Book Launch? Sort of…
The Three Things Serial Story
A Little 1920s Story
Should I call this a book launch? That just doesn’t feel right, because I already did this story (and others) here at Teagan’s Books.
When I started this blog at the end of 2012 I did a few posts. By 2013 I wanted a theme — something more than just talking about my novel (Atonement, Tennessee) each week. That’s how the first of my serials began — The Three Things.
While any of the serials were being created here at this blog, people would ask for a book version. So I’ve finally made time to do the first book version! Of course I’ve started with the first serial. It’s only a novella in length. Here’s the Kindle version and the paperback.
So allow me to present to you, The Three Things Serial Story, a Little 1920s Story. (Amazon UK link.)
What’s in It for You?
Three Things — Three Free Books!
One free paperback book:
Wherever you are, leave a comment and you will be entered in a random drawing (like the random things!) for an autographed paperback of The Three Things Serial Story. The names will go into a box and my objective judge will draw the winner’s name. That’s her in the box now, waiting for comments.
Everyone is eligible for the paperback
Two more free Kindle books
I’m using an “Amazon giveaway” to provide two copies of the Kindle version of the book. (I’m sorry, but this is only available to folks in the USA.) Enter to win at this link: https://giveaway.amazon.com/p/c826e4f1836eb006
All of these giveaways expire Monday, December 6, 2016 at 11:59 PM (PST).
The Story Behind the Story
It was 1995 when I developed my “Three Things” writing exercise. Admittedly I’m easily entertained, but it seems to amuse others as well. I get three random things and write until I’ve mentioned all of them. So in 2013 I had the thought that it might be fun to do that here, and let everyone participate. That day I put the pen in your hands… and so it began. The serial took shape and this blog grew with it.
About the Story

Everything about this story was determined by the random “things” readers sent. Absolutely nothing was pre-planned. First came the narrator, Pip, aka Paisley Idelle Peabody. I imagined the voice of Lucille Ball as Pip, telling a story of her youth. Then came the 1920s setting, inspired by oscillating fan. Next the “things” brought characters, particularly Andy who came back for another serial. Eventually a thing gave me the Florida setting. I think you get the idea of how this worked.
Pip, a modern woman — a flapper, begins the first of several adventures. In this story a mysterious white-haired woman is kidnapped. Pip finds a bent key, a scrap from a special quilt, strange tattoos and other “things.” Later, Pip and her friends find themselves on a luxurious yacht where they encounter figures from history and celebrities of the era. The mystery comes to the forefront when they reach the destination, the gilded mansion, Cà d’Zan.
I hope you’ll enjoy this little 1920s story. Mega hugs!
Copyright © 2016 by Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene
All rights reserved.
No part of this book may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any printed or electronic form without permission. Please do not participate in or encourage piracy of copyrighted materials in violation of the author’s rights.
All images are either the property of the author or from Pinterest unless stated otherwise.
Good review of your book and writing secrets, Teagan. Mega hugs to you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you kindly Suzanne. Happy weekend hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Teri!
LikeLike
Thank you for sharing, Nandini. Mega hugs!
LikeLike
I am so late this time. I will order the book and I loved the trailer.
LikeLiked by 1 person
As I like to say, there’s no such thing as late here, Gerlinde. I’m always happy to see you when you have time to visit. 😀 I’m delighted you liked the trailer. I have such fun making them. Mega hugs.
LikeLike
Congrats, Teagan – and love your judge – he/she looks very discerning.
LikeLiked by 1 person
LOL! Thanks Teri. Truth is, I’ll assign a number to each commenter then use a random number generator. I’ll announce the winners Friday. Congrats again on your new book!!!
Mega hugs
LikeLiked by 1 person
Awwww, I’m in the UK but never mind I’ll enter for the paperback. Love the video I’m up for the road trip, as you know, and 1920’s has always been a fav era of mine. Mega hugs my friend.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks very much Adele. Thanks for reblogging too! I will announce the winner of the paperback in my next post (Friday afternoon Eastern Time). Mega hugs right back. 🙂
LikeLike
Reblogged this on firefly465.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on The Owl Lady.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Many thanks for reblogging, Viv. Mega hugs
LikeLike
Reblogged this on Thoughts by Mello-Elo.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so very much for sharing, Mello. Mega hugs
LikeLike
Thank you Sally, for including this novella in your Cafe & Bookstore. Mega hugs!
LikeLike
This is great news Teagan, congratulations on the launch 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Andrea. Thanks for taking a moment to visit. Have a wonderful new week. Huge hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good morning Teagan….you are amazing!:) I love the opening video and believe that this is going to be a corker:) I remember when I was a little girl and my parents would refer to the 20s….and it seemed to me to be the dark ages…and so why now does it seem much closer….the amazing illusion of time.
I know you have to return to normal routine this week, but you can do so with the full knowledge that you have something wonderful brewing here. Wishing you a beautiful weekend. Janet. xxx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Dear Janet, thank you for this marvelous comment. It makes me want to go back and write more adventures for Pip and her friends.
I actually still have a little bit of “use or lose” leave to use up — so I’ll be off one day this week. That helps. But come January I’ll be on a “whine” and cheese binge! LOL. Hummingbird hugs! 🙂
LikeLike
A lot can be accomplished between now and January:)xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Congrats and lots of good wished winging your way for a fabulous result to your book launch!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much, Noelle. Converting the serial to book format was a relaxing project. Now that I’ve launched the novella, I have at least that much of an accomplishment for this year — so that helps too. Have a superb Sunday. Hugs.
LikeLike
I’m not eligible either but super-duper for YOU. Great idea, publishing! It’s meant to be shared 🙂 ❤ ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Everyone is eligible for the paperback. And I say shame on Amazon for being so restrictive… Makes no sense. Thanks for your encouraging comment, Tess. Have a beautiful Sunday. Mega hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You too, Teagan. Don’t worry, I checked out Amazon. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on Kate McClelland.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on KC BOOKS & MUSIC and commented:
Check out Teagan’s Christmas give-away folks! 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wanted to enter for the give-away, but Amazon wouldn’t let me… Nevermind. 😉
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Kev. Thanks so much for visiting and for reblogging! Amazon limits that giveaway to USA. That’s why I added the paperback. It’s separate from Amazon’s giveaway. So you are entered for that one. Mega hugs. 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Aw thaanks Teagan! 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sounds great, Teagan, even though I don’t qualify, 🙂 — Suzanne
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sure you do, Suzanne. That’s why I added the paperback. It’s separate from Amazon’s giveaway. Thanks for taking time to visit. Mega hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow, somebody else who has a new book launch. 😀
Many congratulations, Teagan. Loved the video and the music got me dancing round the room (even if it is only 09:13 on a Saturday morning. 😀
I think your judge is not only going to pick a winner but is a winner.
Have a super weekend.
Hugs,
Hugh
xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s great to see you Hugh. Thanks very much. There’s no better way to start the day than dancing! 😀
Yes, there are a lot of new books popping up all over the place. But you know how twisted my mental wiring is — this was a relaxing project for me, while I struggle to cope with my hyper stress. So I just went ahead.
Wishing you huge success with Glimpses. Mega hugs.
LikeLike
Reblogged this on ravenhawks' magazine and commented:
Awesome Teagan.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Many thanks, Dyanna. Mega hugs!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Can’t not comment when there is a Geneviene prize to win. Wishing you a fabulous weekend!
Mega hugs across the pond ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Christoph. It’s great to see you. I know you must be busy getting everything ready for book fairs and libraries, so thanks for taking time to visit here. https://writerchristophfischer.wordpress.com/2016/12/02/carmarthenshire-events-for-your-diary-ammanford-and-llandeilo/
Great big long distance hugs right back. 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Always. A pleasure ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh my gosh, you surprised me with a Friday post! I didn’t start following you until after that series started, but then contributed to your later ones. How exciting, pick me, pick me you objective thing in the box, lol! I wish you huge success with this. I’ll buy the book if I don’t get picked sweetie. xoxoxoxo
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re too kind, Kathryn. 😀 This serial is what really got my blog going. So I’m excited to re-share it in this format that I posted a little earlier than usual. Thanks so much for taking time to visit. Happy Saturday and mega hugs!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I ordered my book and am so excited to read it. The concept is brilliant. You involve your readers making us part of the process and that is not just exciting for us but we are contributors which is so cool and such fun for us. I love Pip and the 1920’s. Very exciting❤️
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Suzanne. I hope it does not disappoint. To me a big part of the serials is that I get to promote other bloggers — and I had to take out that. You’ve probably already read it, since (I think) I re-ran it after you started following. However, I remember all your encouragement and how much you liked Pip and Andy and missed them when I moved to other characters. I’m honored that you wanted the novella version. Happy Saturday to you and Percy. Mega hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love Pip and Andy and loved that story it was one of my favorites and Teagan I am NEVER. Disappointed you are one of my favorite writers and I mean that😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’ve made my day, Suzanne. Wishing you a delicious December, my friend. More hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a fascinating way to write a book ~ developing the plot along with your readers and contributors, then fleshing out the story as you go. I love organic writing; it’s so fresh and alive with exciting opportunity. Congratulations, Teagan. Love and hugs ♥
LikeLiked by 1 person
Dear Tina — I hope so! 😀 I never knew from one minute to the next where these stories were going. Of course there eventually came a time when I had to reign it in, and bring the conclusion. The real challenge was going back to find all the loose ends, red herrings, and clues (that didn’t evolve into something big) — tie them all up for the conclusion. Thanks for taking time to read and comment. Mega hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s how my current novel evolved, Teagan. When I sat down to write, I never knew where it would take me. The characters had their own ideas and the book seemed to write itself. But as you say, the challenge is finding all the loose ends and red herrings, including any and all contradictions! XXXX
LikeLiked by 1 person
Teagan I am going to order this as I didn’t know you when you wrote it for the blog. It looks like a fun read! Woo hoo! 😘❤️
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Colleen. You’re so kind. Thank you. If it will make you put your feet up and recuperate then that’s even better. Exactly — it’s just meant to be fun. Be good to you. Mega hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks again. I think it will be a fun read! ❤️ Hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Teagan, just ordered The Three Things paperback book & it arrives on December 9th! Can’t wait to read it. Remember the serial well. Congratulations off the book launch. Have a restful Friday & weekend! Huge hugs! 💛 Christine
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oops…on the book launch! 😒
LikeLiked by 1 person
Aw Christine, that’s so kind of you. I have it fixed so that when you buy the paperback you get the ebook free. I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed putting it together. Mega hugs my friend.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Where to begin?!! I LOVE the video and it totally sold me on the book BEFORE I even read your post. I just bought my Kindle copy here in Canada 🙂 I love that you’re a proud pantser!! As for taking a break, you’re not capable of taking one but I still love you!! xxoo MEGA hugs!
LikeLiked by 1 person
LOL. Christy, I’ve long said that I’m just not wired right. Doing the formatting for the book version was probably the most relaxing thing I’ve done all year. You’re so very kind to have bought the novella. I really do hope you enjoy it.
I have such fun making the videos (and covers too) — so I’m doubly pleased you liked it. Mega hugs right back! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow, congratulations Teagan!!! I’m so pleased for you and for the future readers of your works because they just don’t know how lucky they are yet! 🙂
It’s official, you’re terrible, at taking a break, but amazing at writing, so readers will benefit from your hard work, dedication, and brilliant writing.
I’m so pleased for you, dear friend, it’s an amazing series, love the video and well, everything. 🙂
Hope this weekend treats you kindly.
Mega how many things is that altogether/you’re the cat’s pajamas hugs xoxox
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you my friend. LOL and I love being the cat’s pajamas! Creating the book formats was a fun walk down memory lane. I appreciate you taking time to visit today, Donna. How is your arm/shoulder? I hope you are sling-free now. Happy December. Have a wonder-filled, hug-filled weekend.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I am sling-free, not pain-free, but that is an imagined state, but happy to be moving around better and enjoying the still kind of warm weather (for this time of year in Canada) for walking, I love walking, it gives me lots of time to think, I’m often stopping to jot down an idea or two.
How is everything going, dear friend, I hope you’ve had a lovely, relaxing weekend, giving you time to brace for the week ahead.
You’ll always be the cat’s pajamas to me, Teagan although we’ll have to see what Crystal has to say about that, I have no doubt she’ll have some very definite feline opinions – you’re also the cat’s meow, once again, we should consult Crystal. lol 😉
I’ve been trying to get something done this weekend, managed some Christmas baking, all to give away (who am I kidding, I made, among other things, Walnut Crescents and Chocolate Christmas Crinkles, not all will make it into the tins for giveaway), some writing, cleaning, email, but then I started binge-watching “Jamaica Inn” with Jessica Brown Findlay and Matthew McNulty and the time just seemed to fly, if only they could smuggle me some time. 😉
Anyway, hope all is going well, I surprised myself and wrote a blog post which I might post with a surprise this week…or just post, that would sort of surprise me.
Best of luck with the book launch (yes, it is), dear friend and sending you positive vibes for the week ahead. 🙂
Mega I always loved the 1920s as an era, all those cool threads and bathtub gin and dancing, love the dancing hugs xoxo
LikeLiked by 1 person
I so get the pain-free-imaginary thing, Donna. I had one of those nights last night. But today is good. Except for yes, bracing for the workweek. I’m totally impressed by the baking! Mouthwatering!!!
Ah Jamaica Inn… I’ve seen 1 & 2. I’ve made a fairly firm rule with that I watch — must have a feel good factor. JI doesn’t qualify, but it’s so well done in every way… It’s my exception to the rule. I don’t remember the book being nearly as good (but that was long ago reading).
Looking forward to seeing your blog post. 😀
Jazzy flapper hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I viewed your trailer on Facebook. What a fantastic job you did with it, Teagan. Best of luck with your new book, and yes, you can still call it a “book launch” because it is. Congratulations. BIG congratulations! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Mary. You know how it is… It’s hard to overcome parts of one’s upbringing, even though they need to have been flushed down the drain long decades ago. So thanks for saying that.
I have such fun making trailers and covers that I’m extra pleased when someone likes them. Thanks very much! Wishing you huge success with your two new releases! Amazing. Mega hugs my friend.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I understand. Be proud.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Love the video & downloaded a copy of the book! Sharing… 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Why thank you so much Bette! It’s not the usual kind of story, being all out “pantser.” But I hope you enjoy it. Mega hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Looking forward to the read! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on Smorgasbord – Variety is the spice of life and commented:
As promised Teagan Geneviene has brought out a book of the wonderful Three Things Serial that we all enjoyed weekly.. Timing is of the essence as Teagan is offering on FREE signed copy of the book in a draw.. make a comment on Teagan’s original post and also two copies of the Kindle version.. head over and get your name in the game..
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much for sharing Sally. You always do such a great intro too. Mega hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It was a great series and makes a wonderful book Teagan.. will do an update on Monday for the Cafe & bookstore as there is one day left on the offer but also put the normal links in too. x
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh that’s lovely, Sally! I didn’t think there would be time. Thanks so very much. More hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think I started following toward the end of that. Now I can catch up – yay! Of course, I could have always done that byt stepping back in time through the blog, but…
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for the way you said that, Dan. That’s why I went ahead with the book formats. It can be a pain on a blog, or reading on a computer at all. This particular one was a small enough project that it was stress free, and a fun walk down memory lane. Thanks for taking time to comment. Mega hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow, congratulations, Teagan! You do know how to ‘take a break’ in style 😉 Many hugs!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Inese. Thanks so much for taking time to visit.
Yes, I know it sounds deranged. LOL. But I’m a technical editor & writer by trade these past *many* years. So strange as it seems, I found putting the blog serial into paperback and ebook formats quite relaxing. Plus I very much enjoy being creative with making the book covers and videos. Mega hugs right back. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Teagan, I am sure that even your technical writings are captivating 🙂
Everything in your blog is worth to be a book. Cannot wait to read Atonement in Bloom, and more to follow. xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are too kind Inese. I surely hope to finish Bloom — and sooner rather than later. Take good care of you. More hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Congrats on the Three Things book launch, Teagan! Wow! I recall that we had started blogging at around the same time a few years ago, and it’s so exciting to see that the serial is now a book. Splendid! Hugs and high fives to you from Chicago. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Welcome back, Shirley. Thanks for taking a moment to comment. High five back! 😀 Mega hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, of course, I want to be entered in a drawing if only for the autograph. Best wishes on this launch. (sort of) Hugs
LikeLiked by 1 person
I didn’t win the Kindle so I did the next best thing, I bought it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re too kind, John. I need to experiment further with the Amazon give away. I thought it was supposed to be open a fixed amount of time and then it would randomly choose… As I say — it’s all part of my grand experiment in indie. I’m learning as we go.
Loved you “Johnku” today. Mega hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Teagan. I’m just beginning with Amazon marketing. hey you sold a book today. That means it works. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Haha. That wasn’t the idea. But thanks from my heart.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ha ha ha. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s fun to sort of launch a book — even if it’s always been out there.
I enjoy holding a real book in my hands, so I always make a paperback available, despite the fact that they only get royalties in the pennies.
Hugs again.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Royalities? What’s that?
LikeLiked by 1 person
No kidding… There’s always the dream. 🙂 More hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on Chris The Story Reading Ape's Blog and commented:
Great News for Teagan’s Stories Fans 👍😃
LikeLiked by 1 person
Dear Ape, thanks so much for sharing this post at your tree house! Mega hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
MFFH Teagan ❤️
LikeLiked by 1 person
well i suppose the fact i’m commenting form the UK makes me sort of out of line but, hey, the book has to be acquired one way or anther so I’ll go the old buy it route!! Well done on the launch. Must be very satisfying..
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re not out of line at all, Geoff. I’m collecting the comments so UK can be included. The Amazon would only let me do the Kindle book giveaway for USA.
Even though I’ve already run the serial here at the blog in 2013 (and then reran it at some point), yes — I do find it satisfying. Thanks for visiting. Mega hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You do a terrific job Teagan. I’m glad to be part of the humble penumbra to your dazzling star ( I’m trying a flattery diet in the hope it absorbs unnecessary pounds – what do you think?
LikeLiked by 1 person
LOL, you’re in danger of being thin enough to wast away, then. Thanks for taking a moment to visit. Hugs!
LikeLiked by 1 person
This was a gem of a story built from a pearl of an idea. It was great fun and worked so seamlessly from week to week, episode to episode.. You really put your stamp on these Teagan and made them such fun.
xxx Massive Hugs xxx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you kindly David. It was a lovely walk down memory lane to put the blog serial into book formats. You’ve been such a fantastic supporter of the serials, and I appreciate it more than you could know. Wishing you a beautiful weekend, filled to overflowing with hugs! 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well, here’s my comment 🙂 I’m keeping my fingers crossed. Soooo… here’s another little project while you were supposed to be relaxing!. All kidding aside, congrats on the book, Teagan!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Diana. I think I have a warped idea of relaxation. But I’m a technical editor & writer by trade these past *many* years. So strange as it seems, I found putting the blog serial into paperback and ebook formats quite relaxing. Of course the book cover and video are creative outlets for me as well. While this one was much easier than the culinary serials will be, it was still huge fun.
Many thanks for visiting and commenting. Mega hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Fantastic news, Teagan. I had spotted the video before. Excellent! Congratulations!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for celebrating with me Olga. Yes, I needed to feel a sense of *some* accomplishment and this was a manageable level of effort. Wishing you a wonderful weekend. Huge hugs!
LikeLike
The young Lucille Ball sounds perfect as Pip! The 20s was an interesting era, a lot of changes going on.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Lavinia. Yes, I feel there’s a certain mystique about the 20s. I wonder what they’ll say about the 2010s in a hundred years… Many thanks for taking a moment to visit. Mega hugs.
LikeLike