Today, over 300 bloggers, including bestsellers, Emmy winners, movie makers, and publishing houses have come together to talk about THE LIAR’S DIARY by Patry Francis. Why? To give the book the attention it deserves on its release day while Patry takes the time she needs to heal from cancer.
Before I talk about this book, I’d like to tell you a story about how this extraordinary day happened.
First, you need to know something about Patry Francis.
What if you worked for years as a waitress and then went home at the end of the day to your husband and four kids, and in those rare minutes of free time, you dared to dream that one day you might write a book? This is the story of my friend, Patry – a story that leaves out years of false starts, revisions, and rejection slips. It’s a story that writers know intimately, though the details are different. Every one of us is well acquainted with the struggle of getting a story on paper, of honing it and believing in it enough to send it out, only to receive rejection, or worse, silence for our efforts.
Imagine, after many years, you beat the odds. You finish that book. You find that agent who sells your manuscript. Your dream is about to become a reality. But just as your book is due to be released, you discover you have an aggressive form of cancer.
Patry’s story struck such a deep chord with many of us, not just because she is our friend, but because those of us who know her or read her blog have relied on her company through the ups and mostly downs of trying to write and sell a book. She is our buoy. She has shown us time and again her great gift for shedding light in the dark. Even her blog post about her cancer showed this – in her greatest time of need, she was still somehow comforting all of us and showing us glimpses of joy.
Patry is part one of this amazing story.
Now you need to know something about Laura Benedict:
On New Year’s Day, or thereabouts, Laura wrote to me, calling my attention to Patry’s publication date. “Perhaps we could do a ‘Patry Francis/Liar’s Diary’ blog-o-rama or carnival or something to promote the book?” she wrote. “I’m such an amateur at this stuff that I don’t know what’s possible.”
I didn’t give a moment’s thought to what we might try to pull off, or how; I simply said, “Yes! Let’s do it!”
It’s very important to me that Laura is recognized for her initial gesture – not just because she’s a great and generous woman, but because it says something about the strength of the heart over the kinds of power most of us are without. When you see the amazing outpouring of support and the high-profile people who joined this effort, remember it started with one small voice.
Laura is part 2 of this amazing story.
Now let’s talk about you:
In less than one month, over 300 bloggers, writers, readers, and just big-hearted people signed on to take part in this day. I am overwhelmed and grateful for every single person who said yes or helped spread the word, but let me reserve some enormous thanks for the people who traded hundreds of emails with me to put this together: Karen Dionne of Backspace, Jessica Keener of Agni and The Boston Globe, Tish Cohen, author of TOWN HOUSE, Dan Conaway of Writers House, and Alice Tasman of the Jean Naggar Literary Agency.
What began as a personal gesture of caring for a friend became an astonishing show of community – writers helping writers; strangers helping strangers; and most surprising of all, editors, agents and publishers, who have no stake in this book, crossing “party lines” to blog, to make phone calls, and to send out press releases.
This effort has made visible a community that is, and has been, alive and kicking – a community that understands the struggle artists go through and rejoices in each other’s successes. It’s a community made up of many small voices, but – guess what? – those many small voices can create some noise. So while today is for Patry, it’s also a symbolic gesture for all of you who work so very hard for little or no recognition, for all of you who keep going despite the rejections, and for all of you who have had illness or other outside factors force your art or your dreams aside. We are in this together.
*
Time to talk about THE LIAR’S DIARY.
Whether you like text, audio, or video, I have a taste of the book for you. Let’s start with an audio clip of THE LIAR’S DIARY. This audio clip comes courtesy of Eileen Hutton at Brilliance Audio.
This video for THE LIAR’S DIARY was created by Sheila Clover English, C.E.O. of Circle of Seven Productions, who was moved by Patry’s story and volunteered her lightning-speed creativity!
Here are the publisher‘s words:
Answering the question of what is more powerful—family or friendship? this debut novel unforgettably shows how far one woman would go to protect either.
They couldn’t be more different, but they form a friendship that will alter both their fates. When Ali Mather blows into town, breaking all the rules and breaking hearts (despite the fact that she is pushing forty), she also makes a mark on an unlikely family. Almost against her will, Jeanne Cross feels drawn to this strangely vibrant woman, a fascination that begins to infect Jeanne’s “perfect” husband as well as their teenaged son.
At the heart of the friendship between Ali and Jeanne are deep-seated emotional needs, vulnerabilities they have each been recording in their diaries. Ali also senses another kind of vulnerability; she believes someone has been entering her house when she is not at home—and not with the usual intentions. What this burglar wants is nothing less than a piece of Ali’s soul.
When a murderer strikes and Jeanne’s son is arrested, we learn that the key to the crime lies in the diaries of two very different women . . . but only one of them is telling the truth. A chilling tour of troubled minds, The Liar’s Diary signals the launch of an immensely talented new novelist who knows just how to keep her readers guessing.
And now, here are Patry’s words, which I lifted off her blog: “Though my novel deals with murder, betrayal, and the even more lethal crimes of the heart, the real subjects of THE LIAR’S DIARY are music, love, friendship, self-sacrifice and courage. The darkness is only there for contrast; it’s only there to make us realize how bright the light can be. I’m sure that most writers whose work does not flinch from the exploration of evil feel the same.”
Ready to buy the book? Why not buy one for yourself and one for a friend? And if you like it, tell people!
Here are links to THE LIAR’S DIARY at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Powell’s. You can also buy directly from Penguin to save 15% (after you add the book to your cart, just enter the word PATRY in the coupon code field and click ‘update cart’ to activate the discount).
*
A long list of thank yous.
You’re about to see a very long list of those who are taking part in THE LIAR’S DIARY Blog Day. I hope you’ll check out the links because some of these folks got very creative. For example, my friend, Aurelio O’Brien, made up these buttons and stickers:
Wow… to every one of you on this list! Thank you, so sincerely:
Patti Abbott
Barbara Abercrombie
Mario Acevedo
Susan Adrian
Mary Akers
Samina Ali
Christa Allan
Alma Alexander
Amazon
Shorts – Featured Author
Anne-Marie
Joelle Anthony
Darlene Arden
Jorge Argueta
Vicki Arkoff – MAD Magazine, Nickelodeon, MW Book Review
Melanie Avila
Tricia Ares
Neil B
Backspace
Backstory
Terry Bain
Gail Baker – The Debutante Ball
Anjali Banerjee
L.A. Banks
Lauren Baratz-Logsted
Elizabeth Bartasius
Carolyn Burns Bass
Brett Battles
BCB
Laura Benedict
Pinckney Benedict
Malorie Bennett
Janet Berliner
William Bernhardt
Alexander Besher
Bev
Marcie Beyatte
Brenda Birch
Beryl Singleton Bissell
Roberto Bonazzi
Jason Boog
Bookfinds
Raven Bower
Laura Bowers
Beatrice Bowles
Tara Bradford
Gayle Brandeis
Stacy Brazalovich
Susan Breen – Gotham Writers Workshops
Heather Brewer
Eve Bridburg – Zachary Shuster Harmsworth
Sassy Brit
Heatheraynne Brooks
Debra Broughon
Josie Brown
Pat Brown
Ruth Brown
Ken Bruen
Rachel Kramer Bussel
Aldo Calcagno
Austin S. Camacho
Bill Cameron
Lorenzo Carcaterra
Vincent Carrella
Karen DeGroot Carter
Rosemary Carstens
Alexander Chee
Lee Child
Circle of Seven Productions
Cynthia Clark – Futures Mysterious Anthology Magazine
Terence Clarke
Jon Clinch
Kamela Cody
Oline H. Cogdill – Sun-Sentinal
Tish Cohen
Eileen Cruz Coleman
Myfanwy Collins
Dan Conaway – Writers House
Laurie Connors – Penguin
Eileen Cook
Richard Cooper
David Corbett
Auria Cortes
Peter Coyote
Elizabeth Crane
Bill Crider – Pop Culture Magazine
Kim Cristofoli
Ann Mare Cummins
Sheila Curran
Kristie Cutter
Tom Crum
Jordan Dane
Josephine Damian
Daryl Darko
A.J. Davis
Kelli Davis
Alyssa Day
Alma Hromic Deckert
Jim DeFelice
Mike Dellosso
Katrina Denza
Bella DePaulo
Kerry Dexter
Karen Dionne
Susan DiPlacido
Felicia Donovan
Julie Doughty – Dutton
Gerry Doyle
Terri DuLong
Firoozeh Dumas
Jennifer Duncan
Susanne Dunlap
Xujun Eberlein
Christine Eldin
J.T. Ellison – Killer Year
Sheila Clover English – Circle of Seven Productions
Kate Epstein – the Epstein Literary Agency
Kathryn Esplin
Gayle Etcheverry
Clinton Fein
Sean Ferrell
Rachel Fershleiser at SMITH Magazine
Ryan Field
Carol Fitzgerald – Bookreporter.com
Michael A. FitzGerald
William Floyd
Natasha Fondren
Matt Forbeck
Brian Ford
Jamie Ford
Connie May Fowler
Heather Fowler
Therese Fowler
Jenifer Fox
Thaisa Frank
Shelley Frost
K.G.
Michelle Gable
Gary Gach
Leighton Gage
Neil Gaiman
Colin Galbraith
Jayson Gallaway
Jane Ganahl – Red Room
Erika-Marie S. Geiss
Linda Gerber
Shane Gericke
Tess Gerritsen
Karin Gillespie
Dara Girard
Anne Glamore
Kathi Kamen Goldmark
Jewelle Gomez
Eric D. Goodman
C.W. Gortner – Historical Boys
Susan Helene Gottfried
Deborah Grabien
Elizabeth Graham
Caroline Grant
Robin Grantham
Bob Gray – Shelf Awareness
Nancy O. Greene
Robert Grudin
Lisa Guidarini
Mireille Guilano
David Habbin
Jim Hanas
Lynette Hart
Melanie Harvey
Michael Haskins
Melanie Lynn Hauser
Bill Hayes
Maria Dahvana Headley
Susan Henderson – LitPark
Heidi the Hick
Georgia Hesse
Bethany Hiitola
Billie Hinton
Vicki Hinze
Jenn Hollowell
Lori Hope
Khaled Hosseini
Charlotte Hughes
Sharon Hurlbut
Eileen Hutton – Brilliance Audio
Gina Hyams
Jessica Inclan
International Thriller Writers
David Isaak
Susan Ito
Noria Jablonski
JKB
Lisa Jackson
Lori James – All Romance eBooks
Luke James
Arachne Jericho
Jerri
Allison Johnson
Jen Jordan – Crimespree
Jungle Red Writers
Lesley Kagen
Polly Kahl
Andrew Kaplan – Media Mensch
Alan Kaufman
Jessica Keener
Douglas Keister
Charles Kelly
Lisa Kenny
Beth Kephart
Jackie Kessler
Merle Kessler
Kristy Kiernan – Southern Authors Blog
A.S. King
Jeff Kleinman – Folio Literary Management
Sandra Kring
Kyra
R.D. Laban
Rebecca Laffar-Smith – Writers Roundabout
Clair Lamb
Daphne Larkin
Larramie
Judy Merrill Larson
Aaron Lazar
Caroline Leavitt
Leah
Virginia Lee
Leslie Levine
John Lescroart
Mary Lewis
Richard Lewis
Liane
Sharon Linnea
Jessica Lipnack
Aimee Liu
Julie Anne Long
Ericka Lutz
CJ Lyons
Laurun M.
Jonathan Maberry
Amy MacKinnon – The Writers Group
Tim Maleeny
Mardougrrl
Ric Marion
Kerstin Martin
Nancy Martin
Adrienne Mayor
L.C. McCabe
Damian McNicholl
Ellen Meister
Melba
Christa Miller
Kyle Minor
Jacquelyn Mitchard
P. A. Moed
Terri Molina
Pat Montandon
David Montgomery
Alexis Moore
Joe Moore – Inkspot
Michelle Moran
Amanda Morgan
Sarie Morrell
Murderati
Amy Nathan
Nathalie
National Post
Tia Nevitt
Nicole
Kristin Nelson – Nelson Literary Agency
Carolyn North
Aurelio O’Brien
Martha O’Connor
Andrea Okrentowich
Lori Oliva
Jodie Osinga
Tamara Palmer
Aimee Palooza
Pamela
Michael Palmer
Stephen Parrish
Dan Passamaneck
Marie Peck
Micah Perks
Marcia Peterson – WOW! Women on Writing
Jeff Pierce – The Rap Sheet
Jason Pinter
Anthony S. Policastro
Neil Pollack
Douglas Preston
Publishers Marketplace
Edie Ramer
Terese Ramin
Reader’s Entertainment TV
Jody Reale
Martha Reed
Janet Reid – FinePrint Literary Management
Kamilla Reid
Lance Reynald
Linda L. Richards
Michelle Richmond
Jess Riley
Maria Robinson
John Robison
Gregory Roensch
J. Shannon Roggenbuck
James Rollins
M.J. Rose – Buzz, Balls & Hype
Renee Rosen
Carol Rosenfeld
Jordan Rosenfeld
Rosie
Russell Rowland
Anneli Rufus
Hank Ryan
Marcus Sakey
Harris Salat -Visual Thesaurus
Rachel Sarah
Maria Schneider – Writer’s Digest Magazine
Nina Schuyler
Michele Scott
Dani Shapiro
Rochelle Shapiro
Charles Shaughnessy
Jessie Sholl
Robert Siegel
Clea Simon
April Sinclair
Lynn Sinclair
Jen Singer
Shelley Singer
Single Mom Seeking
Sisters in Crime
Sky
Robin Slick
BPM Smith – Word & Bass
Bridget Smith
Claudia Smith
Kim Smith
Stephie Smith
Alexandra Sokoloff
Char Solomon
Samantha Sommersby
James Spring
Emilie Staat
Kim Stagliano
Maryanne Stahl
Bella Stander
Kelli Stanley
Marta Stephens
Bronwyn Storm
Jennifer Talty
Judith Tannenbaum
Mindy Tarquini
Alice Tasman – the Jean Naggar Literary Agency
Charles R. Temple
David Thayer
The Book Pirate
The Boston Globe
The Memoirists Collective
The Outfit
Theresa
Veronica Towers
Joyce Tremel
Danielle Trussoni
Louise Ure
N. L. Valler
Barbara Vey – Publishers Weekly
Bev Vincent
Nury Vittachi
Brenda Wallace
Therese Walsh – Writer Unboxed
John Warner – Tow Books
Gary Wassner
Brenda Webster
Jennifer Weiner
Sarah Weinman
Laura Wellner
Kimberly M. Wetherell
Diane Whiteside
Dan Wickett – Emerging Writers Network
Susan Wiggs
G. Willow Wilson
Jacqueline Winspear
Liz Wolfe
Patricia Wood
Cheryl Wyatt
Stephen Wylder
Irvin Yalom
Belle Yang
Dawn Yun
Michele Zackheim
Victoria Zackheim
Ernie Zelinski
Crystal Zevon
If I’ve accidentally left you off the list, or if you’ve just now decided to join us, drop a note in the comments section with a link to your blog. Every single voice counts!
Maryanne Stahl
January 28, 2008hey– how did you get Irvin Yalom on board? V. cool. I’m a fan.
Aimee
January 28, 2008So my post is up. My part is small but I am very happy to help. I feel lucky that Patry shares her insights with me on her blog! It’s an honor to do a bit to help.
Aimee
SusanHenderson
January 28, 2008Your part is huge, superstar. Love what you wrote! xo
SusanHenderson
January 28, 2008I was absolutely giddy when I saw that he’d signed on!
lance_reynald
January 28, 2008wow, that is a lot of links.
xo.
Alexander Chee
January 28, 2008Hi Susan. I just put my own entry up for this. You’re an angel to put this together.
Patry, I love what I’ve read so far, and I’m looking forward to reading it. Get well soon!
The link to my post is below.
SusanHenderson
January 28, 2008Alex, thank you! Here’s your link: http://koreanish.wordpress.com
xo!
SusanHenderson
January 28, 2008Beautiful post, you.
xo
Kimberly
January 28, 2008Blog post: check
Email to mailing list to read said blog: check
Heart full of hugs for Patry, Susan, Lauren, Jessica, Karen and that extraordinary list: check
SusanHenderson
January 28, 2008I just ordered you a birthday present. xo
Kimberly
January 28, 2008Tee hee. I just decided I want “anonymous literary goodness” for my birthday (and updated my blog accordingly). So if you see a random copy of A LIAR’S DIARY on the streets of NYC… Read it, and then leave it out for someone else to discover!
SusanHenderson
January 28, 2008Wow, a whole bunch of tremendous blogging right here:
http://www.redroom.com/blogs
And I am locked out of LitPark for the moment – kind of like misplacing your keys – so I’ll just add Nury Vittachi here for now: http://www.misterjam.com
RAC
January 28, 2008Okay, my post for Patry is up at http://satorikick.com and I am happy to play a small part in this big day. Great work everyone! I look forward to reading my copy of the new paperback!
Sarah
January 28, 2008Very cool. Very inspirational. Much heartfelt love goes out to Patry and her entire family. I’m just placing a book order. Blessings.
RobinGrantham
January 28, 2008Wow, I’ve just been scrolling up and down this page, basking in the wonderful side of all of this.
Susan, you’re amazing.
Hugs and love to you, too, Patry — I’m sure you’ll be by here.
Great job, everyone.
xo,
Robin
djtuffpuppy
January 28, 2008I was wondering why all my blogs on my RSS feeds were talking about this book. I’ll totally blog about it and go check out the book at Powells.
April Sinclair
January 29, 2008I can’t wait to read the Liar’s Diary! I am honored to add my name to the list of people who are supporting this effort! Susan, your words are beautiful! I was touched, inspired and moved while reading Patry’s blogs!
Carolyn_Burns_Bass
January 29, 2008Hurray! Patry day is finally here. There is so much collective love for Patry right now, she must feel a few thousand gallons of bliss. My piece is already up and I’m going to spend all day tomorrow clicking every link here.
Single Mom Seeking
January 29, 2008My post just went live at BabyCenter.com for thousands of mothers:
http://blogs.parentcenter.babycenter.com/momformation/
My best to you and your family,
Rachel
http://www.singlemomseeking.com/blog
Nathalie
January 29, 2008Just posted mine on Live Journal.
I even managed posting the same on MySpace (a technical challenge, I wasn’t too sure how the settings are working there).
My Bloggy blog is purely for pictures but if I find the inspiration for a haiga, I shall drop by later on with the link.
Thanks for organizing this Susan.
N.
Joe
January 29, 2008Hey Susan! I’m adding my tiny voice too – – over on my MySpace blog. Apparently GODZILLA! is blurbing this book. The Blog is ALERT! ALERT! Godzilla:King of All Monsters Endorses Book!
It’s very very late and I am feeling link challenged so the URL is http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=50245871&blogID=352634487 in case I messed up there.
Astounding turn out. here!
Arachne Jericho
January 29, 2008I posted my review! I spent yesterday and today just reading—an EXCELLENT book.
http://www.spontaneousderivation.com/2008/01/29/review-the-liars-diary/
Can the link for Arachne Jericho be corrected to this one? I moved sites since….
chris eldin
January 29, 2008Awesome post!
Thank you for listing me (Christine Eldin)–but the link for the contest I’m having is http://www.abenchpress.blogspot.com. The link you have posted is for my writing site–it’s not an interactive blog.
Best of luck for much success!!!
🙂
robinslick
January 29, 2008I am so verklempt right now. What a beautiful post; what an amazing day…I know I sound like a broken record but I am just so thrilled to be a part of this and will probably spend the entire day reading all of your blogs with a box of Kleenex nearby.
I checked Amazon last night. Before today even began, Patry’s book was at 26,000 in sales. There is no doubt in my mind that we are sending that book to #1 today. I have the chills just thinking about it.
xo
Daice
January 29, 2008If I blogged I would do this. I read her blog the other day and love her heart and strength. She is an inspiration.
I love you. I love writers. What hearts all of you have.
deb
January 29, 2008If I blogged I would help. I read her blog the other day, what an inspiration she is.
I love you. I love all of you for being so gracious.
I got the book on its way to me.
LaurenBaratzLogsted
January 29, 2008Here’s to Laura and Susan and, above all, to Patry. Proud to take part of the day. Love
SusanHenderson
January 29, 2008I’m still locked out of LitPark (and still recovering from the flu so everything is a little slower than normal and it will take me most of the day to get caught up on mail) but want to add some links here, and correct the link for Murderati:
Murderati http://www.murderati.typepad.com/
Samantha Sommersby http://www.myspace.com/samanthasommersby (this picture will wake you up!)
Patricia Wood http://pkwood.blogspot.com/
L.A. Banks http://leslieesdailebanks.com/blog/
Edie Ramer http://www.edieramer.com/blog/
Veronica Towers http://www.veronicatowers.com/
Sky http://seattleskies.blogspot.com/
Jodie Osinga http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=68119535
SusanHenderson
January 29, 2008Thank you, Richard!
SusanHenderson
January 29, 2008Thank you for buying the book, Sarah!
SusanHenderson
January 29, 2008It’s amazing to see all the names, isn’t it?
SusanHenderson
January 29, 2008Hey, I didn’t know you and The Book Pirate were one and the same!
SusanHenderson
January 29, 2008April, thank you! Let me get your site linked here: http://www.aprilsinclair.net/
xo
SusanHenderson
January 29, 2008Beautiful, Carolyn. Thank you for adding the donation to the cancer society.
(Also, really heartbreaking piece on the horses and Sara Gruen – hope folks will check out both.)
SusanHenderson
January 29, 2008Rachel, thank you – and what a beautiful photo of your baby!
SusanHenderson
January 29, 2008This is lovely, Nathalie:
Or drop a line on her blog. After all, what is more inebriating than saying “ Get well” to a total stranger?
SusanHenderson
January 29, 2008Ha! Reading that felt like drinking an espresso!
SusanHenderson
January 29, 2008Wow, now this is fascinating to read a review from the perspective of classical musicians – nice!
P.S. I’ll fix that link as soon as my webmaster finds me a new set of keys. I managed to lock myself out of the site last night trying to post and talk on the phone to the Dominican Republic at the same time!
SusanHenderson
January 29, 2008It’s down to 10,000 this morning. Not bad for a book still on pre-order, but I want to see it go to #1, too.
Everyone, Robin has some amazing (generous!) prizes over here – check them out:
http://inherownwrite.blogspot.com/2008/01/in-her-own-write-celebrates-author.html
SusanHenderson
January 29, 2008Aww. Thank you for being here and for saying this!
SusanHenderson
January 29, 2008Man, I love writers. Thank you for this, Deb!
SusanHenderson
January 29, 2008Here’s to Lauren!
kim smith
January 29, 2008Hey Susan,
Just a quick note to say thank you for this post. And thank God for writer buddies who give a big whoop when another one sags. I hope to goodness I never go through this, but, if I do, I know all the people on this list care.
God bless you Patry!!!
kim smith
(on the list and proud of it!)
Terri DuLong
January 29, 2008I’m also excited to be taking part in such a wonderful endeavor for another author. The writing world might be a difficult one, but it’s filled with loving souls and this just proves it. Kudos to Laura, Susan and all who made this happen. Mega success and good health to Patry. My blog got posted this morning.
robinslick
January 29, 2008Susan, I am currently also compiling a list of the most generous people in the world culled from the 300 bloggers participating – they are currently emailing me like crazy and have offered to pick up where I leave off after I have receipts for my first twenty sales of The Liar’s Diary. So far Tish Cohen is donating any of her books, Jessica Keener chimed in with her book, so did Laura Benedict, and Alice Tasman has 10 copies of Patry’s book which got me thinking…perhaps if one of our readers already has Patry’s book and would like one for a friend, if they will purchase two books from one of the wonderful people responsible for this event or anyone on the list of 300, we can work it out that way.
This is incredibly exciting, isn’t it? My faith in humanity is restored!
robinslick
January 29, 2008And I just heard from Ellen Meister – she is in as well! I won’t keep posting this list name by name – I will keep a master list and post when it’s complete.
jessicaK
January 29, 2008Susan, you are phenomenal . This is a great day for writers and readers! Thanks to everyone who is participating. Let’s get Liar’s Diary to number 1! At Backstory (http://mjroseblog.typepad.com/) we’re giving away three copies of Patry’s book to the first three who leave a comment. Jessica Keener
BCB
January 29, 2008I heard about Patry from my good friend, Jen Talty. Happy to help in my own small way:
http://bcb-blog.blogspot.com/
Sending all best wishes to Patry — hope her numbers are fantastic.
BCB
SusanHenderson
January 29, 2008Some more you don’t want to miss:
Smith Magazine http://www.smithmag.net/memoirville/
Library Journal http://www.libraryjournal.com/blog/770000077/post/1050020905.html
Publishers Weekly http://www.publishersweekly.com/blog/880000288.html
Okay, I’m going to work on my book edits for an hour. Coming back here will be my treat for getting some work done. You all rock!
Nathalie
January 29, 2008Thanks.
I’ve sorted out Blogger as well (in a round about way).
Dan Conaway
January 29, 2008I just ordered MY copy of THE LIAR’S DIARY (through Amazon)–friends, have you ordered YOURS yet?
Meanwhile, here’s a nice piece about “the effort” in the National Post: http://www.nationalpost.com/arts/story.html?id=269928
Jenn Hollowell
January 29, 2008I just learned of this and copied from your blog into my blog: http://jennhollowell.blogspot.com/2008/01/liars-diary-blog-day.html
ma50stephens
January 29, 2008My review of The Liar’s Diary is posted on my blog, http://mstephens-musings.blogspot.com. I’ve also announced it on several other sites. Thanks so much for allowing me to be a part of this day!
Aurelio
January 29, 2008What an amazing list. What an amazing day. I just checked the Amazon number: 10,947 and falling fast.
EllenMeister
January 29, 2008This is nothing short of historic. Good luck keeping up with the comments today, Sue! Lol.
My blog is now live: http://ellenmeister.blogspot.com/
Thank you again, my friend. You’re one in a million.
xo
Mary Akers
January 29, 2008Amazing–Susan and Laura and Patry and all. I’ve been trying to avoid the Internet (except for email) and wouldn’t you know it, but Ellen Meister thought to get to me that way. And thank goodness she did. How could I not be a part of this outpouring? Get well soon, Patry–we’re all pulling for you! XOXO, Mary
jessica lipnack
January 29, 2008I’m in. Sue et al, I am in awe of what you’ve done. Patry, may your float for days on this beautiful initiative.
http://endlessknots.typepad.com/endlessknots/2008/01/the-liars-diary.html
Tish Cohen
January 29, 2008Susan, you’re amazing. Your post is amazing, so much so that I sat at my computer for five hours last night, unable to write my own. Robin, yours is too too too fabulous and brings back delicious memories of New York. I can’t even read your comments here without bawling. I’m just picturing Patry bundled up on the sofa with her coffee, beaming.
Jennifer Weiner’s lovely post is up: http://jenniferweiner.blogspot.com/
(that link probably won’t work because I’m a link loser)
I just want to throw a big hug out there to each and every one of you out there.
xox
jessicaK
January 29, 2008Here’s an article about Patry in Shelf Awareness http://news.shelf-awareness.com/nview.jsp?appid=411&j=385244. Shelf Awareness goes out to about 5000 or so booksellers.
If you’ve got a copy of Liar’s Diary, buy one for a friend!!
Jordan Rosenfeld
January 29, 2008I, too, am giving away free copies of my hardcover edition of Make a Scene at my blog and am offering copies of my newest book, Write Free: Attracting the Creative Life, to people who visit Robin Slick’s blog and do as she asks 🙂
Comment there for details.
SusanHenderson
January 29, 2008I am truly overwhelmed. Wow.
If you click here, you’ll see just a bit of what’s happening: http://blogsearch.google.com/blogsearch?source=ig&hl=en&rlz=&um=1&ie=UTF-8&tab=wb&q=%22liar%27s+diary%22&scoring=d
There’s just a whole lot going on by the minute at Red Room: http://www.redroom.com/blogs
One post I especially loved was by Jacquelyn Mitchard, who wrote: The very best writers have mighty hearts.
I am flu-ish today, and camped out in my secret-passageway, camoflauged office – https://www.litpark.com/2007/09/28/weekly-wrap-weve-been-busy/ – where I’m going to stay until I’ve finished editing two chapters. Thank you, again, so sincerely, to every one of you. Wow.
troutbum70
January 29, 2008Wow, what you have done is awesome. When I have free time today I’m going to the book store and buy The Liar’s Diary.
Kimberly
January 29, 2008DVDs will now be included with Robin Slick’s Brilliant Prize Package… 🙂
Sharon Hurlbut
January 29, 2008Thanks for organizing this! My post is up. Love and much success to Patry!!
Sharon
m
January 29, 2008I’m recent to Patry’s blog, having come across it while frantically scouring writing sites and blogs for hope that my book just might sell to one of the editors who would soon be receiving it. Patry’s post that day was one of the most moving pieces of writing I’ve ever read– and I’m obsessive about finding writing that moves me. I’m sure you all remember the post I found, the words I won’t forget:
Don’t know; just have to accept.
The words were serendipitous as far as my intent that particular day but far more serendipitous about my life in general. I’ve since read Liar’s Diary and loved it, reading it in one sitting on a rainy Saturday afternoon. I don’t have a blog but I want to participate today. I’ve ordered the paperback for five friends and another five copies that I’m going to donate to my local library. Thanks, Patry. My wish for you is another Jane Hirshfield quote:
….Let her
have a chair, her shadeless lamp,
the table. Let one or two she loves
be in the next room. Let the door
be closed, the sleeping ones healthy.
Let her have time, and silence,
enough paper to make mistakes and go on.
jasonboog
January 29, 2008That’s an awe-inspiring list of writers you put together. Great job, Susan.
More than anything, it is so cool to hear how Patry Francis fought the dayjob and all the other life pressures to put out her dream book. It’s exactly the kind of story my readers need to hear, and her example keeps me writing as well. I finally put up my post, I was proud to join with your community today.
Arachne Jericho
January 29, 2008Thanks, I like doing the unusual. 😉
Plus the book really was quite a read.
maria
January 29, 2008This is just so amazing, Susan. I’ve spent all afternoon visiting other blogs, and I’m humbled and amazed by every single person who’s taking part in this. It would be so incredible if Patry made it to #1!!
Kerstin Martin
January 29, 2008Hi Susan – I am a great fan of Patry, so please count me in! I am blogging about this today. Thank you and the others so much for organizing this, it is a truly amazing community effort and Patry is such a wonderful person and writer, she totally deserves this! Kerstin
Linda L. Richards
January 29, 2008I didn’t know there was a list, but I’m taking part anyway. What a super job you’ve done, Susan! And what an incredible surge of energy in Patry’s direction.
LaurenBaratzLogsted
January 29, 2008I wrote to a contact at Amazon, asking him to try to get it on the front page of the site, and got this in reply: “Hi, Lauren! Fantastic story, one that I just learned about myself. There is likely little I can do about getting this up on the Amazon homepage — that is unfortunately out of my control. What I am doing is putting a placement about this on our Shorts homepage, http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/browse/-/13993911/ref%3Dshrt%5Fsu%5F/103-0233064-2304668, and will pass the campaign on to the books team for them to consider placing up on the books pages. Great story, happy to do my part!”
So at least it’s on the front page of the Amazon Shorts portion of the site and more may yet grow from this.
djtuffpuppy
January 29, 2008The Book Pirate is my new project. only two weeks young.
Kimberly
January 29, 2008time of amazon update: 1:15pm EST
Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,025 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)
Popular in these categories: (What’s this?)
#6 in Books > Mystery & Thrillers > Thrillers > Psychological & Suspense
#22 in Books > Mystery & Thrillers > Thrillers > Suspense
Karen Dionne
January 29, 2008I bought my two! One for me, and one for a friend.
SeanF
January 29, 2008I’ve included a post in my blog. Best wishes to Patry!
C.W. Gortner
January 29, 2008Hi Susan, Thanks for this amazing opportunity. I’m honored to participate and be a part of this effort to showcase an amazing novel and an even more amazing novelist. Please add me to your list:
C.W. Gortner
http://www.redroom.com/blog/christopher-w-gortner/liars-diary
http://historicalboys.blogspot.com/
SusanHenderson
January 29, 2008Thank you, wow, for all the notes. As you can imagine, my head is spinning and it’s hard to keep up. Want to fall in love a little bit? Read these….
Peter Coyote http://www.redroom.com/blog/peter-coyote/patry-francis-and-little-site-could
Kahled Hosseini http://www.redroom.com/blog/khaled-hosseini/patry-francis-and-liars-diary
SusanHenderson
January 29, 2008And p.s.
Amazon.com Sales Rank: #683 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)
#3 in Books > Mystery & Thrillers > Thrillers > Psychological & Suspense
#18 in Books > Mystery & Thrillers > Thrillers > Suspense
Sheila
January 29, 2008This is so great!
I wanted to add some other author’s names into the Blog Day mix. These authors (one book sellers) have also blogged for Patry today-
LA Banks
Veronica Towers
Diane Whiteside
Michele Scott
Lori James – All Romance eBooks
Dara Girard
Circle of Seven Productions and Reader’s Entertainment TV have blogs up too!
patry
January 29, 2008Talk about spinning heads! When I first wrote about my illness, I decided that if I was forced to drink an ounce of pain and trouble, the only answer was to counter it with two ounces of bliss. Little did I know that through all of you, I would consume a whole case of it. As a consummate daydreamer, I’m in awe of Sue, Laura, Karen, Jessica, Tish, my agent Alice, Sue’s agent, Dan, the folks at Backspace and Red Room and Circle of Seven Video and so many others who envisioned this day, pooled their resources and really made it happen. To them, and to all of you who have responded with such amazing generosity, I send a bottomless case of gratitude–and love. Lots and lots of love.
Xujun
January 29, 2008Thank you Sue! You are doing a great thing and I’m joining the celebration. I’ve linked your post to my blog http://www.insideoutchina.com, and I will buy a copy of “the liar’s diary” to read!
terrybain
January 29, 2008Just want to remind folks that if they want a cool blogging widget that links to several bookstores and online thingies like worldcat and librarything and other folks, you can visit my Patry widget page here:
http://www.bainbooks.com/2008/01/blogging-widget-for-patry-francis.html
But also again, don’t feel like you need to click my link, because all the really good stuff is right here. Obviously.
Blessings.
Kristie Cutter
January 29, 2008Wow! What a turn out! All these blogs? Where do I start? Great job to everyone who pulled this off. It’s awesome!
LaurenBaratzLogsted
January 29, 2008470 at Amazon now – just saying.
(waving wildly) Hi, Patry!
Myfanwy
January 29, 2008This is a beautiful thing that you and Laura organized. Thanks for letting me be a part of it. I cross posted on myspace and at smokelong news as well. Hope Patry’s book breaks all records!
sky
January 29, 2008HI. I joined the caravan of celebration!
http://seattleskies.blogspot.com/
M.G. Tarquini
January 29, 2008Is Patry sending Technorati into ‘TILT’ yet?
jessicaK
January 29, 2008Patry is at #470 on Amazon!
#3 in the psychol. suspense category. Isn’t this wonderful??? Lots of love back to you, Patry.
Jessica Keener
LaurenBaratzLogsted
January 29, 2008414 now.
Neil B
January 29, 2008I’m a little late to the line on this but more than happy to add my voice, small though it be.
Good luck with the book and get well soon Patry.
jodyreale
January 29, 2008What a great day. I’m so proud to be a part of it.
XO,
Jody
Michelle Moran
January 29, 2008Congratulations on your paperback debut, Patry! I came late to the party, but not too late, and I hope the readers of my blog, History Buff, will all rush out and get what is an absolutely fantastic book!
Gayle Etcheverry
January 29, 2008Wow this is a great post! Thank you! My friend Jody Reale forwarded this to me… I want to know if I could post this on my website and help generate some more traffic for the book and for Patry. My web site is http://www.GodBlessHumanity.com a web site promoting ordinary people doing extraordinary things for humanity. This is such an inspiring story! My email address is [email protected] if anyone is interested. I’m interested in just posting this exact story and give credit to Susan Henderson for writing.
:Peace & blessings,
Gayle
brian anderson
January 29, 2008Well, I’m a little late, but always willing to support a local writer. I’ll post this with tomorrows comic. Congrats Patry and God bless!
jerri
January 29, 2008Patry’s at #380 on Amazon at 4:26 CST.
I’d be thrilled to think even one of those orders was inspired by my post at http://www.reflectionsonthepond.blogspot.com
And I loved Peter Coyote’s post about how something like this blurs the lines between virtual and physical communities. What a happy day.
Brian Ford
January 29, 2008Hi Susan. I came across Neil Gaiman’s blurb today, and “seeded” the content to Newsvine, encouraging others to do the same — despite the fact that doing so would mean duplicate posts of the same story.
My seed.
Laurawllner
January 29, 2008Hi Susan! This is a good thing we’ve done today, it’s been awesome! Laura
LaurenBaratzLogsted
January 29, 2008374
Rosie
January 29, 2008What an inspiring story! I’ve posted about Patry and the carnival community here over at my blog, Rosie’s Travels (http://rosies-travels.blogspot.com/)
It’s an amazing thing everybody is doing here. Best wishes to you all!
bethanyh
January 29, 2008Add me to the list… not that i get a ton of readers… but know it can be difficult to get publicity even in the best of circumstances!
Post is here! Buying the book as we speak. Sales are even better than blog posts! 😉
rdl
January 29, 2008Great job!!! thanks for doing this for Patry!!
sunshine
January 29, 2008You are an inspiration! Keep doing what you do – living life.
Mardougrrl
January 29, 2008A lurker who had to do something for Patry also. I think her blog is amazing–she’s an inspiration and you all are AMAZING for putting this together!
jessicaK
January 29, 2008Almost heading to bed but had to take one last peek–Patry is at #360 on Amazon.
What a super day.
Great work, Susan!!
Jessica Keener
SusanHenderson
January 29, 2008Goodnight all you dear people. I’m exhausted, but in a great and satisfying way. Patry, I hope you enjoyed getting just a taste of what you’ve given us for the past many years.
Great way to end this evening is with a link to Jessica’s fabulous article for International Thriller Writers:
http://www.thrillerwriters.org/2008/01/the-killing-truth.html#more
ajdavis
January 29, 2008Sue,
Even though I don’t know Patry, my life is certainly touched by many people with cancer. Above all, I do believe that one person can make a difference and that the global community of the internet that I have asked to jump on board for one of my causes has always shown to have a big heart and been supportive ‘just because i asked them to.’
People that have picked this up from my blog and reposted, are in London, Australia, Puerto Rico Germany and the US, so that kind of rocks 😉
I have to admit that I have spent a lot of time since last night getting gloriously caught up in so many of these brilliant writer’s blogs who have participated here. That is a gift in itself to be exposed to so many people’s work that I would not otherwise have known about.
You, Sue, have one of the loveliest spirits of all that i have ever encountered in cyberspace and I have been honoured to be even a little part of this.
I love how everyone has blanketed Patry with love and support and book purchases!! and such positive collective energy and I hope that it helps to lift her up to health and strength.
peace, grace and blessings to you lovely sue,
aj
x
Jess Riley
January 29, 2008Add one more late blogalicious entry to the mix! Patry is an awesome woman and such a talented writer. Kudos to you Susan for helping to organize such an amazing rally.
Joe
January 29, 2008Sue – What a great place you’ve created here at LitPark and what an astounding thing to see so many writers come together in this way. I don’t know Patry the way you all do but she must really be something to have generated such an overwhelming response. Wonderful job everyone! Quick story – I just came back from our local Barnes & Noble. I was thumbing through “The Liar’s Diary” (yes, I bought a copy) which was prominently displayed in the center aisle on the “New Fiction” table when I ran into a group of friends. I told them about you and all the writers involved in the blog-a-thon going into my best elevator pitch. Bingo! Four copies sold on the spot and a recommendation for a book discussion group. Ha. I’m shameless.
Good night everyone.
Matt Forbeck
January 29, 2008My apologies for letting this slip my mind yesterday, but I managed to post something at http://www.forbeck.com today. Here’s you Patry for such courage and such friends, and to you, Susan, for such a great idea and effort.
Margay
January 29, 2008I just wanted to stop by and leave a comment because I think this is truly a wonderful thing you are doing. We always think that writing is a solitary venture until we get our works out into the public in book form, thus sharing our passions with others. It is so good to know that it isn’t as solitary as we once believed. This is a truly amazing thing you have done and I just wanted to be one small part of it. What a wonderful woman Patry must be to have so many dear friends band about her in her time of need – and what wonderful friends you are to be there for her when she needs you the most. This is the stuff that truly great books are made of, and speaking of great books, The Liar’s Club looks like it tops the list. So, looks like I’m going to have add to my ever-expanding TBR pile and get this book! And to Patry, my thoughts are with you, you’re in my prayers, so get well soon and take good care of yourself. Your book is in good hands with the wonderful circle of friends you have. Best wishes for a speedy recovery, Margay.
Larramie
January 29, 2008Thank you for making this happen — one of the most glorious days in cyberspace — and I felt honored to be a small part of it.
RAC
January 30, 2008The Liar’s Diary by Patry Francis is #1 in its category!
At 10:12 pm Mountain Time, Jan. 29, 2008, on Amazon:
#1 in Books > Mystery & Thrillers > Thrillers > Psychological & Suspense
#12 in Books > Mystery & Thrillers > Thrillers > Suspense
#53 in Books > Literature & Fiction > General > Contemporary
#300 in Books
RAC
January 30, 2008A little later the numbers were:
#1
#11
#51
#295
RAC
January 30, 2008I forgot to mention that I’ve posted an actual screenshot of THE LIAR’S DIARY at the #1 Amazon position. Feel free to use the image as evidence that “viral book promotion” really works. Congratulations Patry!
JKB
January 30, 2008I’ve done it as well from over the pond. Please send her our care and concern from over here.
http://www.jaekaebee.blogspot.com
Malorie Bennett
January 30, 2008Hello!
I came across this project through reading about it in Neil Gaiman’s blog. I read through all of the information provided, and I must say it is so wonderful the support that is being given to Patry. Even though I am a bit late in joining the blog promotions, I made a post in my blog (which can be found here http://sweetandsnarky.livejournal.com/33523.html) and have made a few posts in the literature forums I am involved with. Cheers to everyone involved in this. It is truly fantastic.
Nathalie
January 30, 2008And another post from my friend, Jennifer Duncan:
http://quidite.blogspot.com/2008/01/keep-on-keepin-on.html
aimeepalooza
January 30, 2008Just a thought….I know the big day is over but I was thinking we could keep it rolling by contacting local papers about the story. It’s a great human interest/tech story. Reporters love to talk about the power of blogging these days. So, another little bit you might do to help is let newspapers know what happened yesterday so they can reach a different group.
Fingers crossed that the Ann Arbor News wants to hear more….
alex milway
January 30, 2008I came here by way of Neil Gaiman’s blog and felt moved to blog about it too. I’ve just had my first novel released, and boy it’s a busy and exciting and most of all, stressful time. It’s amazing how great the blogging community is. And here’s wishing Patry all the best with the book!
http://anythingbutsprouts.blogspot.com/
Besa Kosova
January 30, 2008Wow. This is so wonderful! I am so proud of you! I will definetely buy your book. I, too, a long time waitress, a mother of two, decided to pursue Creative Writing studies at the university — because of the dream. You give me hope. You strengthen my dream.
I wish you all the best. May all the blessings deserved shower you — now & always.
With all my love,
Besa Kosova
Carolyn_Burns_Bass
January 30, 2008Super idea, Aimee. Right now I’m working on a piece about social networking for a business journal. This will likely fall perfectly into my story.
How Not to Write
January 30, 2008I future posted for 2/1 by accident. sigh.
http://www.hownottowrite.com/tiny-book-plugs/the-liars-diary-blog-day/
Can’t wait to get my hands on Liar’s Diary!
SusanHenderson
January 30, 2008I’ve been catching up on about a month’s worth of mail I’d let go… and other things. All I can say about the notes here is that I admire you guys and am just really touched, not just by your support of Patry but what I know about you as writers and artists and all of what that means.
Thank you for those of you who want to take the baton and run with it because this runner needs to pass out. I hope the story continues….I hope it goes far.
p.s. I’ll try to get this list updated after I get home tonight. My soccer team is throwing a sort of Patry benefit open-mic concert tonight, and I’ll see how much I can get done when I get home from that. Thank you again. All of you. Hugely.
Ally Tresidder
January 30, 2008Hi, I thought I’d let you know that I have also posted on my blog about Patry’s book. The support shown for her is amazing, I just wanted to lend my tuppence worth. Patry is an inspiration!
Soniah Kamal
January 30, 2008I found out about this through Tess Gerritsen and Gayle Brandeis’ blogs– and then read Patry’s blog– her posts are luminescent from the one where she kicks of her waitressing shoes the day she finds out her novel is sold to the one where it takes her five months to muster up a doctor’s appointment. I’ll be posting about her novel on my blog.
Pia Z. Ehrhardt
January 30, 2008I’m here, thinking about Patry and her day. So much love and good feeling has gathered for a person I could tell from the first sentence of her first note is kind through and through.
Hug.
SusanHenderson
January 30, 2008I had some help updating the list of contributors, which was very very nice. Unfortunately the way that list was sent to me created all kinds of weird breaks. I’ll fix that tomorrow. Apologies to all my OCD readers because I know it’s making you feel all twitchy. xo
KG
January 31, 2008Hello, everyone! This is AMAZING! I’m late to the game, and I’ve just added my post for Patry. I’ve included all the sales links and the promo video in my post.
I’m a regular reader of Patry’s blog, and I just found out about this beautiful effort through comments on her blog.
Here’s the permalink to my post. Many thanks!
http://writenowisgood.typepad.com/write_now_is_good/2008/01/for-patry.html
Heather_Fowler
January 31, 2008Um. Adorable and shameless! You are great, Joe! warmest, H
LaurenBaratzLogsted
January 31, 2008I’ve received so many messages from the 4000+ people I sent a bulletin to on Myspace and just got yet another lovely message: “You and the group of 300 are amazing.
I sent a message to all my friends to buy The Liar\’s Diary.
My prayers are with Patry.”
SusanHenderson
January 31, 2008That’s so great, Lauren. Wow.
Deb
January 31, 2008I’m late, but no less heartfelt. Extending The Liar’s Diary Blog Day over at Entertaining Infinity.
And thanks for rallying us for Patry!
Tricia Ares
January 31, 2008Thank you for your critical role in this event. It was an honor to participate and an inspiration to witness the solidarity of such a caring community.
jessicaK
January 31, 2008Lauren! That’s stupendous! It’s wonderful to see this continuing on for Patry. No such thing as latecomers to this party.
Jessica Keener
Betsy
February 1, 2008I’ve been in! I’m at work Wed through Fri these days, but I posted a link on my blog on Tues.
http://www.elizabethcrane.com/blog/index/html.
SusanHenderson
February 1, 2008Hi Betsy,
Let me see if I can get that list sorted out today!
There were two of us trying to keep track of the master list, and I think when we merged them we lost names.
(If anyone else here saw their name fall off the list, just leave a note here and I’ll fix it. I don’t have the most organized head in the world, but I am so happy for every one of you who joined the effort!)
xo
SusanHenderson
February 1, 2008I got a call from my mother-in-law (Honolulu) and she tried to buy Patry’s book at the mall, and it was sold out! Thank you for all these notes you guys have left!
Val Gryphin
February 2, 2008I just learned about this, but it is so amazing that I had to blog about it, even though I didn’t have the opportunity to take part in the original event. This is why I love writers, we take care of, and root for each other. And I am rooting for Patry to heal completely.
SusanHenderson
February 2, 2008Really great to have you with us. Thank you!
tinker
February 8, 2008I am so late to the party, that nearly everyone’s gone home by now. Yet I still felt the need to do something to honor Patry, who has done so much for so many, through her life, her blog, her writing. So I added a post of my own, in my own tiny corner of the blogworld. As Patry has shown through her own writing (and now, you and so many others in the blogworld) – every voice, every word, every story counts.
Wishing her good health, much bliss, and many book sales!
tinker
February 8, 2008I am so late to the party. Yet I still felt the need to join in, from my own tiny corner of the blogworld, as soon as I could.
What an amazing community!
SusanHenderson
February 8, 2008Glad you’re here, Tinker!
Automatic Gate
May 31, 2010For me, I chose my family, no matter how sinful my family is..I will always be for my family..
Friends are just for good happenings but in times of downs they more often left you..
Soad El-Rgaig
October 8, 2010First, thank you for restoring my faith in people, that kind-hearted people still exist in this materialistic world.
Second, I was (and still visit frequently even though Patry doesn’t update her blog as before due to her illness) an avid reader of Patry’s blog since 2005. In 2007, while still living in UK, I visited the States and the first thing I did was to buy a copy of Patry’s first novel the Liar’s Diary. I loved the book and suggested it to many of my friends to read. Patry is a great writer and I will be waiting for her next book. Patry, I wish you will publish all your short stories in a book. I loved reading them on your blog. Best wishes and wish you a speedy recovery.
Regards
Soad, a struggling writer