Name: Jim Hartsell
Book(s) Title: Pushing Back, Matching Scars Series Title: Boone Genre(s): Southern, New Adult, Children’s, Non-Fiction Tell us a little about yourself? Perhaps something not many people know? Since I’m writing this on August 13th (Left-Hander’s Day), I should mention that I’m left-handed. In addition to that minority status, I’m also: a political liberal in a conservative state, a Unitarian Universalist in an overwhelmingly Evangelical Christian region, a hammered dulcimer player, a survivor of a domestic terrorist attack, and a Mac user. Out on the edge is where all the interesting stuff happens, in my opinion. If you’re interested in the standard stuff, I’m a native East Tennesseean, married for 37 years (two grown children, one granddaughter and another on the way), live on the side of a mountain in a house my wife and I built (mostly with our own hands), volunteer at the local nature center and my church, and so on. Million dollar question, are you working on another book? I’m about a third of the way through the initial draft of the next Boone book. Have you written any other books that are not published? The illustrator is working on her part of my latest children’s book, which is not yet published. We think it’s going to be called “The Box of Toys”. Goals of certain # of words a week or when inspiration strikes? I tend to write in bursts, but whatever I’m working on is pretty much always in my head, so I’m working on the story daily, and on some days I’m writing it down. I don’t set a number of words (for why, see the next question). What tactics do you have when writing? (For example: outline or just write) If I tried to outline, I would start rebelling against the outline almost immediately. I never know where a story is going to go, and I prefer it that way. What is/are your book(s) about? The Boone series (two out and a third in the works) is about a sixteen-year-old East Tennessee boy who is trying as hard as he can not to turn out like his daddy. Boone is young and sometimes foolish, impulsive and quick to anger, insecure, and doesn’t have money, looks, or connections to help him over the inevitable rough spots. But he’s trying, which I guess makes him more like the rest of us than not. “Tango” is the story of Sam, who has a very low-key life (except for the tango lessons, which nobody knows about) until an old friend from college comes to visit, drawing Sam into his shady dealings and reopening old wounds. “Rock, Paper, Scissors” is about Edward, who is shaken out of his routine life by, among other things, Melissa, who teaches him more about rock, paper, scissors than he ever knew before. “Journey” is a short, dark piece about a teenager’s journey from rage to the beginnings of self-awareness. “Glimpses” is a set of vignettes from my life and the lives around me, ranging from funny to inspirational to horrific. “Father and Sister Radish and the Rose-Colored Glasses” and “The Mountain Climber” are both illustrated children’s books, about different ways of seeing the world around us. “Sisyphus and the Itsy-bitsy Spider” is my first book, a non-fiction work written primarily for educators who work with students who are challenged by the absence of good behavior. Does your book have a lesson? Moral? I’ve had readers explain the moral of my book to me after they finished reading it, and it wasn’t what I intended at all. So I guess the answer is yes, but people tend to see what they are looking for. Do your characters seem to hijack the story or do you feel like you have the reigns of the story? Usually I’m just trying to keep up. That’s the fun part. What has been the best compliment? That my fictional characters feel authentic. One reader said that “Journey” contained “absolutely no bulls***.” Who is your favorite author? Totally unfair question, but here’s a partial list: Rebecca Solnit, Kurt Vonnegut, James P. Carse, Lewis Carroll. There are more; it depends on what I need to hear. Of all the characters you have created, which is your favorite and why? Definitely Boone; he’s sort of an everyman. Not much going for him, but he’s trying. Any website or resources that have been helpful to you as a writer? King’s “On Writing” and Bradbury’s “Zen in the Art of Writing”. Have you thought about joining with another author to write a book? One of my good friends, a member of the writing group I belong to, and I have toyed around with the notion. Nothing solid yet. What genre do you consider your books? Have you considered writing in another genre? Tough question. Most of them are closer to New Adult than any other genre (except my children’s books, of course). “Glimpses” and “Sisyphus and the Itsy-Bitsy Spider” are both non-fiction. Amazon Author Page Link: www.amazon.com/author/jimhartsell Twitter Handle: @jhartsell1152 Facebook Page Link: https://www.facebook.com/jimhartsellwriter/ Check out his books on Amazon!!!
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Name: Charles Freedom Long
Book(s) Title: Alvar’s Spear, Dancing With The Dead Series Title: The Seven Worlds Series Genre(s): neo-retro science fiction Tell us a little about yourself? Perhaps something not many people know? I have one piece of paper that says I’m a psychologist, and another that says I’m a medium. I spent two years in a monastery. I’ve lived life as an adventure, and had some unique experiences, good and bad, as a result. Including staring down the wrong end of an AK-47 once. I’ve lived and worked in four states, five countries, and three continents, including Africa. And now, I live the happy life of a hermit in a little village in the boonies of Western New York where there are more cows than people. What made you want to become a writer? I wanted to write from a very early age. Life intervened. After all my travelling and living in foreign cultures, particularly the third world, most of the fixed ideas I held about “the ways things are, or should be,” have been shattered. I find science fiction is a natural place for me to write, since its boundaries of imagination are limitless. I talk with deceased people all the time. After years of seeing the dead portrayed in countless fatuous ways, I decided it was time for someone to show them in a manner some might consider more truthful. That is, life continues beyond the change we call death, the personality survives passing beyond the earthly life and moves on into other dimensions. So I write science fiction. Fiction, to be sure, but from a spiritualist point of view. Million dollar question, are you working on another book? Million dollar answer—of course. The prequel to Dancing With The Dead and Alvar’s Spear. Where my characters become who they are, especially Aidan Ray Good, the Vita-Kor adept who ‘dances with the dead,’ and Reverend Doctor William Peebles, the “irreverent reverend” and physician who commands the Terran Eagle Legion of the Krieg war fleet. Have you written any other books that are not published? My first novel, written just after I left college, and sent to a friend with publishing connections, was a stream of consciousness mess. My friend actually kept the MS and gave it to my son almost forty years later, on a visit. I have it safely stowed away in the basement. My second novel, written over a period of four(?) years, eight years ago, ran 750 pages long, with enough material for three or four novels and more gaffs than a fisherman's convention. After taking a few chapters to my writer's group-- and now having to live with the occasional comment, "Are you glad to see me or is that a chicken in your pocket?" --Don't ask-- I decided it would be better to begin a new novel. The chicken in the pocket novel has become the back story for my current series. What is your advice to Indie Authors? On writing? Marketing? I believe self-publishing is a wave of the present that will become a tsunami. But it requires entirely more self-discipline than traditional publishing. I review Indie books professionally—have for four years now—and I have seen a great improvement in the general quality of the books I’m being asked to review. The wealth of unique ideas and approaches is, I believe, the Indie world’s greatest asset. Thoughts that would never make it past the hurdles of traditional publishing. Of course, there are also still too many slap-dash, poorly written, awfully edited books coming out. So, first and foremost, hone your writing skills. Learn to write well. Then learn to write better. Read the books on technique. Find a writer’s group that writes more than it talks about writing—and ruthlessly harpoons any bloated whales you put on paper. Better to get constructive criticism from them than from readers who have plunked down their hard-earned money on your books and been disappointed by a lack of craftsmanship. And, like it or not, Indie writers must learn how to market their books. To my mind this does not mean you need to be something you are not. In my experience, most fiction writers are introverts. So you have to find a way to remain who you are while getting the word out about your writing – Preferably in a way you will be proud of when this short life on earth ends. What tactics do you have when writing? (For example: outline or just write) I have a unique writing method. I begin with an idea, flesh it out, do a plot sketch and (usually) a bare bones, one or two sentence, chapter by chapter outline, and then let the creative juices take me where they will. The unique part is that I’m often actively involved with individuals from the other side of the veil called death in the process. So, with a little help from my friends, I write science fiction with a distinctly spiritualist theme. I’m not trying to write best sellers, but meaningful, entertaining science fiction that gives you more than you bargained for. More than just an exciting page turner. Without any preaching, I weave in concepts of spiritualism and responsibility for one's own actions that will be both interesting and thought-provoking. I edit and re-edit, using voice readings, computer text, and hard print copy. (I was a professional editor for a while). I have a writers group that reads my copy. I have the text beta-reviewed by other writers, (yes, live ones here on planet earth). I listen to 100% of their comments and suggestions. I’m open to changing what I wrote. Telling the story is one thing. Telling it in a way the reader gets it is quite another. But there are some risks I choose to take in what I say or how I say it. What is/are your book(s) about? I write about what might be, to challenge readers’ fixed ideas in a way that will make them consider other possibilities, particularly about sentience, free will, and life after death. Much of what I write is about things that are not what they seem, but might be. Psionics, multi-sensory human beings, telepathy, telekinesis, precognition, clairsentience, energy medicine, awareness and ongoing communication between the living and the dead as a fact of daily life, and how that might affect the life and philosophy of a world. Alvar’s Spear, recently released, asks the questions, “What if planets were the bodies of sentient beings,” and “What if they had emotions and desires, just like us?” Gar, a geneticist who is half Terran and half Antal (a bipedal catlike race), is tasked with saving the planet, Alvar who has sworn to hurl herself into the gas giant she obits rather than let a mutant conspiracy turn her into a fetid swamp and enslave the Antal hive. To become the planetary savior, Alvar’s Spear, Gar must confront enemies, assassins, a traitor, and a beautiful, brilliant, Terran geneticist. He must travel into the mysterious Forbidden Mountains of the vild, from which no one has returned. If successful, he will save Alvar. But the danger of creating a savior is that he will be his own person. He will do what he will, and whether his acts are judged good or bad will only be known in the unrolling of time. Time is not on gar’s side. But time does unroll. What it reveals may not be to everyone’s liking. Dancing With The Dead, which has won three awards, and has been favorably compared to the work of Isaac Asimov and C.J. Cherryh, will challenge your perception of death, life after death and the quest for truth that continues after the change called death. Its about Fahd- al-Sharfa, a jihadist whose mission is to destroy two space stations and a thriving city on the moon. He begins questioning his own beliefs when he meets and falls in love with a coworker: a cat-like, bipedal alien named Quenby. She is an Antal; seven-feet tall, white haired, white skinned, and “intoxicatingly sensual.” Their physical chemistry is undeniable—as is their spiritual connection—and Fahd realizes that he must choose between his mission or love. The complex political situation surrounding Luna and the space stations complicates matters, as does the existence of “peebs”: those passed-beyond who, although dead, are still actively participating in society. Does your book have a lesson? Moral? There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy. If you could spend time a character from your book whom would it be? And what would you do during that day? (PG-13 please :) ONE OF MY FAVORITE QUESTIONS TO ASK. I would go with Vitok the Va-Tor Master to the sacred Yarr-Tun Mountain on Narr, home planet of the Nord, in the Anthelion Galaxy. To see the spectacle of the granite peak of Yarr-Tun set against the glow of two beautiful red suns that shone on them, casting two shadows across the majestic Yarr-Tik mountain range. Since I had to travel there by quantum intrusion, (riding a quantum wave until I took on particle form at my destination), I would have taken a Nord body--a beautiful, brilliant translucent being of what we would mistakenly call semi-viscous liquid-gas within a semi-permeable shell that resembles a clear veneer. I’d be almost eight feet tall and deep blue in color. We would sit in a cave and discuss life and death. Then we’d go for a run in the forest with the narrbears. Twelve feet tall, grizzly brown and black adults, swatting the air with their massive paws and roaring as we ran, with several golden-haired cubs trailing along beside us. Then an aircar ride across the surface of the rainbow planet. The lush green equatorial strip that ranged across the planet’s middle, set against a blue ocean on the southern side and an orange ocean on the north, then the glistening white ice of the southern pole and the hot red-orange rock of the northern pole. Finally, we’d settle in for a dinner on the patio of his home in the foothills of Yarr-Tun. Little brown cakes with green topping that tastes like rich, dark chocolate, scones filled with some kind of black berry that oozed out the sides. Biscuits with a creamy spread that was like pistachios, and shaved almond-like nuts spread over them. Bite-sized sandwiches of various vegetables, whole or pureed into a spread between thin flatbread slices. And handle-less, clear porcelain mugs of richly scented mint tea. (Though the narrbears are omnivorous, the Nord are vegans). Until, my senses filled with food, drink, a spectacular evening, and the warmth of the Nord, I would be struck by the thought, I might not want to leave here. What has been the best compliment? I think the best compliment I’ve gotten was from Temple Emmet Williams, former editor at The Reader’s Digest—He compared me to Isaac Asimov: “Charles Freedom Long has written an exceptional book in Dancing With The Dead. The writing is crisp, clear, and powerful. The science fiction world he creates contains sufficient remnants of today to capture readers with honesty, believability, and trust. In this respect, shades of the great SF writer, Isaac Asimov, appear. I once asked Asimov, over lunch, how he could create his worlds of the future with such honesty. He told me to read the non-fiction university textbooks he wrote. Truth is always borne of reality. Even piercing the veil of death, Charles Freedom Long manages to hold our credibility. He coats the sometime-overbearing spiritualism of the afterlife with intelligence, change, growth, and love. He turns Scandinavian traits into an alien race of goddesses. And because his writing approaches literary magic, he makes us believe in languages we have never heard and ideas we can only hope to grasp. Well done, Charles Freedom Long." (Temple Emmet Williams, former editor at The Readers Digest, award-winning journalist and author) Could you tell us a bit about your most recent book and why it is a must-read? Alvar’s Spear is the book that got the tag neo-retro science fiction hung on it. And I have to say, that does seem to describe what I’m doing. I write to put readers in a frame of mind where they will consider possibilities they have not previously given a lot of serious thought. So, in a sense, it is neo-retro, since it brings new ideas into a classical science fiction modality. International Writers Inspiring Change has said, it is “Wonderfully written. On a par with Star Wars. This is high-octane sci-fi fantasy which not only entertains, but cracks open new doors of thought.” That sounds like neo-retro to me. Blueink review, which hung that tag on it said: “Alvar’s Spear is archetypal science fiction: wildly imaginative, thought-provoking, and thematically profound . . . Similar thematically to Ursula K. Le Guin’s seminal novella The Word for World is Forest (1972), the story is undoubtedly a powerful read. Ideas explored include prejudice, acceptance and unity, but ultimately, the questions asked are deeply spiritual in nature. . .The philosophical undertone (quotes from Nietzsche, Cicero, Sun Tzu, Sitting Bull, Malcolm X, Sartre, etc. serve as chapter headers) adds a deeply contemplative layer to the narrative tapestry. Readers who are looking for neo-retro science fiction—especially those who enjoyed Ursula Le Guin’s early works—will find this novel both entertaining and enlightening. Any website or resources that have been helpful to you as a writer? Goodreads. Above all else. I agree with the professionals who say this is the one mandatory site for writers. (It’s all readers). If you’re a reader as well as a writer—and you should be—you will find a world of new and old writing discussed here. Stephen King is only one of the great authors who has said if you want to be a good writer you must become a great reader. I will add this—I believe the level of your writing raises or lowers to the level of your reading. If you want to write better, read masterful writing. You can find me online at my website: http://www.charlesfreedomlong.com/ where I post stories about my characters and worlds, more often at Goodreads, where I share ideas and comments with other readers and writers, or on Facebook, where I let myself indulge in social comment. Amazon Author Page Link: https://www.amazon.com/Charles-Freedom-Long/e/B014MB8MSY/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1 Facebook Page Link: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010480393544 Website: http://www.charlesfreedomlong.com/
Name: Jessica Edwards
Book(s) Title: Chasing the Omega, Chasing the Beta Series Title: Small Town Genre(s): Paranormal, Mystery, Romance What made you want to become a writer? Honestly, I never thought I was going to be a writer. It didn't even cross my mind that writing books was something I was ever going to do. When I was sixteen years old, I was studying Performing Arts in college, preparing for a future in acting. It took me two years to realize that acting wasn't something I wanted to do. Thinking about doing acting in the future, didn't bring a smile to my face. So I think after realizing that, I started asking myself what it is that I enjoy doing, and I couldn't think of anything other than reading books. I love to read, so that should've been a clue. It all started when I was thinking of a story in my head. The story's about a girl who one night gets mysteriously bitten by a wolf on the full moon. I didn't think much of it considering I always have stories in my head, so I just ignored it, but for some reason I was thinking about this story every single day, and I started to wonder if maybe this meant something. I messaged one of my favourite authors, Kendall Ryan, and she told me to plan it and get started. I'll never forget that moment when I started writing the first few chapters, and getting that feeling of 'This is what I'm meant to be doing. This is what brings me happiness,' and writing does bring a smile to my face. Million dollar question, are you working on another book? Yes! I'm currently working on the third and final book of the Small Town series, 'Chasing the Alpha.' Music or silence? Both actually. I like silence because I tend to act out the dialogue's between the characters, but I also love listening to music because somehow it inspires me, but that's odd considering I listen to Kpop, but it works. What is/are your book(s) about? The Small Town series is about an eighteen year old girl called Alice Smith, who night gets mysteriously bitten by a wolf on the full moon. There's shapeshifters, mutilated bodies, romance and a mystery to solve in it. If you could spend time with a character from your book whom would it be? And what would you do during that day? (PG-13 please :) ONE OF MY FAVORITE QUESTIONS TO ASK. I would probably spend time with Max from the Small Town series. He's one of the main characters in the series who also falls for the main heroine. I enjoy writing his scenes in particular because he's the mysterious new guy in school who ends in the middle of all this mystery. As the writer, I'm mostly drawn to him than any of the other characters, and for some reason I've fallen for him after writing the second book. Honestly, I would love to just be in his company, I wouldn't care if we sat down all day long doing nothing, but if we had to hang out, I'd probably take him to the cinema and than take him out for food. I'm not a very outgoing person, I like to stay at home most of the time and read. What has been the best compliment? The best compliment I've ever recieved was someone saying that I inspire them. I've had a few people telling me this and it's an indescribable feeling. Who is your favorite author? My favourite author is Pepper Winters. She's absolutely amazing! I'd recommend her books to anyone. Are your characters based off real people or did they all come entirely from your imagination? Most of them were from my imagination. Could you tell us a bit about your most recent book and why it is a must-read? Chasing the Beta is the sequel for Chasing the Omega. Book 1 ended on a huge cliffhanger so I can't really say much about what happens in Chasing the Beta, but out of the two books this is my favourite because we get to know the characters a little better, and Book 2 has answers for the questions that people might've had from the first book. I can't express how much I love the second book! Of all the characters you have created, which is your favorite and why? My favourite character is definitely Sam from the Small Town series. She's the main characters best friend. She supports the main character (Alice) every step of the way because she's turning into a wolf. The reason why she's my favourite character because she isn't afraid to say what's on her mind. She doesn't care who she's talking to or who that person may be, she just carries on to say what she wants. Sam kind of reminds me of my sister who basically says it as it is, so I think that's where I got the idea of Sam Frey. Tell us a little about your plans for the future. Where do you see yourself as a writer in five years? I can't imagine what the future holds for me in five years, I just hope that it's a happy one. I'll probably self publish more books. Books of different genres, possibly another series, I'm not sure yet about what, but It'll come to me. Even though I've applied to universities this year to study Creative Writing, it's very unlikely that I'll be going because I'm doing what I love already, and that's to write books and share it with everyone. My goal is to only inspire aspiring writers to write their own books. Favorite book? Currently, my favourite book is Paper Princess by Erin Watt. If you could have been the author of any book ever written, which book would you choose? Definitely A Song of Ice and Fire. I absolutely love Game of Thrones! What genre do you consider your books? Have you considered writing in another genre? The Small Town series is a Paranormal Romance and Mystery. I personally would like to write more Romance books, and maybe a couple of young adult books considering I'm 19 years old. My brother wants me to write a book set in World War I, but I wasn't very good at History in school, so I think that book will be a challenge for me, but I love a good challenge. What character in your book are you least likely to get along with? Probably Silver. She's not a very nice person, and I don't get along well with people like that. I like to surround myself with kind and positive people. Amazon Author Page Link: https://www.amazon.com/Jessica-Edwards/e/B074KBWSZP/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0 Twitter Handle: https://twitter.com/jessibesswolf Check out her books on Amazon!
Name: Penny Richards
Book(s) Title: More than 40 titles. Recent: An Untimely Frost, Though This Be Madness, Murder Will Speak (April 2018, Available for pre-order on Amazon) Series Title: Lilly Long Mysteries Have you written any other books that are not published? When I started out, I co-authored two books with the late Sandra Canfield. We sold two as Sandi Shane and two are gathering dust. I also have 2-3 partials for a contemporary mystery series I co-authored with the late Suzannah Davis that have never sold. Pen or type writer or computer? I use a pen and yellow legal pad when I’m developing characters, ideas, etc. When it’s time to get down to work I use the computer. Music or silence? Silence. I even have the sound turned off on my computer. I’m a tad ADD, so anything “shiny” can get me off track. If I played music, I’d be singing along. What tactics do you have when writing? (For example: outline or just write) I’m one of the few strange ones who loves writing a synopsis, and mine are usually long and detailed. I have studied screenwriting extensively and plot using the 3-act structure to make sure I have the insight and connections I need. When I wrote my award-winning mainstream I had two timelines. One for the main plot and one for the character’s personal journey and tied them together. What have you put most of your effort into regarding writing? Character development and researching, to make sure my historical information is factual. If you were running the 100 yard dash with a new writer. What writing, publishing wisdom would you bestow upon him/her before you reached the 100 yards? READ, READ, READ the genre you want to write and also every “how to” book you can get your hands on. If you could spend time a character from your book whom would it be? And what would you do during that day? (PG-13 please :) ONE OF MY FAVORITE QUESTIONS TO ASK. I think that would be Sir Pierce Wainwright, the well-educated, high-born Brit with a murky background, who raised Lilly after her mother was killed. (FYI, he just might be her father.) While walking in a restful cottage garden and sipping tea, I would ask him about his past in England and what happened to bring him to America and never return to his homeland. I would also ask him about Lilly’s mother, Kate, and why he loved her. What has been the best compliment? When people tell me they feel like they are in the scene and can smell, feel, etc. the world I’ve created. Who is your favorite author? I have several, and they are the ones who write books that really speak to me on some level or another, but the two historical authors who influenced my desire to write historical mystery are Margaret Lawrence and Ariana Franklin. Could you tell us a bit about your most recent book and why it is a must-read? Lilly, the heroine of my historical Lilly Long Mysteries is a young Shakespearean actress who becomes a Pinkerton agent because of two incidents that have profoundly affected her. She wants to help other women who have been taken advantage of, and tackles age-old problems and crimes against women, who were held in low esteem in the minds of many men during that time. There are no new crimes, just new ways of perpetrating them. In fact, many like human trafficking, are still around in various guises today. Tell us a little about your plans for the future. Where do you see yourself as a writer in five years? I hope that I can grow my readership more and more and keep writing the Lilly Long books for a few more years. Basically, I’ve had to start over, reinvent myself. We’ll see what else comes my way. I’m open for new writing experiences. Where can we find you online? www.pennyrichardswrites.com Any website or resources that have been helpful to you as a writer? Though I own and have read dozens of how to books, my favorite remains, Tecniques of the Selling Writer by Dwight V. Swain. What genre do you consider your books? Have you considered writing in another genre? I started out writing contemporary romance, but currently I write historical mystery. In the past I’ve written historical romance, inspirational contemporary and historical romance, one mainstream novel, a screenplay with Christian suspense author, Terri Blackstock, a stage play, lots of poems, and a short story. I just like seeing if I can “master” a new genre. So, I guess the answer is “yes.” Who is the most famous person you have ever met? In 1991, I had the privilege of working on a fiction book with scientist, Dr. Simon Ramo. He is the “R” in TRW and was one of the scientists who created the intercontinental ballistic missile. He had the book idea, but didn’t know how to execute it, so our agent at the time put us together. Dr. Ramo flew me to L.A. for four days and I got to stay at the Four Seasons while we worked on plotting the book. At that time, he was talking to President Bush about the Gulf War daily, and if I had a problem with the book, I could call his office and get right through. (Boy, did I feel important!) Meeting him was my brush with true fame. Genre(s): contemporary/historical romance, inspirational, mainstream, historical mystery Amazon Author Page Link: https://www.amazon.com/Penny-Richards Twitter Handle: @pennyRwrites Facebook Page Link: https://www.facebook.com/Penny-Richards-Author
Name: NLJ
Book Title: The Golden Sword Series Title: Chronicles of Drenyon Genre: Fantasy What made you want to become a writer? I don’t think I ever chose to become a writer. It was just woven into who I was. When I was in fourth grade we all had to make up stories based off Egyptian culture. It wasn’t supposed to be more than a page or two long. Mine was 14 pages and counting, and I begin to cry to my mom because I wasn’t sure how to end the story. Both my mom and my teacher were very impressed with the work that I’d done, but in my mind I was just completing the assignment. I often found after that, whenever I came up with a story, people gave me a blank look and would always ask “did you come up with that on your own?” I thought to myself, what kind of a question is that? I always thought to myself, I’m just doing the assignment. It wasn’t until I saw the pattern of reactions that I realized my storytelling was unique. Million dollar question, are you working on another book? The Chronicles of Drenyon is a four-part series, so I am currently working on book two of four. I’m hoping the book will be finished by Fall of 2018. Pen or type writer or computer? I’ve never used a typewriter in my life! I wonder what it’s like. I use my computer and, due to a hand injury, I also rely on Dragon dictation software to do the typing for me. Music or silence? It depends on what I’m doing. On long commutes, I like to listen to soundtrack music because it helps me to visualize the scenes that I want to write. Back when I would type with my hands, I would also listen to music while I was typing my handwritten notes. The music would help set the tone of the scene that I was typing out. But if I am knee-deep in more detailed work, I prefer complete silence. Sometimes the library isn’t even quiet enough. What is/are your book(s) about? In the land of Drenyon... There is a maiden who is so desperately lonely that she befriends a frightful-looking tree that lives outside her village. Her name is Anya. Her tree is enchanted, and every day she listens to its strange and troubling fables, unaware that they are prophecies in disguise. One day, she returns home from visiting the tree and the first of the fables comes to life, causing her entire village to burn to the ground. Now it's up to Anya to use the other fables to save the rest of her kingdom from the same destruction. And according to these fables, there is only one weapon that has the power to save her people: The Golden Sword. Does your book have a lesson? Moral? My books are about what I believe, and I believe in spiritual war. I believe that there is something special in each of us that drives us to a unique destiny. But there are forces out there that want to keep us from living our full potential. They distract us not just with circumstances or annoyance, but they distract us by attacking the heart. They scar us, traumatize us, and even hurt us using the people that we love. So we spend our lives trying to reclaim what we’ve lost, despite the wounds that we’ve accumulated. My stories are a metaphor for that. If you could spend time a character from your book whom would it be? And what would you do during that day? (PG-13 please :) ONE OF MY FAVORITE QUESTIONS TO ASK. I think I would spend the afternoon with the enchanted tree. His voice is so soothing and he tells these calming, mesmerizing stories. I would love to visit him at a park or a forest and just fall asleep listening to the sound of his voice. Of all the characters you have created, which is your favorite and why? I have a pair of childlike twins who call themselves the Oracle. They share one name because they have one purpose: to protect the people of Drenyon. They are a very virtuous and wise pair, but the reason I like them is because they’re so irritable and intolerant. They get so frustrated when people don’t immediately pick up on what they’re trying to do. I think I can really relate to them; I use them as a conduit for my frustrations with the people I have to deal with every day. But notice that I would not spend time with them. They would probably make me cry. If you could have been the author of any book ever written, which book would you choose? All of the Harry Potter books! I want to have the glory of being a renowned writer and billionaire. Tee hee. Who is the most famous person you have ever met? I went to the White House once and met Hillary Clinton. I also went to a film screening two weeks ago and saw Andy Serkis there. I almost lost my marbles. If you could write about anyone fiction/nonfiction who would you write about? Peter Pan. I think he’s a fascinating archetype, and there’s a lot you could do with him in terms of story symbolism. I’ve seen him depicted as a lovable hero and as a selfish villain. And both sides seem to carry considerable weight. Amazon Author Page Link: https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_rsis_1_7?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=drenyon&sprefix=drenyon%2Caps%2C236 Facebook Page Link: https://www.facebook.com/chroniclesofdrenyon/
Name: Olivia Norem
Book(s) Title: His Viking Bride Genre(s): Historical Romance Million dollar question, are you working on another book? No, J.D., I am not working on another book. I am working on eleven other books. While I consider myself a multi-genre author, romance is remains closest to my heart. And be kind here, as the following are all working titles [laughs]. Two erotica romances, Wicked Wicked Days and Wicked Wicked Wilderness are in final editing. A romantic suspense trilogy, Bishop’s Pawn, Bishop’s Peril and Bishop’s Prize are in first draft mode. Curse of the Highland Talisman and Highland’s Ghost, both time travel romances, are in progress. Volumes two and three of the western fiction Brothers In Justice Series, Outlaw and Redemption are in first draft. I also have two works of fiction, Angel’s Assassin and Aftermath of Five almost completed. Thrown in the mix are a few more romance and short stories as well. Wow! Hearing myself rattle off this list, it appears as if I’d better get back to work. [laughs] Do you still write? If so, what does your typical day look like? I’ve always been a workaholic, ever since my corporate days, and being a full-time author is no exception. My typical workday begins around eight in the morning with strong, black coffee, the laptop and my imagination. I usually review what I’ve written the night before and then just go for it. I work on whatever novel I’m closest to completing, but sometimes other characters vie for attention, so it is typical I’ll have two or three books open at once. I spend a few hours a day replying to emails, phone calls, connecting with people online and updating social media (I freaking love Twitter). I go to the beach almost every day with friends, family, or solo, as the ocean keeps me centered. Somewhere in there I eat, maybe enjoy a cigar, have a nap and then write again until dawn. I’ve found the hours between 11pm and 5am are my prime time for creativity. Also, there are no witnesses to how much port one consumes at that time of day [winks]. Pen or type writer or computer? The computer is my main tool. Though my desk is littered with sticky notes, ideas jotted down on the backs of envelopes and discarded receipts, I always take my “Little Book of Big Ideas” notebook with me to the beach. It was a very thoughtful gift from my husband, who said I needed a place to aggregate my ideas that could withstand salt air and sand. I have to be alone when I write and need perfect silence. It’s not often I’ll put on background music, but when I do, I have found Mozart stimulates prose, and Enigma provokes the words for heavy sex scenes. What is/are your book(s) about? His Viking Bride is my homage to The Taming of the Shrew. I was watching the Taylor/Burton film one afternoon and was reminded how much I loved this movie. Sparks flying between the characters, the plummet through the roof scene into the downy wool, an unwanted marriage… Good stuff with superb romantic tension. I reread the play in between doing some research on Vikings, a culture I find fascinating. His Viking Bride just came together. The core of the story is Aestrid, our Viking princess who is kidnapped by Veleif, our rival Viking prince, and suffers mistaken identity. When it becomes known who she is, the village elders trick her into marrying Veleif, the man she despises. Determined to make the best of her circumstances, Aestrid improves life among Veleif’s people, yet continues to battle wits and skills with her unwanted husband. Eventually, J.D., Veleif wins her heart, and even more surprising, Aestrid wins his. Does your book have a lesson? Moral? Love conquers all [winks]. Do your characters seem to hijack the story or do you feel like you have the reigns of the story? Hijack? Now that’s funny. My characters always hijack a scene. I can begin with the best intentions, but these folks have a mind of their own. They always take me somewhere else, often with obstinate protest and a great show of stubborn, crossed arms. No matter how many times I outline a plot, I end up tossing it aside with a scoff and a shake of my head. I really should know better. The characters know what they’re doing; many times I feel as if I’m just the observant scribe. If you could spend time with a character from your book whom would it be? And what would you do during that day? (PG-13 please :) ONE OF MY FAVORITE QUESTIONS TO ASK. What a fun question! I would spend the day with Veleif, the Viking hero from His Viking Bride. Veleif has a hellacious sense of humor, and is a hard-drinking, rough and tumble male. In the ensuing banter of sarcastic wit and battle of one-upmanship, the drinking contest would naturally follow. He would demonstrate the proper way to quaff copious amounts of ale from a drinking horn, and I would introduce him to Google maps. (Hello? Greenland!) Of course never ones to miss the opportunity of general debauchery in the company of a female, Petruchio from The Taming of the Shrew and Hawk from Beyond the Highland Mist would stroll in. I would negate all their advice on the best methods to pursue a woman, and we’d settle our contentions with honor – a drunken axe-throwing contest. While I’ve wisely avoided handling sharp objects in conjunction with alcohol, I’ve never been able to withdraw from a challenge. Afterward, the boys could deploy their skills with medieval bandages, and I would illustrate the benefits of antibiotic topical cream. As we mused the contest over a fine cigar, I’m thinking earning a scar or two might well be worth the experience. Are your characters based off real people or did they all come entirely from your imagination? All of my characters, even the supporting characters in my books, are a combination of people both real and imagined. Being in Florida, I have access to all kinds of “characters.” [Ha!] I begin with the core qualities of the character. Are they inherently good? Evil? How did they become who they are? What shaped them? From there I build a profile and visualize a physical description and mannerisms. I go into detail such as what food they would eat. How do they dress? What perfume/cologne would they wear? How do their opinions differ from mine? Since our life experiences shape us, I am always talking to people and listening to their stories. Oftentimes, I form anecdotes for my character’s lives based on some distortion of the truth. This method provides fertile ground for me as an author. How many times have you been involved in a conversation and said to yourself, ‘I couldn’t make this up if I tried.’ Could you tell us a bit about your most recent book and why it is a must-read? His Viking Bride pushes the boundaries of traditional, historic romance. There are elements of death, violence, graphic sex, and all around humor. I took a different approach to the protagonists becoming too “touchy-feely” because, after all, they are Vikings. Where can we find you online? I have a website, www.olivianorem.com and I’m on all the usual social channels as well. My Instagram account illustrates things I like: travel, cigars, classic cars and random funny things, as well as my books. I’m hooked on Twitter @olivianorem and use it daily. There is an honesty and connectivity on Twitter I find refreshing. I have book trailers on my YouTube channel, and am also on Amazon and Goodreads. I don’t use Facebook as much as I should, but try to update at least weekly. If you want to see storyboards for a few of my books, including His Viking Bride, you can check out my page on Pinterest. Do you do book tours? My bags are packed, J.D. My passport is current. Where are we going? Will alcohol and air-conditioning be available? Seriously, when my books release in hard cover and paperback (around January, 2018), we’ll be scheduling some book tours. Stay tuned, because you’ve been designated to cover the bar tab! If you could write about anyone fiction/nonfiction who would you write about? Basil Fawlty. I would love to write his biography. You know he’s living under an assumed name and retired to Barcelona, right? How did you get to be so witty, funny, and good looking? (This obviously was a question that I was asked.) I learned everything from you, J.D. You are not only my coach and my mentor, but you, Sir, are a brilliant writer. Getting to know you this afternoon, and in such an intimate setting, has been… dare I say [clears throat] one of the highlights of my life. You are the standard to which I will compare all other men with your intelligence, charm and devastating good looks. Today, with you, has been an experience I will take to my grave. Amazon Author Page Link: www.amazon.com/author/olivianorem Twitter Handle: @olivianorem Facebook Page Link: www.facebook.com/olivianorem
Tell us a little about yourself? Perhaps something not many people know?
Since I was 6 years old I dreamt of being an actress and was once in a play at my city’s main theater. Living in Puerto Rico there is not a lot of opportunity for people who aspire to be actors and I decided to dedicate myself to writing. But the dream is still there and I would love to act again just to get that amazing feeling from when I was on stage once again. What made you want to become a writer? I decided to become an author because of the love and passion I have for creating characters and stories. I have been writing since age twelve and can’t imagine not being able to pour my imagination out this way. Million dollar question, are you working on another book? I am currently working on a Spanish language novel set called A la sombra del Aleli which is set in a 19th century Puerto Rican coffee plantation. Pen or type writer or computer? I used the computer. Music or silence? Silence, I can’t concentrate with music. What is the toughest criticism given to you as an author? One reviewer wrote a very hurtful review saying my novel was predictable, cliché, saccharine sweet and my characters one dimensional. Having spent two years putting my heart and soul into this book these words actually made me question if I should continue to write because it felt as if I had written the worst book ever. But in the end I decided I decided that’s it’s not what people like this say that matter’s, but what I myself feel. I have confidence in my ability to write, into the love I put into my stories and I will never again let a reviewer crush my hopes and ambitions. What has been the best compliment? That I shine at humanizing my characters. As someone who loves complex human relationships and stories whether it be in movies or books that comment makes me very happy. What is something memorable you have heard from your readers/fans? What a reviewer once wrote about my novel Windswept: “A simple story is made eternal by its depth and its ability to move the reader. There is both ecstasy and despondency in a memorable work of fiction.” That she called my book memorable is what I aspire for as a writer. Who is your favorite author? I have yet to find anyone who I could consider as my favorite author although I do have many I like. What is/are your book(s) about? My first novel called Windswept is an Edwardian era romance set in England about an enslaved girl and how forces and circumstances surrounding her threaten to separate her from the man she loves. And my second novel Crying, the Nightingale is a Noir inspired romance set in the 1950’s about the relationship between an ordinary man and a nightclub singer. Favorite book? A tree grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith. If you could write about anyone fiction/nonfiction who would you write about? I would write about my favorite actress Florence La Badie who was active during the silent era and tragically died in a car accident at the height of her fame. I think that not only was she beautiful and talented but that she had a fascinating life story that would make a great book. Of all the characters you have created, which is your favorite and why? If I had to pick a favorite from all my characters it would be Magdalena Williams from my first novel Windswept. She’s a beautiful soul who has gone through great suffering during most of her life yet still manages to keep from being consumed by anger and hatred. Magdalena is the definition of a pure heart and that is why James Thomas, the male protagonist, loves her. Could you tell us a bit about your most recent book and why it is a must-read? Crying, the Nightingale which was inspired by film noir and set in 1950 tells the story of Warren Harlan, an ordinary banker who following the death of his father begins to have dreams of a faceless woman singing in a nightclub. Her name is Moira Lily and in meeting, they change each other’s live in ways they never could’ve predicted. It is a story that shows the era’s dark side but also its beauty and has a message of how not even the greatest evil can destroy the love two people have for each other. I believe it is a story that anyone who likes classic noir or a great romance will enjoy. Tell us a little about your plans for the future. Where do you see yourself as a writer in five years? I hope to be a bestselling author or on my way there and I dream of one day seeing my books as films. That would make me the happiest person in the world.
Name: Renae Watson
Title: It's a Flirt Genres: Romance, Crime, Suspense Tell us a little about yourself? My name is Renae Watson I'm a multi genre writer. I love music I'm also an introvert . What made you want to become a writer? I've been writing ever since I was young. I didn't just decide to be a writer I've always had this urge inside of me which pushes me to write. Million dollar question - are you working on another book? I'm always writing ! I'm currently working on a young adult crime novella which is being led by a female protagonist! What are your thoughts on the ebook revolution? I think it's great for new writer's like myself, who have less chance of getting published by a traditional publisher. What is your experience with self-promotion? Apart from promoting yourself on social media, I still don't have much experience I'm still fairly new at this. Write with pen or computer? I rather write with a pen and a note book Write alone or in public? I rather write alone, so I can concentrate . What is your book about? My book is about a woman who is living with a heart defect, her name is Grace, Grace is a very creative and strong minded woman who have shut the door on love but doesn't mind flirting but everything changes when a certain doctor centers her life. What is your favorite part of the book? The ending, it's beautiful Twitter: @renaejwatson Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B074CGFYZY/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1501870057&sr=1-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=its+a+flirt
Name: Bobby Sanders
Book Title: Hunter: A Western Adventure Genre: American Western Fiction What made you want to become a writer? I had a story to tell. It was there in my mind for a while, so I sat down and started typing. Million dollar question, are you working on another book? (More like the hundred dollar question)...but yes I am. It's a second Hunter story. I'm about fifty pages in. Have you written any other books that are not published? No What do you think about the ebook revolution? It makes books so much more accessible in this get it now culture. I haven't been to a book store in a couple of years, I'm ashamed to say. It's just so easy to get on Amazon and a few clicks (or taps) and your reading. I don't know if it has bread more readers, or just flooded the existing readers with and endless supply of literature. Some good, some not so much. What is your advice to Indie Authors? On writing? Marketing? I don't have any. I'm looking for advice myself. My sales aren't stellar right now. I'm doing giveaways hoping for some reviews. Do you still write? If so, what does your typical day look like? I still work a full time job. I usually write in the evenings. Quiet time helps me. Pen or type writer or computer? Computer Do you write alone or in public? Alone always. Music or silence? Depends on my mood. Goals of certain # of words a week or when inspiration strikes? I just try to give it an honest 1 ½ hours a night. If it's flowing I'll go longer. What tactics do you have when writing? (For example: outline or just write). I just let the story flow if it will. If I have an idea that I feel will fit in later I'll write a note and save it. What has your experience been like as an new Indie Author? Bruises, Highlights, and lessons? Don't expect that since you worked your butt off for a year, proofread, re-wrote, and self published this thing that people will buy it. I an still trying to figure this out. Making friends on Goodreads makes sense to me. Hopefully I can get a few of these authors to read and review my work. What have you put most of your effort into regarding writing? I have a first hand knowledge of the area I write about and the tools of the trade. The story is what is the most challenging for me. What is your book about? My book is a story of a bounty hunter in the Indian Territory in the mid 1880s. His name is Frank Hunter. Funny how the name fits they'd say whgen he collected the rewards. Hunter didn't see anything funny about it. Do your characters seem to hijack the story or do you feel like you have the reigns of the story? Oh my characters are totally in the driver's seat. I am as interested in what's next as anyone. What has been the best compliment? I had a guy send me an e-mail that said, “Hunter is as good as any Louis L'Amour book I've ever read.” What book that you have read has most influenced your life? Lonesome Dove Who is your favorite author? Guilty Pleasure : Stephen King. Anything you would like to say to your readers and fans? Please write a review. I think feedback is so useful. Do you have any hidden or uncommon talents? I sing well, (I do a spot on Elvis Presley impersonation) and play guitar badly. What gives you inspiration for your book(s)? Reading and Movies. Are your characters based off real people or did they all come entirely from your imagination? Some are based on people I know. Some aren't. Do you have a day job in addition to being a writer? If so, what do you do during the day? I am an electrician. Do consider yourself to be a successful writer? If so, why? If not, what would make you successful? A few sales would make me more successful, but the first page of my book says “If nobody reads this but me it will have been worth it.” I still believe that. I had to do it and now I have to do it again. What genre do you consider your books? Have you considered writing in another genre? I write Western Fiction. If I have an idea in another area, sure I'd write in another genre. What do your friends and family think of your writing? They're all very supportive and seem to have enjoyed it. What would the main character in your book have to say about you? I see him as myself. His ethics, his attitude is mine. Who is the most famous person you have ever met? Clint Black, or Toby Keith How did you get to be so witty, funny, and good looking? (This obviously was a question that I was asked.) Just lucky I guess. Amazon Author Page Link: https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=bobby+sanders Facebook Page Link: https://www.facebook.com/bobby.sanders.395?ref=bookmarks Check out his book on Amazon!!!
Name: Debra Gray Elliott
Book Title: From Ashes of Pity into Beauty of Purpose Genre(s): Christian non-fiction/inspiration Tell us a little about yourself? Perhaps something not many people know? I started writing when I was 15 and have been writing for over forty years. I enjoy writing and have written in different genre’s. Not many people know I am very shy. What made you want to become a writer? Henry David Thoreau. I love Thoreau’s work and in high school went to a play about his life and it inspired me to start writing. Million dollar question, are you working on another book? Yes. I am currently working on a grief devotional for parents whom have lost a child. The book is based on my loss of my daughter Ashley. Have you written any other books that are not published? Yes. I have a YA speculative fiction I have written, but not published. What is/are your book(s) about? From Ashes of Pity into Beauty of Purpose started out as a way for me to release my anger and hurt after having an abortion at the age of 16. The first few chapters began has blog post to help other women suffering in silence and I decided to go further because I knew the words could and would help others. From Ashes of Pity into Beauty of Purpose brings emotionally charred women out of the pits of fire, through the ashes into the beauty of purpose. With the direction of God, hurting women weather through the painful journeys, become women of spiritual beauty, find God's purpose, and learn to live again. Who is your favorite author? My favoirte authors are Henry David Thoreau and Kahlil Gibran What gives you inspiration for your book(s)? Many things have given me inspiration for my books. However, I would have to say that those who have suffered like myself is my main inspiration. What do your friends and family think of your writing? They are very supportive. Do you do book tours? Yes. Amazon Author Page Link: https://www.amazon.com/Debra-Ann-Elliott/e/B004Q1AIWO/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0 Twitter Handle: @debraannelliott Facebook Page Link: https://www.facebook.com/authordebragrayelliott/ Find her book on Amazon!!! |
