interview-with-betty-dravis.html

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif, bestselling author
http://www.cherylktardif.com/

"I am a fan of the Kay Hooper books...but think our Canadian counterpart (Divine Intervention) has a better chemistry"

"Excellent paranormal novel...With a great cast of characters, suspects, and action, Ms. Tardif has written the first of I hope many Divine adventures. I am a fan of the Kay Hooper books where the investigators all have psychic powers, but think our Canadian counterpart has a better chemistry than those books. Also Ms. Tardif has been called the Canadian J.D. Robb - a great compliment! Ms. Tardif has also written the much acclaimed Whale Song. I look forward to more from her as she's gotten me hooked on the PSI Team - Psychic Skills Investigators - Great read!"

--Ellen, an Amazon Top 500 Reviewer

Bloody Words 2009

Canada’s premier mystery writers' and fan conference Bloody Words will be in Ottawa from June 5-7, 2009.

Confirmed guests of honour include Denise Mina, Louise Penny and Barbara Fradkin with Mary Jane Maffini as Mistress of Ceremonies.

For more information and registration forms, please visit:

http://www.bloodywords2009.com/

Whale Song is "one of the best books I've ever read"

I have a wonderful supporter of my work. Linda always brightens my day when I get an email from her and recently she dropped by one of my book signings. She made a point of letting me know what my books have meant to her and to people she has given them to, and for an author, hearing these things is such a gift.

Linda recently gave her aunt Louise a Christmas present--a copy of Whale Song that I had signed and personalized. I guess Louise was too excited to wait until Christmas (lol), so she read Whale Song and sent Linda an email about how much she enjoyed it. Here is part of Louise's email; she has given me permission to share it here:

"I am just overwhelmed by the book you gave me - I just finished Whale Song. The thought that anyone can write this quality of narrative just blows me apart. I did so much crying that my shirt was soaked. It's so well written - I'm sorry I didn't go to Amazon and buy the book as soon as you mentioned it to me [several months ago]. I'll know better next time. I will have complete trust in your judgment from now on - believe me! I started reading the novel before reading about the author so as I kept reading, the narrative seemed so real that I actually thought she had lived through this...There's more, but I just wanted to say - it's one of the best books I've ever read and I'm truly grateful that you had it signed by the author!" --Louise Dancause

Thank you, Louise, for your kind and touching words. I will treasure them.

And thank you, Linda, for continuing to support my novels by gifting them to your friends and family. I hope my writing never disappoints you.

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif,
bestselling author of Whale Song
http://www.whalesongbook.com

Should authors spend money on promotional tools and reviews?

There was a discussion recently on a forum I belong to; we discussed whether authors should spend money on promotional tools like bookmarks and whether they should pay to have their books reviewed. This is what I think about both...

Authors can't afford to throw away money; we don't make enough to do that. Writing (the actual act) is our passion--a hobby, if you will. SELLING our work becomes our business, and authors need to become business-minded if they're to succeed. Every business needs some form of investment, but you have to be careful.

There are ways for authors to throw away money and ways to get advertising and sales without paying a dime. Paying a service to market your books is not the smartest way to go. Try it once and you'll see what I mean. There are very few that deliver what they promise, and again you're throwing away hard earned money. I've seen and known many authors who've invested thousands in some company that promises to expose their book to thousands of readers or libraries or book clubs and they were lucky to sell 5 books. Their campaign is now buried so deep that no one finds it after a month or two. If you've tried a service that has resulted in hundreds or thousands of sales and can prove it, let me know and I'll be happy to advertise them. :)

No matter if you're self-published or traditionally published it is the author's responsibility to promote their books--if you want success. The trick is to learn how to do this effectively and affordably. My nickname is "Shameless Promoter", not just because I have a good handle on how to market but because I consistently sell books. I've spoken at writers' conferences in Canada and the US on this topic. I just booked another conference where I'll be speaking about using online networks to sell books. So I know what I'm talking about. :)

Should you get bookmarks? Uh, no brainer, people! I've observed many authors' techniques at book signings and if you don't have something to hand out you have lost 4/5 of the potential sales right out of the gate. I just finished an interview where I talked about mistakes authors make at signings. This is one of them. Bookmarks are an absolute must. Don't give out business cards; they just go into the garbage afterward or are filed somewhere. Plus they signify...business. At a signing, you want to signify pleasure, entertainment, a fun read. Business cards are only useful for handing out to people in the industry--store managers, agents, publishers etc. So buy some; they'll last quite a while.

At signings and events hand out bookmarks. Find an affordable printer to make them. Negotiate a deal for larger quantities, then order 2000 at the cheaper price. Have your book covers, website and blog URLS, email addy and a bit of intriguing text on both sides of the business card. One-sided means you've wasted half your advertising space. Bookmarks are not only useful, they create "after sales". People see them and are reminded to buy your book, or they realize you have more books (if you've listed them). I have Whale Song on one side, and Divine Intervention and The River share the other side. Right now I'm giving people extras at my signings and encouraging them to add them to stockings at Christmas.

Marketing your books online is the way to go in this day and age. Spending money on reviews is not. I have 50 reviews of Whale Song on Amazon.com alone, not to mention on various other sites. I never paid anyone a dime. Reviews are easy to get; you just have to know how and where to look. It takes creativity to get more than the average 10 reviews per book. You can offer to send review copies to reviewers whom you've researched--ones that have a high traffic blog, Google page rank of 3+, a faithful following/fan base, plenty of commenters, or are members of book clubs. Don't send them to just anyone. Or you can think of ways to encourage those who buy your books to review them. Why not hold a contest? Do a draw from all reviewers on Amazon and give them a prize you have had donated to you. Or say you'll pick your favorite review and give them a prize...get the picture?

There are other ways to market your books. Use online social networks like MySpace, Goodreads, Shelfari, etc and word of mouth advertising will spread virally--if you do it right. Hold other contests on your blog or website and to encourage more sales, have them answer a question where the answer is found in one of your books. The prize? Something that a company has donated to you in exchange for mention (free advertising). I get stuff given to me all the time. Every gift basket I've given away has been filled with gifts that have been donated to me in exchange for advertising them. How have I advertised them? A few posters in a bookstore, or on handouts in stores, and a mention on my blog/site.

I think the key is you just have to get creative and think outside of the box...or bookstore. We should be marketing to all venues--stores and online. And anywhere our readers can be found.

For more tips on how to promote your books in stores and online, please read my free marketing articles posted at: http://www.cherylktardif.com/articles-by-cheryl

If you have found my articles helpful, you could repay me by buying one of my novels for yourself or a friend. They make great Christmas gifts! ;-)

Cheryl Kaye Tardif novels are available on Amazon, Chapters.ca or your favorite bookstore can order them in for you.

Happy promoting!

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif

http://www.cherylktardif.com

Midwest Book Review selects Divine Intervention as "Reviewer's Choice", calling it a "chilling page-turner"

"I just finished reading "Divine Intervention" and I must say that Tardif had the gift right from the first. The Muses certainly are smiling down on her. She's a natural writer with a gift for words, great imagination, fabulous imagery, dialogue and characterization. But what "makes" a book for me is pacing, and I'm pleased to report that her pacing is impeccable! This chilling page-turner is a genuine Canadian crime novel...Tardif gives her readers plenty of twists and turns before reaching a satisfying ending."

--Midwest Book Review, reviewer: Betty Dravis

You can read the entire review at Midwest Book Review.

Author Jeff Rivera interviews Cheryl Kaye Tardif on GumboWriters.com

I was recently interviewed by a good friend and fellow author, Jeff Rivera. Not only has Jeff been a supporter of me and my work, he has taught me a few new tricks, mainly how to write compelling and intriguing query letters. His tips led to me signing with a reputable New York agent. For this I am eternally grateful to Jeff.

Jeff asked me some interesting questions, and the first part of my interview is on GumboWriters.com now. In it, I talk about the things I've done to market my books.

I'll let you know when the next part of the interview is up.

Read the interview on GumboWriters.com.

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif

"Divine Intervention captivated me"

"Para-psychic, Para-psychotic, Para-captivating! Ditto on the previous reviewers who loved the scenery, intricate plot lines with twists and turns...Divine Intervention captivated me and I think it will turn out to be better than the movie!"

--Yale R. Jaffe, author of Advantage Disadvantage

Read the entire review on Amazon.com.

(Note: No movie deal at this time. Film rights are available; email Cheryl.

Bestselling Edmonton author Cheryl Kaye Tardif & Starbucks host a special event on December 21st

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21st - SPECIAL STARBUCKS EVENT: Meet bestselling author Cheryl Kaye Tardif at the new SE Edmonton Starbucks location.

1:00 pm to 5:00 pm

4357-50th Street, Edmonton, AB - 780-465-4173

Have your favorite coffee drink or Cheryl's favorite Chai tea with 2 shots of Cinnamon Dolce and try some yummy samples.

Enter to win a fabulous gift bag filled with gifts and surprises.

No purchase required to enter. Just show up & bring your friends!!!

Meet Cheryl, a bestselling Edmonton author who has been in the news a lot lately, and pick up some personalized, autographed novels for yourself and for family and friends. All of Cheryl's books make wonderful Christmas gifts.

Whale Song, The River and Divine Intervention will be ON SALE!

A percentage of all book sales will be donated to:

• Hope Mission
• Mustard Seed Church
• Bissell Centre
• and one Edmonton school

I really hope you come out and have some fun celebrating this new Starbucks location and the Christmas season! ~Cheryl