Why Pride, Part I: The Universal Carrot 🥕

The article "Why Pride" will delve into key aspects of pride's significance, self-improvement's transformative power, and the evolution of consciousness.

We will explore the intricate interplay of pride in our personal and collective narratives, shedding light on how it can both inspire and hinder our growth.

The conclusion will emphasize the importance of discerning between authentic pride born of purpose and the pitfalls of false pride.

This is the first part of the article.

A complex mix of emotions and attitudes

Pride, often considered a complex mix of emotions and attitudes, plays a profound role in our lives. Just as a doctor treating a patient must first make a diagnosis, so too must humanity find the root cause of its suffering.

We must acknowledge and ultimately accept the proposition that the pride we hold dear may be a vestige better discarded.

Pride has a double-edged nature. On one hand, a certain amount of pride can motivate us, give us confidence, and drive self-improvement. But excessive or misplaced pride can also hold us back from growth and enlightenment.

The Eternal Carrot

A donkey trudges along, captivated by a carrot dangling just inches from its nose. This simple vegetable acts as a powerful motivator, spurring the creature onward.

The Universal Nudge

Human pride plays a similar role in our lives as the donkey's carrot. Woven into the very fabric of our being, it serves as a psychological catalyst, nudging us to follow the narrative arc of our lives.

Pride can manifest on both individual and group levels, encompassing countries, nations, continents, and even entire planets.

Lower Consciousness, Higher Pride

The lower the level of consciousness, the greater the tendency towards pride. Let's consider humanity's pride as an example.

Humanity's Cosmic Pride

In ancient times, our collective pride, coupled with limited understanding, led us to believe that Earth was the center of the universe, around which everything revolved.

Expanding Horizons

As our collective consciousness evolved, so did our understanding of our place in the cosmos. First, we accepted that Earth orbits the Sun. 

Then, we realized our solar system is but a tiny fragment in the vast tapestry of the universe.

Towards a New Enlightenment

Today, with an ever-expanding consciousness, we begin to grasp that our planet is just one of countless material worlds, akin to a single grain of sand on an immeasurable beach.

Further Enlightenment

Should our spiritual understanding extend beyond the material world, we may approach a time when we perceive ethereal worlds.

Why Pride?

Whether the burden of pride we carry originated in the Garden of Eden is a secondary concern.

The primary question is whether we dare to face the challenge of discarding our "bad habit" – false pride.

The end of Part I. 

Part II will explore strategies for nurturing justified pride while steering clear of false, destructive arrogance.

In My Fictional Novel, "Melissa"

In my novel, "Melissa," the talented biophysicist Nathan, consumed by ambition, competes with God and crosses a forbidden line. 

Guided by the philosophy that "ethics are subjective" and viewing scientific interference as a means of accelerating evolution, Nathan, truly believing his advancements would benefit humanity, faced the regrettable consequences of his experiments.

Mark Your Calendar! Don't miss out! Grab your FREE e-book of "Melissa" on launch day: https://rbjal.com/melissa-sign-up

#pride #selfimprovement #personalgrowth #consciousness #motivation #confidence #selfworth #driven #achievement

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Discover the secrets of "Melissa.

Calling All Adventure Seekers!

Are you ready to be enthralled by a story that blends genres and leaves you wanting more? Then buckle up for the captivating novella, "Melissa"!

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Why Melissa?

"Melissa" is a unique blend of science fiction, psychological thriller, and metaphysical exploration with subtle horror elements. It's a thrilling journey that will stay with you long after you finish reading.

What Readers Are Saying About Melissa:

"Prepare to be captivated! The science-meets-supernatural premise kept me guessing until the very end. A thrilling exploration of grief, love, and the boundaries of what's possible." 

                                                      - Beta Reader/ Science Fiction Fan

 

Who is She Now?

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Free Book Offer!

Here's some exciting news:

You can snag a FREE copy of "Melissa" when it launches on Amazon KDP in July 2024!

Exclusive Bonuses!

By joining the email list, readers will unlock a double dose of "Melissa":

• Free Book on Launch Day: Secure your free copy with a special link we'll send you (limited-time offer, 24 hours only).

• Bonus Sneak Peek at Chapter 8: Dive deeper with a captivating excerpt (and evocative visuals!) – a reader favorite from beta testers.

Early Bird Bonus!

If you're among the first 100 subscribers, you'll also receive an exclusive and chilling excerpt from the epilogue of "Melissa" (cannibalism content warning). This sneak peek will give you a taste of "Melissa Part II" and leave you wanting more!

A Discovery with Consequences

Join Our Email List Today

Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity! Join our email list today to secure your free copy of "Melissa" and unlock the exclusive Chapter 8 preview.

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P.S. Unveil the Secrets of "Melissa"

About "Melissa"

• Genre: Science Fiction, Psychological Thriller, Metaphysical Exploration (with subtle Horror elements)

• Expected Release Date: July 2024 (subject to change)

#scifithriller #mystery #grief #love #freebooks #melissanovel #jacklynalo #psycologicalthriller

Taking Control of Your Story: Traditional Publishing vs. Self-Publishing

Traditional Publishing (Validation, Expertise) vs Self-Publishing (Control, Higher Royalties)

So you've written a book! Congratulations! Now comes the exciting (and sometimes daunting) decision of how to get your work out into the world. There are two main paths you can take: traditional publishing or self-publishing. Both have their pros and cons, and the best choice for you will depend on your goals and resources.

A. Traditional Publishing: The Established Route

Will your work find a home here? Traditional publishing offers
prestige and expertise, but competition is fierce.

Traditional publishing involves finding a publishing house that agrees to take on your book. This can be a lengthy process, but if successful, the publisher will handle most of the work for you, including:

• Editing and Proofreading: Ensuring your manuscript is polished and error-free.
• Book Design and Cover Art: Creating a professional-looking book that will catch readers' eyes.
• Marketing and Distribution: Getting your book into bookstores and online retailers.

The Benefits:

• Validation: Having a traditional publisher behind your book can lend credibility and prestige.
• Expertise: Publishers have the experience and resources to handle the technical aspects of publishing, freeing you to focus on writing.
• Financial Investment: Publishers typically provide an advance on royalties, which can be helpful.

The heart of traditional publishing: Editors, designers, and marketing teams
working together to bring your book to life.

The Drawbacks:

• Control: You may have less say in the editing process, cover design, and marketing strategy.
• Competition: Getting a traditional publishing deal can be competitive, and it can take a long time to find a publisher who is a good fit for your book.
• Lower Royalties: Traditional publishers typically offer lower royalty rates than self-publishing.

B. Self-Publishing: Charting Your Own Course

A blend of creativity and technology for complete authorial control.

With self-publishing, you are in complete control of your book, from start to finish. This means you'll be responsible for everything from editing and formatting to marketing and promotion.

The To-Do List:

• Copyright: Securing the legal rights to your work.
• Editing and Proofreading: Finding freelance editors or using editing software.
• Formatting: Preparing your manuscript for different platforms (e.g., ebook, print).
• Design and Cover Art: Hiring a designer or using design tools to create a professional-looking book.
• Pricing and Distribution: Setting your book's price and making it available for purchase through online retailers and self-publishing platforms.
• Marketing and Promotion: Creating a website, social media presence, and engaging in other marketing activities to reach readers.

The power of self-publishing in your pocket! 

The Benefits:

• Control: You have complete creative control over your book, from cover design to marketing strategy.
• Higher Royalties: You keep a higher percentage of the profits from your book sales.
• Faster Time to Publication: You can get your book published much faster than with traditional publishing.

Dreams do come true! Celebrating the launch of a novel.

The Drawbacks:

• Investment: You'll need to invest your own time and money in editing, design, marketing, and other publishing services.
• Marketing Expertise: You'll need to learn how to effectively market your book to reach readers.
• Credibility: Self-published books may be perceived as less credible than traditionally published books, although this perception is changing.

C. Choosing the Right Path:

The right path for you will depend on your individual goals and resources. If you value control and a higher potential for royalties, self-publishing may be a good option. However, if you prefer to have a publisher handle the technical aspects and provide marketing expertise, then traditional publishing may be a better fit.

AI Assistance for Authors:

Unlocking the power of human creativity with AI assistance

We live in a very fast time period where technologies, for example, AI, boost our productivity and challenge us to accept the change. In this fast-paced environment, AI tools can be valuable assets for both traditional and self-published authors.

Human + AI Synergy: A sci-fi thriller born from collaboration:

My own experience writing a novel, "Melissa" (a captivating reimagining of a screenplay in the sci-fi and psycho-thriller genres), showcased the power of AI assistance. With the help of several AI tools, including Bard (Gemini), GPT-4, and Sudowrite, I was able to gain vivid prose with better word choices and improved proofreading.

Uncover the chilling secrets of Melissa. Will you dare to enter?

Thrill yourself with Melissa!  Mark your calendars for mid-July: Free e-book on launch day!  Don't miss out - sign up to be notified! 

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The Rise of the AI-Powered Author: Friend or Foe?

Collaboration Between Author and AI

The world is accelerating. Technology disrupts industries, and processes that once took months can now be done in minutes. Publishing is no exception. While traditional publishing houses have long been the gatekeepers of getting your work into readers' hands, the landscape is shifting.

This article explores a potential future where self-publishing becomes the dominant force, and authors transform from wordsmiths into multi-faceted project managers, with the added benefit of powerful AI tools. However, the concept of ownership extends beyond mere task management.

The Concept is King: Owning Your Literary Vision

New Worlds Creation with AI

In this future, authors aren't just writers – they're the architects of their entire literary concept. This concept encompasses every aspect of their book, from the initial spark of an idea to the final product in readers' hands. It includes:

• Worldbuilding and Character Development: Crafting a captivating universe for your story and characters that come alive.
• Plot Outlining and Storytelling: Weaving a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged.
• Manuscript Proofreading and Editing: Refining the manuscript to a polished and error-free state.
• Visual Identity: Creating a professional-looking book cover and design that complements the story.
• Marketing and Reader Engagement: Building an online presence and connecting with your target audience.

AI: Your Powerful Assistant

Artificial Intelligent Muse

Fortunately, you won't be navigating this complex landscape alone. AI tools will emerge as your intelligent co-pilots, assisting with each stage of your concept:

• Brainstorming Buddy: Stuck on a plot point? AI can suggest intriguing twists and hints to keep your story flowing.
• Research Assistant: Need to delve deeper into a specific historical period or scientific concept? AI can provide relevant information and resources.
• Editing and Proofreading Assistant: AI tools can help catch grammatical errors, suggest stylistic improvements, and ensure consistency throughout your manuscript.
• Content Creation Helper: AI can generate different text formats to explore different aspects of your concept, like character backstories or alternative dialogue options.
• Marketing and Analytics Support: AI can analyze reader demographics, and genre preferences and suggest targeted marketing strategies to reach your ideal audience.

Benefits and Challenges of the AI-Powered Author

Project Management Dashboard with AI assistant

This technological shift offers exciting opportunities for authors:

• Streamlined Workflow: Self-publishing with AI empowers you to own and manage every aspect of your literary creation. AI tools can assist with editing, proofreading, image generation, and even social media content, streamlining your workflow and potentially saving costs on outsourcing.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Some AI tools are available for free or at a lower cost compared to hiring human professionals.
• 24/7 Support and Inspiration: AI tools are tireless! Unlike human editors or designers, they can provide feedback and assistance around the clock, allowing you to work on your project whenever inspiration strikes.
• Spark Creativity: AI tools can act as creative springboards, suggesting unexpected twists choices, or content formats that can spark your creativity.
• Increased Efficiency: AI streamlines time-consuming tasks, freeing you to focus on the fun aspects of storytelling, like character development and worldbuilding.
• Propelling Human Development: AI presents a tremendous opportunity to advance human development. These tools empower us with a significant boost in productivity and grant us the ability to become more self-directed in exploring our creative potential.

However, there are also challenges to consider:

• AI Limitations: AI tools are still under development and may struggle with nuanced storytelling or understanding human emotions. While excellent for initial edits, complex editing might be more cost-effective with a human touch in the long run.
• Author Skillset: While AI simplifies tasks, effective tool utilization and overall project management require strong skills. Learning to leverage AI effectively might involve a learning curve and time investment.
• Subscription Costs: Some AI tools require yearly subscriptions, which can be a cost factor.
• Maintaining the Human Touch: AI should complement, not replace, human creativity. Your unique vision and voice are what shape your concept.

Maintaining Creative Control:

• Diminishing Own Vision: While AI-generated text can be impressive, relying too heavily on suggestions can diminish your own creative vision. Remember, the story is ultimately yours, and the best suggestions of AI should enhance your ideas, not replace them.
• Content Quality and Fact-Checking: Some AI tools might generate content that requires careful review and editing for accuracy and coherence. It's crucial to maintain control over the quality and ensure the content aligns with your vision.
• Author Overwhelm: The sheer power of AI can be daunting. Don't get discouraged if you feel overwhelmed by suggestions. Remember, AI is a tool, and you, as the author, retain the power to choose which suggestions work best for your story.

The Future is a Collaborative Canvas

AI Tool to Help with Project Management's Tasks

The future of publishing isn't about AI replacing authors.  It's about a powerful collaboration. You, the author,  become the architect of your concept, wielding the power of AI tools to bring your vision to life.

Are you ready to embrace the future of publishing and become a project manager of your own literary concept, with AI as your trusted collaborator?

The future is now. Start crafting your concept, and leverage the power of AI to shape your unique literary masterpiece.

PS 

My novel, "Melissa," a reimagining of a screenplay, comes to life with the help of several AI tools, including Bard (Gemini), GPT-4, and Sudowrite. Get ready to be captivated by this story! 

Mark your calendars for mid-July – you won't want to miss it!

Thrill yourself with Melissa!  Mark your calendars for mid-July: Free e-book on launch day!  Don't miss out - sign up to be notified! 

Get Your Free Copy of Melissa!

Unveiling the Darkness: Dive into Melissa's Genre-Bending World

Dive into 'Melissa,' a Genre-Bending Novella That Will Challenge Your Beliefs

Calling all thrill-seekers and genre-benders! Are you ready to dive into a world where science and faith collide, and the lines between good and evil blur? Then "Melissa" is the novella for you.

"This story took me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. I laughed, I cried, and I held my breath as Nathan faced unimaginable choices. A must-read for anyone who has ever grappled with loss." 

- Constança Baptista, Genre Enthusiast/Beta-Reader

Where will Nathan's journey take him? 

This dark tale weaves together elements of horror, sci-fi, and fantasy, creating a unique atmosphere that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

But "Melissa" isn't just about chills. It's about the complex choices we make and the lengths we go to for those we love. Protagonist Nathan faces moral dilemmas that will resonate with anyone who's ever grappled with difficult decisions.

Here's a taste of what you can expect:

A gripping blend of genres: Prepare to be transported to a world where scientific advancements raise unsettling questions about faith and reality.

Unforgettable characters: Nathan's journey is filled with conflict, forcing you to question his motivations.
Themes that resonate: Explore the intricate relationship between science, faith, and human ambition – a story perfect for those who enjoy pondering the bigger picture.

Will Nathan find solace in the divine, or will he seek answers elsewhere?

Who should dive into "Melissa"?

If you're a fan of horror, thrillers, sci-fi, or dark fantasy, this novella is calling your name. 
Especially if you:

• Enjoy stories with emotional depth, delving into themes of love, loss, and redemption.

• Are interested in the ethical dilemmas surrounding scientific progress.

• Are drawn to complex characters like the "mad doctor" and the monstrous creation.

How far will Nathan push the boundaries of science in his quest?

What to expect:

Our Beta readers praised the story's suspenseful atmosphere and the careful use of light and shadow to build tension. Get ready for a chilling narrative filled with hints and a richly detailed environment.

Mark your calendars, fiction genre enthusiasts! "Melissa" is coming soon. Be among the first to experience this chilling tale when it is released.

P.S. In the comments below, fuel the anticipation! Tell me what kind of twisted stories you love. What are some of your favorite reads in the horror/sci-fi/fantasy or maybe faith genres?  Can't wait to hear from you! 

The Secret Weapon of Authors: How Beta Readers Make Stories Shine

Teaming Up for Feedback

Behind the Scenes: Unveiling the Power of Beta Readers

The journey from a blank page to a published novel is rarely a solo adventure. Authors often rely on a crucial group of readers known as beta readers to provide honest feedback and help refine their work. Today, we'll delve into the world of beta reading and explore its significance for both writers and readers.

The Magic of Feedback: How Beta Readers Help Stories Shine

Imagine pouring your heart and soul into a story, only to discover there's room for improvement. Beta readers act as your personal focus group, offering valuable insights you might have missed. Take our recent beta read of the novella "Melissa." The feedback we received highlighted the power of vivid descriptions, with one reader commenting on how the author's words made them feel the "forest's pulse" alongside the characters. This kind of specific observation allows the author to see their work through fresh eyes and bring the story to life.

Unpacking the Story

Beyond Grammar: What Beta Readers Look For

While catching typos and grammatical errors is certainly helpful, beta readers offer much more. They become invested in the story, analyzing elements like:

• Pacing: Does the story flow smoothly, or are there sections that drag?
• Character Development: Are the characters believable and relatable?
• Plot Cohesiveness: Does the story unfold in a logical and engaging manner?
• Emotional Connection: Does the story evoke emotions and leave a lasting impression?

Constância Baptista, a beta reader for "Melissa," mentioned elements that resonated with her, like the suspenseful atmosphere and the characters' emotional journeys. This type of feedback helps the author ensure the story is hitting the right notes and connecting with readers on a more personal level.

From Blank Page to Shelf

The Symbiotic Relationship: Benefits for Both Writers and Readers

Beta reading isn't a one-way street. It offers a rewarding experience for both writers and readers:

Writers: Gain invaluable insights, identify areas for improvement, and boost their confidence before publication. Readers: Get a sneak peek at upcoming works, contribute to the creative process, and discover new authors they might otherwise miss.

Calling All Bookworms: Consider Becoming a Beta Reader

If you're an avid reader with a keen eye for detail and a passion for helping stories reach their full potential, beta reading could be the perfect fit for you! We're always looking for enthusiastic readers to join our community. Stay tuned for future blog posts where we'll delve deeper into the world of beta reading, offering tips for both aspiring beta readers and writers seeking valuable feedback.

In the coming months, we'll also be announcing a beta reading program for our upcoming novella, 'The Last Choice of Hamlet.' Be sure to subscribe to our blog or follow us on social media for updates!

Have You Received a Threatening Email About Your Book? Here's What to Do

AI stealing your book?

 

Hi everyone,

As writers, we pour our hearts and souls into our work. So, receiving a threatening email about our book can be incredibly upsetting. Recently, I came across this email circulating from an anonymous sender:

WE HAVE ACCESS TO YOUR BOOK! WE WILL RE-PUBLISH IT USING AI TECHNOLOGY!

This email claims the sender has access to your book and threatens to rewrite it using AI and publish it on Amazon under a different name. It's scary stuff, but let's break it down and see how we can stay safe and protected.

First things first, stay calm. This type of email is likely a scare tactic. Here's why:

• Technically difficult: While AI can be impressive, perfectly replicating a novel is a complex feat. Most AI-generated content is easily detectable.
• Amazon's security: Amazon has robust systems in place to detect plagiarism. A duplicate book wouldn't go unnoticed for long.
• Empty threats: The email relies on fear to control you. If the sender truly intended to rewrite your book, they likely wouldn't announce it beforehand.

Here's what you can do:

• Don't engage with the sender: Responding could encourage further harassment. Simply delete the email.
• Report the email: Forward the email to your email provider as spam or phishing.
• Strengthen your online presence: Enable two-factor authentication on all your accounts, including your KDP account.
• Report the Scam: If you receive a similar email, forward it to reportascam@amazon.com to alert Amazon of potential copyright infringement.
• Consider registering your copyright: While copyright exists as soon as you create your work, registering it strengthens your legal position. See the US Copyright Office: https://www.copyright.gov/ for details on copyright registration.
• Back up your work: Always have a secure backup of your manuscript in case anything happens.

Additional Resources for Copyright Protection:

Several helpful resources can provide further information on copyright protection. These include:

• Rightsclick.com (https://rightsclick.com/)
• The Copyright Alliance (https://copyrightalliance.org/)
• World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) (https://www.wipo.int/)
• Link to Amazon scam reporting page: How to report scams on Amazon
• Your Local Copyright Office 

Our stories are our power. Together, we rise

Remember, the best defense is a strong community. If you receive a similar email, don't hesitate to share it with trusted writer friends or online communities. Talking about it can help reduce fear and empower you to take action.

Finally, keep promoting your work! Don't let threats silence your voice. The more established your book is, the less likely a derivative work will gain traction.

Has anyone else encountered a similar situation? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!

By working together, we can navigate these challenges and continue to share our stories with the world.

Happy writing,

Jacklyn

Free Sci-Fi Adventure! Unravel Past Lives in "Redemption"

 

Calling Sci-Fi Fans! FREE Time Travel eBook (Ends Tonight!)

Are you a fan of sci-fi adventures with a touch of mystery? 

Embark on a captivating journey with Ann, a high-powered AI executive plagued by strange visions that transport her across time!

In Redemption, travel with Ann through different eras, from the Stone Age to the future. Uncover the secrets of her past lives, face thrilling challenges, and discover the truth behind her haunting visions.

Download your FREE copy of Redemption today and dive into this multi-era adventure!

P.S.  Love sci-fi and time travel? Leave a review on Goodreads & Amazon to help others discover Redemption!

Faith or Science? Unveiling the Secrets of Melissa's Epilogue

This post contains spoilers for the ending of Melissa.

Unveiling the Epilogue: A Look at Nathan's Future

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving into the mysterious epilogue of Melissa. Beta reader feedback offered some fascinating insights into Nathan's character development and the lingering questions the ending leaves us with.

Growth and Transformation:

The beta reader noted that while Nathan doesn't undergo a dramatic shift in the epilogue itself, the inscription on the book hints at a future transformation. This suggests the seeds of change have been planted, and Nathan's journey is far from over. We can expect him to grapple with his experiences and the wording on the prayer book, leading him on a path of self-discovery.

Believability and Emotional Resonance:

The reader found Nathan's actions and reactions believable. This is great news! It means we're connecting with his emotional state and his struggle to make sense of everything. The epilogue leaves him with a new direction, one that feels like a natural progression for his character arc.

Hope and Mystery: The Inscription's Power

The inscription on the book is a key element. The beta reader believes it offers more direction than closure. This creates a sense of intrigue – what does the inscription mean? What path will it lead Nathan down?  This unanswered question, along with the message about enlightenment and overcoming worldly desires, keeps the reader engaged and eager for more.

Exploring Themes: Guilt, Faith, and Redemption

The epilogue explores powerful themes. The reader feels Nathan carries the weight of guilt and responsibility for the events.  This emotional burden adds depth to his character and makes him relatable.  The prayer book, a symbol of faith, suggests a potential path towards redemption.  Will Nathan embrace this path?  The story leaves that open-ended, inviting readers to ponder his future.

What the Beta Readers Said

"The notion both terrified and captivated Nathan, leaving him at a crossroads. Would he continue his relentless pursuit of empirical truths, or would he open his mind to the possibility of a higher power guiding his life? With each passing moment, the urgency of this decision loomed larger, casting a weight upon his heart and soul," one reader commented. 

This excerpt perfectly captures Nathan's struggle between logic and faith, a central theme of the epilogue.

A Lasting Impression

The beta reader was left with a positive impression of the story, praising the blend of science fiction, intriguing details, and a gripping narrative.  This is fantastic feedback!  It suggests the story has resonated with readers and left them wanting more.

What do you think?

The epilogue of Melissa offers a glimpse into Nathan's uncertain future.  What path do you think the message inscribed in the prayer book will lead him down?  Will he find peace and redemption?  Share your thoughts in the comments below!