Here is my interview with Nakendra Harris-Mason

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name.

Hi my name is Nakendra Harris-Mason

Fiona: Where are you from?

I am from Los Angeles Ca, but I reside in the IE

 Fiona: A little about your self (ie,  your education, family life, etc.).

I am a 33 year old author I will be 34 February 7^th, well what can I say about myself, I believe that I have a drive and a force to go after whatever it is that God called me to dohere on this earth and that’s withanything I put my mind to do, rather it’s going after my dreams, goals and visions or even if it’s helping someone out.I’m the 3^rd child out of 7 I’m a twin, I have a twin sister, I also have 3 brothers and 2 other sisters. My mom was a single mom but she did her very best with raising all of us. Far as education wise and my accomplishments, I have my highschool diploma, followed by my AA degree in ministry. I received a Queen Swagger AwardTrophy,and also a GirlsWho Rock AwardTrophy. Now I hold the title of being a published author with two books out and working on book number three. I also became a health and awareness life coach, I’m a CBD Distributor for Total Life Changes Company, but with all that I do I let it have its patients. Mylife has not always been A pat on the back, it seemed as if it was full of roller-coaster rides, on and off even as a child,but what I’m glad I did do was held on. Even when the ride got bumpy,I still held on and it paid off. I am a loving wife, mother, daughter, granddaughter sister, and friend. I am a mother of 4 sons, yes, all boys. I am also a bonus mom; my husband Marvin has 2 sonspreviously before me, which we have now a total of 6 sons all together. I enjoy family time; I enjoy going places with my family making memories just enjoying life in general cause you only get one life.

 Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

Well my latest news I’m working on my 3^rd book titled (I Found Me,) it’s the second addition to my first book (Who Am I,)it will be available for purchase really soon.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I started writing when I was a little girl at the age of 8, but at the age of 13 is when I discovered that I knew how to write poems, short stories, and music, yes most definitely music.Writing is like my pain reliever medication, it has always made me feel at ease, it brings my thinking level down to a momentum. I have a way of thinking a lotand a lot of people with great minds all we do is think. I always come up with all these great ideas and there go my thinking level rising sky high, so with the writing it helps me bring it down a notch.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I first considered myself a writer when I was in high school 9^th grade. People would pay me to write poems for them I would charge 2$ a poem I’ll never forget that, I use to walk around the school with my folder in my hand filled with poems. I would let people read them and they dang there wanted to take the book from me, but thinking back on that, I figured maybe this is me, maybe this is who I am. I even had the opportunity to write part of a song on one of Snoop Dogg records but when he found out my age, I was only 16 at the time I didn’t tell them my age I wantedto become this famousgirl rapper and singer. I was always mature for my age, but when they found out my age the song it couldn’t be released. I got confirmation one night that I was a writer when I was sitting in my room, I was 15 at the time,and there I was with a note pad and a pin sitting on my lap and I would just write. I heard a soft voice say (You’re A Writer.)I know that was nothing but God telling me who I was and what my purposewas, and that’s a writer and here I am going on 34 apublished author, with the full proof of knowing I am a writer through my books and God word don’t lie.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

God first and foremost, and as it follows also my struggle, my past pains, and my testimony is what inspired me to write my book.

 Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I prayed about it, and that’s when everything started flowing and the title and chapters came to my mind.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging?

My style is very authentic I actually write how I talk, if that makes anysense,I’m very original and I most definitely try to stay in my lane when it comes to the writing game. The only challenging thing would be for me is if I ever give up, and giving up is not an option for me. So maybe that won’t be too big of a challenge after all cause I’m not giving up.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

My books are all based on life itself, I love to write about myreal-life situations and experiencesand becauseof those experiences it uncovers my truth

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?

No I just work from home, I would work on my craft early in the mornings while my sons are at school, or I would even work at night when they are in their beds sleeping. My mornings and nights are peaceful so that’s when I take advantage of the quiet time and I just write.

 Fiona: Who designed the covers?

 Well my first book (Who Am I,) I had a picture of myself painted by a college student I would always support her because she was using the funds for college so I helped her out but didn’t think that I was going to use it for my book cover. I called her up like “hey would it be ok for me to use your work in my book she said “Hell Yea you can.I just laughed at her because how she said it. Even though it was still a picture of me I just asked out of consideration and the respectI had for her work. My second book cover I also did myself.

 Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

Yes, in the back of my book whereI encourage people all over the world, to keep on going until you get the results that you have been long waiting for, and never settle for less, If you think big, you get big.,

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?  Who is your favorite writer, and what is it about their work that really strikes you?

I never really had a favourite author but I do have a few favorite books that I love reading,one of them is The Holy Bible, and two(The Four Agreements)by Don Miguel Ruiz and of course my books (Who Am I) and( Marriage made & what comes within )  All those books have meaning and they’re not just telling stories in the books but they are messages that you can gain wisdom and knowledge from.

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author.

 It was me, myself and God, and I was allowed to use LuLu’spublishing company as a plat form to create and publish my very own books but I did get a lot of support at both my book signings from family and friends even people I didn’t even know.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes,it has been a career for me going on 3 years now.

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

I’ll keep everything just the way it is.

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

Yes, I’ve learned that whatever I do,tell the story just the way it was. Don’t leave nothing out and be honest and truthful with my audience.

 Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

I’ve always loved Vivica A Fox she is like my all-time favorite she can take a role and actually become the character. I so love her realness,and I love how she’s so blunt. I use to watch her on the Tv screen and I use to say she reminds me of me, I’m going to meet her one day, and in 2014 I got the opportunity to meet with her at one of my good friends Tomeka Holyfield GGTH event. The boxer Holyfield’s niece. Vivica Fox actually stopped and took a picture with me too she was so sweet and I was so happy.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Yes, whatever you do, make sure this is your passion, make sure that being a writer is something that you were called to do, make sure it’s something that you love to do, becauseif writing is what you love to do,then it will never feel like hard work and you can never get tired of it.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

My message is to inspire those that have less hopeat this very moment, the less hope that I had growing up, I want to encourage them and inspire them on their journey of life, and to help them rebuild their hope through my books, meaning if I can get through my down falls and short comings then anybody can get through whatever they go through in life.

 Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Currently I am not reading a specific book but the book that I do read ona daily basis is the Holy Bible the King JamesVersion and inthat book is where I found the truth about life, it’s also where I found my confidence, my strength and my way.

 Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Yes, I remember the kid books at an early age that I adored reading, but asI got old enough to remember, I was handed a bible book.

 Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

What makes me laugh? well that’s easy, anything that’s comedy, even my Husband Marvin Mason he keeps me laughing on a daily basis, he doesn’t even do it intentionally,he’s just naturally funny even though he doesn’t think so but he is. I find humourin almost anything. Far as crying I rarely cry, but I do have a soft spot in my heart for those that go through things and can’t help themselves, I’ll drop some tears on that or if I lose someone I love or if someone I love is hurting. I have always been a tough cookie if that’s what you want to call it. I’m weird sometimes, I’ll cry over the silliest things even something someone did good or even something I did good, my husband did good or my sons didgood,ill cry and call it happy tears, or I’ll cry when I’m praise and worshipping that’s about it.

 Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

I would love to meet Tyler Perry, Oprah Winfrey and Ellen The Generous why them three because they are biginfluencers that have a gold mind andwhom I have always admired see now I can work with anyone of them on my career path any day.

 Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

Yes, I do, actually I have a few, I love being ahairstylist, I also love singing, dancing, and acting and taking walks to clear my mind.

 Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?

I Enjoy watching lifetime I would sit up and watch lifetime all day really when I’m not busy or have anything else to do

 Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

I love southern cooking, that good oldsoul food, I also love mexican food too, see that’s like one of my favorites. My favourite color is red,it was my dad favourite color as well, he passed away when I was 7 years old, due to gun violence so I still hold on to some of the little things I can remember him by. Even if that was liking the color red. When it comes to music, see I was born in the 80’s so I love that old school r&b music, the 80’s &90’s music andas my mother or grannywould say (them good oldoldies. )

 Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

I’ll remain humbled, because when you come from a place of humbleness you will always find ways to do something no matter what the career path may be.

 Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time?

With Family and close friends

Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone?

(Well Done)and whatever else my family put on there.

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers?

Yes, I have my link tree and on there you can find me and all of my info and social mediasites as well also where myreaders can purchase a copy of my books. Just click on the link.

https://linktr.ee/Mrsmason_2019

Thank you for considering me for an interview, this was so much fun.

-Author Nakendra Harris-Mason

 

 

 

Here is my interview with Alexander Saunders

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age?

Alexander Saunders age 29

Fiona: Where are you from?

I live in Mansfield Massachusetts in the USA

Fiona: A little about yourself (ie,  your education, family life, etc.).

Just that I’ve been writing for a long time and that it’s what I enjoy the most and it helps me cope with a lot happening in my life

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

Nothing really happening only that I still write books and enjoy a great day when it happens

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I always felt connected to my imagination and always like to enjoy life and writing books have always help with that when I was young and as I grow older I thought it was something I like to do

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I think I always knew it was something I was meant to be I just needed to know when I felt the joy of creating a world on paper

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

When I felt alone and unconnected to reality and though this is not the first book I’ve written it is still my second published book and one I enjoy writing the most

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

When I was a kid I use to have a lot of toy dinosaurs and imagined a world unlike any other and as I wrote this the title began to make sense and I went with it

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging?

No

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

Not really but I do mix my least favorite memories in events I wish could have happened

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?

No but I do take paper and pens with me because sometimes I get inspired when I go to my favorite  places and I like to write them down as it happens

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Donna Cook the cover designer at pen it publications

Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

Just that I hope my readers understand that if they believe in themselves and show that there can be good in the human race a lot of great opportunities will happen

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?  Who is your favorite writer, and what is it about their work that really strikes you?

J K Rowling Roald Dahl P L Travers Beatrix Potter

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author.

My high school teacher Arthur Hapenny

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I do because it brings a lot of joy to my life and I hope I can inspire a lot of readers to do a lot of good and think for themselves as they read this and other books I plan to get published in the near future

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

Nothing I would like to change

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

I can’t say

Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

Not really sure if I want my book turned into a film if I did there will be a long list of people I would like play my characters

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Just that there is no greater joy then writing because you can have the world you create the way you want and no one else can tell you different

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Just that you should use more of your imagination and less thinking about what other think because imagination is a wonderful thing and without it books movies or even television show would not be around today

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Nothing I just write

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Not really

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

I don’t want to say

Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

I don’t know

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

Movie collection I’ve built up a large collection of blu ray movies over the years

Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?

Just many old Disney films the Jurassic park movies the harry potter movies that includes the prequels they are making right now star wars and a few others

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors, music?

I don’t have a favorite color or music but my favorite food is pizza

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

I don’t think I can see that unless I can’t find a new book to write

Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time?

Go to so many of my favorite places

Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone?

Don’t know

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers?

My Facebook page

 Amazon authors page USA https://www.amazon.com/Alexander-Saunders/e/B07BJ28YN4/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1

UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/Alexander-Saunders/e/B07BJ28YN4?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1580387401&sr=1-1

 

Here is my interview with S. C. Mitchell

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age?

My name is Steve Mitchell. I write as S. C. Mitchell. I’m 64 and a half years old.

Fiona: Where are you from?

I was born and lived most of my life in a small town known as Tomahawk, Wisconsin. Currently I live in Sheboygan, Wisconsin.

Fiona: A little about your self (ie,  your education, family life, etc.).

My wife and I have been married for 42 years. I have 2 adult children. No grandchildren…yet.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

My novel Phaze won the 2019 National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award (NERFA) and the 2019 Northern Hearts Award.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I started writing my first novel about 40 years ago, after the birth of my son. A story started growing in my mind and I just had to write it down. I took out my old manual typewriter and dove in. Took me almost 20 years to finish, and it’s pure crap, but I learned a lot along the way.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

February 20, 2013. The release of my first professionally published novel, Son of Thunder. I’d written and self-published 4 books before that, but this was the first time I felt legitimate.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Swiftly Beats the Heart is a superhero romance novella, my first published book, inspired by my love of comic books.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I wanted something that kind of said superhero romance, but I’m not sure I hit it. And the book is crap, by the way, so I wouldn’t buy it. I did a much better job with my Xi Force series.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging?

I don’t lock myself into a specific style, but I tend to write narrative from my hero or heroines point of view.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

My preferred genre is Sci-Fi/Fantasy so pretty much everything is made up, though I will occasionally base a character on someone I know.

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?

Most of the places I write about aren’t real laces, so I don’t need to travel for the novel. Saying that, an occasional trip to a Disney theme park doesn’t hurt.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

My wife designed the covers for my latest series, The Demon Gate Chronicles. I think she did a great job. Soul Mate publishing determines the cover artest for my books published through them. The Xi Force covers, which I think are awesome, were done by Fiona Jayde

Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

I really go for escapism. No real message, though occasionally something slips in. I just looking to give my reader a vacation from the real world.

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?  Who is your favorite writer, and what is it about their work that really strikes you?

I am currently reading Brandon Sanderson, and I think his stuff is amazing. All time favorite authors include Anne McCaffrey, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Nora Roberts, and Robert E. Howard.

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author.

My editor at Soul Mate, Cheryl Yeko, has been an amazing teacher and supporter. She’s edited eleven of my books, and with each one I learned something new from her.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I did once, but not so much now. Yes, there’s still a chance something I write hits big, but I hate marketing, and that’s what you need to do now to get noticed and build a fan base. I’d rather just write my stories. Fortunately, I have a nice retirement and don’t need the income to survive.

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

My latest books have been pretty much just what I wanted them to be. Now my earlier books, yeah, there’s lots I’d probably change in those. This is why my latest releases, the Demon Gate Chronicles, are edited and updated books I released years ago.

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

I’m currently working on a Steampunk Victorian novel, so I’m doing lots of research into the Victorian era. Fun stuff.

Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

This is tough, because most of the actors that come to mind are currently too old to play the parts. I guess I’ll have to leave this to the casting department. Get someone fresh and new, and make them a star in my movie.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Sure. Don’t listen to advice from other authors unless it’s something you feel you want to do. (That includes this advice, unless it’s something you want to do.)

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Read more of my books…please?

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson. Awesome book.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

The first book I really dove into was one of the Conan books by Robert E. Howard.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Different things will tickle my funny bone, and I do laugh out loud sometimes while reading. Babies laughing just crack me up. I also find I cry easier, now that I’m older. Tear-jerker movies, death of a favourite character in a book, things like that.

Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

Anne McCaffery. She was my favourite author for years. I lived on Pern every chance I had. Her novels spoke to me early and often. I miss her.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

I am currently building a Walt Disney World themed electric train layout in my basement.

Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?

All the Marvel stuff, Game of Thrones, Star Wars, and other big Sci-Fi/Fantasy stuff. Currently watching the Witcher.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

Bacon—the worlds most perfect food. Pizza, a good steak, and just about anything with some combination of flour and sugar. Basically, everything they tell me not to eat, that’s what I like. Cool colors, purple, blue, green. I like all kinds of music, from classical to rock to country.

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

There is no future where I do not write. The stories bubble up in my brain and need to spill out onto the page. I may not publish, but I will always write.

Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time?

With my wife and kids, just talking.

Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone?

No headstone for me. Hopefully my books will leave their mark.

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers?

I am horrible at promotion and blogging, but you’ll find me here:

http://scmitchellauthor.com/

Blog: http://scmitchell.wordpress.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorSCMitchell

Twitter @authorsmitchell

Amazon Authors page USA  https://www.amazon.com/S-C-Mitchell/e/B007D0Z1MW/

UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/S-C-Mitchell/e/B007D0Z1MW?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1579362635&sr=1-1

 

 

 

Here is my interview with Jaden Sinclair

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age?

Hello, I’m Jaden Sinclair… and a lady never tells her age.

Fiona: Where are you from?

I live in a small town in Kansas.

Fiona: A little about your self (ie,  your education, family life, etc.).

Let’s see, like I said before I’m in a small town in Kansas. Been married now for 24 years. Have two boys, one is 18 and other 22. By, time flew by with those two for sure.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

Hum, well I’m taking one of my series and putting it audio, so that is big for me.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I’m been writing now for over 15 years. When I was younger I sort thought I just had this wild imagination with the things that I would come up with. When I read my first paranormal story it just clicked. There is a market for my crazy ideas.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I was approached by a publisher who wanted me to submit something to them I think.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I read a werewolf story that was very hot and held my attention from start to end. After I read it at least twice I thought I can write this, this is what I want to write. So I sat down and those ideas had held onto for so long just poured right out.

 Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I really don’t remember….. I know that is a lame answer but it has been so long that I don’t remember how I can up with that title.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging?

I just sit down, open a file and start writing.

I struggle with writing contemporary stories.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

That might be half and half. I do tend to use a line that I’ve heard from a family member, or if someone has upset me then they are a bad guy in a book.

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?

I don’t tend to travel for a story, but I might put a place I’ve been to in a story.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

For the most part, my publisher has a cover artist. I let her know what I’m seeing and we try to get it as close as we can. If I do anything on the side, like a self title I do have an artist that helps on that.

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?  Who is your favorite writer, and what is it about their work that really strikes you?

I don’t really get much time to read like I would love to do.

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author.

I kept it to myself for years that I wanted to be an author. Wasn’t sure how others would take it with what I wanted to write, so it was many years before I let any know that I was on the road to writing.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Always.

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

I would try to make them all larger.

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

I learn things each time I write a new book, if it is with editing style or technic, I learn something for someone every time.

 Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

Hum, that is a hard one and not sure one I can answer.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Don’t be afraid of taking critic from others and also learn from others. One would be very surprised what you can learn just by talking to others that have been out there longer

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

I’m slowing down some, but not quitting.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Nothing at the moment.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Yes I do. It inspired me to write my very first shifter book.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Well, I love smart remarks like come backs.

If I’m reading something, no pun intended, but a good death scene can make my cry.

Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

Billy Wirth and Jason Momoa.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

I like knitting, especially afghans.  I’m made several baby afghans for my cousins and many regular afghans for others but never really kept one myself.

Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?

At the moment I got hooked on the series Arrow on Netflix.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

I’m a sucker for pasta

Purple is my color

And I’m more into pop music

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

Well if those voices in my head stop talking then I’d just relax

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers?

My website is going to be down due to revamping, but the address is: www.jadensinclair.com

This is where I’m putting updates for now: https://www.facebook.com/jaden.sinclair

Here is my interview with Paul L Arvidson

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie. 

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age? 

Paul: I’m Paul L Arvidson and I’m way older than 40 🙂

Fiona: Where are you from? 

Paul: Originally from Liverpool, UK (yes where the Beatles came from!)

Fiona: A little about your self (ie,  your education, family life, etc.). 

Paul: I’m married to another writer we have two girls (11 and 12) the youngest of whom has a rare genetic condition, so she has a wheelchair and loads of complex care. In a previous life used to be a Theatre Lighting Designer. We live in rural Somerset (the county where Glastonbury Festival happens) with dogs, cats, guinea pigs and chickens.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news. 

Paul: In SFF world, I’m writing the third book of the Dark Trilogy, for release hopefully summer this year. I’m alternating that with writing thrillers, my first is ‘The Wheels of Cady Grey’ which is available from Amz and on KU the moment but goes wide to all other sellers this year on ****

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing? 

Paul: I did the night feeds of both our kids so I got a lot of mad ideas in the long dark hours of the night. They all had to come out at some point.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer? 

Paul: I think once someone I didn’t know had reviewed the first book! It didn’t really feel real until then.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book? 

Paul: It was more desperation than inspiration. When I gave up work due to increasing care for our daughter (it takes more than two of us to cope), I realised if I don’t do something creative, I start to go a bit crackers.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title? 

Paul: The Dark series is set on the planet called Dark, which has no light. Although there are other books with the same title, I figured I couldn’t call it anything else!

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging? 

Paul: I’m very much a pantser when I write. I know the main story arc and the main points I want it to hit, but by and large I let the characters tell me what they’re going to do in whatever situation I’ve put them in. I enjoy writing like that (I’ve tried to plan the whole thing, but my mind just doesn’t work that way) though it can be stressful at times. Writing #SFF is usually way easier than writing #Thrillers. If you don’t know something, you can just make it up. Writing thrillers, I’ve had to do research for the first time: everything from ‘are silencers really silent?’, to ‘how long does it take a fire alarm to go off?’

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life? 

Paul: You would think for the #SFF book, nothing, right? Then I stood back and realised that I’d set an entire book in a world called the Dark, after having to give up a career that I loved as a Theatre Lighting Guy. Hmm…

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process? 

Paul: I wish I could travel to space. Especially in the spaceship in ‘Darkest’, the book I’m writing now. She’s very cool.

Fiona: Who designed the covers? 

Paul: An awesome artist I found on twitter called @betibup33 Such a huge talent.

Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp? 

Paul: Just because there’s no light, doesn’t mean there can’t be heroes and adventures.

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?  Who is your favorite writer, and what is it about their work that really strikes you? 

Paul: New Author – F.D.Lee, she writes very cool, very funny, steam-punk fairies saving the world as well as very edgy, quite cyberpunky, Sci-Fi.

Favourite author this week? Iain M Banks – Culture Series

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author. 

Paul: I have big love for Draft2Digital. Lovely folks, who are super helpful to #indie writers getting their stuff out there.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Paul: Yup.

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

Paul: Nope. (not finished yet anyhow!)

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book? 

Paul: When you’re world-building an SFF world, you need to leave yourself *loads* more notes than you think.

Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead? 

Paul: It would be really difficult to film it (being totally in the dark) but I could see someone like Elijah Wood voicing Dun.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Paul: Find a virtual water cooler to hang out at, writing can be a lonely game. My current recommendation is the #FSFRL (Fantasy and Science Fiction Readers Lounge)

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers? 

Paul: My current readers? Thank you for all your support, buying the books and some amazing reviews.

Potential readers – follow the breadcrumbs and try one of the freebies on the website to see if it suits you 🙂

Fiona: What book are you reading now? 

Paul: Currently reading an ARC for a friend, so I can’t tell you about it yet!

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read? 

Paul: The first books I remember reading were the ABC books by Richard Scarry. I loved the worm with the hat. The first book I chose off a shelf for myself was The Hobbit.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry? 

Paul: Laugh? Dark humour. Cry? Injustice, people being hurt.

Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why? 

Paul: Neil Gaiman, love his books and he seems cool.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies? 

Paul: I play table-top RPG’s on Monday nights with a huge group of cool people.

Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?

Paul: Rather enjoyed watching ‘Good Omens’ recently (Amazon/BBC)

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music? 

Paul: Food – Cheese; Colour – Purple; Music – Nitin Sawney at the moment.

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do? 

Paul: Crikey. I can’t imagine that. Not now I do it. I’d dictate if I couldn’t see. If I got jailed and they took my pen away, I’d be scraping stories on the walls with my fingernails!

Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time? 

Paul: Loving.

 Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone? 

Paul: Carpe Diem, I did.

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers? 

Paul: website: www.paularvidson.co.uk

Mailing lists: follow the links on there to either Cady Grey for the thrillers (there’s a Free one) or Dark for the SFF stuff (the first novel is Free on there).

On twitter  or insta I’m @realarvo

website: www.paularvidson.co.uk

Author page: amazon.com/author/paularvidson

Goodreads page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15807656.Paul_L_Arvidson

Here is my interview with Trevor D’Silva

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age?

My name is Trevor D’Silva. I am in my late 30s

Fiona: Where are you from?

I am from the United States of America. I live in a city called Charlotte which was named after Queen Charlotteof Mecklenburg-Strelitz who was the wife of King George III. That is why it is also knows as the ‘Queen City’. It is located in the state of North Carolina.

Fiona: A little about your self (ie,  your education, family life, etc.).

I was born and brought up in India in a Catholic family. I did my schooling in a Catholic institution run by the Jesuits. I obtained a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and then came to the U.S and obtained master’s degrees in Engineering Management, and in Civil and Environmental Engineering. I also got an Associates in Applied Science in Accounting.

My early childhood days were not very exciting like some people, although I wish it was. I spent my time reading a lot of books and improving my vocabulary. I spoke English(British)at home, and my late grandmother and parents always insisted that I spoke proper English; no slang or casual language was encouraged. I also got the love for reading novels and history from my grandmother, and military and WW-2 history from my late father, sitting on his lap and watching war movies with him as a child.

After my education, I lectured in engineering and Environmental Science subjects at two colleges. I then gave up teaching and decided to work in a company. Even though my degrees are in engineering and accounting, my passion has always been history and writing novels.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

Living a normal life – working and also trying to promote my two novels. Thinking of starting my third novel. I have a little fun now and then, but a lot of things keep me busy.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing at a very young age probably around nine or ten. Those were stories for children, because I was a child then. However, they were never published.

As I grew older, reading books from various authors, watching movies and also reading magazines gave me a lot of ideas. I found that writing gave me an escape from the pressures of everyday life. So, I thought I’d give it a go and start writing. I thought why regret later when things can be done when I’m still young and have a lot of energy.

My grandmother used to read a lot of novels and she and I would discuss history and some of the books we read. She once gave me a dictionary and told me that she was giving it to me because I like to write. So, that gave me some encouragement. I guess she understood me and saw my potential to become a writer. In fact, A Bloody Hot Summer is dedicated to her.

Years later, when I was in college, I started writing my debut novel but put it on hold to complete my degrees and to teach for two years. Therefore, it took me almost seventeen years to completeit.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Probably at the age of 9 or 10.  As mentioned above, I wrote short stories, but those were never published.  As I grew up, I would read anovel and say to myself that I can write a book like this or come up with a plot as good as this. Watching movies, documentaries, especially historical documentaries got my brain cells working and I decided to write my first novel Fateful Decisions which combined historical events of the early twentieth century with fiction.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Ever since I was a child, I’ve always been interested in history and fiction.

As mentioned above, I got the love for military history, stories, and movies while watching World War-2 movies with my father. I watched a lot of old Hollywood movies as a child. It was not just the story, but the time period they were set in that inspired me. I wanted my characters to be classy, just like the actors in those old movies.

Therefore, I decided that I would write a novel based on the history of the early twentieth century betweenWorld Wars I and IIand also include the Russian Revolution, the Great Depression, and Prohibition. It took me seventeen years to write Fateful Decisions, since I was busy getting my degrees, but all the while I kept collecting material which I felt would give me ideas. Some ideas came from watching historical documentaries and also historical dramas like Downton Abbey and The Godfather. Therefore, it was just not one idea but a collection of various ideas that inspired me to write my debut novel. Another reason I wanted to blend history and fiction was to make history interesting for people to read and learn history froma novel. Most people find history boring and this was a good way to make it interesting for the readers.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I decided that my second novel was going to be a murder mystery.Being an anglophile, I wanted it to be set in the English countryside in the 1920sin the summer months during a heat wave. So, I came up with the title A Bloody Hot Summer, which I think sums up the essence of the novel very well.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging?

I do try and make the characters and conversations close to reality as possible because that is what I believe especially if the novel is set in a particular time period.

Writing fiction based on history and trying to get the characters to conform to certain time periods is very challenging especially when you as the writer have not lived through them.

Also, writing conversations can be very hard because not every conversation is going to be interesting. We unfortunately live in a fast-paced world where people want the story to be interesting from the first page and continue till the last chapter. However, if you take a moment and think, life does not work that way.

For example:When you meet people for the first time, you do not know what to talk about, but then like everyone does in life, you find a common topic and build a conversation or relationship from there. So, trying to develop such a conversation is very challenging as it can appear stilted.

Now with a murder mystery, the main aim is to make sure that the murderers are not obvious to the reader in the first few chapters. It must be written in such a way that the readers can make educated guesses as to who the killers are, but not be sure. That will make them want to continue reading. Another challenge is to keep the interest of the reader so that they can complete the book and see if theycorrectly guessed the killers.

According to me, the biggest challenge when writing a murder mystery, is to not have any holes in the plot. Trust me, a smart reader can figure out a hole in the plot and write about it in the reviews. So, you have to be careful and make sure that you have covered everything and not left a window open for a reader to dispute the plot.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

Not for this novel. I wanted it to be mainly a murder mystery and did not want to base it on the experiences of a particular person or mine for that matter.

However, various historical events mentioned in the novel like, the 1857 Indian Mutiny, World War1, Second Anglo Boer War in South Africa are true.But, nothing in the novel is based on any anyone who personally experienced those events.

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?

I love travelling, but did not travel to gather information for these two books I’ve written. I use history as a guide and build my characters and plots from there. It helps to speak to people from a certain area especially when youdo not have the chance to visit that place due to time and budgetconstraints.

They can give you important details regarding the weather, the topography and culture. You do not want to embarrass yourself and write incorrect details about a place you set your story in, or even a small incident. If someone brings that mistake up in the review, then you lose credibility and there are some people who write horrible reviews focussing on just that one mistake

I would advise travelling to the place you want to write about and see for yourself what it is like, but if you can ask someone who lives there or has visited that area, then that is half the battle won, and you also save money. If you are unable to travel there, then the internet can help you obtain those details.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

David King who works for my publisher Black Rose Writing. He designed the cover. We went back and forth on many ideas and settled on this art deco cover which reflects the period the novel is set in. If you look at book covers of novels from the 1910s to the 1920s, they are done in the art deco style.

Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

Sure. Both of my novels have hidden messages which the reader had to ferret out. In A Bloody Hot Summer, the reader will learn thatgreed never pays and that the sins or consequences of one’s sins passes to the next generation and impacts others. It is the same concept asFateful Decisions where decisions made by someone, have good or badconsequenceson the next generation and even strangers. In many cases, totally innocent strangersare affected by someone’s mistakes. We find so many examples of that even in today’s world.

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?  Who is your favourite writer, and what is it about their work that really strikes you?

Unfortunately, I do not have a lot of time to read other books. Working full time, writing my novels and promoting them takes a lot of my time. But the recent book I read on holiday was The Darwin Affair, and I appreciated the fact that the author, Timothy Mason,researched the Victorian period very well and incorporated history into his various plots. Me as a history person who likes crimes stories, thought that the book was very captivating especially at the end.

Before I began to write, I read novels written by modern authors like Brad Thor, James Patterson, Steve Berry, Clive Cussler, and others.

I grew up reading Agatha Christie, Sidney Sheldon, Jeffery Archer, Jack Higgins, Ken Follet, Franklin W. Dixon, Enid Blyton, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and others. Agatha Christie and Sidney Sheldon played an important role in inspiring me to write novels. I liked the way they weaved mystery and suspense to produce manythrilling books.  Agatha Christie is my favourite writer.

In the acknowledgement section of A Bloody Hot Summer, I’ve thanked Dame Agatha Christie and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle for inspiring me to write my first murder mystery, and I think it was a way for me to thank them for that inspiration.

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author.

No one, other than my parents, knew that I was writing. It took me seventeen years to write my debut novel, and even they did not know about ituntil the last two years. I wanted it to be a surprise and so kept it asecret until it was published. I think a couple of friends knew that I was writing, but no support came from them.

Actually, after the book was published, many people were surprised and admitted that they did not know that I was writing a novel. Of course, I have to thank my publisher, ‘Black Rose Writing’, forpublishing my novel, and helping me get my foot into the literary world.

Some friends and readers now encourage me to keep writing. I was especially touched when some readers reached out to me and told me that they learned a lot from my books. It is after reading my books that I get asked all the time when I am going to start writing my next book.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes, I do. Writing is one of my passions. I love putting my thoughts down and seeing a story develop from there. Writing takes a lot of time and requires a tremendous amount of patience. This sort of career will take years to build and be successful, and not many people are lucky enough to make it a full-time job. I would still like to work since I have spent many years studying and I want to use the knowledge I have gained to make the world a better place.

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

No. I think me, my editor and others have gone through the book so many times that I think we have nailed everything. I got to put down all my thoughts and made sure that there was no room for people to find fault with anything in the novel. But you never know, someone may find an error someplace. One cannot get rid of all the errors. I learned a lot from my mistakes when editing my first novel, and took steps to make sure that they were not repeated.

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

Yes, I always learn a lot while researching my novels. When getting the novel edited, I learned a lot about Cockney and Scottish accents thanks to my British editor. Of course, to write a murder mystery, one has to research about poisons and the human anatomy. So, I learned a good deal regarding those topics. Regarding history, I learned about British history in India and also about England in the 1920s, the phrases used in that period, and facts about the Second Anglo Boer War in South Africa and First World War.

Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

Not sure who can play Dermot, because I have described what he looks like in my book. So, if they find someone who fits that description, that would be swell. Lilian Endecott can be played by Dame Maggie Smith; Solicitor Bertram Kerr by David Suchetand I guess whoever the director thinks are fit to play the part of other characters. What I would object to is using my novel for politics or to push an agenda. Movies are meant for entertainment and should stay that way. I would prefer my characters and the story be adhered to when the movie is made.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Writing a book is not an easy task. There will be times when you will want to quit due to life or due to writer’s block.  It is normal to have those feelings, but the secret is to never give up. Just persevere by researching and recording your thoughts. Also, if you are writing a book based on historical facts, please make sure that they are correct, and research each fact thoroughly. Editing is another step in the process, which has to be done. Go through what your editors have done because they too make mistakes. Afterall, editors too are human. Finally, it is always good to have a fresh pair of eyes to proofread your work. A fresh pair of eyes can spot mistakes you or your editor haven’t spotted. When suggestions are given to you, consider all suggestions and then make an informed decision whether to follow them or not. After the novel has been published, remember that you are not going to please everyone. So, read the bad reviews and decide if you can incorporate any changes into your next novel or when you revise your current novel at a later date.  It is a learning process which never ends.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

While reading a novel, try and understand what the author is trying to tell you. Most people just want everything to be exciting from the get-go, but life is not always like that. So, most authors try and make their story close to real life as possible. Also, try and figure out the message the author is trying to convey. Many lessons can be learned from the characters and also the various incidences mentioned in the novel.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Right now, I am reading a book from a fellow Black Rose author. It is called The Blue Rat.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Not really, but I know it was a Hardy Boys book. I used to read Reader’s Digest before that.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Well, like with anybody else, funny situations make me laugh. I guess very sad situations make me cry. Depends on what they are. Probably the death of a loved one would make me cry.

Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

Probably Agatha Christie because she inspired me to write this novel and some people who have read it tell me that my novel has that Agatha Christie feel to it. Her books helped me tremendously to improve my vocabulary, and also encouraged me to read other genres and authors as well. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle is another author I would like to meet and thank. Both of their works brought out the ideas that I developed to write A Bloody Hot Summer.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

Yes, of course!Writing novels is a big-time hobby of mine. I like collecting coins, stamps and anything old. I also like gardening. Watching movies and documentaries and listening to music are other hobbies of mine, which help me relax. Exercising is another way to relax and stimulate the brain cells.

Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?

I don’t have a TV since I think paying for cable is a waste of money and the shows are getting terrible as the days go by. If I watch something, I watch documentaries on youtube and I love action-packed films or films based on history. Since I like different cultures, I like watching foreign language films and, in a way, it helps me learn important facts of that culture or country. I recently watched the World War 1 based action film1917, and it was very good.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors, music?

I like ethnic cuisines like Indian, Italian, Asian. I am not fussy when it comesto food. I like trying various cuisines.  I prefer a vegetarian diet since it is healthier.

Colors, I guess red, light blue and yellow.

Music – I like songs from 50s to the 80s. I also like some songs from the 90s and very rarely do I like modern music. Seems like music like the TV shows and movies have gotten worse as the years go by.That is why I like music from yesteryears as I think people had more talent back then, and their voices were genuine and not altered by a computer.

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

I would dread a future where I would not be able to write. I think I was born to be a writer. But, coming to your question, I would like to garden or travel. The world has so much to offer and I love going to places with a lot of history. Europe for one is a good place. I also love nature and animals, and I would love to garden. I like growing plants and nurturing them. Gardening, like writing relaxes me,

Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time?

Probably putting my affairs in order and telling people I love that I love them, and also speaking my mind about certain things. What can anyone do to me? I will be dead in a few hours.

Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone?

‘Writing was in his blood and he loved writing’. Besides that, obviously my name, birth and death dates.

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers?

I mostly tweet on Twitter about any updates or discounts.Please feel free to check my website (just redone it) and follow me on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Website: http://trevordsilva.com/

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Trevordsilvaauthor/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/TrevorDAuthor

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trevordauthor/

Amazon Authors page USA https://www.amazon.com/Trevor-DSilva/e/B076P45WRM/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1

UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/Trevor-DSilva/e/B076P45WRM?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1580277700&sr=1-1

Here is my interview with Renee Dahlia

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age?

My name is Renee Dahlia, and I’m in my mid-forties.

Fiona: Where are you from?

I currently live in the inner west of Sydney, Australia, but I grew up in country New Zealand.

Fiona: A little about yourself (ie, your education, family life, etc.).

Common words used to describe me are: busy, restless, organised. I’m a bisexual writer and I live with my partner and our four children. I have a BSc in Physics and Maths, and worked in data analysis for infrastructure business, and then in horse racing, prior to becoming a writer. Outside of writing and work, my life revolves around our family, in particular, cricket, a sport played by all of our children. This season, the four of them are in seven teams.

My official bio, as well as an extended version, are on my website at: http://www.reneedahlia.com/about/

 Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

 2020 looks to be another busy year for book releases.
– 12 Jan: Two Hearts Healing
– 1 Feb: Be Mine Anthology
– May: Racetrack Royalty
– June: Her Lady’s Honor

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

 I’ve been writing for over a decade, beginning with non-fiction as an extension of my data analysis work in the horse racing industry. My debut romance novel was published in 2017, and my journey towards being a romance writer is largely thanks to being a romance reader. I didn’t discover romance as a genre until I was pregnant with my first child. I’d been a big reader of mystery prior to that, but couldn’t stomach the violence, and romance gave me the same happy ending/solve the murder satisfaction without the gore! After reading my first few romances, I was hooked, and very rarely read anything else now. I first began writing non-fiction when a magazine approached me to write up some of the data analysis work I’d been doing for another client in a way that was digestible. I enjoyed the process, and have since branched out to write for a second magazine as well. Writing for magazines is an excellent way to practice meeting deadlines and hitting specific word counts. “Can you please do an 800 word interview with this person by tomorrow evening?”
The shift to writing fiction was initially thanks to a “could I?” question, and I had to learn a lot of craft about fiction writing styles before I produced a book that was publishable. I was fortunate enough to have my debut novel published (To Charm a Bluestocking, Escape Publishing/Harlequin Australia), and have been slowly building a career as a romance writer since then.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

 I’d been writing for a long time before I really thought about the concept of ‘being a writer’. Because I fell into writing from another career, it wasn’t a conscious decision to write, but rather a consequence.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

To Charm a Bluestocking is loosely based on my great-grandmother who was one of the first women to attend medical school in Holland and become a doctor.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

My publisher came up with the title. We wanted the word Bluestocking in the title as a keyword for readers, and we used the same style of title across the series. The second book is In Pursuit of a Bluestocking, and the third is The Heart of a Bluestocking.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging?

I’m a storyteller first and foremost, and I’m learning fiction writing craft as I go. Since I studied science at university, I have no formal education with regards to writing and have had to learn via practice. I hope that every book I write is better than the one before. I do find description difficult, and many of my first drafts have notes like “Describe the room here.”

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

All of my books are fiction, but they do include little snippets of real life. A fragment of an overhead conversation, a piece of history, that type of thing. Usually I begin with a ‘what if’ question and build characters from that.

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?

 Having the means to travel is a huge privilege and with the internet, I don’t believe it is necessary for authors to travel. I set my first series in Amsterdam, where my father was born, without having been there, but with many elements based on family photos and stories. Having a close connection to a place (even without being there) helps by knowing which questions to ask about a place. Anyone can look at a map but getting an immersive understanding of a place is hugely assisted by travel and/or a close connection to people who have lived there.

Personally, I didn’t have the funds to travel internationally until I was in my late-twenties when I first travelled from New Zealand to Australia. Soon after that, I moved to Sydney, and two years ago, we had enough funds to visit London with our family of six. During that trip, we went to Wales, and I set my June 2020 release Her Lady’s Honorin Wales. I wouldn’t have written that story without that trip, so while I believe travel isn’t necessary, it certainly does open up opportunities to tell a wider set of stories. Knowing which stories are mine to tell, and which are mine to read is another question entirely, and one that requires self-examination of privilege.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

My publishers (Escape Publishing and Carina Press) created the covers for the books they have published, while my indie covers are designed by Bear Plus Cat Designs.

Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

Happy Ever After means different things to different people and that’s a good thing.

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?  Who is your favorite writer, and what is it about their work that really strikes you?

Last year I read 98 books (http://www.reneedahlia.com/2020/01/14/2019-favourite-reads/) and my most read author was Talia Hibbert. Her books are so emotional; funny, heart warming, and guaranteed to make you cry. Everything you’d want in a romance!

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author.

Romance Writers of Australia. My first ever writing conference was their 2016 conference, and I pitched the novel that would become my debut there. It was contracted by Escape Publishing/Harlequin Australia soon afterwards and released in March 2017.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes.

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

No. Once a book is written, edited, then edited again, it is the best effort I can do at the time. I hope to keep improving with every book I write, and I’d rather put the time into writing new books than continue to edit old books.

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

I’m currently writing the second book in the Great War series (the first book is Her Lady’s Honor) and I’m reading a lot of non-fiction about the Russian Revolution as well as about the suffragette movement post WWI.

Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

I grew up without TV and don’t watch many movies, so I have no idea. If one of my books was made into a movie, I’d be taking the advice of casting professionals.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Keep writing. Practice matters more than anything. And read. Read a lot of books in the genre you want to write in. If a book hooks you, read it twice – once for pleasure, and at least once for craft. Figure out how the author dragged you into the book. Read books by a diverse range of writers; you’ll grow your own craft and you’ll discover many amazing books that aren’t white, straight, and able-bodied.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

I hope you enjoy reading my stories.

 Fiona: What book are you reading now?

 I’ve just finished Lucy Parker’s Headliners, and am reading Anna Zabo’s Syncopation at the moment. I’m also reading two non-fiction books; Sophia by Anita Anand and Rage Becomes Her by Soraya Chemaly.

 Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

 No. I grew up in a house of readers – we had no TV – and was surrounded by books from birth. The first book I read more than once was Black Beauty.

 Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

 Life. Great books.

 Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

There are so many!Richard Feynman, Marie Curie, and basically all the wives of all the well-known scientists in history! I’d also loved to have met both my great-grandmothers on my father’s side of the family. My Babushka died when I was in my teens, but I was never able to meet her as she lived in Holland while I was on the other side of the world. She led a fascinating life, although she was highly religious (Russian Orthodox then Catholic) and that might have been a strong point of contention between us.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

I want travel to become my hobby, so if everyone could buy my books to fund it, that’d be great (ha ha). I do a bit of scrapbooking as a way of collating family photos and stories. I read a lot, and I like to watch cricket.

Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?

I’m not much of a TV watcher, although I did binge watch Lucifer recently. My teens are currently addicted to Brooklyn 99, which is very funny, and the teens send me a LOT of B99 memes! The last film I watched was Crazy Rich Asians, which I adored.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors, music?

Food: Yum Cha, potatoes, summer salads

Colours: Bright colours and black

Music: The Rubens, Regina Spektor, Baker Boy, Hilltop Hoods, Thelma Plum, Alex the Astronaut, Bloody Beetroots, Tones and I, and of older stuff, I have a soft spot for Queen, Foo Fighters, Audioslave, Nirvana, Ella Fitzgerald, Janis Joplin, Nick Cave, Powderfinger, and Ben Folds.

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

 I’d find something. I’ve had several careers before this. Life is an evolution and it’s impossible to predict what job I’ll be doing in ten years. I hope it’s still writing, because I’m still enjoying crafting stories, but who knows.

Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time?

With my partner and kids, probably at the beach, soaking in some Aussie sun and surf, and enjoying some beach cricket. Plus eating all my favourite foods!

Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone?

Ahh, that’s a morbid question. Spike Milligan has the best head stone “See, I told you I was sick.” I doubt I could improve on that from a humour point of view. If I have lived a good life surrounded by people I love, then the words on my head stone are irrelevant. I won’t be there to see them!

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers?

http://www.reneedahlia.com/
Readers can sign up to my newsletter via the link on my website, or they can follow me on social media:

Twitter
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Amazon Authors page USA https://www.amazon.com/Renee-Dahlia/e/B079RVH2J7

UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/Renee-Dahlia/e/B079RVH2J7?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2&qid=1580259787&sr=1-2

 

 

Here is my interview with Joseph J. Madden

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age?

My name is Joseph J. Madden, and I’m as old as my tongue and a little bit older than my teeth.

Fiona: Where are you from?

Born and raised in Queens, New York, but now I live in East Central Wisconsin with my wife, daughters and an assortment of furry critters

Fiona: A little about your self (ie,  your education, family life, etc.).

When I was seven years old, my parents took me to see the original Star Wars for the first time. It changed my life. I became obsessed (in a good way) with it. I devoured anything science fiction that I could read or watch, and remains a passion to this day.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I actually wrote my first story when I was about six years old. It was about the old Hannah Barbera cartoon character Muttley. Six or seven pages written AND illustrated. It has yet to see publication.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

It was around sophomore year of high school that I realized if I didn’t write and get all of these voices out of my head I would go insane.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Well, you can actually thank Michael Jackson for that.  When I was 16 years old, my father and I went to  California over spring break and Disneyland was our first stop. The Micheal Jackson 3D film  Captain EO was the first attraction we went to when we got there.

After EO, we got in line for  our next ride. It was Easter Sunday, and quite busy, with about an hour wait, and as is typical of me being a creative type, I draw inspiration from a lot of sources. I loved the “space misfits make right” idea that Captain EO presented. and by the time we got on our ride, I had already formulated my own crew of misfits, a group of ragtag space pirates. I wrote the first draft that summer on break from school, about 100 pages. I continued to expand it over the years. The story evolved over the years, then I threw it out the space pirate idea, keeping the crew together and making them bounty hunters instead. The rest…well, that’s all in the book

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The story is about a bounty hunting team that crew the starship Starhawk, so the title The Starhawk Chronicles pretty much tells a reader what the basic premise is right from the start.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging?

Writing science fiction is a challenge because you are essentially playing God, creating entire worlds, and races from scratch. I still try to keep things grounded in reality though. I don’t like to get too far out there like a lot of your more hardcore science fiction. My book are basically straight forward adventure or western stories in a science fiction setting.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

My main character, Jesse Forster, is largely based on a lot of my own point of view, and my attitudes about things from when I was the same age. He’s prettier than I am though.

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?

I don’t have to travel, seeing as flights to outer space are prohibitively expensive, but travel does still contribute to world-building, no matter how Earth-bound it may be. I try to draw little bits and pieces of other cultures and incorporate them into races in my books.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

A British artist named Dan Lambert (www.danlambertart.com). Found him on a lark on the internet. I wasn’t working with a very large budget, but  he said if I allowed him some creative leeway, he’d work with me, budget wise. Fortunately, what he came up with was exactly what I was hoping for in the first place.

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?  Who is your favorite writer, and what is it about their work that really strikes you?

Teres by Gershom Reese Wetzel is an excellent dystopian future novel that I enjoyed a lot. Gersh is a part of what I call my “writing Rat pack”, a group of other indie authors I correspond with and bounce ideas off of. Gersh is a really talented writer and filmmaker and I value his input. He made an incredible short film Infiltrator, which is a Terminator fan film and can be viewed on YouTube.

Dean Koontz and Timothy Zahn are two of my favorite modern-day authors. Masters in their fields. But my favorite author ever has been Mark Twain. I grew up dreaming of living like Huck Finn, floating down the Mississippi on a raft without a care in the world.

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author.

My aforementioned “Rat Pack” has been a great source of support. We are all up-and-coming writers and can share ideas and make suggestions, and also cross promote our works.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I’d love to see it happen.

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

I am very happy with the way my last book turned out. Wouldn’t change a thing.

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

Yes. The writing part of it becomes much, much easier if you’re having fun with it and not trying to stick to strictly to the blueprint you originally had set up for the story in your mind. Once I got the characters and the conflict established, chaos ensued  and it was the most fun I had writing a story. I had established a deadline for finishing the first draft, and I ended up coming in a month early.

Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

It’s very hard for me to picture any one actor playing the part of Jesse Forster, since there is so much of myself in him. I always see myself when I visualize him. If I absolutely had to say a name, I guess a younger version of Michael Biehn from Aliens and The Terminator.

For my female lead of Kayla Karson, I would love to see Katherine McNamara from TV’s Arrow and the Maze Runner films.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Don’t. Ever. Give. Up. You’ll come up against a lot of people who tell you you cannot make it as a writer, that you’re just living a pipe dream. To quote Walt Disney “When you believe a thing, believe it all the way. Have confidence in your ability to do it right. And work hard to do the best possible job.”

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

The Pilgrims by David McCullough. I love American History, and McCullough is, in my eyes, the undisputed master on the subject

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I was reading from a very young age, possibly before Kindergarten. My earliest memories are reading Charles Schulz’ Peanuts comics, and Old Black Witch! by Wende and Harry Devlin. I still have a copy of that one.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Emotions are a non-negotiable in my line of work.

Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

Walt Disney. He is my idol. He was never the type to let anything stop him. When someone told him that there was something he couldn’t do, he went ahead and did it anyway.

 Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?

A more accurate question would be what fims do I not enjoy watching? Obviously Science Fiction and Fantasy are huge for me, but I love Westerns, old Swashbucklers, Comedies, some musicals.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

Italian and Mexican food. I’m always down for a burrito.

My musical tastes are all over. I grew up with a father who was very into the Beatles, Elvis, and Frank Sinatra. My mom got me into Country music. My love of movies grew my love of big bombastic orchestral scores. Film scores make up probably 70% of my music library.

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

I will move to Florida and work at Walt Disney World.  Stick me in a Goofy costume and I’ll be a happy guy.

Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time?

I can’t say for sure, but it would probably be filled with some epically bad decisions.

Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone?

“Well, that didn’t go as planned…”

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers?

I interact mostly with readers through my Facebook page. www.facebook.com/authorjjmadden .

My blog, Getting My Geek On, (jjmadden.blogspot.com) is where I write (or rant) about my writing or interests.

Amazon Authors page USA https://www.amazon.com/Joseph-Madden/e/B00EO95A4O

The Starhawk Chronicles: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IK93IAC

Rest and Wreck-reation: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0163MIQ5Y

Other Worlds: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00L0R7D1G

Here is my interview with John C Adams

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age?

Hi, I’m John C Adams, and I’m 49. That’s just old enough for me to pause before being honest that fifty is just around the corner!

Fiona: Where are you from?

I grew up in Essex, England. However, I’ve moved around a lot for work and lived in the north and the Midlands for long periods, too. Our family has lived in rural Northumberland since 2003 very close to the Scottish border in a former mining village.

Fiona: A little about your self (ie, your education, family life, etc.).

I went to my local comprehensive school and sixth-form college in Essex. I read Philosophy, Politics and Economics at Somerville College, Oxford, and afterwards became a solicitor.

I’m married to Brian, who is now severely brain damaged after a near-fatal heart attack. That’s why since 2003 I’ve been his carer and we’ve been living quietly in a small village. We have two kids, one grown up and the other now in sixth form. I’m nonbinary.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

My latest fantasy novel ‘Dagmar of the Northlands’ is out now on Kindle and Smashwords!

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I wrote alot as a child and really loved it. Then I didn’t write for ages and ages because I was studying and working, but after my daughter was born I started writing again. It was really important for me to have something that was for me when I was otherwise run off my feet caring for Brian and raising the kids. I’m really glad I went back to it because I’ve had alot of fun with it since, and it really has given me some space to call my own.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I was fifteen I won a £20 book token for first place in a writing competition. We’d gone on a school trip to the Mediterranean that winter. It was held by the cruise company that ran the trip for kids who’d gone on them every year, and I won! That counts, right?

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I write horror as well as fantasy. Before I wrote my first book ‘Souls for the Master’ I wrote alot of short fiction about a family called the Flintsthat was published in various magazines. Some of the Flint clan are farmers and others live in urban areas, but they are all very strange. It’s really liminal horror. For the novel, I featured the same family but wrote a very different tale full of action about a group of rebels trying to destroy a very centralised power structure where a government is trying to control everyone’s movement and thoughts via their leader, the Master.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Initially, it was called ‘Estate of Ash’. This was the first version of the book and it was Highly Commended in the University of Winchester Writer’s Conference Competition 2012, ‘First Three Pages of A Novel’ category. This was quite early in my writing career, and after I’d done my Postgraduate Certificate in Creative Writing, I rewrote it completely as ‘Souls for the Master’.

The title ‘Souls for the Master’ was intended to give the reader a glimpse of the central importance the political structure places on controlling the population and the fact that their power to do this comes from the shadowy figure they worship as much as fear. He urges his followers on to some pretty dark deeds.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging?

I tend to vary my writing style alot within short fiction because the style depends on the magazine or publishing house you’re submitting to. Each one knows what they like. I write stories with quite a strong plot line but with deep characterisation. I’m not a fan of too much dialogue. My writing style varies alot between horror and fantasy because they are really quite different, and unless I’m writing dark fantasy I have to be careful to keep to the right side of the line because readers do expect the styles to be quite different.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

‘Souls for the Master’ is a horror novel based around a government’s attempts to wipe out unproductive members of society in their millions to placate a dark god they worship. Thankfully, it isn’tovertly biographical.

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?

Almost all my work is done at home in rural Northumberland. I have to fit writing around what are pretty heavy caring responsibilities. We don’t travel much due to my husband’s ill health. He finds busy places overwhelming, although wheelchair access gets better with every year, we find.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

The cover for ‘Souls for the Master’ and for my current fantasy novel ‘Dagmar of the Northlands’ were designed by Fiona Jayde Media. She always does a fabulous job in realising my vision and bringing the characters I’ve created to life on the front cover. She also produced the cover for ‘Aspatria’, the prequel to Dagmar.

Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

Every human being is valuable to society and to mankind even if (perhaps particularly if) the ethos of those in power is that certain types of people are worthless. Our most positive feature as humanity is our compassion, and while some see that as a weakness it is actually our strength when we stand strong together.

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?  Who is your favorite writer, and what is it about their work that really strikes you?

As a reviewer with the British Fantasy Society, the Horror Tree and Schlock! Webzine, I see alot of really amazing new writers emerging and it is an absolute privilege to review their work. It’s always hard to narrow it down to just one or two to mention, but just recently I reviewed ‘TheNew Voices of Science Fiction’ (edited by HannuRajaniemi and Jacob Weisman). It was jam-packed with emerging writers who are already making their mark, and the diversity of the collection was amazing.

My favourite writer in horror is probably John Wyndham, because I read so much of his stuff when I was growing up. In fantasy, it’s probably David Gemmell, because he combined romance and epic battles, which I love.

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author.

I’ve had an immense amount of support over the years from Albedo One Magazine, based in Dublin. I was longlisted for the Aeon Award in 2012 and 2013. Then in 2015, the award director Frank Ludlow contacted me to ask if I wanted to train as a Submissions Reader. I’ve been reading entries to the competition and submissions to the magazine since then, and in 2016 I got promoted to be a Contributing Editor alongside the rest of the team. They probably did more than any other single entity to support me in the early days when I was just starting to get published. Every author needs that when they are new and uncertain, and it made a great deal of difference to my confidence. I owe the guys there a world of thanks for empowering me as a writer.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes!

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

My latest book is a fantasy romance called ‘Dagmar of the Northlands’, which has a Nordic theme. It features a heroine, Dagmar, whose father and stepfather were leaders of the Men of the North. Her stepfather has just been killed by her stepbrother Njal, and he’s taken over as konung. Njal orders a raid on the island of Orkna to divert attention from how he got to be the leader, and it all starts to unravel from there.

Like most fantasy novels, it’s pretty long. Any novel of that length goes through so many revisions and alterations and improvements that it just leaves your head spinning. If I had to change anything, it would probably be to include more flashbacks. I’ve only just recently had the confidence to start using them, and this novel includes a couple, but since then I’ve used them more and more, and I think they really give something special.

Just the other day ‘Dagmar’ had its first professional review from Bookshelf Adventures, and their feedback was really positive. I’m so relieved because getting reviews is such a nerve-wracking process! In terms of learning, they said make sure the characters are carefully introduced because otherwise it’s alot for readers new to the series to take in. I’m definitely going to act on that reviewer feedback. Other than that, they really liked it.

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

I didalot of historical research about Nordic cultures and even picked up a little bit of Old English and Old Norse. I also read lots of sagas to understand Nordic literary works as well.

Every novel is a massive challenge, but that brings with it opportunities to grow as a writer. As I mentioned just now, I used flashbacks for the first time in ‘Dagmar’ and this was really special but took a bit of working at. Also, this was a follow up to my first fantasy novel ‘Aspatria’, so it was crucially important to make sure the details and continuity were right in what is quite an expanding universe.

Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

I’m clear that the central character of Dagmar should be played by a Scandinavian actor. I’d love to see Noomi Rapace, who I first saw in The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo and then in Sherlock Holmes, play that role!

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. There’s plenty of it out there, and it will help you to grow as a writer. It’s easy to feel that paying large amounts of money is the answer, but by far the most helpful support I’ve had has come for free on a ‘like for like’ basis through beta reading, editing, critiques and mutual support in writing groups online.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

As a nonbinary writer, I work hard to portray vivid and varied characters of all kinds, but I’m always keen to see more diversity in horror and fantasy. I try to make that happen via my own writing and also in my choice of which books to review.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m re-reading Brian Attebery’s ‘Strategies of Fantasy’. I get more out of it every time!

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I was quite an early reader, and I read an awful lot as a child. I think every kid who grows up to be a writer would say that! One of my most treasured reading memories from childhood was Noggin the Nog. I think it might have created an early love for the fantasy genre!

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

One of the best feelings in life is to laugh until you cry. We have frogs, hamsters and cats so there’s usually some antics going on here to make me laugh!

Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

My great grandmother. Her husband was a fireman, and they lived in the East End of London. I have a photo of her holding an open book on her lap, which has been such an inspiration to me over the years in terms of becoming well educated. I like to think she’d be proud of what I’ve achieved, and I bet she was really proud of her youngest daughter (my grandmother) who was a solicitor’s clerk until she got married to my grandmother.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

We grow quite alot of our food, because living in an old miner’s cottage we have one of those enormously long gardens. Over the years, I’ve returned it to something akin to how the miners would have used it: to grow veg that was expensive and to help the budget stretch.

Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?

I’m quite eclectic in my tastes for TV and film. I love comedies, because laughter is such a tonic. We’re just getting Season 11 of Modern Family here in the UK. I thought Season 10 was the end, so when my daughter said it was coming back I was delighted. She is hoping to go to drama school, so we watch alot of TV and film as part of her learning to be an actress.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors, music?

We went vegan about a year ago, and I’m glad we did and would recommend it, but it takes some getting used to. Favourite food is now cake because it’s hard to get really decent vegan ones here. I love bright colours, so scarlet. Heavy metal and rock on the music front.

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

Wonder what had gone wrong. For me, it’s a love affair with words and characters. Something in me will have died forever on the day I’m not writing.

Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time?

In 2003, we literally had that experience when Brian suffered a near-fatal heart attack. Although he survived, the brain damage meant the person he was has been lost forever. Counsellors call that a living bereavement, and we really do feel like we’ve lost him.

One of our neighbours has a pond, and our gardens have dragonflies every summer. They are so cheery and happy, making the most of their short lives. Every time I see them I feel both sad at how little time they have but also inspired by how they are determined to make the most of it.

Brian’s illness has taught me to make the most of every day, not just to wait for the last one. You don’t know when that will be – unless you’re a dragonfly, of course.

Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone?

‘Shouldn’t that be hyphenated?’

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers?

 I’d love to offer your readers ten free copies of ‘Dagmar of the Northlands’ via Smashwords code to download a copy on Mobi for Kindle or e-pub. If that’s acceptable to you, I’ll generate the codes and email them to you so you can give them direct to your readers. You don’t need to share their details with me, and there’s no requirements for review or follow up contact. All privacy is retained!

Website: https://johncadams.wixsite.com/johnadamssf

Blog: https://johncadams.wixsite.com/johnadamssf/blog

Twitter: @johncadamssf

Amazon Authors page UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/John-C-Adams/e/B018EXJ2V2/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

USA  https://www.amazon.com/John-C-Adams/e/B018EXJ2V2?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1580209439&sr=1-1

Amazon page for Dagmar:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dagmar-Northlands-Gortah-Murkar-Book-ebook/dp/B07VRWX96J/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=dagmar+of+the+northlands&qid=1564321787&s=gateway&sr=8-1

Smashwords page for Dagmar:

https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/944686

Here is my interview with Rania Battany

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age?

Hi! My name is Rania Battany and I am 37 years old.

Fiona: Where are you from?

I am from Melbourne, Australia.

Fiona: A little about yourself (ie,  your education, family life, etc.).

I am married to the love of my life and we have three children, a dog and three chickens. Before I become a mum, I worked in events and performance, with my qualifications being in Event Management and Theatre. Many years ago, I wrote poems and screenplays for local theatre.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

I am about to release the third book in my Stolen Hearts Series, which is a steamy contemporary romance series following four separate interracial romances.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I have always been a writer in some capacity. As a child and teen, I wrote poetry. In my twenties I wrote screenplays. Finally, I wrote my first novel in my thirties. I write because I have to … because it’s the only way to get the conversations in my head to stop!

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I considered myself a writer from the moment I started writing. I considered myself an author when my first book was officially published.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

It is a funny story. I woke up one morning and an idea just popped into my head—like a lightbulb switching on. I felt so compelled to get the story out of my head that I wrote 4000 words that day!

 Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

All my titles come from a line in one of my books.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

Everything I write is based—in some small way—on something that has happened to me or someone I know. In saying that, I always embellish that element for the sake of my story.

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?

No. I’m fine to write without travelling.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I use an Australian cover designer named Lana Pecherczyk. I have also designed some of my own covers, too.

Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

Yes. I loved to write about flawed characters finding love. That is the message I want everyone to take from my books. No one is perfect. But everyone deserves to find someone that loves them.

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?  Who is your favorite writer, and what is it about their work that really strikes you?

My favourite author at the moment is Jennifer Probst. She writes sexy, contemporary romance with characters that have intense chemistry.

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author.

The Romance Writers of Australia. The other authors/members have been an integral part of any success I’ve achieved.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes. Currently, it doesn’t earn me a full-time income, but that is my long-term goal.

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

No. My latest book, Call me Lucy, is one of my favourites that I’ve written.

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

Sure did! I overcame my fear of judgement and wrote the book I wanted to write. I learnt that in the past I had allowed what other people would think of my writing to dictate how and what I wrote.

Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

Hmmmm, I’m not sure! My male lead is Middle Eastern with dark tan skin and striking features and my female lead has Ocean blue eyes, a petite frame and white skin. If anyone knows of someone …

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Network, network, network! There is so much to learn from more experienced authors and the pool of information is invaluable.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

I love hearing from my readers, so please, say HI now and then!

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Right now, I am reading Waiting for you by fellow Aussie author, Jasmine Stevens

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Books that highlight how dating can go wrong make me laugh and any thing emotional makes me cry!

Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

From the past, I’d like to meet Jesus, simply because I don’t think there have been many other people throughout history that have been so influential. From the present, I’d like to meet Prince Harry (who may not be a Prince any longer?) to discuss what life as a modern-day royal is really like.

 Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

Yes! I love gardening. It’s more than a hobby, it’s a lifestyle.

 Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?

I don’t watch TV shows. As for movies, I enjoy anything fun and light-hearted.

 Fiona: Favorite foods, colors, music?

Favourite food is a Middle Eastern dish. It is stuffed Lebanese zucchini in a rich tomato-based sauce. My favourite colour is probably ruby. My favourite music is soft pop or singer/song-writer stuff.

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

Grow a garden that is productive enough to feed my family of five.

 Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time?

I will hang out with my husband and three kids, perhaps playing boardgames or going for a walk through one of the beautiful parks in our area.

 Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone?

That I was loved.

 Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers?

 Yes! My website is https://raniabattany.com

I have recently released a new book called Call me Lucy which is an Amnesia, Enemies-to-Lovers romance. You can find more details about the book and the series on my website.

My latest book Call me Lucy is out now. I have attached the cover and the links here:

AMAZON AU: https://amzn.to/2O5T8BG
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/2XuYqtt
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/2QDCdIm
AMAZON CA: https://amzn.to/3340Ro2

Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/Rania-Battany/e/B07MGCNKPL/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0