The Developers by Ben Woods

The Developers

Before Facebook made it big, there was an odd assembly of quasi-geeks building a social networking site for a small Midwestern city. However, fast food addiction, incessant sexual tension and heated bingo competition constantly distract the team. While the opportunity arises to build the first nationwide, government-sponsored high-speed Internet portal, the issue comes second to Matt's relationship with Katy, the team's co-leader. They cannot hate each other enough to halt their steamy romance, but they can't love each other enough to share anything but a fish dinner.

The Developers mixes the insane and obscene with technology, romance and pop culture. But while the book's web development group tries to make its mark on the virtual world, it encounters pre-eminent issues that will soon be shaping the Internet of the future: Are individuals losing their remaining privacy due to the World Wide Web? Will online social interaction eventually replace in-person gatherings as a necessary means?

Corporate Ties

Ten years

Posted: May 28, 2015

Ten years ago this month, I originally published "The Developers." It's weird to think it was that long ago, and even weirder to think that I started on the book 13 years ago, in 2002. While so much has changed with the Internet, the key tenets of the book seemingly still hold true:

1. The Internet is a social place.
2. Governments and corporations are always watching.

Then again, I guess these items are relevant in real-life situations as well. It's just much easier to track people (definitely as a group but also as individuals) online.

Kentucky Book Fair - I don't understand

Posted: November 9, 2012

The 2012 Kentucky Book Fair begins today in Frankfort, and, well, I'm not sure if anyone knows or even cares. The idea of a book fair in Kentucky certainly appeals to me, as it should all book-lovers.

Back in 2006, I submitted "The Developers" for a spot in the fair, but I was declined. I assumed I submitted late, or perhaps there just weren't that many spots. However, after seeing photos of the actual event, and noticing the lack of media coverage, I thought that maybe it just wasn't very big and no one actually attended.

"The Developers" giveaway on Goodreads

Posted: November 2, 2012

I'm currently giving away 15 copies of my first book, "The Developers," on Goodreads. The giveaway ends in December, but sign up now so you'll be registered to win. I'm planning on doing a giveaway with "Corporate Ties" as well, so that you can stock up on Christmas gifts!

Literary agent list

Posted: September 10, 2010

As I attempt to find an agency to pitch my new book, I thought it might be a good idea to list some of the agents I have contacted. At this stage, I've run into issues where companies have listed communication methods, but they don't seem to follow through. I hope that my list will save the time of others who are attempting to find representation.

New year, new stuff

Posted: January 13, 2009

Things seem to be getting more hectic as each year passes. I suspect some day, we'll have 26 hours in a day, but until that happens, we'll have to settle with getting everything imaginable taken care of in a normal day. As for me, I have a few new projects going, which is why I haven't had as much time lately to write articles and respond to comments. Have no fear! In 2009, you'll see plenty on this site, including the following:

The Developers on Goodreads

The Developers: The Easiest Thing to Find on the Internet: Crazy People