My interview with Suzy Turner

Name: Suzy Turner
Age: 36
Where are you from: Rotherham, South Yorkshire
A little about your self `ie your education Family life ect

Although I’m a real Yorkshire lass at heart, I left the UK, to move to Portugal with my family, when I was ten. 
The Algarve is still my home (26 years later!) where I live in the country with my very supportive husband Michael. Although we are hoping to move in the next couple of years. We’d love to return to the UK… we’ve had our fair share of the sun!
My career began soon after completing my A levels when I was offered the position of trainee journalist for a local English newspaper. My love of writing developed and a few years later I moved on to become assistant editor for the region’s largest English language publisher. Since then I’ve also worked as the editor of one of the Algarve’s most loved monthly lifestyle magazines. Early in 2010 however, I began working as a freelance writer and author, and have since completed my first three novels for young adults.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Well, I’m super excited to have launched a brand new look for my series, The Raven Saga, yesterday. Creative book designer/author, Emma Michaels offered to re-do my covers for me and the result is just fabulous! I’m also in the middle of writing the first book of my new series, The Morgan Sisters, which will be out in November. I’m doing a Grand Cover Reveal on 1st September!! This time, the cover was designed by another awesome designed, Ravven.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I’ve always loved to read books, so English Literature seemed the natural way for me to go. I wrote my first novel when I was in my early 20s, but I never got anywhere with it. It was a chick lit book called Molly. I really became serious about writing in 2010, after I was made redundant, when I wrote my first YA novel, Raven.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When Raven was uploaded to Amazon and I got my first review. That was amazing!

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I consider Raven to be my first real book so I’ll talk about that. It was during a holiday to Canada in 2009. It was the most spectacular place I’d ever seen, beautiful in so many ways. But it was when we visited a place called Powell River that the cogs of my brain went into overdrive. I just started having all these ideas about vampires and changelings and werewolves… I could imagine them hiding in the trees that surrounded us. It was a few months later that I begin to picture Lilly, the protagonist, sitting in a bare bedroom with ravens at her window. And that was it… I just HAD to write the story from then on!

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

That’s a tough one! I like to write in a simple enough style so that everyone can read my books… from children to adults. I love it when a book has such broad appeal!

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Raven just seemed the natural title. I don’t think I agonised over it at all. It was always just there.

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

I guess it’s the usual message that love conquers all, evil doesn’t have to win… and you never know what’s lurking in the shadows…

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

No… none of it is realistic. It’s very much a combination of urban life meets the supernatural.

Fiona: Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

No characters or events are based on anyone I know either, I’m afraid!

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

Just before my teens, I was very much influenced by authors like Jilly Cooper, Jackie Collins, etc. I was probably a little young to read them but they taught me a lot! On a more serious note, The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood was one of my favourites and I do believe that book inspired me somewhat. Later on though, it was most definitely Harry Potter and Twilight that gave me the most inspiration to write in the YA Urban Fantasy genre.

Fiona: If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

JK Rowling, without a doubt. I love the way she writes… I just recently re-read Harry Potter and was still blown away by it. The manner in which she draws you in and makes you forget the world around you is just awesome. She’s amazing.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m reading the Pravus series by Poppet, its a scary supernatural adult story with vampires! Its fantastic though!

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?

Oh there are too many to list but a few are Becca Fitzpatrick, Kiersten White, Shalini Boland, Johanna Frappier, Samantha Towle, Megg Jensen, Cidney Swanson, Patti Roberts, Suzanne Collins. All terrific authors whose books I’ve devoured!

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I’m working on a brand new series called The Morgan Sisters. I’m super excited about this one as I’ve set it partly in London and Andilyse Island just off the English coast (no… it’s not a real island!)

Fiona: Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.

I’d have to be a bit vague and say the blogosphere… if it wasn’t for some of these awesome book bloggers and authors, I probably wouldn’t be where I am now.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Absolutely. I’m not earning massive amounts of money though, so I’m very lucky that I have a very supportive husband!

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

My latest book is The Lost Soul (book III in The Raven Saga). Hm? Would I change anything? Possibly… it would have been fun to do more with the character of Nick Pryce but in the end it just wasn’t meant to be.

Fiona: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?

I remember being encouraged by an English teacher when I was about 13 or 14. I’d written a short story and she told me that it was really rather good. Perhaps, subconsciously, that’s where it all started.

Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us?

Sure! Please be aware though that this is a rough draft:

The Morgan Sisters

The wind picked up temporarily and with it came a gentle sound. It sounded like someone calling her. Turning to look up towards the very top of Carlton Point, Lana could see no-one. Its just my imagination, she thought. It’s just because my heart is beating like God knows what. But the sound continued persistently: ‘Laaaanaa….. Laaaanaa…. Laaaanaa…’

‘What the…?’.

Standing, Lana did a full circle squinting her eyes before chuckling nervously, ‘Very funny, Scottie. I know it’s you. You can come out now!’ she yelled, but nobody appeared. She fidgeted with her fingers and stood quickly. Her plan was to climb back on her bike and cycle away but her legs moved in another direction: towards the summit.

No, she thought, no…

It was no good, she had no control over her body as she continued walking until she reached the pinnacle of Carlton Point. Lana was terrified. She had always had what she thought to be an irrational fear of heights. Just like Emma had an irrational fear of water. There was no explanation to either phobia. Then why was she here? How had I climbed up here?

At the very top of Carlton Point was a small circular patch of ground surrounded by an ancient stone wall. One side was the way she’d walked up… although steep, there were no scary edge as such. The other side was an altogether different story. She’d seen it in pictures, and from afar, but never had she seen it up close. Standing dead centre, Lana closed her eyes just for a second. I’m not here, she thought, I’m in bed having a nightmare. But the gentle breeze told her a different story. She gulped hard and opened her eyes, her limbs incapable of moving further. She was no longer in the centre of the circle but was now looking down at a sheer drop hundreds of feet below.

She could hear her heart beating, feel it thudding in her chest. She couldn’t open her mouth; it was too dry. All she wanted to do was scream but she couldn’t even do that. Please God don’t let me die, she thought. Emma, if you can hear me, I know we’re not really flesh and blood but you are my sister and my best friend. Live your life for the two of us. I love you, Em.

A massive gust of wind took her feet from beneath her and she was forcefully pushed from the top of Carlton Point, falling silently and peacefully to the rocky hills below.

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

I guess it would be the editing process after the first draft has been written. You have to read through it so many times that it can be hard going.

Fiona: Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

I don’t have just one favourite, I have so many! I loved the way JK Rowling created such a bright visual image of Hogwarts, for example. I love the way Cecelia Aherne incorporates a little bit of magic into her chick lit novels. The way Margaret Atwood made me cry in The Handmaid’s Tale. The awesome vision of Medieval times by Ken Follett in The Pillars of The Earth. Oh, and I mustn’t forget Jean Auel’s awe inspiring tale of Ayla in The Clan of the Cave Bear… a pre-historic world that literally comes to life when you read it!

Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?

Not yet but I hope to one day! Let’s just say I do a lot of virtual travelling instead 🙂

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Emma Michaels literally just re-designed the covers for The Raven Saga. The Morgan Sisters is designed by Ravven. Both are truly amazingly talented women!

Fiona: What was the hardest part of writing your book?

The editing as I get easily distracted.

Fiona: Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?

Over the course of writing three books, I believe I’ve learned so much about how to create a visual world on paper. That you should always try to incorporate sights, smells and feel so that the reader is drawn in. That you should ‘show’ more and ‘tell’ less, but that there are always exceptions. And the biggest thing? That rules can be broken and readers will still love what you’ve written.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Make sure you have perseverance and motivation because you’re going to need them! If you have both of these qualities then you can easily write a book.

Don’t take negative reviews to heart. It can be heart breaking when someone slams your work, but you just have to remember that not everyone has the same tastes, not everyone will love your writing. And when someone is just plain nasty, well that’s their bad, not yours! Just remember that there are more good people out there who will love it 🙂

Fiona: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers? 

THANK YOU!!! I wouldn’t be where I am now were it not for you guys. You are truly awesome and I will be forever grateful. Oh and, put a note in your diaries. The Morgan Sisters Book I comes out 14th November 🙂

Fiona: If you were not a writer what else would you like to have done ?

If you’d have asked me this early this year, I would have said to work behind the scenes on movies / TV. But in April I was given the opportunity to do just that. I worked as the Script Supervisor for a Brit Com movie (The Right Juice) being filmed entirely in the Algarve. It was the most awesome experience but boy was it exhausting! Working 12 hour + days wasn’t easy. It was difficult for my husband too, who wasn’t used to me being away so long! So, I’d reconsider that! In recent months I’ve massively changed my diet to improve my health and I’ve become so fascinated by it all, so I’d go for Nutritionist… that’s what I’d do.
 
Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? if so what is it? 

Yes! http://suzyturner.com

http://suzyturner.blogspot.com

Thank you so much for this interview, it’s been a lot of fun!

Warm wishes,

Our interview with Tasha Turner

 

Name Tasha Turner

Age: Under 50 … LOL don’t you know it’s not polite to ask a lady her name?

Where are you from  Tasha (Malka Esther) Lennhoff’s imagination

A little about yourself `ie your education Family life ect

 Tasha Turner was born full grown as it is a pen name. It also became my professional name overnight. The Satmar Vampire may turn out to be a bit controversial in the Orthodox Jewish community. I thought taking a pen name might be a good idea to hide my identity. Unfortunately I am no good at keeping secrets so within a month everyone knew Tasha Turner was Tasha (Malka Esther) Lennhoff. But I had also made almost 500 Facebook friends. My Lennhoff friends would talk to Lennhoff in chat about personal things and at the exact same time talk to Turner about writing and book publishing. So it was clear that I was meant to be Tasha Turner now that I am working again. And that is the story of how I came to be.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I’ve mostly recovered from being hit by a Mack truck in March, 2012. My funny short Jewish vamp story is coming along.  I may be starting up a virtual blog tour business with a couple of partners to add to my social media coaching business.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

 1^st story I have is called dog planet. It’s from 1^st grade I think. I have 2 versions of it. My mother saved it I have no idea why. It is… yeah… not something I’d want to post up as a shining example of my genius.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

In my 20s I started writing as a technical writer. Since then I’ve been writing mostly technical documents. Resumes, proposals, how to guides, software training manuals, help docs for software.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I’m currently writing my 1^st short story and have an outline for my 1^st book. They were both started by the same incident. Beth-Ann Mason’s mom came up with an idea “why not have a Chasidic Jewish vampire?” Beth-Ann mentioned this in chat and we thought why not write it together as I have the Jewish knowledge and she has more fiction writing experience.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Not yet. Well my technical and blogging style are specific. With technical writing I write for 8 year olds. And blogging I try to stay on topic and share useful information.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Because I decided to base the book around the original Satmar Rebbe it seemed right to call the book The Satmar Vampire.

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

 That every action has a consequence and that anyone can choose to be good or evil.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Not much is realistic. Parts are based on the real life of the Satmar Rebbe. Parts are based on the Satmar Jewish culture. Parts are based on biblical and Jewish mythology. But most of it is a story I’ve made up based on the simple premise given to me “Why not have a Chasidic Jewish vampire?”

Fiona: Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

 I do not believe so.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most? I

 grew up on Louisa May Alcott, Laura Ingalls Wilder, Trixie Belden by Julie Campbell, and JRR Tolkien.  As I got older I got into Jane Austen, Georgette Heyer, Christine Feehan, Mercedes Lackey, David Weber, and Robert Jordan.

Fiona: If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor? I

 can’t pick one. My mother, Zoe Guernsey (teacher), and Beth-Ann Mason

Fiona: What book are you reading now?  For the Love of Old Bones – and other stories (Templar Series) by Michael Jecks, Life Goes On by Pam Logan, and All Who Wander Are Lost (An Icarus Fell Novel) by Bruce Blake

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?

 Tara Chevrestt is my currently my favorite new author, followed by Kristen Lamb, Alivia Anders, and B. Throwsnaill

Fiona: What are your current projects?

 My current project is without a name but is a funny Jewish vamp short that hopefully will be out 2012. After that I will be tackling The Satmar Vampire for real. Right now I just get to work on it a few minutes here or there.

Fiona: Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.

 Beth-Ann Mason one of my best friends and my co-author of The Satmar Vampire is probably the person who has supported me the most. A close 2^nd to that is Tara Chevrestt who has become my writing partner and makes sure I write at least a few nights a week.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career? T

echnical writing was a career. Fiction writing is a hobby. I prefer coaching authors in using social media to sell their work more than I do in writing fiction.

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

 I’m early in the writing stages of the book so I can’t answer at this time. We should revisit these questions when the book finally comes out.

Fiona: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?

 I wrote stories as a kid. The technical writing happened when I was a switchboard operator and was bored and asked around to see if anyone had any extra work. Two people took me under their wings and taught me to write proposals and customize resumes. When I was laid off I went back to secretarial work. I was always helping people with things on the computer. I had a 3 time rule. The 1^st time I helped someone we would write down how to do something. The 2^nd time we’d go through the instructions and see where I’d left out steps. The 3^rd time someone had to prove to me the instructions did not work. I was taking a number of computer classes required where I worked and several of the trainers suggested to their company that they hire me after seeing how I worked quietly with the slower students adding notes to the instructions manuals they brought with them. They hired me. I went to night school to get my degree and eventually became a manager of a technical writing group.

I ended up sick with an unknown cause of chronic fatigue which stopped my career.  I was able to use a computer so for 10 years I have been all over the net helping people with everything from computers to Judaism to Facebook games to social media. Beth-Ann Mason mentioned the book idea and at the same time asked me to work with her on her at Tri Destiny Publishing. I found that while I enjoyed helping authors with social media, publishing was not for me. I’ve been trying to split my time between the business and the book while recovering from a severe car accident for the last few months.

Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us?

 From the Satmar Vampire: Shalom and Yom Tov don’t know it but it is December 4, 1944. They found a hole in the fence and are running for their lives. They know if they escape from Bergen-Belsen concentration camp and get on the train that is taking the Satmar Rebbe over the Swiss border they might live. All of a sudden machine gun shots ring out, but they awake alive as Jewish Vampires!

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

I’m very lucky. I have 2 editors who are working with me to teach me the craft. Thanks to my early training in technical writing I don’t mind getting redlined work back instead I get excited that someone cared enough to be honest although some of the changes are hard to learn. Technical writing is 1^st person present tense and every step is obvious. Fiction is past tense and you have to pay attention to whom is doing what (so you know who can be seeing things) and how they get to places.  I do a lot of “magically appearing” (I’m told I forget to do scene set-up). I’m also working hard with dialogue and dialogue tags (he said, she said is sooo not the way to write). Showing versus telling is also very hard. In technical writing I’m telling “click this, type that” … in fiction I need to show things and it is taking longer than I expected to learn to make the change.

Fiona: Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

This is a tough one. When I’m in the mood for romance it is Georgette Heyer. Her work is full of strong heroines; strong heroes that almost always do the wrong things in trying to rescue the heroines, and lots of humor.  When I’m looking for fantasy it is Mercedes Lackey who has so many books out there is always something new for me to read. For science fiction it is David Weber who is now moving into the YA market. I’ve still not read everything he wrote. One things all of the writers have in common is strong female characters, lots of things going on to keep my attention (some would disagree on Heyer), humor, and books big enough that I’m not done with them in an hour or two. There is also not a lot of swearing or graphic sex in any of the books which is a big plus. All deal with human emotion, that people can be good or evil, that people can change, that even in the hardest of times some people can keep their moral compass.

Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?

My book starts off in Germany towards the end of World War II and ends in Brooklyn, NY. I personally won’t travel much but I will have to do research on various areas based on the timeline for my characters.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Covadonga Palacio Perez designed the cover for The Satmar Vampire

Fiona: What was the hardest part of writing your book?

Sitting down and writing it is turning out to be the biggest problem. Trying to write fiction for the first time while starting up a new business and getting hit by a truck may have been a bit much to tackle all at once.

Fiona: Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?

 The more you get into the habit of writing the more you will find yourself able to write.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Write every day. Find a writing partner who will write at the same time you do so you both are accountable it really makes a big difference.

Fiona: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

 I promise the book really is coming.

Fiona: If you were not a writer what else would you like to have done?

 I’m not sure what I would have done instead of technical writing. I loved it for a while. I love blogging and helping people. Coaching people is really what I love to do. Helping them see the potential within themselves and bringing it out. There is no feeling like that in the world.

Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? if so what is it? I blog at Tasha Turner Coaching http://tasha-turner.com/blog/ . Tuesdays are generally dedicated to social media or writing tips. Thursdays are for book reviews or author spotlights. Other days of the week are days off or odds and ends. Due to the accident and the chronic fatigue my schedule is not always kept to.

You can see the book cover for The Satmar Vampire at Goodreads http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15727106-the-satmar-vampire

I can also be found on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/TashaTurnerCoaching

And on Twitter you can follow me at http://twitter.com/turner_tasha

Here is our interview with Adrian Chamberlin

Name: Adrian Chamberlin

Age: Forty and three quarters

Where are you from: Born in Cardiff, Wales. Now lives in Wallingford, South Oxfordshire

A little about your self: Working as a stores co-ordinator for two warehouses in Wallingford; enjoys hot cross buns and alcohol (not at the same time, though!) and has heard of the concept of ‘spare time’ but swears it’s just a myth.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I’m doing a public reading at the Wallingford Bunkfest’s Storytelling Fringe on Sunday, September 2^nd, 5pm. Come and listen to me read dark and nasty tales!

http://www.bunkfest.co.uk/storytelling.html

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

It started at primary school, about the same time I learned how to read! I had a taste for fantastical fiction: space adventures, anything with dinosaurs and big scary monsters, knights and castles…guess I never grew out of those, because my favourite genres are history, thrillers and supernatural fiction.

The fun I had with writing stories stuck with me; the act of creating worlds and filling them with people and creatures of my own imagination is like a drug. Even now, if I don’t write for a few days (tied up with editing commitments or eBook formatting) I get twitchy and irritable. When I finish a piece – be it a short story, or novel chapter  – I get a mental buzz. And that’s the key, I think; you really do write for yourself first, others second.

As to why I continue…well, I couldn’t stop if I wanted to. I didn’t write for the period  2002-2006 because I was hooked on eBay selling (a real thief of time!) and I’d just come out of a long term relationship. But I was never happy. Trouble is, the longer you leave something, the harder it is to return. The psychological barrier comes down and self-doubt sets in. It was purely chance that got me writing again; I saw a call for Christmas-themed stories in a local magazine and dusted off an old story for a whim. I had no expectations; it was set in a Cambridge College and dealt with cannibalism, murder, and Satanism during a Midwinter Feast, while the others were about more traditional Christmas themes!

It scored second prize, and removed all self-doubt. EBay selling was abandoned, and I threw myself into writing again. I’ve not stopped since.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

It was only when I was first published that I decided I could call myself a writer. That happened in 1998 with my first ever published work in Guy n Smith’s Graveyard Rendezvous. There’s lots of debate on what constitutes being a ‘writer’ or an ‘author’, with many schools of thought leaning to payment for your stories being the only way you can class yourself an author. I don’t get involved with that, and I’ve never really given it much thought. I write for myself first; if I consider it good enough, then I’ll seek a market for it.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

The Caretakers was originally begun in 1997, but the final product is a much different beast, and far better for it! I was living in Cambridge and wanted to write a supernatural thriller based in the city; Porterhouse Blue mixed with The Wicker Man and Hellraiser. Very few novels have Cambridge as a setting (regardless of genre) and I can’t think of any horror novels set exclusively within a Cambridge College. I wanted to be the first.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I’ve probably developed my own voice now; I started off writing by imitating the styles of my favourite writers, but a lot has stayed. The Caretakers owes much not just to the writing styles of F Paul Wilson and Graham Masterton, but also their emphasis on characterisation and dialogue. Many reviewers have complemented me on my use of dialogue, but that’s just come over the years from the various work placements I’ve had over the years.

One weakness in my style is an over-reliance on interior monologue. That’s something I need to rein in a bit more!

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The original title was Necessary Evil, which encapsulated the theme of the book perfectly, but has since become rather overused. When I found out that was the name of a small press – and that  Shaun Hutson came out with the same title for his 2006 novel – also featuring a character called Franklin! –  I knew then I had to find a new title.

The Caretakers refers to the secret society within All Souls College, but they don’t call themselves that; it’s the protagonist, Andy Hughes, who gives them that title near the end of the novel – for reasons I won’t give away here! It also refers to the relationships between the main characters, initially with Rob Benson and his dog Jasper. Again, read to find out…(shameless plug).

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

Jim McLeod asked me this question when he reviewed it on his blog. I hadn’t intended to convey any messages, just write a fast-paced thriller that would entertain. However, the morality is never clearly defined in the novel – the good guys aren’t your typical white hats, and the acts of evil committed by the secret society are born from a misguided belief they are safeguarding the future of humanity. What I tried to do was illustrate the internal agonies each side faced when they made their decisions and choices, and to show that good and evil aren’t quite as clearly defined as we like to think. The human factor makes it much harder to be judgemental.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

All the locations are real. I lived in Cambridge for ten years, so I know the city very well. All Souls College is largely based on Queens’ College, as that was one of the most helpful colleges when I asked for research materials! The Great Hall of All Souls owes much to the one in Queens’.

I also wanted to show the real Cambridge as well, the side tourists aren’t aware exists. Hence the Mill Road and Chesterton settings for Rob Benson and Phil Lotson respectively, and the references to Anglia Ruskin University, my old college on East Road.

Fiona: Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

The first draft of The Caretakers was filled with semi-autobiography which drowned the story. When I came to rewriting it I abandoned most of the me-me-ME! Side of it, but I kept a few choice pieces; Rob Benson has a lot of me in him! Andy Hughes is based on a real person, but one who is as much of a mystery as Andy himself. It’s easy to fall into the trap of making the story all about you and your own experiences in a first novel, as it takes time to build up your sense of objectivity. This is what happened to me:  http://thehorrificallyhorrifyinghorrorblog.com/2012/07/07/taking-yourself-out-of-the-picture-a-tale-of-author-intrusion-by-me-me-me/

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

Too many to choose from. Each book I read, be it fiction or non-fiction, has some impact on me, because I’m seeing the world told through someone else’s eyes. Perspective is a wonderful thing, and the more perspectives you have on this crazy, beautiful, terrifying thing we call existence the better you understand your place in it.

As a writer, Graham Masterton’s Ritual and Tengu, and F Paul Wilson’s The Keep and The Tomb have really influenced me. Peter Benchley’s Jaws was my first adult novel, and opened up a love of monsters which was encouraged by James Herbert’s The Rats and Guy N Smith’s Crabs series.

I don’t read much in the genre these days; I prefer historical fiction and contemporary thrillers. Gerald Seymour’s work marries literary perfection with page-turning excitement, and Robert Harris’s Fatherland and Archangel greatly inspired me; particular the theme of the past never being too far from the events that surround us now. I suppose the importance of history, and learning from it, is another message that is important to me, and one that gets into my work whether I intend it or not! “The further backward you look, the further forward you can see”, as Winston Churchill put it.

Or “It is the doom of men that they forget.” – Nicol Williamson as Merlin, in John Boorman’s Excalibur.

Fiona: If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

That’s a tough one. Each writer I’ve read and followed has had something to teach me, in regards to story construction, plot and character development, scene setting and dialogue…Guy N Smith was one of my first heroes, not just because of his entertaining novels but because he champions the cause of new writers. To hear he chose my story ‘Lovebite’ as the best story in his annual competition back in 1998 – and then tell me personally how good it was – was a massive boost to me. Without that, I don’t think I would have had the confidence to believe in my work enough to submit future material to publishers.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Nothing at the moment. I’ve just finished Stewart Binns’s Crusade, and I’m now debating which book in my ever-growing TBR pile to start on next. James Herbert’s Ash arrived this morning, so I’ll probably start on that, as (like his other fans) I’ve been waiting eagerly since 2010 for its release.

My TBR pile is getting silly, now. I occasionally use it to play Jenga, and the first book that falls is the one I start on next!

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?

I highly recommend The Vetala Cycle, by G.R Yeates: a supernatural trilogy that uses World War One as its background. Think Pat Barker’s Regeneration trilogy with a unique representation of a supernatural threat that has never been done before. Literate, atmospheric, and profoundly disturbing, Yeates is a remarkable new talent in the British horror scene – and once again, ticks all the right boxes for me because of his successful blend of historical fiction and supernatural horror.

Another one to keep an eye on is Canadian writer Suzanne Robb, with whom I edited the apocalyptic anthology Read the End First, from Wicked East Press. She’s making her mark on the zombie subgenre, with two books out from Severed Press; her debut, Z-Boat, is a cracking read.

I’d also recommend the talented Tracie McBride from Melbourne, Australia; her debut collection Ghosts Can Bleed is the perfect example of dark speculative fiction, where horror crosses the SF/fantasy divide.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I’ve got three projects on the go at the moment: my second novel Fairlight, a Lovecraftian thriller that explores the world of teenage self-harming and its ability to open gates to other dimensions, with a monster I guarantee you’ve never experienced before. I think Lovecraft would be proud.

I’m also co-writing Snareville III: The Ties That Bind, with D.M Youngquist. This is the concluding part of his zombie apocalypse trilogy, and most of the action takes place in the UK three years after Z-Day, where Blighty has succumbed to a new medievalism; the dramatic conclusion is an action-packed confrontation on the slopes of Glastonbury Tor.

Also, I’ve created a character called Shadrach, an English Civil War soldier  for the novella ‘Besieged’, appearing in the Lovecraft-themed novella collection Dreaming in Darkness, with works from fellow Lovecraftians Aaron J French, John Prescott, and Fighting Fantasy legend and Pax Brittania creator Jonathan Green.

Because I did so much research on the period (and the First Crusade, as he has his origins in the Fall of Jerusalem in 1099) I knew this was a chance to create a series character. Think Bernard Cornwell’s Sharpe or Uhtred, along with Guy N Smith’s Sabat, with a dash of Howard’s Solomon Kane – all set during the English Civil War. ‘Besieged’ is a stand alone story, of course, but establishes the character and sets the tone for the series; and marries my love of historical fiction and supernatural terror.

He’s a fighting man, a veteran of many battles and wars, with a mission: to destroy all artifacts and idols the followers of the Great Old Ones use to summon their dark gods to Earth – at great personal cost to himself.

Fiona: Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.

My friends and business partners in Dark Continents Publishing: we got together after an online collaborative writing project from the DF Underground called Underground Rising, where we each took turns to write a scene in an imagined apocalypse where only horror writers survive! Great fun, and it introduced us to each other’s work. John Prescott began the anthology M is for Monster and after that DCP was born.

We’ve had many ups and downs in the last year of operation, but the co-operative spirit still remains true. We’re committed to helping each other – and supporting our writing. That means constructive criticism and shared promotion, to ensure what we release to the world is as commercially appealing and professionally produced as possible.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Like everyone else in the field I have dreams of hitting the big time, but the publishing industry as a whole is in a state of flux, which makes it even harder in the speculative fiction genres: it’s always the midlist that suffers. Even some of the big names in the genres are holding down full-time jobs, so I’m realistic about my chances of making a living from it: very slim! Still, I see writing as a career in that I’m determined to improve my craft and storytelling abilities, and have many more ideas I want to put into viable writing projects.

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

I think I should have solicited blurbs from better-known writers to put on the cover of The Caretakers. Nothing like a celebrity endorsement to generate interest and get sales moving; but it’s fraught with risks, and I’m very suspicious of the glowing blurbs some writers have on their works. Still, it’s the done thing, so I might do that with Fairlight.

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

Just finding time to do it all justice! Writing is the easy part; selling it, – and then getting readers – that’s more difficult.

Fiona: Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

My favourite horror writers tend to be British; perhaps our outlook is more cynical and downbeat, and I do like grim endings! My top writer of all time, though, is the historical fictioneer Bernard Cornwell. He brings the past to life like no-one else, and his Arthurian trilogy The Warlord Chronicles remains, for me, the definitive retelling of the King Arthur story.

Next up is Jasper Fforde. The man’s a true original, and created his own mythos with the Thursday Next books, a series following the exploits of a literary detective who goes into the fictional worlds of novels to correct grammar, rebellious characters, and plot holes. Jaw-dropping imagination and clever humour. The man’s a genius.

Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?

I’ve not needed to so far, although I would like to write more stories set overseas. Whenever I visit a foreign country the imagination goes into overdrive, but I don’t have enough time to do a story justice in the limited times I’m overseas!

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

The cover art for The Caretakers was done by a talented artist known as Jethro Lentle. We were so impressed with what he created we commissioned two more pieces from him: one for D.M Youngquist’s Snareville, and the other for Dave Jeffery’s Campfire Chillers. We’ve also had James Powell design the cover for Phobophobia, and look forward to working with these artists in the future.

Fiona: What was the hardest part of writing your book?

The hardest part was the thought of rewriting it, but when I sat down to actually do so it wasn’t as bad as I thought. Hard work, yes; but nowhere near as bad as I’d expected it to be.

Fiona: Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?

I learned my limitations. The contrast between what I’d written several years ago and the final product is enormous; it goes to show how you constantly change and improve as a writer. It does mean that in a few years’ time I’ll look back at it and think: God, that bit’s rough; that character’s underdeveloped; the prose  in this chapter is too flabby, etc – that’s the price you pay.

I’m also grateful I hadn’t written the book in the days of self-publishing to Kindle. If I’d thrown up the original draft to the digital market I’d have been torn to shreds.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Treat all advice with extreme caution – what works for one writer may not work for the other. Try to avoid all those “How to write a book” books – the conflicting advice I found in those did my head in and almost shattered any confidence I had in writing.

Just make sure that what you put out – be it a submission to a pro-paying market, or to a non-paying/exposure only publisher, or even if self-publishing – is the best it can possibly be. Take your time; there’s no rush.

Fiona: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

I don’t really have any messages I want to pass on, although I tend to explore issues and themes of what makes us human and how the human spirit can shine fully when it’s faced with ultimate darkness. But my priority is to ensure my readers enjoy the story and feel they’ve been taken out of themselves for a while, seen the world around them with different eyes and maybe take that new perspective with them.

But first and foremost: enjoyment. That’s what I took from my earliest forays into reading, and that sense of joy is something I want to give back.

Fiona: If you were not a writer what else would you like to have done ?

I’d probably be sucked into eBay selling still! The only downside  with writing, editing, and publishing is that it leaves so little time for other things. One of my big passions was archery, but I haven’t had time to shoot for over eighteen months. Perhaps if I’d abandoned writing I’d have had more time and energy to devote to the sport – I reached Second Class status within my first year of shooting, and would love to have hit First Class and make my way up to Bowman. Sadly, not for a while yet!

Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? if so what is it?

My website is http://www.archivesofpain.com

I also blog on Emma Audsley’s http://thehorrificallyhorrifyinghorrorblog.com/

Here is my interview with Mary E. Trimble

 

Name: Mary E. Trimble

Age: 76

Where are you from:
Washington State, U.S.A.

A little about your self `ie your education Family life ect:
I’m married to Bruce Trimble. I have four grown children from a previous marriage. Bruce and I live on Camano Island in the great Northwest. For many years, I concentrated on being a homemaker. My other experiences include serving as purser and ship’s diver aboard the tall ship Explorer, and as Admissions Director for a professional deep-sea diving school. In my late forties, I began my college career, earning a degree in Computer Science. I then worked for a large insurance company at their corporate headquarters as a computer programmer/analyst.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?
My fourth book, Tubob: Two Years in West Africa with the Peace Corps, is close to publication.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?
Bruce and I took two years off to sail the South Pacific. While in the South Pacific we often anchored off various islands for weeks, including Nuku Hiva, Tahiti, Bora Bora, Samoa and The Kingdom of Tonga.  During the long passage home, we discussed what we wanted to do next. Bruce planned to return to the marine electronics field, but I decided to write. My first writing ventures were of sailing. After several rejections, in one month three of my articles were published in magazines. I was on my way.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?
Once I began getting published on a regular basis, I felt like a real writer. I had several magazines with whom I became one of their “regulars.” One thing led to another and I now have more than 400 articles published in magazines and newspapers. Most of these articles are destination pieces of interest to RVers; some are articles of interest to homeowners.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?
We were on a camping trip in Eastern Washington–we travel with a truck and camper–and I saw a young woman trudging down the highway with a huge backpack. She was all alone, it was hot, and she looked miserable. I wondered what her story was. I’d never know the answer to that, but my first book, Rosemount was born that minute, a story of a ranch girl who runs away from home. Her older brother goes in search of her so the book is in both their viewpoints.

My second book, McClellan’s Bluff, is a sequel to Rosemount.. McClellan’s Bluff is an EPIC Award winner for Best Young Adult Novel. It’s about Leslie Cahill, now 17, who falls in love with a 28 year-old cowboy, but danger lurks. Both Rosemount and McClellan’s Bluff are coming-of-age stories.

Tenderfoot, my third book, is a romantic suspense novel with the sub-plot of the Mount St. Helens eruption of 1980. Although the story is fiction, everything about the mountain is factual. I made a detailed timeline of the events surrounding the eruption and wove a story around that. Tenderfoot won a Silver Spur (Finalist) Award with Western Writers of America, Best Western Long Novel category.

All three of these books are contemporary westerns.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?
I’m told I have a straight-forward, honest writing style. It’s the only way I know how to write, so I suppose that’s as good a description as any.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?
Titles aren’t hard for me. My third novel, however, was first called “Real Cowboys Don’t Cry,” but the publisher didn’t like it and felt it wasn’t a good representation of the story. I came around to her point of view and with the help of my critique group and some serious brain-storming, we came up with the great title of Tenderfoot which is really a better description of the story.

Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
I always want to write honestly and realistically. I guess a message might be to live life in that way.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?
All my writing is realistic and I go to great lengths to get details right. I visited a cattle ranch in Eastern Washington and participated in roundup so that I could experience the noise, dust, confusion and hard work of roundup and branding.. I admire fantasy writers, but there’s no way I could do it.

Fiona: Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?
Only to the extent that I have paid attention to life. I can remember when I was a teen–those were good years for me–and I’ve lived a good, full life as an adult.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?
Larry McMurty’s Lonesome Dove is high on my list; Edna Ferber’s Giant is way up there, and Stephen E. Ambrose’s Undaunted Courage is stunning.  I’m awed with Jane Kirkpatrick’s meticulous research, superb characterization and the sheer volume of books she churns out. One of my all-time favorites is Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maude Montgomery. I’ve been able to take lessons from all these books.

Fiona: If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
By example, I’d choose Jane Kirkpatrick. For one thing, I know her–we both belong to Women Writing the West. She’s a friend and always willing to share her knowledge.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?
I’m reading Jack Gunter’s The Egg Rocker. It’s a fun book. I happen to know the author–he’s a local artist and antique dealer, which is the subject of this book, so it’s especially fun to read his work.

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?
I meet new authors all the time. I belong to a critique group and we have both accomplished and new authors in our group. In addition, I frequently speak at writing workshops and meet budding authors there.

Fiona: What are your current projects?
My work in progress is a memoir, Tubob: Two Years in West Africa with the Peace Corps. When Bruce and I had been married only a year, we joined the Peace Corps. Finally, after 30 years, I’ve written my memoir of that adventure. We wrote home frequently and asked everyone to save our letters. That correspondence furnished rich research material for the memoir. It has been a fascinating project.

Other than Tubob, I still write articles, though not as frequently as I did at one time. I write a weekly blog and try to keep up with social media.

Fiona: Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.
I have found great support through a critique group that I’ve belonged to for many years. I usually don’t send anything out without running it by them first.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?
Definitely.

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
Tubob is still at the stage where I can still make changes, but all in all I think it’s ready to go.

Fiona: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
I hadn’t thought of writing as a career until our sailing trip. Writing books came later–my work just evolved to that level.

Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us?
As I mentioned, Tubob is a memoir. I’ve approached our two years in Africa with honesty and tried to be fair and non-judgmental. We endured a lot of hardships, but there were joys, too. The memoir is a chronological account of our two years with the Peace Corps. They say “Peace Corps is the toughest job you’ll ever love.” That is so true and I’ve made every effort to be honest to that experience.

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
I’m finding social media and on-line marketing to be a real challenge. I’m still more comfortable selling a “real” book in person.

Fiona: Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?
Jane Kirkpatrick’s work is meticulously researched. She brings history to life. Her dedication to her writing career is amazing. She’s publishes a book about every year–all high quality reads.

Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?
I travel locally, speaking to groups or showcasing my books. When Bruce and I go on vacation, I take my books not only to bookstores, but gift shops, etc. too. Then, during the year I either visit them if they’re close enough, or call them on the phone. I have quite a clientele using this method.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?
For Rosemount and McClellen’s Bluff, the publisher’s (Atlantic Bridge) artist, Adriana Overton (now deceased) did the covers.  For Tenderfoot, my husband Bruce designed the cover. That is an actual photograph of a cowboy on horseback with an overlay of Mount St. Helens before the eruption. Since my main character is a woman, Bruce changed the cowboy to a cowgirl, using PhotoShop, giving “her” a pony tail, slimming her legs, etc.. For Tubob, Bruce used a picture of me with some African friends. Bruce does all the photographic work for my articles, too.

Fiona: What was the hardest part of writing your book?
Tubob just came flowing out. First I read all those letters we wrote home, then sat down to write and had more than 90,000 words in 5 months. But then, of course, came the editing. I like the editing part though–trying to make it better.

Fiona: Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?
Trying to say something using as few words as possible is always a challenge. There’s a middle ground, of course, but fewer words is better.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?
Read! Especially in your genre of choice.  You simply must do both, read and write. It keeps the juices flowing. Try to keep to a schedule, though I realize that isn’t always possible. Join a critique group, or form one yourself. Writing is a business; keep the meetings businesslike. Join writers associations and attend conferences.
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Fiona: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
I am so grateful for the many generous people who have helped me along the way. The best way to honor this kindness is to “Pay it forward.” Also, writing as a career requires a lot of self-education. Speaking for myself, I need to get up to speed on social media. That’s one of my immediate goals.

Fiona: If you were not a writer what else would you like to have done ?
Actually, I’ve pretty much done what I have wanted to do: be a wife and mother, be successful in a business environment, spend time in Africa and at sea, be heavily involved as a volunteer with the American Red Cross, writing both articles and books. I’m feeling pretty satisfied and just want to continue doing what I’m doing now.

Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? if so what is it?
www.MaryTrimbleBooks.com
My blog is on my website. I’m also on Facebook as Mary E. Trimble, Author and on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Our interview with John Manning

 

Name: John Manning

Age: 64 (65 on Halloween)

Where are you from: Detroit, Michigan, USA originally; reared everywhere 

A little about your self `ie your education Family life etc: 

 I studied creative writing and journalism in college as part of my communications major, although I am not a college graduate.  I’m a military/civil service brat.  I spent 12 years in the US Army (Vietnam veteran) where I served in the infantry, personnel, and military intelligence.  I am a widower.  I live with two of my friends in Houston, Texas.  I am the oldest of five siblings:  a sister, a half-sister, a half-brother, a stepsister, and two stepbrothers.  When I’m not writing or editing, I work as a recruiter for a world wide vacation (NOT time share) company.  I also play role play games, attend fan conventions, go to renaissance fairs, travel, read, watch movies, play my bass guitar, and listen to music.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

  I just submitted a horror anthology entitled What Scares the Boogeyman? to my publisher, Perseid Publishing.  It’s a collection of nineteen stories with authors from four countries (the US, Australia, Canada, and Germany) contributing.  This past July, Rogues in Hell, a shared world anthology, in which I have a short story (my second in this series) called “Showdown at Brimstone Arsenal,” that’s edited by Janet Morris was released.  In October – around Halloween – my short story “Asylum” will appear in Michael H. Hanson’s Sha’Daa III – Pawns.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

 My first attempt to write? Actually, it was the success of my first try that made me an addict.  I was in the second grade.  I had lost my temper (I don’t remember why) and literally rearranged the classroom by overturning desks and throwing books.  The teacher sent me to the Vice Principle’s office where I was put in a corner and told to write “I will not lose my temper” until the class period was over.  Mr. Somerville’s office was his sixth grade classroom.  Writing lines is boring.  I heard him assign a writing exercise on “What Christmas Means to Me” in 25 words or less.  That sounded like more fun than what I was supposed to be doing, so I did that instead.  The only reason I didn’t get into trouble was because my essay was judged as better than what the older children wrote.  I’ve been hooked since.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

  That happened when I was in the seventh grade.  Early in the school year the class was assigned to write a short story (I forget the length, maybe 300 words).  I wrote one about a prison break.  The teacher (and my classmates – we had to read them aloud) liked it so much that all I did that year was write stories.  My classmates were stuck studying grammar.  I think that was when I knew that I was a writer.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

  My first book? Or, my first published book? My first book was The Sword of Kalipan, a fantasy/alternate universe story in which I based the characters on my friends.  It made the rounds of ALL of the publishing houses at least three times, but no one shared my enthusiasm for the book.  The inspiration for it was probably A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court.  My first published book, Black Stump Ridge, was actually inspired by a number of emails that my co-author, Forrest Hedrick, and I sent back and forth during our lunch hour and when we were bored.  We started by talking about hunting trips and places we liked to go and some we’d like to do together.  That evolved into jokingly creating characters and scenes.  One day I realized that we had the makings of a good story in our emails.  So, I gathered them up and, with input from Forrest, I wrote the novel.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? 

I would have to say that my style is very visual.  That comes from the way I write my scenes.  I have to first picture what is happening or going to happen.  Once I know what my characters must face or accomplish, I put myself into the scene (as if I were an invisible person standing in the middle of a room).  Once I’m firmly in place, I begin to describe everything I see, feel, hear, taste, and smell.  I try to make my action fast and not bog up the story with needless exposition.  Some background is necessary, of course, but I don’t like for it to interfere with the story.  I write with a relaxed voice.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?  

Truthful answer? I pulled it out of my butt.  I needed a fictional place in East Tennessee that still sounded authentic.  Black Stump Ridge came to me – I’ll leave it to your imagination as to where I was sitting.

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

  This is one of my least favorite interview questions because I don’t know that most fiction writers start out to deliver a message.  I think the message emerges as the tale unfolds.  If my story has a message, I think it is this:  running or avoiding or denying one’s past makes one vulnerable to it in the future.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

 Quite a bit, actually.  My descriptions of driving through the Smoky Mountains are based on where my family lived and visits that I made.  The dialect is pretty close to the way the people speak.  Granny is the term used for the wise woman who served as healer, herbalist, midwife, and pretty much whatever the people in the “holler” needed.  I did a lot of research on the Cherokee belief system (it’s not a religion as there are no gods), customs, and language.  Everything presented is authentic.  The Legend of Red Bear, however, is not.  Red Bear was based on – believe it or not – a little red Teddy bear I had at the time.  I created that legend using authentic Cherokee stories as templates.  The pagan ceremony cited is loosely based on my own time as a practicing Wiccan.  The residence hotel in the first part of the book is based on a place I was living, even the room at one point.

Fiona: Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life? 

 I think that could be said of any fiction work.  A writer has to pull bits and pieces from his/her life experiences to spin a believable tale.  Otherwise, it would have no substance.  I think Fred, my main character, has elements of me, as do some of his friends.  As to events, no, I’ve never been beat up in a Cherokee biker bar, worked a ritual with a Cherokee Medicine Woman, or fought a shape-changing creature from before the Ice Age.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

 The Bible; I Will Fear No Evil and Time Enough for Love, both by Robert A. Heinlein

Fiona: If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?  

Robert A. Heinlein

Fiona: What book are you reading now?  I just finished reading The Lion of Cairo by Scott Oden and am currently readingThink and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill.

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?

 Actually, there are more than I can list here.  Many of them write in the Heroes in Hell series and are featured in What Scares the Boogeyman? And, the list keeps growing, so forgive me if I don’t mention names.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

  I’m working on a sequel to Black Stump Ridge called Levi.  I’m also writing a novel called Walkabout in Hell, a spinoff from the Heroes in Hell series featuring Monty Montgomery, the central character from my short stories “Disclaimer” (Lawyers in Hell) and “Showdown at Brimstone Arsenal” (Rogues in Hell).  My third novel, currently being re-written, is Fear the Reaper, a vampire novel.  Now that What Scares the Boogeyman? is with the publisher, I’m editing my second anthology, Terror by Gaslight.  A third anthology, this time heroic fantasy, is in the planning stages.  I have to finish a short story for the next Hell book, Dreamers in Hell and the second half of my gaming column, The Polyhedral Universe, that I write for Zauberspiegel, a German fantasy webzine.

Fiona: Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.  Well, for me, God is a given.  

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?  

At long last I can say yes to that question.

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

I think I would do a better job of proofing the prepublished copy.  I missed about four typos that really bothered me when I was doing the readings.  Other than that, no.  Although not a commercial success (most first novels aren’t), it has surprised me with its critical success.  It placed in the top ten (tenth) in the Editors & Preditors readers’ poll for best new horror novels in 2011.  It was also considered for a Nebula Award.  Although it didn’t make the final ballot, it was placed on the Nebula Recommended Reading List in the modern dark fantasy category.  

Fiona: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated? 

 As I said earlier, it came from when I was in the second grade being punished.

Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us? 

 Sure.  I’ll give you a snippet of my short story, “Breaking Up is Hard to Do” from What Scares the Boogeyman? This story is based on something that happened to me.  I hope it’s not too long.

 

     Mark Edwards stared unseeing at the computer screen.  His email inbox displayed several messages, most of them unopened.  He didn’t need to read them to know what they said.  All were filled with sympathy for his loss.  Words that were meant to comfort him, like the ones in the dog-eared Bible lying open on his desk, but nothing that he cared to see.

Not tonight.

     Although the monitor glowed brightly before him all he saw was Joanna’s face as he told her it was over – that final, horrible scene with her begging for one more chance as he stood cold and aloof denying every plea, every tearful entreaty.  Over and over it played – an accusatory film clip.  And, each replay deepened his guilt.

     I shouldn’t have done it.  If I hadn’t broken up with her, maybe none of this would have happened.

    Against his will, Mark’s hand moved the mouse across the pad.  On the screen the cursor scrolled down until it reached an email he’d read before – read too many times before.  Dorothy Fletcher.  Joanna’s mother.  He hesitated, and then clicked the button.  Immediately the screen filled with the message that had sent his world crashing around him.

                Mark.  I hate to be the bearer of such terrible news.  David and

                I are still having trouble dealing with it ourselves.  I know that

               you and Joanna are no longer together although we (Joanna,

               David, and me) hoped that the two of you would reconcile.  This

               morning Joanna was found dead in that little sports car he loved. 

               The police believe, although it’s still being investigated, that she was

               attacked in the parking lot as she was headed for her car.  She was

               brutally beaten.  She suffered numerous head injuries and what they

               called defensive injuries to her arms and hands.  Evidently she fought

               her attacker but was not strong enough to get away.  The body won’t

               be released to us until the coroner finishes his investigation.  Once that

               happens, we will have her cremated and her ashes scattered.  There

               will be no memorial service.  I am so sorry that you have to find out this

               way.  Perhaps if you two had worked things out, this wouldn’t have

               happened.  We don’t blame you for her death.  Please don’t think that. 

               We just wish things had been different.  Dorothy.

     The image blurred as tears filled his eyes.  Of course she blamed him.  How could she not, when he blamed himself? Wasn’t he the one who did the breaking up? Didn’t he decide to end the life they’d shared for the past nine years? Hadn’t he pushed – no shoved – the first domino that ended in this horrible design?

     He closed the email and picked up a tumbler of whiskey and ice from where it sat next to the keyboard.  The cubes rattled discordantly against the glass.  As he raised the drink to his lips, he glanced at the tiny numbers in the bottom corner of the screen   Midnight.  The witching hour.  As he swallowed, a new message appeared above the list of unopened emails.  He glanced at the sender’s name.  The whiskey caught in the back of his throat.  His cough sprayed the keyboard and screen with amber droplets.

     JoannaFletcher227.  The subject line read simply: Help.

     It was her user name.  Almost.  The 227 was wrong.  She used 35 after her name.  It had to be a joke.  Someone was playing a sick, twisted game.  He moved the cursor to the message and then stopped.  He knew he should delete it, but he couldn’t seem to make his hand move the mouse any further.  He clicked the button and the message opened.  There was only one line.

                     dark here where are you

     He carefully set the glass back on the desk.  With one hand, he pulled the keyboard closer; with the other, he moved the cursor to REPLY and pressed the button.  Ignoring the whiskey drops on the keys, he typed:

     Who are you? Why are you doing this?

     As he stared at the words, an icy ball of fear and dread formed in his stomach.  He hit SEND and then sat back to wait for the reply, if any.  He sipped at his drink while he waited.  Two questions played tag in his mind.

     Who was at the far end? Why did they want to do something so horrible?

     Mark went to the kitchen to refresh his drink.  He considered adding an ice cube and then decided against it.  Better to have it strong enough to kill the pain – or, at least, to deaden it some.  Nothing was going to take it away.  Not completely.  Probably not ever.

     He sipped his drink and then headed back to his office.  Setting the glass on a coaster, he slid the office chair forward and sat down.  As he expected there was another email from JoannaFletcher227 at the top of the list.  A mix of emotion slowly grew within him as he stared at the sender line – dread at what it might contain and anger that some unknown person would be so cruel.  After a long moment, he opened it.

                      dark here where are you

     Anger overcame dread as he leaned forward, clicked REPLY, and began to type.

     Listen you sick bastard.  I don’t find this a bit funny.  I find this cruel   and in poor taste.  If you’re trying to scare me by pretending to be Joanna’s ghost,        give it up.  I don’t think they have internet in the beyond.  She’s dead.  Leave me alone.

     He clicked on the SEND button and sat back.  He jerked the glass from the table, ignoring the liquid that sloshed over the back of his hand, and drank deeply.  He stared at the screen as time crept.  Just as he thought it was over, that whoever it was had finished their game, a new message appeared.  Dreading what it contained, he positioned the cursor and clicked the mouse.

                    dark here cuddlecat where are you im scared 

     The cold in his belly spread throughout his body.  Cuddlecat.  That was Joanna’s pillow name for him – something no one knew but she and Mark.  It couldn’t be one of her friends.  She had none.  That was a big part of the problem.  She had built her entire world around him until the weight of it suffocated him.

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?  Maintaining continuity. 

Fiona: Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work? 

 Robert A. Heinlein.  He created strong, believable characters you really cared about.  He also was a pioneer in that he introduced love – in all of its aspects – to science fiction.

Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?

  I’ve done some, but not a lot.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

 I chose the cover art for Black Stump Ridge but the rest was designed by iUniverse, the company that published it.  I chose the cover art for What Scares the Boogeyman? Perseid Publishing will do the rest.  Janet Morris was responsible for the covers to the Hell books.

Fiona: What was the hardest part of writing your book?  

Probably doing the research to make sure I had the facts straight.  I’m a stickler for accuracy in fiction.  Sounds like an oxymoron, I know, but it’s true.  If you are using something from the real world, get it right.  For example, there is a well-known horror writer (no names) who used cars in some of his books.  Primarily, he used Chrysler products – but he had a bad habit of putting General Motors engines in them.  To most, that was probably not a big deal, but I’m from Detroit and I grew up around cars, especially street racing and drag racing.  The errors always jarred me from the mood, making it hard to maintain the suspension of disbelief so necessary for fiction.

Fiona: Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?

  That almost sounds like a trick question, such as “Have you stopped beating your wife?” If I say no, I sound arrogant, but it’s hard to quantify a yes.  I’m glad I get to think about this, that it’s not a live interview.  The dead air would be deafening.  Yes, I’d have to say I did learn something:  I learned to never give up on my dream.  I’ve wanted to be a published writer for most of my life and it’s finally happened.  It certainly wasn’t easy.  I walked away from it many times, but in the end I couldn’t stay away.  Finally, it happened.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?  

As both an editor and a writer, yes, I do.  1.  Learn how to write sentences and to spell.  Spell checking programs can only do so much.  2.  Learn basic grammar.  3.  Unless it’s a part of your story, NEVER use text slang (such as lol, ttyl, bff, btw, and so forth).  4.  Unless it’s conducted by an established, published writer, avoid creative writing courses and workshops.  Many are held by frustrated English majors who condemn anything that isn’t mainstream.  5.  Write.  Write.  Write.  And, write some more.  6.  Be patient.  Although it’s the rage, avoid the temptation of electronic publishing – especially self-publishing – until you’ve have something in print.  Most readers, writers, and editors do not take stories produced that way as serious.   7.  Find an honest, reliable proofreader to go over your manuscript – as many times as it takes – one who is not afraid to tell you the truth.  The kind words of good friends and loving family members do more to delay a writer’s career than anything else I can think of.  8.  NEVER GIVE UP YOUR DREAM.

Fiona: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?  

Yes.  Although I can honestly say I don’t know many of you, I love each and every one of you, whether you bought the books or got them for free.  I write partly because I cannot NOT write.  I also write, however, to entertain you, to take you to another place away from this sordid world – at least for a little while.  If I succeed in that, then it’s all worthwhile.  Without you, dear readers, finishing a book is an empty accomplishment.

Fiona: If you were not a writer what else would you like to have done ?

  I’m not sure there’s much left to do that I haven’t done.  I’ve been a soldier; a paramedic; a teacher; a businessman.  I’ve acted, directed, built sets, worked lights, and stage managed live theater.  I’ve danced onstage.  I’ve helped produce a movie.  I’ve been a part of more rock bands than I can name.  I’ve dug ditches and worked as a plumber.  I’ve raced cars, built engines, and been part of a pit crew.  I’m friends with actors, writers, and artists.  I’ve painted – and sold – original art work.  So, I just can’t think of anything I haven’t already been, not that I want to do, at any rate.

 Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? if so what is it?

  No.  I have an author’s page on Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/author/manningjohn

Our interview with Jerrie Alexander

Name   Jerrie Alexander

Age?Old enough to know you never ask a lady that question. 🙂

Where are you from?

I’m a native Texan. While we’ve lived in Arkansas, California, and Georgia, we always knew we’d return to our home state when we had the chance.

A little about yourself `ie your education Family life ect

I live in the country outside of Fort Worth, Texas. I’m married and have a grown daughter. She and her husband gave us the most awesome, beautiful, and smart granddaughter in the world. (Don’t all grandmothers say that?)

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

My debut romantic suspense novel The Green-Eyed Doll releases 12-07-2012! The Last Execution and Hell or High Waterare in the edit stage but don’t have release dates yet.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I’ve always been the talkative one in the group and thought I’d like to be a journalist. It turned out that I loved to create from my imagination instead of real life. So I switched my studies to creative writing. I set my writing aside for a while when life presented me with a wonderful family, but I have returned and am blessed that they’re very supportive.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I wrote my first short story assignment and the class instructor loved it, I knew then I wanted to write. Maybe when I can finally hold one of my books in my hands, it will finally ring true that I am!

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I love to read. And I wanted to be able to create stories that carried people away to another place. I’d like to be able to entertain and touch the reader’s life in some way. To know I’d moved a person with my words, would be a great accomplishment.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I’m not a plotter. I have a full body shudder at the thought of knowing exactly what’s going to happen on the next page. I know how the story begins and ends. A college professor once told me to “Begin with the end in mind.” I write exactly that way. I know where I’m going but the journey of how I get there is the adventure of writing.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I usually have a title in my head from page one. That doesn’t always mean the publisher will let me keep it, but I have a working title from day one. Hell or high water is an old phrase, and one day a song triggered the thought…what if my heroine was in trouble and one man would go through hell or high water to save her. That thought became a book.

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

If there is a message, it’s about second chances and how amazing the human spirit is. No matter how bad things are, it will get better. 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

I research extensively before starting a book. Whether my hero or heroine is with the FBI, Sheriff’s Department or a Navy SEAL, I ask tons of questions and document answers. Then I spin a fictional story around that research. 

Fiona: Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

No…thank goodness! I write romantic suspense, heavy on the suspense. I’ve never been in any of the situation in my books.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

That’s a tough question. There are too many to list.

Fiona: If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

I think every author I’ve read mentored me unknowingly. I learn something from each book.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Cindy Gerard’s LAST MAN STANDING. Her stories grab your attention and hangs on tightly. 

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?

My critique partner Barb Han has a couple of books coming out. I love her stories and can’t wait for readers to discover her work. Donnell Bell and Lena Diaz are also great writers and have books recently published. 

Fiona: What are your current projects?

HIS TO LOSE is the second book in the Lost and Found, Inc series. With HELL or HIGH WATER the first in the series.

Fiona: Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.

I’m so blessed to have more than one entity supporting me and I can’t name just one.
RWA, the North Texas Chapter, Kiss of Death Chapter, Books and Broads Book Club…okay, I’ll stop here. 🙂

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Writing is my career! It’s not my hobby. It’s what I do…it’s what I’m compelled to do. 🙂

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

I think there will always be something that I’ll see and wish I’d made it better. It’s that desire to make the best possible read that makes a writer keep tweaking.

Fiona: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?

I don’t. Weird, huh? It feels like I always knew. Even in high school, I studied journalism.

Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us?

I’d love to…this is the back of the book blurb.

 

The Green-Eyed Doll

Catherine McCoy is running from her past. She’s been on the move for a year, hiding the secret and guilt in her heart. When she lands in small-town Texas and meets Sheriff Matt Ballard, he ignites a flame she thought lost forever.

Matt has scars of his own. He left the big city after an undercover operation went bad and his partner was killed. Now, as Matt hunts for a serial killer who paints his victims like porcelain dolls, Catherine becomes a safe haven for him. Two tortured souls finding comfort in each other’s arms—until he uncovers her secret, and their bond of trust is broken.

When Catherine disappears, Matt races to find her, fearing the murderer has found his next green-eyed doll. But the killer has a surprise coming. Catherine will fight to the death before she’ll be a victim. But will her determination be enough?

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

All of it! It’s a fun challenge and hard work. Layering in the action, the emotions, and sprinkling back story along the way is a challenge. The finished manuscript is such a reward in itself. Lots of people start a book and never finish it. They’re missing the feeling of accomplishment when you type those two little words…The End.

Fiona: Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

There’s too many to list. I read mystery and romantic suspense authors mainly. But for a change I’ll pick up a good paranormal or historical. 

Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?

I traveled a lot for work in a former life. I use those settings or I’ll do extensive research to ensure realism. 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I have three books and each has a different cover designer. I have input as to what I’d like to see, but the final product is the publishers decision.

Fiona: What was the hardest part of writing your book?

Leaving it alone once it’s finished. At some point, you have to call it ‘done’ and move on. But if someone has enough confidence in my writing that they’re willing to plunk down cold hard cash for one of my books…well, I want it to be the best story I can make it.

Fiona: Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?

That it takes me longer than other writers. I haven’t mastered the art of writing three books a year yet…but I’m working on it.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Never give up on your dream. Stretch. Push. And be willing to work hard. Oh and have a tough hide. Rejections are a way of life for us.

Fiona: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

That I hope when they finish one of my books, they are satisfied that I’ve entertained them, taken them out of their day to day life for a while. If they do, then I’m a success.

Fiona: If you were not a writer what else would you like to have done ?

I’ve already done that! 🙂 I worked and raised a family. Can’t think of a thing I’d rather have done.

Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? if so what is it?

I do and I love to have visitors! www.jerriealexander.com will take you to my website and blog. I can also be found on Facebook, Twitter and GoodReads.

Our interview with Stuart Fish

 

Name : Stuart Fish

Age; 60

Where are you from; Born in South Africa. Left with my family, from  Cape Town in 1993 to head up an investment company in New Zealand. Moved to Sydney in 2002.  I retired from corporate life (was made redundant)  soon after and now blog, write, develop websites and occasionally coach.

A little about your self `ie your education Family life etc:  I got my degree, BSc at Cape Town university. Am an actuary by profession, so was good at math. Met my wife at work, married and have 3 gorgeous daughters. Eldest is a vet in New Zealand. Middle daughter is training manager for hi-tech company in Sydney and youngest works at Euro Disney, in Paris, as Cinderella, amongst other Disney characters. So I have kids all over the world. One of my books, How To Be Good Parents And Raise Great Kids shares how we raised our daughters. Written under a penname, James Comfort.

I am now divorced and about to publish my autobiography – well the first book of three – called Coming Out On Top.  

Fiona: Tell us your latest news? I have suffered from severe depression over the last 4 or 5 years and am still under treatment and on medication, but my writing is really keeping me motivated and ‘alive’ at the moment. I have documented that experience in Kicking The Dog – 5 Steps To Beat Depression. But I have always enjoyed writing, even though I am actuary, which means I am a numbers man. I started writing my autobiography a few years ago, but as recently as in May this year, I came across a course on writing books for Amazon Kindle. Since late May, I have written and published 12 books. Currently on target to sell just under 200 books in the month of August so pleased with my progress. They can all be found here. http://www.stuartfish.com/wordpress

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing? I have always enjoyed writing and did write a few books – unpublished, – over my life time.  In my corporate life, I was in the marketing area for many years and did lots of writing there. As I mentioned above, I did a Kindle course in May and since then have focussed on nothing but writing. I am almost addicted to the buzz of seeing each new book published and start to sell.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer? I suppose I have always enjoyed writing. Although I wrote a couple of books some years ago, it was only when my first book was published on Amazon in the middle of May, that I realised that wow, I was a published author.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book? I enjoy sharing, I love kids, and animals and a couple of years ago, I got the idea that I wanted to help parents and kids read. I realise that today, young boys especially, don’t read much – they prefer online pc games and video games. So I thought I would write a book that parents and especially young boys could read together. That is the first book I finally published. Answers to 350 Quirky Questions  

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?  I like to write as I speak, so keep my writing simple, direct with no fluff… well that is what I aim to achieve. I have received reviews that support that. In my autobiography, which I hope to publish in the next couple of weeks, I have varied the voice and style in the various stories that make up the first book in the series. I have also included one story from the second book (not complete yet) at the end, as a teaser and hook to keep the readers interested. This one is written in a very different way to all the other stories.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title? Some titles come to me right away – such as “Coming Out On Top” – that has been the title for my autobiography since I got the idea many years ago. Kicking The Dog, was also a title that just came to me up front. Some titles come to me only when I am well into the book. My How To book titles are usually pretty direct and related to the main keyword. And a few titles I tend to leave until the book is finished and then decide what title best represents what is in the book.

Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp? I try to have a message in each of my books. In my autobiography, my underlying message is how an individual can cope with change and the slings and arrows that life throws at you. I came out gay at the age 45 and have documented how I got to that point, after 25 years of marriage, how I dealt with it, and how I have adapted as a gay man.

My main novel series, Crossover Red, is a series of gay erotic vampire stories. I have recently published a prequel, Crossover Red Beginnings, a month after I published the first book in the series, Crossover Red At Dawn. The story uses gay vampires and ‘hot’ sex to talk about the drug trade, refugees, poverty, European economic woes and the attempts of some keen students in Sydney to address and solve these issues.

In my best selling book – it made #1 Best Sellers list in its first week in its category – Write Your First Book – 49 Tips to Write, Publish and Sell Your Book – I aim to show wannabee writers that they can in fact write a book. This book is based on my own experience again.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic? In my parenting book, my depression book and my autobiography, they are all based on my own experiences. My writing book is based on my own experience. My Crossover Red series is pure fiction and I have used my vivid imagination to create the characters, the situations and the outcomes. The sex is based on my own experience (LOL – that is off the record.)

Fiona: Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life? See the above answer. I can also add that my first erotic novel, True Gay Erotic Tales, written for obvious reasons under another penname, are all true sexual adventures that I have had, as a gay man.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most? I have always been an avid reader of adventure fiction – Wilbur Smith, a South African author was my favourite as a youngster. The book that has most influenced my life, though, it The Power Of Now, by Ekhardt Tolle. That book has helped me deal with many issues that I have had to face and I use that as one of my saving graces in my autobiography – in Book Two.

Fiona: If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor? As I write in so many different niches and genres, there is no one writer that I see as a mentor. But the style of writing that I would most like to emulate in a novel one day is how Nick Flynn writes in Another Bullshit Night In Suck City. He writes as if he is telling his reader a story. That is how I have structured my autobiography. That book is always next to my bed, as is The Power of Now. I do like to write simply, in short sentences and short paragraphs, as I believe many readers today need to be helped to read, to divert them from all the technology distractions. I try to do that with my writing style.

Fiona: What book are you reading now? I am reading The Charge, by Brendon Burchard. He is a very inspiring man and I want to learn from his book and CDs – which I have ordered – how to activate the 10 human drives to make me feel alive. Hoping that will help me deal with my depression.

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest? I am meeting many new indie authors on the various FB groups that I belong to and am learning from many of them. I have downloaded many of their books and enjoy learning from the different styles.

Fiona: What are your current projects? Wow, where do I start? I have a folder on my computer with 50 separate files for each of my books, where I store ideas for various books that I have in mind to write. As I have published 12 of them, I still have 38 to go. But at the present time, I am working on a number of projects:

·         A kid’s book – The Boy, The Dog, The Cat and The Rat. Well into this one and it will have 5 or 6 life lessons for kids to learn by reading this story. I see the main character having lots of ‘legs’ for future stories.

·         My second book in the Crossover Red series, Crossover Red At Midday.  I am well into this book and the plot is clear in my mind.

·         A book on How To Write A Good Book Review. I am co-authoring this with a FB friend in New Zealand.

·         I am researching another book “Let’s Talk About Death” which will help people understand that why death is a terrible event to deal with, it is, in fact, just a part of life. Everything in life is temporary, including life itself. EG, teach parents how to help their kids deal with the death of a pet. How to understand grief. And so on. I want this, if possible, to be a light hearted book, not a serious read.

·         I am working on 7 Secrets To Ramp Up Your Kindle Sales – as a follow up to my How To Write Your First Book – based on how I promote my books.

·         I am working on a number of relationship books. I recently published a short book, 3 Secrets To Win Your Man Back, and that has sold quite well. So I see this niche as worth exploring further.

·         I am half way through a cook book, Mr Fish’s Fifteen Favourite Fish Dishes. That is just a fun project, as I try out various fish recipes and adapt them, then capture in my writing system.

·         My ex is a fantastic chef, from Colombia, and he and I will work on a book with some of his best recipes at some stage. With lots of mouth-watering-pictures.

·         I have also thought about writing a gay version of 50 Shades – working title 50 Shades of The Rainbow, but that market niche is pretty busy at the moment.

Fiona: Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members. I have actually not had much support from family at all, as they are all overseas. Sadly, they don’t even buy my books – yet! A good friend has supported my writing, but I get most of my support from the FB groups that I belong to, and from the writing courses that I have taken.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career? I do now. After spending years in counselling looking for my new purpose in life (after my 30 year very successful career in financial services)  – this story about how I came crashing down again will be covered in Book three of Coming Out On Top – I finally feel that  I have found my bliss, in writing.  I love writing and am hoping to make a supplementary living from my books, articles and so forth.

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book? My latest book has only just gone live, so too early to say. One aspect I will work on for some of my earlier books are the covers. I have found that when I rework the covers, I see the sales rise. I will also consider, as I mentioned answering an earlier question, whether to use American spelling or Australian spelling in my books.

Fiona: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated? I have always loved writing, from when I was a kid. I would write stories as a school boy. I have been a blogger for the last 4 years. In my corporate career, I used to do a lot of marketing writing, board papers and annual reports. My blog is aimed at helping people in many aspects of their life. 4abettalife has sadly been hacked recently, so I am still trying to recover all the 800 plus previous posts that I have lost. So yeah, writing has always been a part of my life.

Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us? The book that I am most involved with of the few I am working on is my kid’s book, The Boy, The Cat, The Dog And The Rat.  In this book, Bobby is a typical naughty, or maybe just mischievous, 9 year old, who was given a puppy, Jinx for his 8^th birthday. They become great friends and get up to all sorts of mischief together. Then his aunt leaves her cat, Smokey, with his family for 4 weeks when she goes away on holiday and the dog and the cat have to learn to get on with each other.  In my book, the animals can understand Bobby and can speak and communicate with each other, but Bobby cannot understand them. They teach Bobby some life lessons as the story develops.

In a storm, Ben the rat seeks shelter under the house and again, the cat and the rat have to learn to get along. So the story will have some adventures that they all get caught up in. Each will have an opportunity to save the day. And of course their will be some humour 9that is humor lol)  that young boys love, such as fart jokes ( I can imagine the four ‘friends’ comparing the sounds of their farts in one scene) and poo and booger elements, if I can fit them in. Lessons that the book will cover are issues like accepting diversity, that bullying is bad, learn to always be honest and truthful, and a few others.

I am well into this book at the moment, and loving how it has taken on a life of its own. I will find someone to draw pictures for each of the 7 chapters and then publish on Kindle and through Createspace.

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing? I guess my passion is driving me rather hard and I am losing some life balance. I am spending far too much time writing, although at the moment that is not a major issue. I saw a definition of a writer on FaceBook today; Writ-er = a person who can turn countless cups of coffee into books. One issue that I am debating with myself is whether to write in American English, or the English English that I am used to. As I sell most of my books in the US, I am seriously considering reworking all my books into American English. I would love your view on that.

Fiona: Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work? Hmm, I don’t really have a favourite author at the moment. I tend to go with the book I am reading at the moment, so let me say Brendon Burchard.

Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)? I have visited Wellington, New Zealand a couple of times, to write sections of my autobiography, as I find that being in the actual situation of where the events happened bring more vitality to my writing. My last book was set in LA, so I guess, I should have visited Downtown LA where the gay vampires were at work. But sadly, I didn’t.

Fiona: Who designed the covers? I have used Fiverr for a couple of book covers, two friends from FB groups who each have a business of cover designing have each designed a cover for me and I have designed my own covers as well. I will move more and more to getting my covers professionally designed.

Fiona: What was the hardest part of writing your book?   In a couple of my books in the wellness and weight loss niche, I found the hardest part was deciding what information to include and what to leave out. My blog of over 800 posts focused on wellness, so I had a wealth of material there. But I think I succeeded in keeping my current two wellness books, Eat, Drink, Move and How To Lose Weight with These 101 Foods sufficiently different and concise.

Fiona: Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it? I suppose the most interesting thing I have learned – about the power of the human mind – is that when writing my autobiography and writing about times when I was a child, that I can recall amazing details of certain events as if they were yesterday.

I am also amazed when my creative mind works its way through to my fingers and I type things that I don’t know why they are in my story, until some pages later, something else pops out of my fingers and links up with the previous ‘piece of writing’.

For example, in Crossover Red At Dawn, in an early scene Den punches Josh, the hero, on the shoulder when they say goodbye. Why I wrote that, I don’t know, but later, when Josh gets home very late after meeting a vampire at a sex club, his girlfriend notices a new bruise on his neck. He doesn’t know the guy was a vampire – and neither does the reader at that stage – although they may suspect it –  but he remembers that Den punched him and uses that as an excuse… etc etc.

And for all the vampire names, such as Nawor, Levic, Tursat, Cerbu, Nabir and Leisha, I have just taken ordinary Australian names and switched the letters around, including my own. Tursat, my name twisted around, gets killed off. That was fun.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?  Stay true to yourself. Don’t write junk. Keep your content unique and original. Don’t write for the money, write for the joy of writing and sharing of your story. Don’t undervalue your work.

Fiona: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers? As I usually say at the end of each book, I want my readers to enjoy the experience, to learn something from my own life in any particular book of mine that they read, and if they enjoy it, to tell their friends. And maybe to consider that they too, can write a book one day and share their life experiences. Oh yes and….. if you enjoyed the book, please leave a review J

Fiona: If you were not a writer what else would you like to have done ? Nothing at this stage of my life. I had a wonderful 30 years in the financial services industry ending up as CEO of a company in New Zealand and Chairman of another company. I also owned a restaurant for 3 years – that is also for another story – Book Two of my Coming Out On Top LOL. But more than happy with my current focus. But if I HAVE to say something, then I would like to be sailing a yacht in the Mediterranean.

 

Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? if so what is it?  My blog is 4abettalife.com and my book website is Stuartfish.com. I have a few other related websites, but am still working on unhacking them.

Our interview with Hugh Howey

 

Name : Hugh Howey

Age :37

Where are you from

North Carolina, but I’ve lived all over. I now reside in Jupiter, Florida with my wife Amber and our dog Bella.

A little about your self `ie your education Family life ect

I grew up in a small town. My father was a farmer and my mother a schoolteacher. They divorced when I was young, leaving my mother to raise three children on her own.

I was a voracious reader as far back as I can remember. I went to college in Charleston, SC, where I lived on a small sailboat to save money and to have some adventure. I dropped out after my Junior year even though my grades were great to sail down to the islands.

That led to a career as a yacht captain, which is how I met my wife of ten years. When she dragged me away from the sea, I took up a childhood dream of writing a novel. For the past several years, that’s pretty much all I’ve been doing: writing and publishing anything I can dream up.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I just finished my first horror novel, I, ZOMBIE. It’s a unique take on the genre, as my protagonists are all zombies. And rather than being the unthinking brutes we take them to be, they are in a locked-in state. They have all their old memories and personalities, but they can’t stop themselves from committing unspeakable acts. They are forced to watch themselves do it. It’s a very gruesome book, not least of all because of the similarities I point out between our condition and theirs.

I’m also helping Random House get ready for the hardback release of WOOL in the UK and Australia. They are putting a lot of muscle behind the release with awesome proof copies and a killer book trailer. In addition to the UK deal, we have 15 or so other foreign book deals that are moving forward. There’s also the film in pre-production with Ridley Scott and Steve Zaillian. On top of all of this, my wife took a new job in Florida, which has meant selling our old home and buying one down here. A lot is going on all at once!

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I tried writing a novel when I was twelve, but I couldn’t stick with it. Since then, I’ve started a handful of stories with similar success. About four years ago, I tried again but with a better understanding of what was involved. I had been working as a book reviewer for a while, which allowed me to interview authors much as you’re doing. When I saw that these were just regular folks who sat down and wrote all day long, it gave me a renewed purpose. I’ve been writing nonstop ever since.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Not until I quit my day job. When I decided I could support myself on my sales, that’s when it moved from being a hobby to a profession. It was terrifying. I’m still getting used to telling people, when they ask, that I’m a “writer.” It does’t sound right at all.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I was inspired to write by a book conference I went to. An author on a panel answered a question about how to become a writer by practically shouting that you just have to write. It woke me up.

As for what inspired the subject matter of what I wrote, I based the story on my own adventures as a yacht captain. The islands I frequented became planets, the various cultures became alien races, and my romance with my wife became the fictional romance of my characters.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Yes. Choppy sentences. Sentence fragments. And interspersed with these, a bevy of longer strings of prose that are held together with commas, that feature a bit of repetition, and that are composed like songs in a musician’s head with as much care in how the words sing-song progress as with rules of grammar or the care for semantics.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

WOOL? It’s from the saying of having wool pulled over one’s eyes. That’s the figurative sense. The literal sense is from the cleaning pads they scrub the lenses with. There are more meanings beyond these two, but they’re the main ones I had in mine.

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

Quite a few. I want them to question whether we can know if the world is a good or bad place simply from accepting what a single screen in our home tells us. I want them to think about whether a sad life is worth living, or if it’s better to seek truth and happiness, even if it kills us. And finally, is it justified to rise up and fight for justice if the body count will be higher than the unjust thing we rail against? None of these are easy questions. I don’t pretend to know the answer.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Roughly 82.4%. The rest is made up.

Fiona: Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

I thought a lot about my recent grief from losing my dog. It was a traumatic experience, and I think it colors the tone of the story. Living in a bunker was probably influenced by the nuclear disaster drills they had us perform in grade school.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

THE BLANK SLATE by Stephen Pinker and COSMOS by Carl Sagan. The latter opened my mind to the vastness and infinite possibilities of our universe. The former demonstrated the rigidity and limitations of our minds.

Fiona: If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

Neal Gaiman. He can write in so many genres and with such a variety of voices. He also knows how to handle all the non-writing stuff. And he gets to write comics. I have a total writer-crush on him.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I hardly have the time, but I’m working on the Steve Jobs biography and NEPTUNE’S INFERNO, a WWII book. I almost only read non-fiction.

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?

I don’t read a lot of authors, per se. I read books. I often don’t know who wrote them. I’m the same with music. I can sing every lyric and not be able to name the song nor the band.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I’m working on the next Silo Story (book 7 in the series), and I just started my first romance novel! I’m also producing the audiobook for WOOL, which is coming along very nicely.

Fiona: Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.

The Tin Roof. It’s this bar in Charleston, SC. They’ve had me in for readings since my very first book. I think I’ve done five readings there. They have been a huge support, and I’ll always look forward to going back again and again.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

For now, yeah. Until people move on to the next guy or gal. I saw being a yacht captain as a career until it wasn’t. Right now, writing pays my bills. And I love doing it. I couldn’t be happier, but that doesn’t mean it’ll last.

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

Not in I, ZOMBIE, no. It’s completely original, and I love that about the book. Anything I changed would be a deviation from that, an attempt to make it more normal. I wouldn’t want that.

Fiona: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?

No. It was just my love of reading, and so my desire to create these worlds that I loved exploring. It might have been ENDER’S GAME that first got me thinking about becoming an author. or THE HITCHHIKER’S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY.

Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us?

I can read some of it for you!

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

Getting rid of all the typos. Where do they come from! Why can’t they be vanquished!

Fiona: Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

Neal Stephenson and Neil Gaiman are both amazing. I just love how they create worlds and people that I can believe in. And it’s not always the same world over and over, which is a trap other authors fall into.

Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?

I travel for promotional reasons. I go to conferences and meet-ups and to talk to classrooms. But not for research.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I did my own covers for the longest time. Now I get help from Mike Tabor and Jasper Schreurs. They’re both much better at it than I am.

Fiona: What was the hardest part of writing your book?

Knowing when to stop, when it’s done. I could revise forever if I allowed myself.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Yeah: Don’t be afraid to write garbage. Trust that you’ll revise it to perfection later. This can paralyze a writer and keep them from writing at all. Don’t fall into that trap. All first drafts stink; that’s part of the process.

Fiona: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

Just to thank them for the support and all the interactions. I love getting to know them and having a rapport with them. It’s the best part of all this.

Fiona: If you were not a writer what else would you like to have done ?

Be an astronaut. Really. I was born for that. It just takes too much damn schooling!

Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? if so what is it

www.hughhowey.com It has a nice and active forum as well. Stop by!

Our interview with David A . Sterling

 

Name  David A. Sterling      

 

A little about yourself ( i.e., your education, family life, etc.)

 

I was born in Valley Stream, NY which is on the south shore of Long Island.   In 2005, my family and I moved to Peachtree City, GA.  Throughout my adult life I’d never lived further than five miles away from my childhood home.  Many of my friends and family considered it a pretty bold move to pick up and relocate my family more than nine hundred miles away.  It’s really a tremendous responsibility—when you consider all the possible implications for one’s family—when making such a drastic change of locale.   I’m thankful to say that the move worked out wonderfully and I have no regrets about my decision.  My wife and I are blessed with three children.  Currently, our two daughters are attending the University of Georgia and our son will be a junior in high school this fall. As for myself, aside from meeting the daily demands of a full time job and my writing, I enjoy photography and love to break out the camera whenever time permits.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

 

I’m very excited about the release of my book “Do As I Say.”  I am absolutely thrilled with the reviews I’ve received, and hope that my readers will continue to be kind.  The book is available in all of the popular digital formats as well as in paperback on Amazon.  I’m hoping to start the second installment in the “Bennett Mills Mystery” series later this summer.  In the meantime, I ‘m currently in marketing mode and appreciate opportunities like these to discuss my first book.

 

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

 

I’ve always enjoyed writing and was encouraged by the complements I’d received on several short pieces I’d written.  When I first came up with the idea for “Do As I Say”, my children were very young and involved in several extracurricular activities.  Sometimes my wife and I felt we spent more time in the car than we did in our own house. Between all of the running around and a full time job, it was unimaginable that I would ever be able to devote the time necessary to write a book.  Now, with my children grown-up and more independent, and my evenings unfettered by all of these activities, suddenly writing a book seemed possible.

 

 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

 

I always knew that I had it within me to write, but as I mentioned earlier it was a matter of finding the time to put pen to paper.  I vividly recall doing a read through of what I’d written after I’d completed chapter five. As I turned each page (so to speak), I became more convinced that this was the beginning of something very special.  At that point, I decided it was a good idea to let my wife and kids give it a read.  Explaining that writing this book would require a huge commitment of my time I asked that they be brutally honest in their critiques.  As they read the manuscript, I sat anxiously on the couch trying to garner any hint I could from their facial expressions.  My aspirations of being a writer would either live or die based on the feedback I was about to receive. The fact that we are doing this interview is perhaps the most obvious indication of their responses.   Their enthusiastic reactions told me that what I’d written was worthy and at that moment I considered myself a writer.

 

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

 

Last October my brother-in-law Mark lost a two and a half year battle with a rare and very aggressive form of lymphoma.  It was Mark’s unbelievable courage and boundless determination to make every day count that inspired me to follow my dreams.  I’d been knocking the idea of this book around in my mind for way too long and I decided that it was time to make my dream a reality.  “Do As I Say” is dedicated to Mark, whose sense of humor, strength, and integrity inspired the book’s main protagonist, Bennett Mills.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

 

I’ve had a few people compare my style to James Patterson, which I consider to be a great honor.  I’ve always loved a good comedy so I do occasionally add some playful repartee between my characters to inject a bit of humor. Most importantly, I want my stories to be enjoyable and an easy read.

 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

 

The title “Do As I Say” just worked.  It was the first title that came to mind when I conceptualized the story years ago and it stuck.  I never wavered from it for a moment.

 

 

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

 

As in any book there may be situations or interactions between characters that readers can relate to back to their own lives.  With that said, I am not trying to teach any lessons or make any statements either openly or subliminally within my book.

 

 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

 

“Do As I Say” is completely fiction, but I did try to keep my imagination in check and deliver a storyline that is as believable as possible.

 

 

Fiona: Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

 

Anything I say can and will be held against me. ..So the answer to that question is a resounding NO!

 

 

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

 

When I was eleven, my father gave me a book of idioms that I really loved.  I felt the sayings contained a great deal of wisdom and have often felt they were words to live by.  To the chagrin of my children, I’ve been known to recite idioms to them when I find one applicable to something going on in their lives.

 

 

Fiona: If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

 

If I had to pick just one, it would be Nicholas Sparks.  One early Sunday morning I saw him being interviewed on a morning show.  I probably would have changed the channel (not being a romance reader), but as I put my hand on the remote the interviewer asked him how he got started writing.  He was just an ordinary guy selling pharmaceuticals, when one day he decided that he was going to do something special.  That something special turned out to be his first published work “The Notebook.”  It taught me that there were no prerequisites or special lifestyle requirements in order to become a successful writer.

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

 

At the moment I am gearing up for the writing of my next book.  I like to go into writing mode uninfluenced by a recent read, so at the moment the answer would be none.

 

 

Fiona: What are your current projects?

 

I’m in the process of laying out my chapters for the sequel to “Do As I Say.”  My protagonist, Bennett Mills, is anxiously awaiting his next challenge.  If he only knew what I had in store for him, he might not be so anxious.

 

 

Fiona: Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.

 

I received tremendous support from several friends and neighbors that read my book throughout the various stages of editing process.  Hearing how enthusiastic they were about the book gave me a big boost.  When you have half of your test readers telling you that they can see the book becoming a movie it is a great sign.

 

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

 

I would love to see that happen someday.

 

 

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

 

I might have made the blue eye on the cover a shade or two lighter (just joking).  Actually, there is nothing that comes to mind.  I am quite happy with how the book turned out, hopefully my readers will agree.

 

 

 

Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us?

 

As I mentioned earlier it is a sequel.  As you might expect the key characters will return in varying degrees.  In the first book the venue moved from the District of Columbia to Phoenix, AZ.  The sequel will start in Phoenix, but a good portion of the storyline will unfold in Georgia. 

 

 

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

 

I need to learn when to call it a day.  I find that when I get on a roll, it is hard to break away from my writing.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?

 

Not at the moment, but I’m hoping that someday it will be financially feasible to attend events around the country.

 

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

 

The overall concept for the cover was mine…I knew exactly what I wanted. Using my limited knowledge of graphics programs, I was able to provide a starting point for my graphics artist.  The cover went through several revisions before we struck gold.  The company I used was Phase One Design in Griffin, GA.  They were a real pleasure to work with and I would highly recommend them.

 

 

Fiona: What was the hardest part of writing book?

 

My biggest sacrifice was giving up evening and weekend time with my family.  There were stretches of time during the writing process when it seemed like there was no down time.  I would finish my day job, grab a bite to eat, and go on to my writing.  Most weekends I found myself either typing or thinking about the storyline.  There were several instances when my wife would catch me smiling for no apparent reason, and then ask me which character or scene I was thinking about.

 

Fiona: Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?

 

I learned that at my age, that I could still surprise myself.  I knew I had an amazing story to write, but it wasn’t until I started writing that I realized I could write an amazing story.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

 

Whether you’re just thinking of writing a book or have already started, be passionate about your characters.  If you can’t get close to them, then your readers never will. 

 

 

Fiona: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

 

I hope you enjoy reading my book as much as I enjoyed writing it.  If you liked it, let me and other readers know by sending in a good review.  If not, please disregard J.

 

Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? if so what is it?

 

Yes.  http://www.davidasterling.com  & http://bookblogs.ning.com/profile/DavidASterling 

 

 

 

 

Warmest Regards,

 

David A. Sterling

Here is my interview with P.J.Day

 

Name P.J. Day

Age N/A

Where are you from Southern California

A little about your self `ie your education Family life ect

I don’t like to provide education. Education always sets an unfair level of expectations for one’s work. Better let readers judge someone’s work with a clear and blank slate.

I’m a proud father of a 11 month old girl and a 5 year old who is carbon copy of me growing up: High energy, 10 questions per minute, and always challenging the boundaries that she perceives as holding her back. Dangerously independent. Also, I’m fortunate to have an extremely strong and understanding woman as my wife.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

 I just released The Sunset Prophecy and I’m doing a free preview on Tuesday July 30 & Wednesday July 31. Go download it, it’s free!

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

 I’ve always loved to express myself either through speech, acting, and writing. I’ve always written but I’ve always expressed myself from the moment I was able to do some gesturing…lol. Writing is just another form of communication. I decided to self publish my work in December of 2011, as soon as I gained enough confidence and fortitude to let the world judge my prose and my ideas (for good or bad).

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

 After I finished a 430 page novel in 6 months. A writer yes, a good writer? Hopefully someday, but that is up to the readers to decide.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

The world around us. All the history that we are currently breathing. Many of my readers think I predicted the Snowden case with King’s Blood, I wouldn’t have had that coincidence pop up if I didn’t find current events so intriguing and entertaining.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

 As a new writer I’d be lying if I told you I’ve settled on a style. I look at McCarthy and Hemingway and appreciate their dry, efficient prose. I look at all the contemporary fantasy and romance writers and marvel at their clever usage of purple prose. I’m stuck between a rock and a hard place. If I try to lean too much in one direction, I either sound too flat and dry for fantasy readers and too awkward and as if I’m trying too hard to contemporary lit readers. It’s getting there, so I’d say a little of both at the moment. Whenever a supernatural scene crops up I channel fantasy writers and whenever a day to day conversation or scenario crops up I’ll do my best in channeling a post-modernist style.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

 I decided to run the apocalypse through Sunset Boulevard. Hence The Sunset Prophecy. I thought it was funny, hopefully it resonates.

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

To think deeply about everything that was ingrained in us when our minds and brains were as mushy and elastic as silly putty. As we grow older we recognize the mistakes our parents made and we learn from them, I think it’s important to be just as critical of the dogma that was instilled to us by them as well. The message isn’t necessarily a challenge but a conversation starter.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Tough question, to me personally 50%, but if one were a believer in that wild book at the end of New Testament, 70%.

Fiona: Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

Yes. I was a struggling actor just like Keelen Grant, Cindy Lu is a mirror image of one of my best friends, but her inner conflicts are from my own experiences. Matthew Nix is the staring down the barrel of the type of success we all care and the indifference toward others that fame sometimes compels. Logan Drake is the courage and the heart that most of us wish we had. Adam Cagle is the feeling we all have when we feel we are at our worst physically, but still fight through life not giving a damn, and Fisker is our worst fear if you buy into the concept of  a Democratic and pluralistic society.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

 Eyes of the Dragon, by Stephen King. Of Mice and Men, by John Steinbeck, Something Wicked this way comes by Ray Bradbury also his short story, The Scythe, and McCarthy’s No Country for Old Men, as I think it bridges the gap between film and literature in such a revolutionary way.

Fiona: If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

On a personal level J.R. Rain, from afar, Scott Nicholson, Chuck Palahniuk, Bradbury, and

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Watchers by Dean Koontz

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?

 Zander Marks & Brian Reeves.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I have a new series coming out in a couple of weeks called Mercy’s Magic, it’s co-written with Elizabeth Basque who’s writing the Sharpened Edges trilogy and helped co-write J.R. Rain’s best-selling Zombie Patrol series. It’s a witch’s tale set in my backyard of Orange County California, and works as a P.I. that helps solve crimes for communities who are too afraid to go to the police. Also, I should have the fifth part to my King’s Blood Serial Novel, Vampire Terminus out for sale at the end of August.
Fiona: Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members. My good friend, Jon and the ultra-cynical and humbling reddit.com, especially their subreddit  r/writing.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

More than a career, it’s really just another form of communication. Like talking, singing, dancing, acting. The better you get at writing the wider the audience gets, the larger your footprint and impact on the world. There is a responsibility that comes with being a writer and if you aren’t cognizant of it then you’ll never grow as an artist or a person.

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

Honestly, as a self published writer who desperately needs to balance income and the time it takes to mold a quality product, I wish I had a little more time to spend with this book so I could make it even better, but I think that is a common grievance among all writers and how they feel about their finished product.

Fiona: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?

On reddit.com arguing, being polemic, and making sure I communicated with clarity and intent. As soon as you are able to harness a certain level of quality in your writing, the more people will be receptive to your words and ideas.

Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us?

It’s set in L.A. It reads like a modern day fable. It’s fantastical, it’s satirical, and it tackles the American-centric views of media, the economy, and the end times, but most importantly I had fun writing it and it shows. You’ll laugh and chuckle, and all I can tell the readers is to expect the unexpected. Go in with a fresh mind and once done, I hope readers can feel redemption, hate, anger, happiness, joy, or revelation.

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

Finding the unobstructed time it takes for full on concentration.

Fiona: Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

Hemingway. Cliché, I know. But the efficiency in his prose makes writing look so damn easy, but it’s anything but. He was a genius, a drunken rabble-rouser at times, but a genius.

Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?

 Not yet. Travel is good, it’s a sign of success.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

 Damon at Damonza.com He’s a genius and quite possibly the best in the business.

Fiona: What was the hardest part of writing your book?

Keeping my finances, family, and relationships intact as I committed full bore to this crazy book.

Fiona: Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?

To let go and accept where you stand in life. You can’t control everything.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Be relentless, be obsessed, and lots and lots of therapy. Therapy is good folks. Self-awareness is a necessity for sanity.

Fiona: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

If you ever feel compelled to leave a one star review, be very specific in your gripes and above all else be constructive. Writing is a lonely profession, one that is sometimes devoid of proper feedback. Being vicious does nothing for that particular writer’s advancement or the craft overall.

Fiona: If you were not a writer what else would you like to have done ? Anything creative…

Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? if so what is it? www.pjdaybooks.com