There are times when you throw your hat in the ring in response to a challenge and then find yourself saying, “What have I done?”
Thankfully, that wasn’t the case for me this time with the RRBC 90-day Alpha/Omega Beginning-to-End short story challenge.
I listen to a lot of music and my favorite songs are the ones that tell a story such as “Loving County,” written by Charlie Robison and Jack Ingram.
So, when I accepted this challenge, I knew I wanted to write a short story based loosely on this song.
The first story in my new book, TWO SHORTS AND A SNORT, is “OBSESSED,” taken from the song. There is a moral to my story and that is, “If the price tag is too high, walk away.”
The second story in TWO SHORTS AND A SNORT IS “MAGGIE.” Be careful what you wish for because you just might get it.
Then the SNORT is a poem. Yes, I know it wasn’t part of the challenge, but it was just there, so I went with it.
I designed the cover for TWO SHORTS AND A SNORT. I’m not a cover-designer, so this was another challenge unto itself.
Then I had another challenge and that was trying to format this little twenty-one-page book. I spent hours and days trying to get it right because again, I am not a formatter.
But, I eventually got it all done and even went a step farther and created a book trailer video to accompany it.
So, if you are inclined to read some very short short stories, I’d be honored if you’d pick up a copy of the book today. It’s only 99 cents on Amazon.
And if you are curious about the RAVE REVIEWS BOOK CLUB and the many opportunities like this they offer, take a look! It could just be the right community of supportive authors for you.
Oh yes, and HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!
Writing and Music 
I hope you had a great holiday, Mae! I am thrilled that you grabbed a copy of my little short stories. I do hope you enjoy!
LikeLike
I’m late checking in due to the holiday. Wow, Jan you have been busy! Congrats on all the accomplishments, and of course, I hopped over to Amazon to grab my copy of Two Shorts and a Snort. I LOVE that title and look forward to reading the collection. Way to go!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s a cool challenge! You actually end up with a little publication and learn some new skills too. Wow. I liked the trailer, something I haven’t done and don’t have a clue how to do. How fun and… challenging. Congrats for the accomplishment!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Diana! I appreciate your kind words.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Annika! Yes, sometimes we do need a push and I did for sure. I hope you enjoy the short reads and glad you found it.
LikeLike
Well done,Jan! Sometimes we need a challenge to push us out of our comfort zone! The trailer is terrific and I can’t wait to read the book. I’ve just bought it Amazon UK but had to look for your name as it wouldn’t come up under the title.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Congrats on your cover…you did a great job. I tried doing mine, too, still need to prefect that side. I wanted to read your stories on vacation but forgot to upload onto Kindle before I left. Happy 4th!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lol, Denise. That sounds like something I would do. 🙂 Hope you enjoy your vacay! Happy 4th to you too and thanks for dropping by.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Congratulations, Jan. I’m so looking forward to reading “Two Shorts and a Snort.” (Love that title) Happy 4th of July, my friend.
LikeLike
Thank you, Sooz! Hugs!
LikeLike
Congratulations. Keep on pressing yourself. This stuff isn’t easy, but it’s kind of satisfying when you can pull it off. I did some of those things, but farm it out these days.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for your comment and encouragement, Craig! I appreciate your support.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Always.
LikeLike
Got it! ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Annette! Hugs!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Congratulations, Jan. Now *that’s* rising to a challenge. Wishing you huge success. Happy Fourth of July hugs!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Teagan! Happy 4th hugs to you too.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Congratulations, Jan. What a feat – writing, formatting, and marketing! I just purchased your short stories and hope to read them today. ♥
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Gwen! I hope you enjoy the very short shorts. 🙂
LikeLike
Jan- I read your book and loved it.
Here’s my review!
I’m a huge fan of Jan Sikes! Every book I’ve ever read by her I’ve fallen in love with. Well this short story collection is no different. I really enjoyed how she can draw her readers in and keep us intrigued.
Very well written and entertaining!!!
Happy 4th of July!! Love you!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Happy 4th, Tonya! Thank you for such a wonderful review. I truly appreciate it. Hugs, sweet friend!
LikeLike