tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post8364832563205996726..comments2023-10-31T11:37:50.028-04:00Comments on on life & other inconveniences: No Good DeedSandra Ruttanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06109584805469336742noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-57994490457959401062007-12-27T19:14:00.000-05:002007-12-27T19:14:00.000-05:00Sandra, if you're responsible for a little shit wi...Sandra, if you're responsible for a little shit with a big mouth, self-righteously narrow-minded attitude, and a weak grasp on the English language, then maybe you're also responsible for the current US administration ... ;)<BR/><BR/>You've done nothing but make a whole lot of writers and publishing pros feel really goddamn good. And no author-and I mean no author--could honestly say he or she doesn't appreciate appreciation. I know how much the nom has meant to me. And I'm serious--it cured my pneumonia. :)<BR/><BR/>Now, get better, and let's look forward to 2008!Kelli Stanleyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05134057726661907735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-83955766749949369792007-12-20T16:11:00.000-05:002007-12-20T16:11:00.000-05:00Okay, I'm a little late to the party, but you're d...Okay, I'm a little late to the party, but you're damn right these nominations made a lot of writers' days. I just re-read my own post on the topic, and I'm glad it made you smile, but I don't think I did justice to how elated I was to be on that list. It was made all the sweeter by the fact that I love a lot of the stories I'm up against.<BR/><BR/>Oh, and Noirboy might suck, but that Lyman guy is bad news. I hear he punches kittens, and last week he stole my bike. So, um, vote for me!<BR/><BR/>In all honesty, Noirboy's comments just served to rally support behind the Spinetingler Awards. The only downside (aside of having to read Noirboy's ass-talking ramblings, that is) is him potentially turning folks off of Ardai's story with his praise of it -- a shame, since it's freakin' great.Chrishttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06286520897538327919noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-43895377573312093762007-12-20T13:34:00.000-05:002007-12-20T13:34:00.000-05:00As you know, you've nothing to do with dorkboy's c...As you know, you've nothing to do with dorkboy's comments/brouhaha/call it what you will.<BR/><BR/>I'm actually kinda disturbed the little shit got so much attention out of it! He's clearly stuck in that post-adolescent/college arrogant ass phase. Lots of us went through it, though he's taken it to the next level. Just sad he's taken up so much time and energy. Honestly, other than scurrying out to take an ill-conceived and poorly-reasoned poke at an author, what's he done? Nothing. What interesting point does he have to make? None.<BR/><BR/>Let it go, move on, the stories rock (all of them), and this is an extra heaping helping of "who needs it & who cares." Or, y'know, something along those lines...angiehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01751466673491487048noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-41866726125760582982007-12-20T12:36:00.000-05:002007-12-20T12:36:00.000-05:00I'm getting it printed on a tight t-shirt at chest...I'm getting it printed on a tight t-shirt at chest level just to be sure noirboy will read it. ;)Sandra Ruttanhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06109584805469336742noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-74083922499729525872007-12-20T12:35:00.000-05:002007-12-20T12:35:00.000-05:00When are you going to learn this phrase, Sandra? L...When are you going to learn this phrase, Sandra? <BR/><BR/>Let'em drink Drano!<BR/><BR/>And what Trace said, too.Jack Getzehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09516237388744739669noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-63814832651799156572007-12-20T12:27:00.000-05:002007-12-20T12:27:00.000-05:00Hi Trace! Hope you're doing well.And for the reco...Hi Trace! Hope you're doing well.<BR/><BR/>And for the record, I'd rather fuck someone with class. ;)Sandra Ruttanhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06109584805469336742noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-62866328046096355722007-12-20T12:22:00.000-05:002007-12-20T12:22:00.000-05:00Fuck them, Sandra. There are mean spirited whiners...Fuck them, Sandra. There are mean spirited whiners everywhere.Tracy Sharp - Author of the Leah Ryan Serieshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/12239533451929739327noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-40193700341572515712007-12-20T11:33:00.000-05:002007-12-20T11:33:00.000-05:00Amen to that Lyman. As it should be. And any wri...Amen to that Lyman. As it should be. <BR/><BR/>And any writer who's been around for more than five minutes knows some rejections are off taste more than quality. That's a reality. It's terribly hard to write humour, and to write romance, fantasy, sci fi... all of that stuff. And I suck at romance and humour, but I also prefer reading dark stories. Down to a choice between some warped little noir tale and a more romantic piece, I'm probably going to go with the noir.<BR/><BR/>I suppose this could explain the divorce...Sandra Ruttanhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06109584805469336742noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-72668442523805448292007-12-20T11:28:00.000-05:002007-12-20T11:28:00.000-05:00That's what I hoped you'd say. Editing can lead to...That's what I hoped you'd say. Editing can lead to some pretty jaded attitudes. I'm glad to see it hasn't gotten to you.<BR/><BR/>I don't wish noirboy any ills, maybe some lessons in humility, but if he wants to write I hope someday he finds his way without stepping over people to get there.Lyman Feerohttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02664902181141600106noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-44886141937191227212007-12-20T11:19:00.000-05:002007-12-20T11:19:00.000-05:00The only work that doesn't get read is work sent i...The only work that doesn't get read is work sent in without the release form... and work from one writer I personally banned after extreme harassment and a legal situation.<BR/><BR/>For the most part, it takes a fair bit for the stories to even get to me for reading. In other words, most of them are screened out by other readers. When they come back with unanimous opinions, or with a thorough assessment I trust, I follow through. I step in when there are wildly diverse opinions on a story that suggest more of a taste reaction. In the past, I've stripped out contributer info so that the name doesn't colour the assessment.<BR/><BR/>As of right now, all writers who submitted prior to October 31 that have not received a rejection letter have passed through to the second reading. Only about 1/3 of the stories submitted are getting to second reading, and of those I'm not sure what percentage we'll take. Maybe 50%? <BR/><BR/>It's tough to get published... but I've published people I'm not overly fond of, I've interviewed people I don't know or hang out with, and I've given positive reviews and referrals to people I'm definitely not friends with. It is, after all, supposed to be about the work.Sandra Ruttanhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06109584805469336742noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-83917096581550984482007-12-20T11:06:00.000-05:002007-12-20T11:06:00.000-05:00Here's a tough question, Sandra. What happens if a...Here's a tough question, Sandra. What happens if a Dale Chapel story lands on your desk?<BR/><BR/>Even after all this shit, I'd hope that you'd give it a read. Based on the recent discussions it would must likely be horrendous but you never know.Lyman Feerohttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02664902181141600106noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-52564864900170793832007-12-20T10:57:00.000-05:002007-12-20T10:57:00.000-05:00Oh, and Lyman? Noirboy is 100% responsible for wh...Oh, and Lyman? Noirboy is 100% responsible for what he said about Spinetingler and Amra. He gets to hold that all on his own. Nobody put a gun to his head and made him say what he said. It's about time he took some responsibility for his actions.<BR/><BR/>It's a wonder he hasn't gone on a tear about the movie rights to Nathan's story being sold.<BR/><BR/>And although I don't know Charles Ardai, I feel confident that he would not be pleased to have this ass as his defender. He was plain enough about that sort of thing over the SOI/Edgar brouhaha.Sandra Ruttanhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06109584805469336742noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-57448544041084058342007-12-20T10:53:00.000-05:002007-12-20T10:53:00.000-05:00Please don't feel guilty Lyman. I'm just a super-...Please don't feel guilty Lyman. I'm just a super-sensitive type, and I've been having a rough week so I seem to be taking everything a bit personally.<BR/><BR/>We certainly don't start these things, or continue doing them, for the thanks. I mean, it's nice to have your efforts recognized - that's the whole point of the awards - and short story writers are amongst the most neglected in the business.<BR/><BR/>So I don't regret doing them. But I had to get it out of my system, so I've had my little rant. <BR/><BR/>And no, it's not your fault for making it public. What I'd like to know is where these guys think they get off? I mean, never, ever in my life have I been inspired to write to someone and tell them their work sucks or insult it. I still find it hard sending out rejection letters for Spinetingler. Because if you're a writer yourself, you know how much passion and effort goes into the process, and even if what someone writes isn't your thing, you can respect the writing process and how personally we all feel about our work. Are there places that publish 'names' first? Sure. I'm sure there are. Have I seen stories published I thought weren't that good? Absolutely. But I don't run over to google, search for the writer and send them a hurtful e-mail telling them their work is shit.<BR/><BR/>I mean, what the hell is wrong with someone, that that's how they feel better about themselves?<BR/><BR/>I know he's an ass. I also know as an author I should be all sweetness and smiles and not say it, but fuck that shit. I didn't sign over my soul when I signed my publishing contract.Sandra Ruttanhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06109584805469336742noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-40762013704723621872007-12-20T10:39:00.000-05:002007-12-20T10:39:00.000-05:00Sandra, In no way do I think that you are even a s...Sandra, <BR/>In no way do I think that you are even a smidge responsible for this. Noirboy started his rant against me back when The Switch first got published. He didn't do it publically but privately in an e-mail. If anyone is responsible it is me for making his e-mail public.<BR/><BR/>You do good work. You lift writers up. I know full well the trials and tribulations of being an editor. You are to be commended for shouldering such a monumental task.<BR/><BR/>I didn't know about my nomination until Patrick Bagley ran it in his blog. To say the least just knowing I was nominated for a Spinetingler award made my day. I deeply thank you for wanting to take the extra step to reward writers' and Artist's works. The thoughts and opinions of a misguided child (and ultimately that's what noirboy is) shouldn't even phase you. For me they haven't and I'm the brunt of his lunacy.<BR/><BR/>I feel incredibly guilty that my problem became yours. Please wash your hands of any feelings of responsibility. <BR/><BR/>I'm no worse for wear and if I'm completely honest I take it as a huge compliment that my story so deeply disturbed Noirboy. It made the little bastard think and ultimately isn't that what all of want in our fiction, people to think about it?<BR/><BR/>Keep up the good work.Lyman Feerohttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02664902181141600106noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-10442638004595246022007-12-20T10:29:00.000-05:002007-12-20T10:29:00.000-05:00Oh, yeah Patrick! Start an ezine.In fact, I may h...Oh, yeah Patrick! Start an ezine.<BR/><BR/>In fact, I may have just the thing for you if you're serious...<BR/><BR/>Steve, I feel so much better knowing this asshat's been attacking Lyman all year. Wait, okay, that sounds wrong somehow. ;) Seriously, what a complete and total jerk. Poor Lyman. I was so pleased for him to be nominated, too.Sandra Ruttanhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06109584805469336742noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-69267132829752633362007-12-20T10:20:00.000-05:002007-12-20T10:20:00.000-05:00Long live Spinetingler and the awards! Sandra, you...Long live Spinetingler and the awards! Sandra, you do great work and should keep it up. Noirfuck didn't start his tirade with Lyman because of the award nomination; he actually attacked him when the story was first published earlier this year. <BR/><BR/>Noirfuck needs to get a clue, but it has been fun to beat up on him.Steve Allanhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16747911304010686713noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-45707797767248966332007-12-20T09:12:00.000-05:002007-12-20T09:12:00.000-05:00Don't you dare make yourself believe that any of t...Don't you dare make yourself believe that any of this bullshit is your fault. Asswipes abound on the Internet, but I think most people who have read Spinetingler enjoy it and appreciate all the work you've done.<BR/><BR/>Hell, I'm tempted to start my own e-zine now.Patrick Shawn Bagleyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14832860010935241958noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-81282016630312409222007-12-20T08:24:00.000-05:002007-12-20T08:24:00.000-05:00Amra, ha! You know what I don't get, though. I m...Amra, ha! You know what I don't get, though. I mean, I sat back and watched and shook my head... but Spinetingler has never been strictly crime fiction. It's primarily what we end up publishing because people in that community know me, but it's always been a cross-genre magazine.<BR/><BR/>I never once said work from outside the genre wasn't eligible for the awards. People just inferred. Actually, there was a fantasy story on the long list that I read that I really enjoyed.<BR/><BR/>James, I'd like to see noirboy try to bite you. And I'm also thinking of Simon Kernick's love of fantasy - wouldn't that get under noirboy's skin?! Glad you found it so amusing. I know if it wasn't personal for me on any level I would have had a laugh. I can look at it objectively enough and say it's completely ridiculous, I'm just having enough of a bad week for it to be harder to shrug off.<BR/><BR/>Patti, was that supposed to be reassuring? LOL.Sandra Ruttanhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06109584805469336742noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-86666465819482853152007-12-20T08:01:00.000-05:002007-12-20T08:01:00.000-05:00You never get thicker skin. If anything it gets th...You never get thicker skin. If anything it gets thinner--you should see my mother's.pattinase (abbott)https://www.blogger.com/profile/02916037185235335846noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-5697538394733899002007-12-20T07:02:00.000-05:002007-12-20T07:02:00.000-05:00I'm sorry you had to be on the receiving end of al...I'm sorry you had to be on the receiving end of all this, Sandra, and I know for you Noirboy's comments were personal and hurtful, but I have to say thank you for pointing them out. I've not laughed so much for a long time. The boy's a complete asshat and his mad ramblings aren't worth getting worked up about. Take heart from the intelligent and crushing counter-arguments put by all the other people commenting.<BR/><BR/>I for one can't begin to express my gratitude to you for Spinetingler. It's provided me with hours of free entertainment and introduced me to a raft of talented authors I'd never have come across any other way. Whenever you get negative criticism like that, just look at the download figures and move on.<BR/><BR/>And as someone who dabbles in crime having started in comics and swept through SF and Fantasy on the way, I will happily pollute whatever genre takes my fancy. If Noirboy thinks I'm spoiling his chances of publication, then he can bite me.JamesOhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09332376784689207703noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-23681982289536085592007-12-20T03:35:00.000-05:002007-12-20T03:35:00.000-05:00Sandra, you have nothing to be concerned about. Ch...Sandra, you have nothing to be concerned about. Characters like Noirboy don't matter. He's got a big case of sour grapes and instead of looking at his own writing and discovering the reason why he's not getting published, he's come up with a self-serving theory. I just had a read of the comments he made and it made me laugh. <BR/><BR/>Thank you so much for the opportunity to be nominated. It means that people read and like my story, and that's all I care about.<BR/><BR/>Anything this idiot has to say is quite unimportant. I just hope he looked at my blog and saw that my debut novel will be young adult. That would really stick in his craw with his whole theory of keeping the genre pure.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-27370526876214179742007-12-20T01:50:00.000-05:002007-12-20T01:50:00.000-05:00Ha. You know what I mean. For the most part, the...Ha. You know what I mean. For the most part, the people nominated in all the categories didn't ask to be there, and for all I know there are some who aren't thrilled about being nominated. Maybe James Lee Burke hates Spinetingler. How should I know? <BR/><BR/>There was another round of criticism about one of the categories, not done quite as rudely, but still. It was a direct attack on one of the nominees. And since it coincided with the person finding out they'd been nominated, I felt bad about it.<BR/><BR/>I mean, a person has to be a real special kind of asshole to me for me to not give a damn about their feelings, and I know it's distorted, I just can't help feeling bad that the result of choices I made was that someone got attacked. That's the last thing I wanted.Sandra Ruttanhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06109584805469336742noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18499463.post-46727719694311380942007-12-20T00:53:00.000-05:002007-12-20T00:53:00.000-05:00"But I actually feel some responsibility, as thoug..."But I actually feel some responsibility, as though I set these writers up to be put under attack, because I put them on the ballot."<BR/><BR/>You're responsible for a small minded, insecure troll's tepid attempts to justify his own lack of self esteem by trying to belittle another's work and thereby bolster himself in his own imagination?<BR/><BR/>Damn. You are powerful.Stephen Blackmoorehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01241134280141088631noreply@blogger.com