2024 year end review!!

Break out the champagne! 2024 is almost over! 🥂 I want to thank everyone for their continued support. It doesn't matter if you buy my books, borrow them from the library, or even watch (or share!) any of my videos. It all helps and I appreciate it.  

Before I give you the rundown of the past year, I want to make a note about some changes in my newsletter. In the future, rather than doing a monthly newsletter, I will instead send one out whenever I have anything to announce, a new video, or a giveaway to tell you about. That way, you're always up to date. And of course, don't forget my social media. You can find me on most platforms under @mimaonfire - this includes X (Twitter), Facebook, YouTube, Goodreads, Instagram, TikTok and blogger. You can also find me on Rumble. 

Now, let's review 2024!

March 2024
Where do I begin??

First I'm going to tell you about the FREE copies of my latest book, Everybody Wants to Rule the World. No strings attached. This isn't a scam. It's in PDF form and it can be yours for free. Simply reply to this newsletter. (PS this is still available and I may have some hard copies too - reply to this email or message me at mima.michellemary@gmail.com for more information)

Check out my latest videos and blogs -

"Sorry, I only read non-fiction"  Rumble/ YouTube/ Blogger 

Do you need the author's POV in a biographies Rumble/ YouTube/ Blogger

My characters display 'toxic masculinity' for some readers Rumble/ YouTube/ Blogger

Does a writer have to write everyday Rumble/ YouTube/ Blogger

This is the video where I read to you Rumble/ YouTube/ 

April 2024

Who Rules the World? 
     Rumble/ YouTube/ Blog 

Do we live in a fictional world? 
     Rumble/ YouTube/ Blog 

June 2024

My first two books - Fire and A Spark Before the Fire
      Rumble/ YouTube/ Blog

My Vampire books - The Rock Star of Vampires and Her Name is Mariah
      Rumble/ YouTube/ Blog 

July 2024

Protagonist switch...what does that mean? Rumble/ Youtube/ Blogger

Everything an author does (other than write books) Rumble/ Youtube/ Blogger 

Helping other authors Rumble/ Youtube/ Blogger 

Why I no longer bug the shit out of people for reviews (and what is way easier...) Rumble/YouTube/Blogger

Gangsters, villains, and vigilantes....and my Hernandez series 🔪 Rumble/YouTube/Blogger

September 2024
My books are more dark comedy than gory Rumble/YouTube/Blogs

October 2024
Want to see my books? 📚 Rumble/YouTube

November 2024
Books I'd Recommend 📚 Blog / Rumble / YouTube

Why I'm not writing right now 😬 Blogs / Rumble / YouTube

Do I always agree with my characters? 🫣 Blogs / Rumble / YouTube

Strong masculine characters - why we need them in books and in real life 💪🏼 Blogs / Rumble / YouTube

December 2024

Let's start with my personal blog post:

Women's magazines have changed a lot in 100 years

What's new with my writing? Here's a couple of new posts and videos. If you enjoy them, please like, share, and subscribe to bring my eyes to my work. It can be a struggle when you're an indie author.

Why I love Twitter (X) and BTW, what the hell is Bluesky?

Rumble / Blog / YouTube

Why people love powerful and fearless characters

Blog / Rumble / YouTube

Thank you for another wonderful year and all the best in 2025!! 

Mima

Catch up with the news!!! 🗞 December 2024 👀

I can't believe that I'm writing the final newsletter of 2024! Of course, I always send you a year-end review (check out last year's to see what you're in for 👀) but it doesn't feel like it should be December. Time sure does fly. 

I've been diving into some of my personal blogs again lately and writing some notes for a potential upcoming writing project.  Will there be a book fourteen in the Hernandez series? Would you like one? Remember, you don't have to read the entire series to enjoy any of the books. I try to make them standalone. I still have some FREE e-books (PDF files) left for Everybody Wants to Rule the World. Send me your email, and I will send you my publisher's link with your unique code. 

Let's start with my personal blog post:

Women's magazines have changed a lot in 100 years

What's new with my writing? Here's a couple of new posts and videos. If you enjoy them, please like, share, and subscribe to bring my eyes to my work. It can be a struggle when you're an indie author.

Why I love Twitter (X) and BTW, what the hell is Bluesky?

Rumble / Blog / YouTube

Why people love powerful and fearless characters

Blog / Rumble / YouTube

Thanks for checking in. Please reply to this email if you wish to have the FREE PDF I mentioned earlier in this newsletter. Check out the Amazon version and read a FREE sample. 

Merry Christmas 🎄 Hope it's the best one yet! 

Mima

Helping other authors 📇

As an independent author, I enjoy helping my community. It can be an uphill battle without the support of a traditional, larger publisher. You want to share your book with the world but must compete with best-selling authors, celebrity memoirs, and the internet. Despite your best efforts, it's often a challenge to get your book into a potential reader's hands. 

Trust me, I know.

Although I'm on various social media and try to post regularly on most, I prefer X (Twitter) because it tends to be the stomping ground for most authors. It's so easy to share other authors' books on my page. They often do the same for me too. It allows you to find a whole new set of eyes that might want the exact book you wrote. It's so simple to do, so why not?

I sometimes also purchase other indie authors' books and donate them to my local library. It's another easiest thing to do that helps an author's sales, while giving them a new, potential audience. 

Of course, there are many ways you can promote your book, such as creating and giving out bookmarks, having events at your local library or bookstore, or making videos like I do and hope someone watches. 😉 (hint hint)

Does a writer have to write everyday?

It sounds like a tongue twister when you say it fast enough. A writer must write every day. When I hear those words, I wonder if it's merely another one of those things we're told we should do by people who make very blanket statements without consideration for the lifestyle of the writer or, perhaps, even proof that it makes a difference. 

Now, before someone jumps down my fucking throat, I'm going to start by saying that I'm not a crazy successful writer. I don't pretend to be an expert about anything, but I've gone through phases where I wrote every day, and I've gone through phases where I didn't. I honestly saw little in the way of a difference. 

Of course, having always been a writer on the side, it simply wasn't always an option. It depends a great deal on my schedule and inclination. I don't like hard and fast rules that shame those who can't follow them. Being told to write every day sits on the same unstable shelf as the one that insists you stress over your daily word count. And you don't want to get me started on that one.

I've written 18 books and (what feels like) a million blogs and I can guarantee that I never check my word count, and I don't write every day. I don't believe the creative process works very well when a writer feels pressured to perform. I also don't think it means that the work you do will necessarily be stellar if the focus is more on fixating on following this suggestion. 

Chances are good that both these rules were started by a writing school teacher when there was far less on the average person's daily agenda. The world moves fast, and a part of being a writer is observing what is going on around you, something that, as it happens, does require time. 

If I had to come up with my own rules for writers, it would be to open your eyes and pay attention to what is happening in the world. Are you getting a sense of how people feel? What are you hearing a lot? What's standing out to you? What are the books you're currently reading missing?

 

Of course, you shouldn't take five years to complete the first draft of your manuscript either. Unless you're writing a very in-depth research book, obviously, that's a different can of worms. But there has to be some reasonable middle ground. Be logical, and don't listen to the so-called experts. 

You're the expert on you. If you have issues being self-motivated, maybe you have to write every day. If you have a million other things going on and can't get your head into it, don't be too hard on yourself. Maybe it's simply time to process. Unless you nurture your soul, you have nothing to give.

Why I don't write warm and fuzzy books 🧸

When people learn that I'm an author, they're often surprised to learn that I write about violent criminals who think nothing of murdering from time to time. Perhaps I don't give off that crazy vibe as much as I thought I did, or maybe it's because I'm a woman, and generally speaking, female authors are more known for books that fall more on the softer side. It's not something I give a lot of thought to but from time to time, I do get asked why I don't write books that are warm and fuzzy. 

In truth, I tend to read darker, sinister books, so it's not surprising that I also choose to write them. As a writer, it mightn't surprise you that I also tend to write what I see reflected in the world around me, and you don't have to look far to understand why I write about a protagonist that is rich, powerful and isn't afraid to get blood on his hands. This is merely symbolic of the elites that rule our world - thus, my title Psychopaths Rule the World from earlier this year. 

Although I don't write warm and fuzzy books, I tend to show the softer side of characters. To not do so wouldn't be a fair reflection on human nature. Even the most rotten, soulless person has an unexpected sentimental side, just as the kindest person you know may occasionally have a temper tantrum. People are complex, and so are characters. 

Maybe someday I will write warm and fuzzy books. As soon as our world becomes a warm and fuzzy place. 

Any day now. 

Why authors need to stop stressing about book reviews and awards 🏆

If you're a fiction author, you've felt the pressure to have as many book reviews as possible! 

Of course, it doesn't stop there, does it? You're encouraged to have as many as possible, and they must give away enough of the plot to make it sounds mind-blowing without spoiling it for the potential reader. And of course, they must get close to five stars but not five stars because that seems suspicious, but anything under two and you may as well bury your head in the sand and perhaps, your writing career with it.

And book awards! If you won awards, then you've made it, baby! 

Does this sound a tad intimidating? 

This isn't to suggest that I don't enjoy having a great review thrown my way. I also wouldn't snub an award. However, much like the shameful act of not writing enough words a day, I believe this also fits under the same category of unnecessary stress that authors put on themselves. 

Just write a great book. Don't fixate on the other stuff.

The truth is that having a lot of reviews give you a boost on Amazon, but most people will read your book because it captivates their attention and connects with them in some way. They're going to read your book because they checked out a free preview and found it interesting enough to continue. They're going to read your book because they saw you speaking in an interview or a video (see below) and liked what they heard. They're going to read your book cause they loved the cover or because a friend told them about it. They probably won't read your book only based on how many stars you got in a review. 

I'm not an expert. I only know what's encouraged me to buy a book. It's never been because it won an award. I've also never relied on book reviews because savvy marketers offer services to write them. I also know that our tastes vary. A book I love might not be for you and vice versa. 

It's not a race or even a competition. It's about finding your readers. 

How do you start a series? 📚(Updated)

The idea of starting a series may seem exciting, but the truth is that you need a few factors to carry it through and keep it interesting. Here are some of my thoughts on what matters in a series. 

The first and probably most important factor for me would be to create compelling, 3-dimensional characters. Regardless of exciting plots, intensity, or the concept behind the storyline, if readers aren't interested in the characters, they will eventually lose interest in the series. Readers need to connect with characters, their issues, and heartbreaks. They also need to find them exciting and sympathize with their situation. 

I also find that an ambitious or conflicted protagonist also contributes to a series, especially if that character has lots of dragons to slay. When I introduced Jorge Hernandez in the second book in my Hernandez series, that's when things started to pop! This character seeks out and thrives on power and has no issue stepping up or on anyone in his way. For him, control is vital. Of course, it takes time to do these things, which is why the Hernandez series continues to grow. 

Of course, you need lots of excitement to keep a reader interested. It's a good idea to introduce compelling secondary characters with their journeys and issues. With lots of stuff always cropping up, it keeps readers from being bored. A mixture of plots and subplots keeps readers turning the page because it may not be the protagonist that captivates them but another character. 

I have one last note regarding creating a series. Some people like to figure out an outline before they start, but I would warn to keep them very general, allowing room for creativity and new ideas that might spring up once you begin to write. 

And last of all, if you find the idea of writing a series a bit overwhelming, I would suggest you don't think too far ahead. Sometimes you have to see how things naturally flow.

Be your own media 📺🎙📻 (updated)

I wrote my first book in 2010, and at the time, the idea of getting media attention seemed essential. Having said that, when I finally did get an interview, I was a bumbling idiot when attempting to answer questions. I wanted to sound confident, but I wasn't. I wanted to say how great my book was, but I didn't want to sound arrogant. I quickly discovered that while I had a knack for throwing words together in writing, I wasn't so great at that whole talking thing.

What helped to improve my interviewing skills? My confidence grew after I started to record videos for my YouTube channel. When you record yourself speaking, you quickly catch some flaws upon playback, and this allows you to improve your weak areas while building confidence when speaking with a potential audience. I say potential audience because even though you record a video, it doesn't mean you're obligated to release it. The first few might be cringe-worthy, but that's ok because this is how you learn. How do you think all these well-spoken people in the media first learn how to talk on camera? No one is perfect the first time.

 Of course, the second problem is to get media attention at all. It's pretty easy when you're a best-seller with a big name and massive sales, but when you're new, unfamous, unrich, and untrendy, it's a whole other story. So, what do you do?

I'd recommend you take a stab at writing a press release. If you're not sure how to do so, find an example online and model yours off of it. Then send it to everyone; local, big and small newspapers, television and radio stations, free newspapers, and anyone else that might be interested. The key is to get as many sets of eyes on it as possible. You don't know who might be interested, and you never know who's paying attention.

Do press releases work? With some books I've published, they've resulted in radio and newspaper interviews and other times, one lone paper will contact me. It varies from book to book, the time of year, and other factors that sometimes you often can't predict. Newspapers are often downsizing, or have too many other things taking place at the time, competing for an editor's attention. Don't take it personally.

Whether or not the media contacts you, you have to take the bull by the horns. Write blogs, record videos for YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, or whatever social media you use. Find creative ways to capture people's attention. When you think about it, the media is essentially the loudspeaker that lets the world know what's going on, but we live in a time where we have outlets to do this for ourselves. Social media is powerful, but at the end of the day, so are you.

Do you have a side gig? 🤫(Updated)

I often wonder how many hours I work a week. When I consider both my jobs, my writing, not to mention the countless hours of preparing and creating social media (including this video and blog 😂) I probably would be shocked by the total. 😲

Hey, but I don't mind. This is my passion. I can't imagine my life without my artistic side, and writing happens to be it. For others, it's creating music, dancing, painting, or it may not be a creative side at all. Perhaps you are trying to start a side business that takes some time to establish. This is normal. There's no shame in working while you reach for your dreams.

Having said that there's a lot of misconceptions. The 'overnight success' story is usually just that; a story. Most people work long hours, often for many years, before their efforts start to catch on. This is the rule rather than the exception.

I always tell the story of a woman I used to know while living in Vancouver, who thought I was a fool for 'wasting my time' with writing pursuits. She was clear on the fact that since my first book hadn't been a  best-selling success, it naturally meant that I was putting my efforts into the wrong things. She ridiculed me for even continuing with my writing and suggested I drop it. I instead decided to drop our friendship. I felt that writing was probably the safer bet of the two.

Having said this, it requires work. For example, you can't write a book and then sit on your hands for the next 12 months. You always have to be looking ahead, thinking of new ways to find your audience, and staying on social media so fans and followers can learn more about you. You must manage your time very carefully. When are you at your sharpest? What can you fit into your day? There's usually lots to do, so you need to be diligent and plan ahead.

Do you have a side gig? What are your dreams?

Why do you always write about criminals? 🔪(updated)

One of my most asked questions is why I write about criminals. For those not familiar with my books, this inquiry springs from the fact that most of my books are based on the criminal POV rather than the more socially acceptable, commonly used perspective of the detective, lawyer, or, in other words, the 'good guy'. Essentially, what I'm saying is that I prefer to write about the 'bad guy' or more the anti-hero type characters.

It started innocently enough. This was the series that was never meant to be a series, starting with a book called We're All Animals. In it, I explored a character named Chase Jacobs and his coming of age problems that led him down a dark path that linked up with the people he now refers to as his associates. Of course, it had to be introduced slowly, carefully, and in such a way that showed how people could find themselves in this world even if it was never their intention.

I love writing from an alternate POV rather than the more common ones used in books. It's interesting to explore a character that is normally viewed from a third-person perspective, instead, showing all the dimensions and unravel their many layers. It's very easy to just throw everybody into a simplified category but it takes a little more effort to consider where that person came from, what their experiences have been, and what drives them. People are vastly more complicated than some writers would have you believe.

There's also something invigorating about sinister characters. It can be quite addictive and fascinating to write about them. It allows my imagination to go to all kinds of dark places that you simply can't explore with primarily law-abiding and 'good' characters. And if you do, it becomes the central theme of the book rather than a component. For example, if a 'good' character does something terrible, it becomes the plot, with the protagonist attempting to understand and justify their behavior. If a 'bad' guy does the same thing, it's not such a shock and just becomes another event in the book.

When you're a writer, shouldn't you be searching for different scenarios, alternate voices, and most importantly, intriguing storylines that aren't following the same, tired format?

Does everyone have a creative side? 🎨(Updated)

Let's face it. A teenager talking about dreams of becoming a writer, a rock star, or a painter, may not be taken as seriously as someone who talks about college, university, or program that almost assures a job at the end of the line. Most creative professions are practically in the same category as psychics, life coaches, YouTube channels, and anything spiritual as being a little woo-woo. You know, it's interesting, but can you make money with it?

Interestingly, if you're good at any of those things, you probably can make a lot of money once you have a following. People are intrigued by psychics, artists, and spiritual teachers however, most people don't take them seriously, and one of the reasons is that many people pursuing these areas don't either. We all know people who talked of writing a book, joining a band, or studying herbs, only to flake as soon as they realized that it takes much more time and effort than they had assumed. After all, I don't get up at 6 a.m. for the hell of it.

Believe it or not, creative pursuits require a lot of blood, sweat, and tears because overnight success is rare. There's no easy formula. For example, if you want to be a nurse, teachers can help put you on the right path. If you want to be a rock star...not so much.

For that reason,  people are often discouraged from chasing their creative dreams. It just seems like a long shot and unstable. It causes people to bury their creative side, believing that it's silly and useless. However, be reassured it's there. If you were ever a child, 👶 (and I'm guessing, you might have been ☺️) you are creative. When you were five, chances are you weren't talking about the stock market or politics but most likely were ass deep in paints, Lego or toys. There was no structure. Coloring inside the lines? What? That was crazy talk!

Coloring outside the lines as an adult is a whole other story but does it have to be? Maybe it's time to explore that creative side because it's there. I promise. Underneath criticisms you once heard for not being serious enough, not following the rules, and of course, not sitting quietly, your creative side is waiting to come back out.

Some of your questions answered 👍(Updated)

I'm asked questions regarding my writing and thought I would answer a few of the most common ones. 🤩

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

I remember writing as a child, and in fact, I wrote my first full-length manuscript when I was a teenager. Due to a lack of confidence and guidance, I didn't pursue my dream of writing until around 2007-2008. I published my first book in 2010.

When did you write your first book?

My first book was Fire, published in 2010. 

What inspired you to start writing?

My goals have been to make people think, be empathetic, and see various perspectives. I enjoy provoking people because they are more likely to get involved in the story if they feel an emotional connection. 

How long does it take you to write a book?

I write a chapter a day and 50 chapters in my books, so in essence, 50 days to complete the first draft. Editing and figuring out details such as a synopsis and cover image also take some time, but it can vary. For the last few years, I've published two books a year. 

What is your genre, and who is your audience?

I hate being stuck in a genre because I think my writing falls into many categories: suspense, thriller, murder, crime, romance, and more. I even have a couple of books that fall into the fantasy category. My audience varies. 

Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?

I gain information from reading or watching documentaries and interviews about topics that interest me. Many of these topics end up becoming a part of my books. For example, I often read about cartels, violence, and the psychology of a criminal, which ends up making it in my books. 

How long does it take to research for your books?

I don't pay attention but research when needed. 

Do you write using a pen or computer?

Computer. However, I write notes about characters and each chapter in a journal to keep organized and for reference.

What part of writing is most difficult?

Editing is the most difficult because it's very tedious and requires extreme focus. Writing the back cover synopsis is also a challenge. How do you sum up an entire book in a few words without giving too much away? 

How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?

Sixteen so far and it's too difficult to choose! 

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk? ( if you have any?)

I only write chapters early (like 6 AM) in the morning, and I do so with no interruptions unless necessary. I don't get up to eat, take out the garbage, or do anything else when I'm writing. I try to stay focused and not divert my attention because it's a struggle to get back on track if I do.

What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

It tends to be the other way around. I usually write around my work schedule. On mornings that I'm not working, I get up and write. On the mornings I'm working, depending on how much time I have, I might do some light editing, work on social media, upload or record a video for YouTube, or any other task that requires my attention. 

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

I recently read a quote that said that writers aren't playing God when writing a book but are merely secretaries. This is very accurate. You cannot force a character to do what they don't want to do unless you enjoy getting writer's block. 

What is your favorite type of books to read?

I mostly read non-fiction on topics that interest me, but I've been known to sink into a good fiction book from time to time. 

Were there any authors of books that had a particular influence on you or your writing?

George Orwell. He was a genius. Orwell could observe and analyze human nature and create works of fiction that reflected how he viewed the world, in a way that served as much as a warning as an entertaining tale.


How do the books get published?

This could be a rather long answer, but essentially, you can self-publish, seek out a smaller publisher who is interested in your specific genre or seek out an agent. Large houses generally only deal with agented writers. Always do your research when doing any of the above. There are a lot of scumbags out there. I recommend Writer's Beware. 

Do you design your book covers?

My publisher designs the cover, but I pick out the image I would like them to work with and perhaps make suggestions such as darkening the image, colors I prefer, etc. 

How do you market your books? 

I mainly use social media, but I also use my website, send press releases when new books come out and give out bookmarks with all my covers. I'm always trying to think of new, creative ways, but social media is my first stop.

Where can we get your books, other than here?

Everywhere online!! Check out my site for more details. 

Do writers need a high word count per day? 💻 (updated)

I often notice authors commenting on their word count per day, and there seems to be a certain amount of self-imposed stress to meet specific targets. But should they be worried at all?

I guess it's a matter of opinion. Word count has never been a concern to me, other than whether or not I had a reasonable amount of words when I finished a book. It's not something I think about each time I sit down to write, and I certainly don't check my word count per day - ever.

I do think we all need a way to measure ourselves when it comes to a successful day. I like to write a chapter with each sitting (note I said 'sitting' not per day. I firmly believe that it's best to do in one shot to keep momentum or train of thought) and with that, I'm happy. I don't feel like a failure if I don't reach a certain amount of words, and in my opinion, neither should you..

The problem is that if you set your sights on a specific amount of words per day, what could end up happening is it can become your focus more than the actual writing itself. It also might end up being too wordy, and you'll have to edit a bunch out later on. Also, a lot of words don't necessarily mean it's going to be pure gold. 

The bottom line is that I don't like to see any writer put stress on themselves to meet some crazy target because it actually can make writing feel more like work than a project that they love. And if that's the case, what's the point?

Should we allow readers to be our censorship police? 🚓 (updated)

I often tell the story of a woman who criticized my first book, Fire. She said, 'If I took out all the F-words, your book would be half the size'. Of course, she was a bitch on a good day, so I wasn't surprised when she made this snarly remark to me back in 2010. If you've read any of my books since that time, you already know that her thoughts did little to sway me, and I continue to use a lot of profanity and graphic content in my books.

I don't do this for shock value (which has also been suggested by one particularly hostile reviewer back in the day) but because it is my style. This is how I write. I don't exactly sit in front of my laptop and consider how I can shock people, but I instead follow my writing instinct. Admittedly it sometimes takes me down a dark, twisted, and even questionable road, but one thing can be assured, I'm never bored. To me, this is a good sign. If the writer isn't bored, chances are good the reader won't be either.

The truth is that only in very extreme situations is a writer going too far. In the end, a writer must always express themselves and when writing fiction, must also tell the story through the protagonist's perception. It isn't for us to censor our characters (within reason, folks) but to tell their story with as much honesty and authenticity as possible. As a writer, I have the freedom to express myself as I see fit. As a reader, you have the right to choose what you do and don't want to read. It's as simple as that.  😉

Why do authors bug the shit out of you for a review! 🙄 (Updated)

Anyone who knows me knows that I'm not shy to ask for a book review. It doesn't have to be a long review. It doesn't have to have a lot of detail. It just should reflect what the reader thought of the book. A simple 'I enjoyed this book' would be sufficient.

And it's not about ego. Authors don't chase down reviews to feel good about themselves but because it gives new and potential readers some insight into what kind of books they write. I can say whatever I wish in my YouTube videos but sometimes what people want is an outside party's point of view. What kind of book is it? Was it a fast read? Did it keep you hanging on? Was it exciting? Did it leave you wanting more?

Not that authors don't appreciate positive comments outside of reviews. We love them!! Unfortunately, people who aren't familiar with us or our work might be skeptical. Many readers stick with the tried and true authors, the ones everyone is raving about online and whoever is on Oprah's reading list, and that's understandable, but it makes our job finding readers challenging.

A review can make a difference. I know I've certainly hesitated to purchase a product (especially online) unless I could compare reviews to see what other people think. And if you're an indie author like me, it can help make you stand out from the crowd.