Want to dictate up to 5000 WORDS an hour? Want to do it with 99% ACCURACY from the day you start?NEW EDITION: UPDATED to cover the latest Dragon Professional Individual v15 for PC & v6 for Mac

FREE video training included!

As writers, we all know what an incredible tool dictation software can be. It enables us to write faster and avoid the dangers of RSI and a sedentary lifestyle. But many of us give up on dictating when we find we can't get the accuracy we need to be truly productive.

This book changes all of that. With almost two decades of using Dragon software under his belt and a wealth of insider knowledge from within the dictation industry, Scott Baker will reveal how to supercharge your writing and achieve sky-high recognition accuracy from the moment you start using the software. You will learn:

- Hidden tricks to use when installing Dragon NaturallySpeaking on a Windows PC or Dragon Dictate for Mac;

- How to choose the right microphone and set it up perfectly for speech recognition;

- The little-known techniques that will ensure around 99% accuracy from your first install – and how to make this even better over time;

- Setting up fail-safe dictation profiles with multiple microphones and voice recorders, without impacting your accuracy;

- How to train the software to adapt to both your voice AND writing style and avoid your accuracy declining;

- Strategies for achieving your entire daily word count in just one or two hours;

- Many more tips and tricks you won't find anywhere else.

At the end of the book, you'll also find an exclusive list of resources and links to FREE video training to take your knowledge even further.

It's time to write at the speed of speech – and transform your writing workflow forever!

Subject keywords: Dragon Dictate Naturally Speaking for PC Mac, dictating your book or novel, dictation for writers authors beginners advanced, creative writing guides, self publishing

Nothing quite prepares you for what you will see on the street once you become a cop. It is one of the most dangerous jobs a person can do but also the most fun as well. --Scott Baker

Cops are the people who see and hear it all. They work at one of the world's most dangerous jobs, but it's also one of the most entertaining. When their lives are at risk-and even when they aren't--cops encounter constant weirdness and stupidity in human behavior. The Funniest Cop Stories Ever collects the strangest, most amusing stories about stupid crooks, bungled crimes, and station-house banter. A true look at what life is like behind the badge, the tales in The Funniest Cop Stories Ever were collected by real-life ex-New York City policeman Scott Baker and coauthor Tom Philbin. Anecdotes are told by the real-life cops who experienced them and include:

* A foot chase after a dwarf who karate-kicked his girlfriend's door and assaulted her while wearing a tuxedo and carrying a violin case.

* A beggar who ended people's pay phone calls so he could demand their extra spare change.

* A narcotics bust on a guy who claimed the crack cocaine--and his pants--didn't belong to him.

Eight months ago vampires released the Revenant Virus on humanity. Both species were nearly wiped out.

For Mike Robson, the situation could be far worse. He’s joined up with a small band of humans and the last coven of vampires who are riding out the zombie apocalypse in an old fort along the coast of southern Maine. The group’s uneasy alliance is strained by the arrival of the creator of the Revenant Virus. He claims there is a vaccine that will make them immune to the virus, but it’s located in a secure underground facility five hundred miles away. To retrieve the vaccine, Robson leads a raiding party of humans and vampires down the devastated East Coast. Yet none of the horrors Robson has faced match what awaits in the underground facility…

When most people think of the police—cops—they think of scenarios seen on TV or read in the newspapers, with valiant law enforcement crime fighters battling drug dealers, organized crime,mobsters, gangs, and criminals of all kinds. But as Scott Baker, former NYPD officer, describes in A Warmer Shade of Blue Stories About Good Things Cops Do, the thing that cops want most is to help people in simple, everyday ways.

In heartwarming, inspiring stories about the good things that cops do above and beyond their law enforcement duties, Baker tells of cops who spend their own time and money, on the job and off, to help the elderly, the young, and the sick cope with their problems in life. From the patrolman who helped a sick little girl be blessed by the Pope, to attending funerals of fallen cops and caring for their families, to feeding and clothing the homeless, to helping troubled kids stay on the right path, the stories show that cops care.

Constantly battling the crime and indifference of the cold dark side of society, cops also want to show themselves and others that there is a warmth to humanity as well. After reading these stories, you’ll know it’s true.

A provocative and polarizing book that takes the Pussyhat Project and the Women’s March to one of society’s most powerful forces for influence and change, the publishing industry.

By all appearances, publishing is an open-to-all endeavor. But for female authors and authors of color and LGBT authors, for authors who write about women or people of color or individuals in the LGBT community, entry is all but barred.

Writing While Female or Black or Gay, written by a publishing professional with twenty years of experience, describes how the books women write are treated differently from representation through to marketing and remaindering, how authors of color are not allowed to write what is dearest to their hearts, and how LGBT authors are ghettoized.

In the footsteps of influential authors like Toni Morrison, bell hooks, Jessica Valenti, Tracie Egan Morrissey, Jennifer Pozner, Roxane Gay, Malala Yousafzai and Jill Filipovic, this work provides actionable steps.

Through incredibly simple actions, anyone concerned about gender equality, true diversity, and the rights of every human being can fix the problems. Writing While Female or Black or Gay includes:

--The books women write are treated differently from representation through to marketing and remaindering.

--Authors of color are not allowed to write what is dearest to their hearts.

--LGBT authors and characters are ghettoized. 

Every person who has marched or resisted racism and stereotypes can pick up this book and immediately begin reverse engineering the publishing industry. Diverse voices need to be heard today more often than ever. Hear the call to action that can open the gates for a better world in Writing While Female or Black or Gay. Because, as Gloria Steinem says, “The only thing worse than trying is not trying.”

"Full of wit, sarcasm, insight and humor. [Laine] caves in castles on the hill, roasts the big name publishers (and so called liberal literary magazines as well) and discusses topics that are poisonous for new writers - unless they be young white males (and even there she has some pointers that are laugh out loud funny). Truthful and caustic and sensible. A must-read." Grady Harp, Hall of Fame Reviewer

"Something I find particularly interesting about this book is that it lays bare lots about the publishing industry. What influences publishing decisions, how sales are monitored (or not monitored) and how target audiences are categorised. It's really a must-read for every author, even if you're not female, black or gay. The book ends with a list of simple, practical actions all book lovers can undertake in order to help reverse engineer this industry of prejudice." Marion Grace Woolley, Author, Those Rosy Hours at Mazandaran

"Read this. If you're a reader, read this. If you're an author, new or old, who is female or black or gay (or minority or LGBT or even a plain ol' white guy - there's stuff in there for you too), then you need to read this." Angel Leya, Goodreads Reviewer

"I was glad the Laine Cunningham wrote this book ... so we the readers can know what goes on behind the scenes and we can therefore show support to minority authors. The book was funny and encouraging to authors, even while talking about the brutal truth of being overlooked. If you're an author ... read this book. It will help you understand what you're up against. If you're just an avid reader, like me, then read this book to educate yourself about how the publishing process works and how bias can affect it." S. Clem, Reviewer "

"'God forbid you be female, black, gay, or any other version of 'not a straight white guy' and pick up a pen today because gender, race, and the politics of power will shroud your words in obscurity.' This is so true. I have the privilege of knowing many published authors and there is still stigma for a female author. This book is well written and eye opening. Highly recommended. While using humor, this book also has a ton of insider knowledge for everyone." M. Slusarcky, Reviewer

"I recently saw a 'meme' on Facebook that said: 'Good morning world, what are we offended by today?' it makes me laugh, there's some true in it, but it's also pointing out a real problem. Yes, these are the real problem our society should analyze and try to find a solution ... A remarkable work and a must buy for everyone without exception." Julius Z, Reviewer

"Laine has made sure that whether you are an author or a reader you will not want to leave this book half finished. Insightful and entertaining." H. Taylor, Reviewer

NEW EDITION – REVISED & UPDATED!! 

“A highly recommended guide from one of the most creative people around.” 
– William Reichard, author of This Album Full of Angles 

UNLEASH THE POWER OF YOUR CREATIVE POTENTIAL! 

Learn practical, fun techniques guaranteed to get your stories on paper Weave worlds of wonder beyond your conscious imagining Discover how to write naturally, eloquently and without struggle 

Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, whatever your genre or form, The Voice of the Muse will deepen your creative experience and awaken you to new skills, new stories and a renewed confidence in your innate gifts. 

YOU'LL NEVER FEEL THE SAME ABOUT WRITING AGAIN! 

“Mark David is a master of the word...absolutely a catalyst for my writing.” 
– Joan Cerio, author of Hardwired to Heaven 

“Whenever I feel blocked, I open this book, read a couple of pages and feel inspired again.” 
– Anna Blagoslavova, Moscow, Russia 

"Mark David Gerson's The Voice of the Muse book and recording saved my languishing novel!" 
– Katie Thomas, Lynchburg, VA 

Works well in conjunction with The Voice of the Muse Companion: Guided Meditations for Writers, a recording that includes the author's recording of ten of the guided meditations in the book and is also available on Google Play.  

"No writer could ask for a more encouraging guide." 
– The Written Word 

"The words lie within you. They hover in the shadows, longing to be noticed, yearning to heard, aching to be shared. Together, through this book, you and I will give them voice." 
– Mark David Gerson, The Voice of the Muse

YOU HAVE A BOOK IN YOU...
It's time to let it out!

Let Mark David Gerson show you how easy it can be, with...
• Dynamic tools to get you started and keep you writing
• Surefire techniques to spark new concepts, new content and new ideas
• Compelling inspiration to keep you motivated, committed and impassioned

You don’t even have to know what your book is about!

82% of Americans say they plan to write a book someday...Will you be one of the few who does?

Start Birthing Your Book Today...You’ll Never Feel the Same About Writing Again!

"I have so much gratitude for the help and confidence Mark David gave me."
– Estelle Blackburn, author of Broken Lives

"Have you thought about writing a book but don’t know how to start? Mark David Gerson can help you make that thought a reality. I know. He did it for me!"
– Karen Walker, author of Following the Whispers

"Mark David Gerson is spectacular. The best writing teacher ever!"
– Katie Thomas, Lynchburg, Virginia  

~Reading I WAS NEVER AFRAID is like watching a film from the Golden Age of Hollywood unfold with every page you turn. Hollywood needs to stop making remakes and pick up I WAS NEVER AFRAID by Scott Baker Sweeney and make this into a brand new feature film. Jack Marino Independent Film Maker/Radio Host, LA TALK RADIO ~As an actress, I lover a story that jumps off a page onto a movie screen in my mind! Scott should be winning Oscars for this! BRAVO! God Bless You, Juli Tapken Award Winning Lead Actress ~Rating: 5 stars The extremely realist dialogue and excellent characterizations keep readers involved every step of the way. The action keeps them rapidly following along, unwilling to stop reading. Excellent supporting characterizations maintain interest, with a touch of the mystical adding yet another dimension throughout. Angie Mangino Journalist/Book Reviewer ~Scott Baker Sweeney’s new novel, I Was Never Afraid, hooks you on the very first page and doesn’t let you go. This fast paced novel has it all - believable characters, excitement, exotic locations, danger and love. Once you pick it up, it will be hard to put down. 5 star rating! Marsha Shilts Writer/Editor, Prestwick Style

"Cheat River Three", is a true life adventure immersed in circumstantial fiction! The adventures in this novel were based on true stories of my infamous father's wild life, intertwined with tales of a fictional heroine that rivals him with her own special free spirited exploits. Their quest for adventure would separate them and take them independently far away, but tragedy and love would eventually reunite them and return them home. Cheat River Three will take the reader on an emotional roller coaster of humor and excitement as well as pull at their heartstrings.

"if the reader is right with them hearing them speak, readers will both laugh and cry with this"

"'Cheat River Three', just as with his other stories, Sweeney knows how to hook a reader and keep them flipping pages and gobbling up his words! Eugene,James and Kat are wonderfully drawn characters that seemed real and familiar. Their exploits and stories will have you laughing and crying the whole time. ~ Melissa Caldwell, Must Read Faster

Austin Brock is a typical Indiana farm boy who grew up in the mid nineteen seventies, handsome, hardworking, and raised with a strong religious foundation. But Austin was not content with spending the rest of his life shoveling silage; he aspired to see what more the world would offer. Never in his wildest dreams could he imagine what his future had in store. His ticket off the farm came in the form of an acceptance letter to Notre Dame.

Notre Dame was where Austin befriended and also betrayed the trust of his roommate Tommy O’Shea. Tommy was also a farm lad, but on a different scale, the O’Shea’s were a wealthy aristocratic family from Ireland.

All was well until Tommy confided in Austin and revealed a secret only known by a select few families or clans in Europe and parts of the Christian community in the Middle East.

The “secret” is an unwritten lore of great biblical significance, revealing a priceless gift of unbelievable beauty, and mysterious powers. However you will find out this beauty was not meant to be seen by all eyes. Little did Tommy know that his trusted secret would end up in print, get Austin in hot water with the University and end the boys’ friendship.

The betrayed roommate would leave his American counterpart and return to his homeland, little did Tommy know that the secret lore he shared with Austin would come back to haunt his Irish family.

Austin would go to Ireland a few years later to find Tommy, not as a friend, but as a United States Navy Seal; he would be working in conjunction with the C.I.A. and British intelligence.

Apparently, Austin wasn’t the only one who found out about Tommy’s Irish lore. According to secret intelligence one wealthy treasure hunter is willing to fund terror groups in return for finding and retrieving this priceless bounty. Worse yet, some intelligence suggest that reward for this treasure will be paid not in currency or bonds, but something much worse.

The “much worse” part is why the United States and England are frantically searching as well.

So it’s a race to find the “Tears of Mary”. Would they be able to find them in time before the bad guys?

Austin has several mysterious encounters with both good and evil forces, falls in love and in the end saves the day. Or does he?

Read the book!

Want to dictate up to 5000 WORDS an hour? Want to do it with 99% ACCURACY from the day you start?NEW EDITION: UPDATED to cover the latest Dragon Professional Individual v15 for PC & v6 for Mac

FREE video training included!

As writers, we all know what an incredible tool dictation software can be. It enables us to write faster and avoid the dangers of RSI and a sedentary lifestyle. But many of us give up on dictating when we find we can't get the accuracy we need to be truly productive.

This book changes all of that. With almost two decades of using Dragon software under his belt and a wealth of insider knowledge from within the dictation industry, Scott Baker will reveal how to supercharge your writing and achieve sky-high recognition accuracy from the moment you start using the software. You will learn:

- Hidden tricks to use when installing Dragon NaturallySpeaking on a Windows PC or Dragon Dictate for Mac;

- How to choose the right microphone and set it up perfectly for speech recognition;

- The little-known techniques that will ensure around 99% accuracy from your first install – and how to make this even better over time;

- Setting up fail-safe dictation profiles with multiple microphones and voice recorders, without impacting your accuracy;

- How to train the software to adapt to both your voice AND writing style and avoid your accuracy declining;

- Strategies for achieving your entire daily word count in just one or two hours;

- Many more tips and tricks you won't find anywhere else.

At the end of the book, you'll also find an exclusive list of resources and links to FREE video training to take your knowledge even further.

It's time to write at the speed of speech – and transform your writing workflow forever!

Subject keywords: Dragon Dictate Naturally Speaking for PC Mac, dictating your book or novel, dictation for writers authors beginners advanced, creative writing guides, self publishing

Eight months ago vampires released the Revenant Virus on humanity. Both species were nearly wiped out.

For Mike Robson, the situation could be far worse. He’s joined up with a small band of humans and the last coven of vampires who are riding out the zombie apocalypse in an old fort along the coast of southern Maine. The group’s uneasy alliance is strained by the arrival of the creator of the Revenant Virus. He claims there is a vaccine that will make them immune to the virus, but it’s located in a secure underground facility five hundred miles away. To retrieve the vaccine, Robson leads a raiding party of humans and vampires down the devastated East Coast. Yet none of the horrors Robson has faced match what awaits in the underground facility…

The series publishes monographs and edited volumes that showcase significant scholarly work at the various intersections that currently motivate interdisciplinary inquiry in German cultural studies. Topics span German-speaking lands and cultures from the 18th to the 21st century, with a special focus on demonstrating how various disciplines and new theoretical and methodological paradigms work across disciplinary boundaries to create knowledge and add to critical understanding in German studies. The series editor is a renowned professor of German studies in the United States who penned one of the foundational texts for understanding what interdisciplinary German cultural studies can be. All works are peer-reviewed and in English. Three new titles will be published annually.

 

About the series editor:

Irene Kacandes is the Dartmouth Professor of German Studies and Comparative Literature at Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire.  She received three degrees from Harvard University and also studied at the Free University of Berlin and Aristotle University in Thessaloniki, Greece. She publishes on a wide range of interdisciplinary topics including secondary orality, rhetoric, aesthetics, trauma, witnessing, family and generational memory, experimental life writing, Holocaust testimony, and narrative theory.  She has lectured widely in the United States and Europe and currently serves as President of the International Society for the Study of Narrative and Vice President of the German Studies Association.

In the middle decades of the sixteenth century, the republican city-state of Florence--birthplace of the Renaissance--failed. In its place the Medici family created a principality, becoming first dukes of Florence and then grand dukes of Tuscany. The Fruit of Liberty examines how this transition occurred from the perspective of the Florentine patricians who had dominated and controlled the republic. The book analyzes the long, slow social and cultural transformations that predated, accompanied, and facilitated the institutional shift from republic to principality, from citizen to subject. More than a chronological narrative, this analysis covers a wide range of contributing factors to this transition, from attitudes toward officeholding, clothing, the patronage of artists and architects to notions of self, family, and gender. Using a wide variety of sources including private letters, diaries, and art works, Nicholas Baker explores how the language, images, and values of the republic were reconceptualized to aid the shift from citizen to subject. He argues that the creation of Medici principality did not occur by a radical break with the past but with the adoption and adaptation of the political culture of Renaissance republicanism.

Joshuah Ben Ya'akob Ben Gennesaret , better known to the world as Jesus Christ, is sitting alone in a small candle lit room high on the plateau of Masada during the mass suicide of 73AD. Old, tired and distraught that his people should be driven to this bloody end the octogenarian commits the story of his turbulent life to parchment. He tells of his childhood and the ministry that took Palestine by storm, his failure to ignite rebellion against the Roman occupation, how he cheated death on the cross, and his travels into northwest India before returning to Masada to die. This fictional autobiography relates a tale of hope, triumph, love, violence and finally regret from a failed prophet whose all consuming love for his God brought light and healing to thousands but ultimately destroyed his life.

When most people think of the police—cops—they think of scenarios seen on TV or read in the newspapers, with valiant law enforcement crime fighters battling drug dealers, organized crime,mobsters, gangs, and criminals of all kinds. But as Scott Baker, former NYPD officer, describes in A Warmer Shade of Blue Stories About Good Things Cops Do, the thing that cops want most is to help people in simple, everyday ways.

In heartwarming, inspiring stories about the good things that cops do above and beyond their law enforcement duties, Baker tells of cops who spend their own time and money, on the job and off, to help the elderly, the young, and the sick cope with their problems in life. From the patrolman who helped a sick little girl be blessed by the Pope, to attending funerals of fallen cops and caring for their families, to feeding and clothing the homeless, to helping troubled kids stay on the right path, the stories show that cops care.

Constantly battling the crime and indifference of the cold dark side of society, cops also want to show themselves and others that there is a warmth to humanity as well. After reading these stories, you’ll know it’s true.