My interview with Beverly Prestion

 

Name

Beverly Preston

Age

I’m 45 years old.

Where are you from?

I was born in Peoria, Illinois. My parents moved to the small town of Pahrump, Nevada where I went to high school. I’ve lived in Las Vegas for the past 30 years.

A little about yourself `ie your education Family life ect.

For the past twenty-one years, I’ve been a Domestic Engineer, a.k.a. stay at home mom, raising four children. During those years, I worked beside my husband, the love of my life, designing and building custom homes. I’m addicted to Golden Oreo’s and my spin bike.  

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Fiona, you are my latest news! This is my first interview and I’d like to thank you for having me. I published my debut novel in January and in May I decided to join KDP Select in hopes of gaining exposure. It’s been a wonderfully crazy summer with almost 30,000 downloads of No More Wasted Time.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

Up until a few years ago I was probably more comfortable reading a set of blue prints than a romance novel. I started writing three years ago after having a horrible nightmare that my husband died and I was on a boat in Bora Bora spreading his ashes in the lagoon. I panicked for weeks thinking my hubby was going to fall off the roof he was working on. After weeks of worrying, I realized he wasn’t going anywhere. I started writing and didn’t stop for three years.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I will never forget the exact moment. My husband and I were at a Christmas party and woman we were chatting with asked, “What do you do for a living?” Typically, I would’ve chuckled and told her that I was a Domestic Engineer, but my husband blurted out, “My wife’s a writer.” It took me another year to publish, but his proud introduction lit a fire in me.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I couldn’t let my nightmare go. It morphed into this story in my head that I couldn’t get rid of. I was seriously losing sleep over it. I went in to my daughter’s room one night, telling her the whole story and that I was contemplating writing a book. She said, “Momma! You should do it!” So I did. Since then, I find inspiration in music and a good sunrise.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

For the most part I write in my own voice and define my style as descriptive. I love to focus on bringing places and characters to life with casual flow and wordage. I want the reader to become emotionally attached to my characters and feel as if they’re sitting right there in the sand. Let’s not forget the heat factor. I give it a nice spicy R rating.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I’m pretty sure I scribbled No More Wasted Time on a notecard in the middle of the night. Apparently, 2:00 AM seems to be my creative alarm clock. There’s a scene, which I wrote later, where the actual words are spoken in the story line.

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

Life isn’t about tomorrow ~ Life is about today and Everything happens for a reason. I think occasionally we get lucky in life and find the person who is just right for us. True love! I also want my writing to spark a sense of empowerment and sexiness in the reader.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Take out fame, fortune and Hollywood, and it’s as real as life gets. People suffer from loss, have family drama, question themselves, and travel to exotic destinations. I hope people share a similar intimate connection portrayed in the book. 

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

I live in Las Vegas which is where the opening scene takes place and I was lucky enough to travel to Bora Bora a few years ago. I carry a bit of that tiny island in the South Pacific in my soul and that reflects in my writing. The characters are a collaboration of family, friends and people I know.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

I took general English in high school and I didn’t go to college, so I didn’t read any of the classics. I remember reading Montana Sky by Nora Roberts thinking I have to read that again!

 

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

Paul Rega is the author of How to Find a Job When There Are No Jobs. He’s an indie-author who shares his personal journey and career planning strategy. Though he writes in a completely different genre and I’m not out of work, I’ve learned a tremendous amount about marketing and promoting. I consider Paul a mentor and a friend.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m just starting Badass by Sable Hunter.

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

I’ve met so many wonderful authors the last year! My to-be-read list is long and I’m hoping to squeeze some more reading time when summer is over.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

No More Wasted Time is my debut novel and the first book in a stand-alone series of four. Book number four in the series is two chapters away from completion and I have plots for two and three. Yes, I unintentionally wrote them out of sync. Book two will publish in January 2013 and all four novels will be published by the end of 2013.

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

I have found a writing community through social media. The people I’ve met have been wonderful, not to mention inspirational, insightful and encouraging.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes. I’m a member of several writers’ groups and attend meetings regularly to improve my writing. As an indie–author, I’m also learning how to publish and promote.

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

No I would not. I will admit my novel colors outside the lines a bit of the stereotypical romance novel. My characters are in their forties and have a passionate relationship throughout the entire book, but I pride myself on following my own path. My reviews are very positive.

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

My interest in writing started the day I sat down at my laptop. I became obsessed. I slept about four hours a night for the first year and I might’ve growled at my kids and husband on more than one occasion if they asked me about laundry or dinner.

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

Excerpt from No More Wasted Time

“Tess,” he said in a voice so delicious, the mere sound made her go weak at the knees.

Even though playfulness lingered in his tone, she glanced into his dark brown eyes and realized Tom had something on his mind.

“Do you need to go home in three days or can you stay on vacation with me longer? I’ll understand if you need to get back, but I’m not ready to let go of you yet.” His brows creased slightly, revealing the indication of seriousness to his offer, as if it were uncharted territory for him.

Her mind raced. She didn’t really need to go home yet, but the idea of Tom wanting her to stay longer filled her full of happiness. If I stay, what will that mean to him? What does it mean to me? Nothing? Something? Everything? Are we dating now? Am I simply going to be able to just walk away from this amazing man when the vacation is over?

She wanted answers to all of her questions, but one thing she knew for certain, if she pushed Tom, even the smallest amount, he’d be gone.

Lowering her gaze to the table, she drug her hands through her hair and chewed nervously on her lip. “You really want me to stay longer? I thought-”

“I don’t have any commitments for a few weeks.” His lips caressed her neck. “I’m enjoying my time with you and I’m under the impression you’re enjoying yourself, too.”

Acting on a whim was completely out of character for her. This trip was the most unpredictable thing she’d ever done in her life.

“Come with me, Tess. I’ll show you a great time. What else do you have to do right now back at home that can’t wait for a while?” After every sentence he paused, waiting patiently for her response.

She lifted her eyes, searching for reassurance that she wouldn’t regret her decision. He gave her a sexy imploring smile.

            “Why, Mr. Clemmins, are you trying to seduce me into staying here with you?” She teased with a quiet chuckle.

            “Is it working?” he whispered in her ear.

            “Yes, I believe it is. I can stay.” She imitated his slow sexy tone, “I’m not through with you yet, Tom Clemmins.”

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

Balance! I’m just beginning to find the balance between writing, promoting and family. Oh, and spinning. Riding my spin bike keeps me sane.

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

That’s a hard question for me. I love any author that can suck me in as if it could be reality and keep me up all night. Add some smokin’ hot sensuality to and I’ll love it. Lisa Kleypas’ Blue-Eyed Devil is one of my favorites. Hardy Cates! What else can I say?

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

I don’t have to travel, but places inspire me and my writing a great deal! I read travel magazines, and Greece and Italy are on my bucket list.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I love my cover! I purchased the photo online and my oldest daughter and I mocked it up before giving it to Yevinn Graphics.

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

The writing just came, but the writing process from start to finish is what I find challenging. English isn’t my strong point, so learning correct grammar and punctuation were toughies. Point of view has been the most enlightening tidbit of information I’ve learned. Cutting scenes is also still hard for me. I get attached to my scenes, so cutting them is like removing a finger.

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

Beyond everything else I’ve learned a lot about myself. It might be a combination of age, children leaving the nest and starting a new career, but I’ve gained a sense of empowerment and who I am as a woman through writing.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Be a sponge! I’m more than willing to absorb any advice from other writers and then I apply it to my own work. Some suggestions may or may not work for you, but you can still learn from that. Be flexible. Trust your gut and don’t be afraid to be different!

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

Thank you! Receiving comments or reviews from readers makes my day! I get goose bumps every time someone else gets excited about my book. I might even shed a happy tear or celebrate with a cocktail. Readers rock!

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

I designed and help build five houses with my husband. I loved every minute of it and I would do it again!

 

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

http://www.beverlypreston.com/

http://www.facebook.com/beverly.preston.7?ref=tn_tnmn#!/beverly.preston.7

Twitter @beverlypreston

Our interview with Deborah Koren

Name    Deborah Koren

Age   43 

Where are you from   Southern California 

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

I’m a California girl, born and raised.  I received my college degrees in Creative Writing, but in hindsight, I wish I had majored in something more useful to writing, such as history or the classics.  I currently reside in Southern California with my dog and cats, and family close by.  For the day job, I work with telecommunication software.  At night, I write.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news? 

My second short story for the Heroes in Hell anthology series is currently out.  It’s called “A Hatful of Dynamite” and can be found in theRogues in Hell volume.  My story “Northlight” is due out this Halloween in the third Sha’Daa anthology, Sha’Daa; Pawns.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing? 

Fifth grade, or perhaps earlier.  I started making up stories before that.  I was always a daydreamer, fantacizing about movies and television shows and adventures I wished I could have.  Writing those stories down was a way both for me to remember them and to share them with others.  I was lucky to have a mom who encouraged imagination and creativity, and we could talk about the plots and characters we watched all the time.  This led directly into a “that episode ended poorly, it should have gone differently” and “I can do that better” mentality.  Then, of course, I would actually have to write those new stories down to see if I really could do it better.  It escalated into full time writing from there.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer? 

Since I can’t really remember a time when I wasn’t writing, I’ve always considered myself a writer.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book? 

It was a sci-fi novel, and was directly inspired by Ralph Vaughn Williams music “Job, A Masque for Dancing,” by the constant vultures on wing outside my house, a collection of actors I wished would star in a sci-fi movie together, and my mother, who encouraged me.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? 

I usually write in tight third person POV, or first person, though that’s always determined by the story’s needs.  My writing tends to be visual. The stories I choose to tell are usually character-driven action stories, mostly in the fantasy/sci fi genres.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title? 

Well, the title to my “Rogues in Hell” story was actually suggested by a close friend of mine.  I had derivatives of the “____ of Dynamite” but couldn’t come up with one that worked.  My friend suggested “Hatful” and that was that!

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

I write for the same reason I read:  to be entertained, to escape this world for awhile.  But the themes that matter to me – things like redemption, betrayal, friendship, love, honor – crop up repeatedly as I explore different aspects of them, and those same themes might hold weight for some readers as well.  Often, it is readers who will point out something my subconscious slipped in. 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic? 

That would depend on how you define realistic.  A story always has to feel real to me when I write it, whether it’s filled with magic or star cruisers or set in the depths of a shared-world Hell.  It must have internal consistencies in world building that make whatever characters and events happen there feel as real to me as taking my dog for a walk on a cool evening.  But if realistic refers to writing about the modern day world around us, no, none of my stories are realistic.  They all tend towards fantastic and could not happen here and now.

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

I would say the character emotions I write about come from my own experiences, but actual events?  No.  I write to escape my life, not to relive it.  My life is far too mundane and happy to write about.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most? 

I would say movies and opera have been a far greater influence on me than books were.  Those two things shaped who I am today and also shaped what I wanted out of fiction.  Books came third, though I read voraciously as a kid.  As for books, I would have to say the novels of Alistair MacLean were the ones that had the most influence.  It was his novels that inspired me to pursue writing as a career and not just keep writing for the fun of it.  Kate Wilhelm’s novels and short stories also had impact on my writing, challenging me to be better, to think outside the box, to push deeper.

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

Alistair MacLean.

Fiona: What book are you reading now? 

Three Roads to the Alamo by William C. Davis, in preparation for a possible submission to the next Heroes in Hell volume, and the latest Fantasy & Science Fiction magazine. When I’m writing short stories, I like to read short stories.  Keeps me more in the “think small” frame of mind.

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

Yes.  One of the beneficial things about the internet is how easily we can be introduced to new writers, through friends and recommendations, and simply browsing the web.  Three authors whose debut novels I recently read and loved would be Jo Anderton, Cat Hellisen, and Catherine Knutsson. 

Fiona: What are your current projects? 

I’m currently finishing a fantasy short story/novella and have an urban fantasy waiting in the wings.

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

Friends.  I have fabulous set of long-distance friends who will brainstorm with me, provide me titles when I’m stuck, email me, IM me, provide feedback on stories, promote my work to their friends, and keep me honest in my writing.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career? 

Absolutely.  Do I see it paying the bills?  Not necessarily, but it is definitely my chosen career.

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

I’m sure I would go back and line edit and fix sentences and wording that now read poorly to me.  That could be said for any work.  The older we get, the more stories under our belt, the more we look at our earlier writing and want to change something.

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

From the current fantasy story I’m writing entitled “A Frost of Bones”: 

 Cristof turned.  A large man stood at the edge of the plateau.  He wore a sweeping grey cloak, the hood shrouding his head, the folds of it falling over wide shoulders.  By firelight, his clothes, boots, gloves all looked the color of butter.  The sameness of color was unnerving. Cristof thought there was something wrong with the man’s jaw – it seemed to jut out too prominently – but fifty paces stood between them and, in the fading twilight, Cristof’s eyes were not strong enough to pick out details.  It could have been a trick of the shadows.

Two of the sentries crossed towards the man, swords drawn.  The stranger made no threatening moves, mere stood rock still.  As the soldiers approached, their heads tipped back to look up at the stranger’s face, and Cristof realized the man wasn’t just large, he dwarfed the soldiers with his height and bulk.

“Maybe that’s one of the masters from Darkenhold?” Heyer asked.

Cale finished drying his face on a towel and turned at Heyer’s words.  “If it is, I’ll know him….”  His voice trailed away, his mouth dropped open, and he sucked in a panicked breath.  “No….”

Cristof shivered at his brother’s reaction, and his heart quailed in sudden understanding.  Not a man, not a master, not a stranger. Vamilov’s grimthrall.  The grimthrall’s head turned and yellowed, eyeless bone sockets looked straight across the camp at Cale.

“Cristof—” Cale whispered.

Cristof shoved his brother hard.  “Get out of here.  Run!  Now!”  He didn’t wait to see if Cale obeyed or not.  His hand reached for his sword hilt and closed on empty air.

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

I think simply finding time between the day job, household chores, exercise, and family is the biggest challenge.

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

My favorite author is Alistair MacLean, has been since I was eleven and read my first novel by him (Where Eagles Dare).  His early novels captured everything I was looking for in a book – escape, excitement, action, and characters I wanted to be – and did it in a suspenseful, page-turning way I couldn’t put down. 

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

All the time – in my imagination!  Alas, I’m not to a point where I can travel either for research or to conventions.

Fiona: Who designed the covers? 

So far, the editors and publishers of the various anthologies of which I’ve been privileged to be a part.

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

Every story has different challenges.  Looking at my “A Hatful of Dynamite” story, I would say the hardest part was trimming the plot down to fit the word count.

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

I firmly believe I learn from every writing experience, whether it’s a piece of fanfiction or a published story, or a novel.  There’s different lessons learned on each book but, at the very least, each story teaches you how to do better the next time.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers? 

There’s the important:  read, read, read.  Write, write, write.  Persevere.  But I’m going to give a completely different type of advice, one that I’ve never heard, and one that has proven invaluable to me:  study the way your favorite actors play their roles in movies.  An actor’s job is to bring to life the words on a page.  A novel or short story writer’s job is to put those words down on paper so they come alive when a reader reads them.  A writer usually doesn’t have the benefit of a trained actor to embody to those lines of dialogue for an audience.  We’ve got to make those lines sing on paper, by themselves.  I learned more about how to do that from studying actors – how they say their lines, why they say them a certain way, how they carry themselves, how they react to other actors – than I ever did from a writing class.  What is fiction writing, but a form of acting?  Writers may act it out in their heads, but the principles are the same.  Anyone can put words on a page, but to bring depth to your characters, to make them feel real, you have to become those characters to a certain extent.  Studying my favorite actors taught me how to do that.

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

Thank you for reading, and I hope my stories entertain you!

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

I would like to have been a spy, an opera singer, an actor, a submarine captain, or a park ranger.

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

http://www.cimharas.com

Our interview with Shirley Meier

Name: Shirley Meier

Age: 52

Where are you from: Woodstock ON originally.  Now Toronto. 

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

I’m just settling down after throwing my life into chaos last year.  I got married again.  Moved my husband and two friends from Tulsa Ok.  Moved myself down to Toronto from the wilds of Northern Ontario.  To be honest I’ve been moving myself and others pretty much non-stop since May.  My cat is finally settling down and is no longer asking who or what are we fleeing?  This makes things difficult when writing.  I have a five day per week posting schedule currently.  Over the past few years I’ve written about eight hundred thousand words online, in a work called Eclipse Court.  I also rewrote a book published last year, from Amazon, called Sparks in the Wind.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Heh.  See above.  I’ve just wrapped up the series and moved on to the next work ‘Kyrus Talain’.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I wrote my first book, with S.M. Stirling, in 1984.  It was released by New American Library under the name The Sharpest Edge.  Why did I begin writing?  Hmmm.  I have this constant flow of story in my head that just keeps on.  I dream novels if I don’t write them down.  I’d be a writer if I were on a desert island, I think, even if I had to scratch the words into the sand with a stick.   

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I actually saw my first publication, however arbitrary a designation that is.  I didn’t give myself permission to think of myself as a writer until someone else did. 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I had a character, Steve had a character.  We were sitting on the grass watching Morris Dancers at the Home County Folk Festival and passing a notebook back and forth, having the two characters meet.  That was the start of it. 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Yes.  But I find it changes when the story calls for it.  Style can convey an awful lot of information. 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Titles for things are often difficult.  In Rogues in Hell, however, I was lucky.  Relentless pursuit, hapless victim.  It seemed obvious. 

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

I’m interested in telling a good story.  Thematically I often tend to deal with the trapped and the redemption of supposed villians. 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Realistic?  You mean do I pretend that my vision of the modern world is ‘real’?  No I deliberately go to the fantasical, but I do a lot of science research and quite a bit of that creeps into my work.  Did you know they’ve successfully implanted a re-grown retinal cup in a person?  Or that we might see intelligent paper for sale soon? 

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

Always.  I try to write what I know.  But I’ve never been either a fourteen year old boy or a two hundred year old Emperor of Lainz so I am, of course, extrapolating some.  I included a good chunk of my labour into the latest book.  Is that too much information? 😉 

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

Oh boy.  Anything by Margaret Atwood.  Anything by Lois McMaster Bujold. The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran.  When I was a child, Dr. Dolittle, even the racist bits which have since been removed by permission of the author’s estate. Andre Norton’s works. A lot of Bill Bryson. Robert Fulghum. To regain a certain control of my language I re-read Pride and Prejudice every so often. George Sand’s work. Elizabeth Cady Stanton’s political writings.  

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

If I were forced to? If he’d have me I’d ask the Dalai Lama. 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Near a Thousand Tables; A history of food, by Felipe Fernanadez-Armesto 

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

See the list above.  There are always new authors with marvellous new ideas.  I find that that is one of my greatest inspirations, that I will never run out of things to read that will make me stop and think about things and put the world into different perspective. 

Fiona: What are your current projects?

Kyrus Talain at www.kyrustalain.blogspot.com  I just hit post 100.  I need to finish my short story for the next Hell book.

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

Other than His Satanic Majesty?  I’ve been called a tool of the devil before… no actually I cannot personify the internet… Let us just say ‘Curiosity and Play’ as the answer to that question. 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

It has not allowed me to live yet because I have not been paid enough for my words, but it is not going to stop as long as I’m breathing so I suppose you might call it a vocation instead of a career. 

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

I can, it’s all electronic.  But there comes a point where all rewrite has to stop or you will never quit fiddling with the dials and that’s not writing as far as I’m concerned.  I have more than one story to write so I have to let the last one go.  If I keep rewriting endlessly then I either overwork something or get bored of it.  If I rewrite something to hide my growth and improvement as a writer then I’m being less than honest with myself.  My craft didn’t spring whole and complete from my forehead, I’ve worked on it for years and to hide that progression would be like lying to my readers.

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

I tried to write my first story when I was about nine, inspired by the books of Thornton Burgess.  It was horrible and written in crayon but it was a start! 

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

This is post number 28: from the Emperor’s pov…

Mariush came into the bedchamber surrounded by attendants, shedding her veils into their hands gratefully, pulling the pins out of her hair. Diryish, sitting out on the honeycomb balcony, watched quietly through the screen as her formal armour was removed. When her hair was loose and being brushed, he cleared his throat quietly and everyone jumped, stopped where they were.

He rose, careful of his joints, very well aware that it translated as a severe dignity rather than pain. One never showed pain. He walked to the edge of the stone curtain, raised his hand to lean on it. They salaamed, Mariush sliding off her padded bench to do so, ever graceful. They are like a field of young flowers bowing for the wind’s touch.

“You may all be dismissed,” he said quietly. “Thank you for your diligent service… except you Mariush. You stay, if you please.”

It was like a minor dust devil, the rustle and bustle of people gathering themselves and things and taking themselves off. Mariush seated on her bench, kept her blue eyes on him, her Zukardah. “Come out to the balcony with me, my dear,” He said as the last of her attendants salaamed their way out.

“Radiance.” She glided past him, her silks rustling. Outside the balcony was full of the hum of bees. The walls were honeycombed with their wax, the whole balcony carefully tended so that chairs and tables could be placed without their occupants slipping on honey or being dripped upon. Diryish sat down again and held out his hand for the half-dozen bees to settle upon it, tongues testing his skin for sweet and finding only salt and meat. They buzzed up and over to the lush flowers growing along the forward edge, suspended over the city and then, below that, thousands of feet to canyon floor.

“It’s just Diryish when no one else can hear. Have you had tea yet?”

“No, my Zukardar.”

She is hiding it well. It is such a shame she feels she must hide it from me. She is almost at the point where it would be difficult to hide her morning sickness. At my age I will be a father again. And I must not let on to her that I know who the father really is. For my child’s sake. I am very pleased at her choice of lover though. A good warrior, a nice young man who already loves her. We will see if he is faithful to her through her trials. It will be a good test of him.

There is indeed a secret, would-be assassin. Dukir has not managed to find out who the traitorous drone is, yet, so I must pretend to all the world that my new life, my new child, is not mine, to keep that tiny spark of life protected.

“Emir-al Shiadan is the father of the babe you carry?” He made his voice soft as if he were angry, as if he were disappointed.

She gasped slightly and went to her knees before him. “Diryish… he told me he would confess… I… I’m sorry. I’m so sorry…”

He cut her off and, taking her hand, urged her up onto the bench beside him, laid a finger over her lips. “Shh.” He sighed heavily, and looked up and into the yellow-gold cavern of the balcony, the hive, humming. “The bees have told me you were carrying.” Not entirely a lie. Bees sit differently on a pregnant woman.

“It is not fair that you are so young and I so old. A young woman has more needs than an old man can fulfil.” I remember my grandfather sounding that fatuous. Was he lying to me the same way? Well, so long as she believes me, I will bear sounding the pompous, generous old fart. “I forgive you, my dear. I would be sorry to lose one of my best officers if I am forced to discover him.  The two of you must be very discrete.”

She was no longer trying to talk, but just looking at her lap, twisting the silks in her fingers. I am so glad her Mother confirmed to me what I thought. This way I have a chance to protect her and the babe both. She nodded slightly, the round circles of tears starting to fall onto the sky-coloured cloth in her hands and then she found her voice. “I will, Zardukar…”

“I think not. Not any longer, Mariush. I shall be sleeping alone from now on.” I already miss her warmth. “But you are still mine and I will not send you back to your Mother in disgrace. As far as the court will know, I have grown tired of you so close to me. It is best that no one get the idea that the child you carry is mine. I wish I could. I would lie, my dear and take that child as mine, if I could offer it the protection of my will and my arm, but I am too old.”

“Diryish. You could protect me. I could protect the child…”

“From the nest of Emperor would-bees? From one of my feather-spitter Generals? Say… Arbunazh holding Trovia for us? He’s a sand-snake with his nestlings all around me so I must be careful I not step on any of them. My councillor Nadian or his brother? Both are powerful men and would be happy to ‘help’, should I fail. Neither of them is what I would call good hive leaders. They sting too many people around them.” He sighed and laid a hand on her peach-smooth cheek. “Or Zurchan, my loyal vizier? He’d poison me in a heartbeat if he were a hair smarter than my protections. But I watch him carefully. As you will need to, now, if you are not already.”

Her cheek was wet with tears and he dried some of them away with his thumb. The easy tears of the young, when everything is either total joy or total despair. It takes age to realize that life is easier than that and that there is time for things to happen. The young always feel so… immediate, seizing all life’s emotions now and in quantity, almost not caring if it is good or bad so long as there is more of it, somehow fearful that if things grow less intense they will not recognize their own lives, their own selves.

All around them the hive hummed and the bees singing out their bounty, bee’s wings wafting warm air over the two people sitting in their midst. A dozen or two delicate sister bees flew down and searched the woman’s hair, so like some of the desert flowers, shining gold and hot under the furnace of sun, and the man’s smooth brown head, with no hair at all.

“I am sure you can, my dear, and should I die in the next year, you will have to. For even though I set you aside and clandestinely shame you… there will always be those who believe the child you carry is mine.” Myself included. “And you are now a queen-cell in the hive. Tended, cared-for, supported… and if another queen rises before you are ready… stung to death in your golden prison.” He brushed a bee gently away from her face and it buzzed up. All of the delicate sisters buzzing on them flew up and for a moment they were crowned with bees. Then they were bare again.

He drew her closer and kissed her. She sobbed then, but held her words. Good for you, my dear, don’t be so foolish to blurt out the truth, just to assuage my sorrow. Hold hard to that secret, even if it hurts me. Even if you think you are hurting me. I love you for it. “I am too old a man to love you properly, Mariush. But I am still Emperor and we will see you as safe as lies can make you; you and the child both.”

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

Keeping ahead of myself. If I write something I’m content with then its likely not that good.  If I write something that makes me nervous of its reception then I am, as Harlan Ellison once said, ‘writing toward the burning core of your fears’.  Or in this case what ‘I’ fear. 

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

I don’t have just one.   

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

Not currently.  I used to travel more, mostly to conventions to promote my work.  That could change again. 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Myself and friends. 

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

Finding unbroken time to actually do the work. 

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

That is still a work in progress.  I don’t know yet. 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Be persistent. 

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

I speak to them everyday online.  I love hearing their reaction.  Working online removes the barriers between author and work that used to be so prevalent. The lag between writing and publishing and then getting feedback used to be about two years.  Electronically you can talk to fans about your work the same day.  I love that aspect of modern writing.  It’s more like being a storyteller actually performing.  Writing is the most private of the performing arts. 

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

I do shiatus therapy. I have taught karate and self defense.  I’ve worked in kitchens.  I would do any one of these things and may have to in the near future.  Right now I’m a general contractor re-doing houses.
I love to fly, particularly hang glide.  I love to sail.  My husband is certified for scuba so I will get my certification soon and we’ll find out if my boys want to learn it as well.  We’ll see what the next year holds. There’s a lot to learn yet and I’m still breathing so my bucket list keeps growing even as it shrinks!

Thanks for your time, Fiona

Regards,
Shirley Meier

My interview with Shiralyn J Lee

Name

Shiralyn J Lee

Age 47 but act like 30

Where are you from

 I now live in Canada but originally from England.

A little about yourself  eg your education Family life etc

I am married to the love of my life who has encouraged me to write my stories. I work full time and write whenever I can fit it in.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

The contract has just ended with my publishing company so I have just edited the hell out of my first novel Loving the Pink Kiss. I shall be re-releasing it on September 9^th. This is a lesbian story and based closely to my own apart from the immigration scam involved.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing about 4 years ago now. This was because all of my favourite programmes ended on TV leaving me with very little to entertain me late at night. So after venting my frustration my SO advised me to create my own. So I did!
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I was about 18 I actually began to write a romance and sent it off to a publishing house. I really didn’t expect much back then but now I have gained knowledge in the industry and that mainly comes from a lot of my awesome author friends.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

As mentioned the TV was my biggest push but I had a knack of telling stories to my friends and family and they all told me to write them down and do something with them. I lacked the confidence for many years until my SO gave me inspiration.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I love to write from the first person sense but as some of my stories evolve I have to write as the narrator. I enjoy both. I also like to write towards drama even tho my work is erotic/BDSM/kink I feel a good story line to it gives authenticity.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I think about the storyline and what is involved. Before I commit to it I do tend to check the obvious places just in case that title is already taken.

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

Yes. Lesbians that I have been acquainted with have gone through depression and heartache as well as finding true love. I write about what people tell me so my audience can see that they are not alone.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

This book in particular is based on my life and how I fell in love. I made up the immigration scam involved in the story but there are a lot of incidents that happened. I’d say about 95% of the book is fact turned into fiction.

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

Both! We have a sick friend who has brain tumours and I wrote a character into this story who has just come through her operation and been given the all clear. Her personality is portrayed as our friend. Also the ex girlfriends I have encountered these ladies in my past so I used them as my nemesis.

Fiona: What books have influenced your life the most?

I have been drawn to romantic novels and dramas. Love seems to be at the core of my work so I read a varied choice of works. Susie Bright How to Write Erotica, Pat Califia wrote Macho Sluts, and Emily griffin Something Borrowed and Sophie Kinsella books. I have them all.

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

I think I would have to list all of the above that I just listed. They have all influenced me in some way or another.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I just read THE SHADE, by Tara Stognor Wood.

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

Yes Ashen White, I read her first short story just the other day, she writes erotica. Very personable and passionate writer.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I have a work in progress, Lesbian in Question. This is a book of compilations with stories of murder mystery love and excitement.

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

I have a wonderful group of author friends and we have just inspired and encouraged each other to do what we do best. Write!

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Right now no. It takes a long time to get recognised out there and it is hard to get your baby into the hands of your audience. Why would someone immediately want to read your books so you have to promote so much, thus taking you away from writing your next book.

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

I have just re-edited Loving the Pink Kiss. Added scenes and checked the typos. So yes I will probably find myself doing this to all of my work at some point. Just because I get new ideas and my creative juices want to work on it.

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

I think I’ve always liked to write, even as a child. I just didn’t put it into practice until later on in life.

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

If you go to my blog you can check out my excerpt.

http://authorshiralynjlee.wordpress.com/2012/08/20/183/

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

Yes it is challenging when you have written more than 20 sex scenes and you have to make each one unique. This is where I stare at my laptop a heck of a lot.

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

Pat Califia. She is not afraid to write about sex about BDSM or include bad language.

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

Nope it’s all done via the internet.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I have a couple of wonderful sites that I use. Darkdawncreations, Darkroaddesigns and Fantasiafrogdesigns. All wonderful ladies.

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

The ending. I hate having to say goodbye to any of my characters because I get to attached.

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

I learned to be a lot more patient. I learned that there are so many different types genres that I can use to induce into my stories.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

I think we all think the same. Edit until you can’t stand it another minute.

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

I want my audience to enjoy what I write and that I know someone somewhere can connect to one of my characters as they themselves have endured this storyline.

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

Probably laze around at home drinking coffee and watching films. But that’s never going to happen is it.

Our interview with Saul Tanpepper ( a pen name)

 

Name: Saul Tanpepper (a pen name)

Age: 48

Where are you from: I was born and raised in Upstate New York, but now make my home in the San Francisco Bay Area in California.

A little about yourself `ie your education Family life ect:

I served in the US Army as a medical corpsman in West Germany and Washington, DC. Went to college to study pre-med, then switched gears and went into scientific research, getting my PhD in molecular biology and biochemistry. I worked in biotechnology for ten years before “retiring” to write full time. I started writing children’s literature, but found it impossible to sell to trade publishers. I currently write speculative fiction (primarily science fiction, horror, cyberpunk and biopunk) and have published nearly 40 titles. I’m the creator and author of the GAMELAND series published by Brinestone Press.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Saul: The GAMELAND series will soon be publishing its second season, thanks to overwhelming enthusiasm by readers of the first. The series is about a group of computer hackers and gamers who physically break into a live-action arcade in which zombies are avatars in The Game. Jessie, the leader of the group, and a few others barely escape with their lives. In the second season, Jessie will return to GAMELAND to rescue those who were left behind, fighting against those who would release the Undead into the world.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

Saul: I’ve always written stories, but my passion for science and a strong sense of pragmatism led me down that path. After a successful career in biotech and a confluence of circumstances nearly six years ago, I knew it was time to return to my true passion of storytelling. I started by publishing two short story collections, The Undead & Other Horrors, and Insomnia. I’ve also collaborated on a non-fiction title, a guide for new authors and book bloggers, The Essential Book Blog.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Saul: In 2009, I entered one of my young adult novels in the Delacorte Contest for  First Novel (for years they ran two contests, one for middle grade and another for YA, but have since discontinued them both), and my manuscript was a finalist for the Yearling Award. I’ve since had near-misses with several books. These experiences were milestones in my desire to become an author, but it wasn’t until I received my first fan mail that I felt I was a writer of stories people wanted to read.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Saul: My uncle is a famous children’s book writer; his success is what proved to me that I could do it, too.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Saul: I prefer to write in first person POV. I like to get deep inside a character’s thoughts and emotions, to wrestle with his or her motivations and conflicts. Many readers will dismiss a book written in 1^st person, which is why you see so many written in third. I think that’s a shame.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title for GAMELAND?

Saul: I knew I wanted to write a cyberpunk thriller series and since zombies were the villain-du-jour, one thing led to another. But I wanted my zombie story to stand out from all the other Amanda Hocking-Jonathan Maberry-George A. Romero tales. GAMELAND is really about how much the entertainment industry has consumed our lives. The Game, the central trope in the series, represents the culmination of several current trends: our increasing acceptance of violence, the incursion of technology, the blurring of military and civilian applications of tech. The irony of the title is that it evokes images of fun and amusement; the reality is that it’s a symbol of the horror of a world badly out of tilt.  

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

Saul: No. I want my readers to be entertained. That’s the most important thing. But that’s not to say there aren’t messages in my stories, especially in my short stories. Those messages are there because they are the manifestation of my own personal struggles to parse the complex world around me. Sometimes my works provide me answers, sometimes they don’t. If a reader connects with a tale, I suspect it’s because they’re struggling with the same questions.

Fiona: How much of GAMELAND is realistic?

Saul: Well, it’s about zombies; in particular, it’s about zombies whose minds and bodies have been co-opted by neural implants to become soldiers, then civil servants, then avatars in video games. So, yeah, I think it’s very realistic, in a metaphorical way. The world of GAMELAND is not much different than the world we live in. In fact, it’s near-future, and much of it is easily recognizable, such as global warming and corporate control of the government. The main characters struggle with family issues and law-breaking and school, as well as draconian bureaucracies. Tech is a major theme.

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

Saul: My background in science heavily informs my stories, as do my trauma experiences in the medical field.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life?

Saul: There are so many, but three books I’d recommend to anyone, especially aspiring writers: Stephen King’s On Writing. S.I. Hayakawa’s Language and Thought in Action. J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. Leif Enger’s Peace Like a River. Truman Capote’s In Cold Blood.

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

Saul: Stephen King, of course. Both a master of contemporary writing style and a tells-it-like-it-is writing coach.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Saul: I start a lot of books, but rarely finish any. I have little patience for writing that doesn’t immediately pique my interest. There’s just too much out there. But at the moment, I’m focusing on YA dystopian lit and space fiction

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

Saul: An old buddy of mine from high school just published a book with 47North called, Gods of Earth. It’s a fascinating new take on space fiction.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

Saul: I’m working on the start of the second season of GAMELAND, a 3-episode novel called Jessie’s Game. I also just published a short story in the GAMELAND world, Velveteen, about a little girl zombie Jessie meets in episode 4 of the first season. As far as science fiction, I recently published a speculative metaphysical tale, Recode, about the nature of self and identity; it comes with three alternative endings and invited readers to write their own for possible publication in a print version. And I just submitted as a Kindle Single a short tale about an earth invasion that isn’t what it at first appears called The Green Gyre. It’ll be live in the next month or so.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Saul: I see writing as life. I hope I can make a career out of it, and I’m well on my way to achieving that, but I’d write even if it doesn’t work out that way.

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

Saul: No. I’m as guilty as anyone else of tinkering, but at some point on a project I have to ask myself if I’ve conveyed what I set out to convey. That’s when I hit publish. No regrets, that’s how I write and publish.

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

Saul: Stories have always held a powerful attraction for me. I guess I always knew that story-reading and story-telling were two sides of the same coin, so I can’t really point to any specific time or event when I decided to write.

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

Saul: Jessie’s Game sees the return of Jessica Daniels, daughter of the man who invented Reanimation Technology, to the Gameland arena in Long Island. This time she goes unwillingly, forced there by circumstances for which she feels responsible. The forces against her are considerable: the government, Arc Properties (the company behind The Game), and a group called the Southern States Coalition, which formed after a brief civil war that saw several southern states leave the union. The SSC’s goal is to disrupt New Merica and steal the Reanimation Technology, but their reckless actions could unleash the Undead on the world. For more, I have a dedicated GAMELAND page on my website here.

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

Saul: To continue to write so that it stays fresh for the reader. And me. Avoiding the same motifs and scenes, which can be a challenge when you’re talking about fighting zombies.

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

Saul: I don’t have a favorite. I find authors I admire, but for many different reasons, whether it be how they constructed their story and delivered it, how they developed their characters, the language they use. For example, some of Stephen King’s work is breathtaking in its scope and ability to yank at your emotions (such as the Shawshank Redemption and The Body), whereas I have the utmost respect for the feat J.K. Rowling pulled off in writing the Harry Potter series (the detail and the connections between books, for example; absolute genius). Then there are the writers whose mastery of language is something I aspire to, such as Leif Enger and Kate DiCamillo.

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

Saul: I’ve traveled extensively throughout the world, particularly in Africa and Europe, but also the United States. This is often reflected in the settings of my books, which range from the Puget Sound in one to Nebraska and Missouri in another. The metropolitan area of NYC is a favorite setting, because it’s so cosmopolitan that I think it can be easily visualized by anyone. The bulk of short stories are situated in a fictional town called Edgemont, which I’ve always envisioned as upper east coast modern colonial.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Saul: I collaborate with a couple people, but in the end, the designs and final products are my own. I’m considering bringing in a cover specialist for the season 2 books of GAMELAND, as what I’d like to do is beyond my design and technical abilities.

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

Saul: Not listening to my internal critic, which tends to slow me down. Once I get into a writing zone, I can roll along pretty swiftly.

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

Saul: Yes, that I have a tendency to bite off more than I can chew. The GAMELAND episodes, each ~45 thousand words, were scheduled for monthly releases between May and December of 2012. I had many very long days of writing. The second season won’t be so ambitious; instead, I’ll focus on smaller story arcs and plots, now that the world and characters have been fully developed.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Saul: Tons, but in a nutshell: Read and write a lot. Share your work before you publish and be open to outside opinions; never take criticisms personally. NEVER. Never respond to reviews; they’re not there for you. But most importantly: write.

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

Saul: Only to convey my heartfelt thanks. And to keep reading. And reviewing. Without them and their encouragement, we writers would just be spinning our wheels.

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

Saul: My blog, the Writer’s Roadtrip (http://writersroadtrip.blogspot.com/), is seriously neglected. I can be more reliably found on Facebook (http://facebook.com/saul.tanpepper) and Goodreads (http://www.goodreads.com/Undeadwriter), less reliably on Twitter (http://twitter.com/SaulTanpepper) and Google+ (https://plus.google.com/114351202338530657849). If a reader wishes to contact me, they can at authorsaultanpepper@gmail.com. There’s also a contact form on my website (http://www.tanpepperwrites.com), where they can also request a free story.

My interview with Michael A. Armstrong

 

Name: Michael A. Armstrong

Age: 56

Where are you from: Born in Virginia, raised in Tampa, Fla., I’ve lived in Alaska since 1979, first in Anchorage and now in Homer.

A little about your self:

The youngest of four children and the only boy, I grew up in Tampa, Fla. The first 10 years of my life I lived on the grounds of tuberculosis hospitals in Charlottesville, Va., and Tampa, where my dad worked as a respiratory physician. I come from Scotch-Irish ancestry on my grandfather’s side. Grandpa fought with the 48th Highlanders in World War I — wearing a kilt! — and was gassed at the Second Battle of Ypres and then taken into captivity by the Germans. My paternal grandparents were both Canadian, emigrating to the United States after World War I. On my mom’s side, my maternal grandmother, Ann Hughes Jander, and her father, the Rev. Henry Hughes, were both writers. My grandmother wrote a memoir of living on Tangier Island, Va., “Crab’s Hole,” and my great-grandfather wrote a roman a clef novel, “Man Without a Church,” about leaving the Episcopal Church. On my mom’s side I come from a long line of writers and ministers.

I graduated from New College of  Florida, Sarasota, with a bachelor of arts in humanities. After a few years kicking around Sarasota after college, I moved to Anchorage, Alaska, on a whim. My first summer in Alaska I worked on an archaeological dig in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in northeastern Alaska, 70 miles from the nearest village. I’ve also worked on archaeological digs in Barrow, Peard Bay south of Barrow, and on the Kenai River, where I met my wife, Jenny Stroyeck.

I got a master of fine arts in writing from the University of Alaska Anchorage. My thesis, “PRAK,” for “People’s Republic of Alaska,” was published by Warner Books in 1987 as my first novel, “After the Zap.”

I taught English, creative writing, technical writing, and dog mushing as an adjunct instructor at UAA. My wife and I raised and ran sled dogs for about 15 years. Jenny and I have lived in Homer, Alaska, a small fishing and tourist town on Kachemak Bay, since 1994. We live in a small house that started as a cabin we built ourselves. Jenny and I also play in Shamwari, an African marimba ensemble and one of four marimba groups in Homer.

For the past 13 years I’ve worked at the Homer News, a weekly paper, as an editorial assistant and, since 2003, as a reporter, where I cover cops, courts, arts, politics, disasters, and almost anything that comes my way. I’ve won numerous Alaska Press Club awards in writing and photography. For three straight years I won the Morris Communications Excellence in Journalism award in commentary for a monthly column I write for the Homer news. “After the Zap” also was a finalist for the Compton Crook First Novel award.

I’ve published three novels, “After the Zap,” “Agviq,” and “The Hidden War.” My fifth novel, “Truck Stop Earth,” is currently seeking a home.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

My fourth novel, but the second one I wrote, “Bridge Over Hell,” will be published sometime this year by Perseid Publishing. I wrote and delivered “Bridge” in 1989, and got paid most of the advance, but the book was not published after the publisher, Baen Books, failed to pay the final advance. “Bridge” is a stand-alone novel in the Heroes in Hell shared universe series created by Janet and Chris Morris. It’s about three poets, Hart Crane, Ezra Pound, and Emily Dickinson, who must help the Biblical Job get a falsely damned soul out of hell. When Janet and Chris resurrected the Heroes in Hell series, they decided to bring “Bridge Over Hell” back from the dead, for which I am enormously appreciative.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

Age 7, when I wrote a short story, “My Purple Toe.”

My grandmother, Ann Hughes Jander, lived with my family when she was ill and dying of rheumatoid arthritis. Nain, as we called her, the Welsh word for “grandmother,” had a vivid imagination and frequently told us stories. She inspired me to become a writer.

I more seriously wrote short fiction in high school and college. I’d always loved science fiction and fantasy, and had no doubt that I would be a science fiction writer.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

In 1975, while attending the Clarion Science Fiction Writers Workshop, one of our instructors, Kate Wilhelm, was considering stories for an anthology she edited of fiction written by Clarion students. I didn’t sell a story to her. Neither did my friend and fellow Clarion student, Michael Berlyn. To cheer myself up, I said to Michael Berlyn, “Don’t worry, Michael. Someday we’ll sell fiction and be writers.” Michael Berlyn looked at me and said, “Michael, I am a writer.” It was the best lesson I took away from Clarion. Being a writer has little to do with selling and publishing fiction and everything to do with believing in yourself and writing with serious intent. At the end of Clarion, I decided I would write with serious intent and consider myself a writer. It took five more years before I sold my first story, “Absolutely the Last, This is It, No More, The Final Pact with the Devil Story,” to The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction. Before selling my first story I had received many encouraging rejection letters, though.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Growing up in Florida during the Cuban Missile Crisis, I became terrified of nuclear war. I’d always had an obsession with the issue and read a lot of the classics of fiction about nuclear war, including “Alas, Babylon,” and “On the Beach.” During the Ronald Reagan presidency in the 1980s, this became even more an issue when Reagan advocated limited nuclear war and the idea that it could be survived.

While camping for seven weeks in the Arctic Refuge during my first year in Alaska, the idea came to me: “What would happen if I lived in remote Alaska in an Eskimo village and there was a nuclear war?” Out of that idea came my second published short story, “Going After Arviq,” published in Janet Morris’ anthology about surviving nuclear war, “Afterwar.” That short story eventually became my novel, “Agviq,” (the Inupiaq Eskimo word for the bowhead whale; “agviq,” I learned, is the correct spelling) published by Warner Books/Questar in 1990.

Between the Agviq short story and novel, however, my obsession with nuclear war took a different path. I also had the idea that if there was a nuclear war between America and the Soviet Union, the first salvo would be a high-altitude nuke to cause an electromagnetic pulse. An EMP would disable the command and control system, thus stopping nuclear war before it really got  started. That was the idea behind “PRAK.” However, the EMP, or Zap, also would scramble brains, I also speculated. Thus my hero, Holmes Weatherby III, comes to the People’s Republic of Alaska. His brain scrambled by the Zap, his memory lost but his ability to read preserved, Holmes seeks his identity. Oh, and the other key idea is that expressed by the book’s epitaph, a quote from Petra Kelly of the German Green Party: “I think that they should put the code to launch a nuclear attack in the heart of a child, so Reagan would have to tear it out to use it.” Also, “After the Zap” has blimps, and I really like blimps. My secret ambition is to become a blimp pilot.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I don’t plot out my novels. I keep a big fat notebook in which I write down stuff like the character’s names, draw diagrams of blimps, make maps, and all those details. I write organically and let the characters tell me where the novel should go. Sometimes this takes a while since the characters don’t really know where they want to go and have to discover this themselves. I write either first-person or limited omniscient third-person. For “After the Zap” I stole a technique from Philip K. Dick and his “Man in the High Castle” and threw the I Ching to help me figure out where to go.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Except for “Agviq,” all my novel titles have come about because my editors, or more accurately, the marketing department, have wanted different titles. “PRAK” was the title of my thesis, but my editor at Warner, Brian Thomsen said I needed something less obscure. One of the I Ching hexagrams was “Heaven Over the Mountain,” which I liked, but it sounded too much like a romance novel, Brian said. We settled on “After the Zap.”

My third novel, “The Hidden War,” I originally called “The Beat War.” Brian asked me to change that. “Bridge Over Hell” was first called “Poets in Hell,” but Jim Baen at Baen Books thought it was too literary. “Don’t commit literature,” was Baen’s advice to me, which I thought was stupid and worth ignoring.

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

All of my novels are about hope, redemption, and self-discovery, what Carl Jung calls “individuation.” They expand on the general theme that even though the world sucks and things can get pretty bad, it’s possible to improve one’s lot.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

“Agviq” is the most realistic of my four novels. There is nothing in it that happens that could not happen in our world, although I hope we never have a full-scale nuclear war. “Bridge Over Hell” is completely fantastic, set as it is in hell. “After the Zap” is strangely real but also fantastic. There are sled dogs, called hyperdogs, that can warp time and space, for example. “The Hidden War” is a far future science fiction novel set in deep space. “Truck Stop Earth” is realistic in the sense that many Americans believe, I mean really believe, that we have been visited by aliens. My hero, James Ignatius Malachi Osborne, “call me Jimmo,” is absolutely sure  he has been abducted by aliens.

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

Yes. I think the statute of limitations on libel has expired so I can say that one character in “After the Zap,” a woman eaten by bears, was based on my father’s second wife, who  was nasty to my sisters and me after Dad died. When I was younger I would create characters based on people I didn’t like and have them die horrible deaths in my fiction.

Some of my characters have a bit of me in them. Others, like Claudia in “Agviq,” were inspired by people I knew. One character I lifted from life, first name name and all, thinking that she was so exotic and interesting no one would possibly recognize her. It turned out that many people did.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

Well, absolutely Dick’s “The Man in the High Castle.” I consider Dick the best writer in science fiction for learning how to write novels. As a teenager I read everything I could possibly get my hands on in science fiction, from Heinlein to Zelazny to Silverberg. I also love Alfred Bester’s “The Stars My Destination.” I am not, however, one of those writers who adores J.R.R. Tolkien. I tried the Lord of the Rings and after 100 pages gave up when I realized the stupid hobbits had barely gotten out of their village. The movies kicked butt, though.

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

Damon Knight, one of my Clarion teachers. He’s since died, but Damon was the writer who most took an interest in his students and made us feel comfortable about bothering him on all the little details of writing. Another Clarion teacher, Joe Haldeman also has been supportive.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I read a lot of thrillers and mysteries. I just started “Gone Girl,” by Gillian Flynn.

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

I wouldn’t call China Mievelle new, since he’s on his fourth or fifth novel, but he’s an author I figured out writes pretty damn well.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I’m working on a paranormal novel that actually has a science fiction basis, “Borderers,” about people from the Scottish Borders who can never die, although they can be dispersed. I’m tinkering with a novel, “East,” I started years ago and put aside, about ancient Inuit who are the first people to do the Northwest Passage. The ancient section of the novel alternates with a contemporary narrative about an archaeologist surveying sites ahead of an oil spill in the Alaska and Canadian arctic.

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

Alaska and the wilderness, especially beaches. I seek the divine in nature and have been lucky enough to find it there.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes. I’m lucky to have a day job that involves writing, although I’d rather be writing fiction than journalism and rather be working for myself. In journalism I challenge myself by trying to include fictional techniques, like creating interesting characters — that is, find the interesting aspects of real people and showing that to the reader.

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

No. That’s the idea of revising: you take time to write the best book possible, and when you’re done, that’s the book. In editing and revising “Bridge Over Hell,” I did get the luxury of looking back at a book I’d first written 25 years ago. My editor, Janet Morris, made a lot of good suggestions and changes, but I was pleased to see how much of the book stood up over time.

Fiona: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated? Every serious writer I’ve ever known also is a serious reader. I became a writer because I loved reading and literature.

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

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing? I find novels easy to start, but inevitably I hit this wall about 10 chapters in where I get stuck. That’s a defect in my writing style. When I get stuck, it means I have to let my characters tell their stories better.

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

As I said above, Philip K. Dick. I love his strange, wonderful ideas and his ability to keep it all coherent nonetheless.

Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)? I set a lot of my books in Alaska and the arctic. It’s my home. I live here.

Fiona: Who designed the covers? For the Warner and TSR books, someone in the graphics department came up with the design. “Agviq” was designed to have the same look as another Warner post-nuke novel, “War Day,” by Whitley Strieber and James Kunetka. Les Edwards, a British artist I greatly admire, illustrated the cover for “After the Zap” in both the U.S. and German editions. I prefer his illustration for “Nach dem Zap.”

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

As I noted above, the hard part of writing any book is getting through that 10th-chapter wall.

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

What I’ve learned from every novel is what the I Ching says: “Perseverance furthers.”

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Perseverance furthers. Writing is a lifelong, intense commitment. It’s like brain surgery: you have to work long and hard at it to become good, and you shouldn’t try it on a whim.

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

The sun will rise in the morning.

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

Writing is one tool I use to explore the world creatively. If I hadn’t focused on writing, I would have done something else, like art or photography. One of the things I like about journalism is digging into a story and understanding the fine details, and then trying to explain that to people in simple language.

 

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

I’ve set up an author page on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/michael.a.armstrong.writer.

Here is my interview with Walter Rhein

Name: Walter Rhein

Age: 37

Where are you from: Wisconsin

A little about your self `ie your education Family life ect:  I’m married and the proud father of a beautiful and intelligent little girl named Sofia, with another baby due to arrive in October.  I earned a BS degree with a major in English and a minor in Physics.  After I graduated, I moved to Lima, Peru where I worked as a writer, teacher, translator and editor.  I met my wife there and we moved back to the US in 2009.  

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

It’s been a busy and exciting time over the last few months.  My publisher, Rhemalda (www.rhemalda.com), has just informed me that they’re producing audio books for all their current titles.  It’s great to have a publisher that actively looks to promote their writers both through new formats and through international sales (Rhemalda has been very aggressive in that market as well).

I’m currently working on a memoir about Peru as well as a new fantasy novel.  I’ll also be doing a presentation for the Chippewa Valley Book festival in October on my book “Beyond Birkie Fever.”

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

Writing has been a compulsion for me ever since I was very young.  One of the common childhood games in our family was the “tandem story” exercise where you pass around a piece of paper that shows  the last paragraph of a group composition and write a continuation with minimal cues.  I don’t really consider writing a choice.  Honestly, if I don’t write something every day, I get a headache from trying to remember all the stuff I think is important.  Writing it all down means I can stop thinking about it.  I don’t know why it works honestly, because sometimes I write things and never look at them for months or years (if at all).  Still, there’s some solace in the knowledge that whatever idea I was trying to preserve does exist in some accessible shape or form out there.  And it has been the case that years later, when writing a book, I’ve spontaneously remembered little notes that I jotted down and saved in the nooks and crannies of my hard drive.  You run into a lot of people who think that “it would be fun to write a book someday,” but really, if you don’t already have notebooks filled with illegible scrawls scattered throughout your home, chances are it’s not going to get done.  Writing’s a compulsion, maybe even a sickness, otherwise why would writers give up so much of themselves for virtually no compensation?

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I still don’t know if I do.  I’m not the type of person who runs around introducing myself as a writer.  I don’t like people like that honestly, half the time they’ve never written anything.  I guess I felt a surge of self-confidence the first time I was paid for a story.  Then I felt another surge the first time I had a novel accepted by a traditional publisher.

There have also been a few times when I’ve met people who have known me because of my work, especially through my blog www.streetsoflima.com.  When people stop you on the street and say, “oh, you’re that guy,” then you feel like your ceaseless typing actually is having a measurable effect on the world.  Still, I’ve got a long way to go before I start getting business cards made up that say “Occupation: Writer.”

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I was in college and I decided to write a book for my final project to get my degree.  The problem was that I was getting a degree in Literature, not creative writing, so they wouldn’t let me submit a novel.  I ended up writing a paper on “Les Miserables,” but I finished my book too.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I think I’m best at the humorous memoir.  I like a very readable style that keeps the reader entertained.  I’ve had multiple people tell me they burned through “Beyond Birkie Fever” in one sitting.  That means you’ve written a good book.  Writing is about entertainment first and foremost.  You don’t want to let your reader have any excuse to put the novel down.  You never know if they’re going to pick it back up again

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

“Birkie Fever” is a fairly common phrase in northern Wisconsin.  It refers to America’s greatest cross-country ski race, the American Birkebeiner (which is called “The Birkie” for short).  Originally I was just going to title the book “Birkie Fever,” but I found out there was already a book out there with that title, so I changed the name to “Beyond Birkie Fever.”  The book is about how the Birkie set me off on a life of travel, so “Beyond Birkie Fever” is actually a more appropriate title for the book.

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

The book started as a bunch of humorous anecdotes that I’d had published in a local magazine called Silent Sports.  I’d been getting published there for years, and it simply occurred to me that I could put those articles together and make a book out of them.  So, I started arranging the stories into a narrative, and in so doing more stories occurred to me.  Little by little, I filled in all the gaps, and smoothed over the places between narratives with transitions that also helped to magically create an overarching theme.  It’s interesting that the main purpose wasn’t for me to produce a “message,” but I’ve had more than one person come up to me and tell me they found one, so that’s encouraging.  If there is one in there, it came about naturally, and wasn’t forced (which is the key to all art I think).

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

It’s all based on real experiences, but I took plenty of artistic license to make it interesting.  That’s the great thing about metaphors, they allow you to compare things to dragons, and even spend time describing dragons, even if you’re writing an otherwise realistic work.  Everybody likes to read about dragons a little bit here and there.

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

My own life.

Fiona: What books have influenced your life most?

I’m a big fan of Bukowski.  He gets kind of a bad rap from literary types because he might be a little limited thematically, but I think he’s the most readable writer out there.  I always find it bizarre how important figures are dismissed for ridiculous reasons.  Bukowski is the kind of writer who attracts people who would never otherwise read a book.  What’s the point of writing something brilliant if nobody reads it?  Everybody should study Bukowski because readability is the first battle you have to fight.

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

All that being said, i don’t know if I’d want to hang out with Bukowski.  Maybe Jack London.  I have tremendous respect for London’s style, and I think he’d be a cool dude to go on some adventures with.  Somebody like Hemingway comes to mind as well, but I get the impression that he’d be too full of himself.  London would be better.  Now, somebody like Edgar Allan Poe might be cool too, but I think I could dominate him.  Not as a writer of course, but physically (he looks kind of scrawny).  If I were hanging around with Edgar Allan Poe I’d spend all my time playing on his insecurities and telling him to “Shut Up” just to be a jerk.  Oh, Douglas Adams, he’d be the guy I’d most like to hang out with for sure.  

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

 Travelling with Maria: Embracing Life by Fred Schafer

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

Rhemalda’s Douglas Brown and J.S. Chancellor are both producing great works.  I would list more of the Rhemalda authors, but I’ve been tardy in my reading of their works. 

Fiona: What are your current projects?

A humorous memoir about living in Peru, and a fantasy novel about slaves.

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

One of my old college professors has been a great support.  We stayed in touch and he even brought his family to Peru when I was living there so that I could guide them around Machu Picchu.  It’s nice having a friend who is a literature professor, because most casual people you meet in life get pretty bored when you start getting into an in depth discussion of books with them.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

In the sense that heroine addiction is a career I suppose.

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

I can tinker with a book until the end of time.  The thing is, you get to that “endless loop” stage where you send the book to your editor with some changes, then you change those changes back, then you change them to the original again.  It’s never like you finish a book and say, “perfect!”  You just get to a point where the changes you make are irrelevant.

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

From reading.  I spent half my childhood in bed sick with various things, so I learned to devour books.  It’s nice to be able to throw your mind to some far off place.  I’ve always wanted to give people more places to go.  The world is too small.

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

The project I’m currently closest to finishing is my Peru memoir.  That’s been sitting in my hard drive for close to six years, so I’m ready to have something hatch from it.  However, I thought I would have it polished off a month or so ago, and it’s still kind of fighting me.  

The slave book is also an ongoing project.  I have an excerpt published from it here (when it makes it to the book it’s going to be radically different though):

http://abandonedtowers.com/stories/quillons-quarry/ 

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

The only thing difficult lately is tearing myself away from playing with my delightful daughter.  I don’t know if I’d call writing “difficult.”  Generally if a passage isn’t working correctly, it’s because you’ve conceived something incorrectly.  That’s a good thing because it means that some part of your mind is telling you that you’re forcing your characters into a scenario they shouldn’t be in.  Sometimes it takes a while to figure out a problem, but that’s not because it’s “difficult” it’s because you’re being stubborn about seeing the correct solution.  If you keep at it, you’ll force yourself to get it right eventually. 

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

The readability of Bukowksi, and the reality of Tolkien.  I’m also a big fan of Roald Dahl, if you can make little kids read and remember your work, you’re talented.

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

I accept speaking engagements whenever they come up, and those tend to involve travel.  That’s the kind of thing you have to do though, and I appreciate it whenever anyone gives me that kind of opportunity. 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

The book is from the artwork of Cara Jo OConnell (www.cara-jo.com).  Rhemalda then did the layout.

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

It’s a challenge from the moment you start until you see the book in print.  Every step along the way from creation to editing to publishing is equally important.  I suppose the first explosion of creativity where you create a hundred pages of text to work with is the most fun.  That doesn’t require as much planning and you can just roll with the possibilities.  It takes more of a concerted effort when you’re going through the book for the fifteenth time trying to eliminate any logical or thematic errors.  I suppose the “hardest” part is making sure you haven’t left any “its/it’s” errors or “they’re/their/there” errors.  All writers know the correct rules for those things, but it’s easy to miss key when you’re in a creative frenzy.

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

You learn about yourself with every book you write.  I used to do a lot of artwork too, and I always thought it was amazing how much you learned about a person’s face by doing a portrait of them.  It’s a magical thing to focus on details that otherwise would have passed without your notice.  That’s the great thing about writing.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Take neither criticism nor praise too seriously.

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

Thank you for your support! 

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

Some kind of assassination work for the government.  I think that would have kept me on my toes and provided a great opportunity for creativity.

Thanks for the interview! 

Here is my interview with Keith Nichols

Name: Keith Nichols.

Age: 37.

Where are you from: I was born in Tacoma Washington.

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

I have a huge family, 15 brothers and sisters. I finished school up to the 9th grade, dropped out and started working in various automotive shops when I was 16. At 18 I had an engineering degree and my G.E.D.  I am married to a beautiful and caring woman, I have 4 cats who are all being very bad this morning, and I work too much.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

                I have recently begun a couple of new projects, one is an epic trilogy based on a series of poems I wrote when I was 15 or so called Mad King David. Another is a sequel to my novel The Virginia X. 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

                I don’t really remember when I started writing. I do know that my first story I took seriously was in the fifth grade or so, a collection of shorts I called the monsters. Not really groundbreaking stuff I suppose, but to me, at that time, they were hideous things.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

                When I realized I could finish a project. That to me was an epiphany. I had always started and then given up, but my first finished novel was a real eye opener.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

                Lots of different things. I had finished reading a book by Jack Woodford, called Trial and Error. I was intriqued by Jack and his style of writing. So I decided to write a biography of him. Which of course was impossible to do since very little information was available. The resulting book, The Ghost Of Jack Woodford, is still my best work I think.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

                I do. I call it the disconnected style.  I tend to go off in long rants about whatever I happen to be distracted by while I am working on a project. Perhaps this is why a lot of my stuff comes across as humor, I  just loose the main thread of what I wanted to say and end up saying something completely different.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

                Which title? I have 11 books and shorts out on the kindle. The Ghost of Jack Woodford was an easy title to come up with, as Jack left nothing more then a ghost behind. I don’t often struggle over titles. 

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

                Any messages in my books are unintentional. If there is any firm message I want to send to people out there it would be something like “buy my books, they are cheap, and have free cookies inside. and naked pictures.” 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

                The Ghost of Jack Woodford is 80 percent based on real events, and 20 percent mad ramblings. You may decide which is which.

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

                Almost all of my characters, and things I write about have occurred to me or are people I know. 

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

                hmmmm. Well, I would say Tolkien, anything by him is a huge influence. Stephen King’s books of course, Jack Woodford of course, and Terry Pratchett.

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

                I would say Douglas Adams. A genius with comedy.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

            Currently I am reading ‘Good Omens’ by Terry Pratchett and that other kid. And some pulpy bad sci fi. 

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

                Alastair Reynolds, the best new sci fi writer in 20 years, easy.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

                Didn’t we already cover this?  Sequel to The Virginia X, Epic Trilogy, oh i forgot about my sci fi parody book I am writing, ‘On the Edge of Intellect’.

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

                Coffee.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

                If enough people buy my books then yes. did I mention they have free cookies in them?

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

                Probably not. My latest book, ‘How to Build a Rat Rod Roadster Body’ is actually doing rather well. If 12 sales a month is doing well. 

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

                I do not. Like I said earlier, I have always written. Be it good or, sadly, be it bad. 

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

                I could give you a paragraph of the sci fi parody book if ya wanted.  But its on another computer right now and thats waaaayyy over there and I am waaayyyy over here. The Main character is named Commander Skidmark. He is looking for the great green egg of infinite knowledge, with the  help of his partner Beans.

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

                I am a pick axe style writer, every word I write is dug up outta the depths of my mind with great frustration and frequent stalls. 

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

                Favorite author is Tolkien. His works are truly amazing.

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

                Sometimes i have to go get a fresh coffee. Its Arduous. 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

                The covers on a few of my books were made by a fellow named Bill Garbez. The Ghost of Jack Woodford, The Virginia X, and The Dead Man’s Detective Agency. The rest i did myself.

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

                The hardest and most difficult part is the writing. 

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

                I have actually learned tons of useless information when writing my books. I discovered how to reassemble those massive book display stands at the library. I know how to get a car out of impound fairly easily. I learned that eating top ramen noodles more then 5 times a week causes very undesirable things to happen to your digestive system. 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

                Yep. Write what you know. 

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

                I’m sorry? 

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

                I would have been a dancer at the circus.

Here is my interview with Shyla Colt

 

Name : Shyla Colt

Age: 31

Where are you from:  I’m from a city outside of Cincinnati , Ohio

A little about your self `ie your education Family life

I’m a thirty something with a keen sense of humor, love for music, travel, the supernatural, reading and discovering  new things.    I’m a stay at home mom of two now, but before I held a number of titles, such as, sound and lighting engineer, D.j.  and flight attendant.  I have an AS in Science, but it’s my experiences in life that have truly shaped me and my writing.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news? I have a foray into self publishing planned in the next couple of months!

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

 I’ve written for as long as I can remember really. I’ve always been a voracious reader, and to me , writing was just the next logical step. I can remember going all out and writing my first YA Novel at fifteen. I even rewrote it , typed it up, wrote a query letter, and researched publishers. In the end I was too chicken to move forward with it. But I do still have that query letter, and it hang on my inspirational cork board.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

It took longer than you think. Even after I had my first book published, I still didn’t feel like I had the right to call myself, Writer just yet. It took a couple of more releases, and a blog. When I gained followers, and could be found on a Google search it really drove things home, that by golly I was  a writer.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

 That’s an easy one,  Zachary Quinto. I find the bible fascinating in general and I’ve been raised in a religious back ground, so I know a lot of different fact. But I was re watching, Heroes and the story hit me like a lightning bolt.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I don’t think so. I will say I’m character drive, and I really think that shines through in my work.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

 For me that’s one of the hardest things to do! But this one was easy, because it was all about reapers my mind

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

 Yes, that its never too late to become the person you were meant to be, and sometimes we go through hard things to prepare us for what’s to come.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

It’s paranormal so there’s a supernatural aspect to it, but I do think the characters are very real. Their flaws, bad decisions and personalities are relatable to just about anyone.

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

 In this case I would have to say no, though I wish I knew an angel!

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

 This is a hard question, the bible, and Oh the Places you’ll Go

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

 Eeek…. :eyes dart back and forth:  I’ve met soo many wonderful people during my  journey as a writer I couldn’t possibly choose just one.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

 I’m reading For the Love of a God by Rosanna Leo

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

Oooh so many, but I’ll just name a few, Delilah  Hunt, Avril Ashton, and Tawny Stokes

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I’m working on an I/R Sci- if for Christmas, a YA shifter story that was just picked up , called Mark of the Dragon under the pen name Astrid Novak, and my Paranormal I/R, Cursed that will be self published. There’s much more on the burner, but it still needs to cook more before I start running my mouth about it  J

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

Without a doubt, God, The stars really aligned and everything clicked at once.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes, as amazing as these sounds, it was always a dream to stay at home and write.

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

  I would make it longer. I think they had a bit more to say in retrospect.

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

 When I read my first YA paranormal romance when I was bout thirteen I knew one day I wanted to write them myself.

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

 I can  here’s an excerpt from my latest release, What the Heart Knows

Excerpt

Juniper was amazed at the reverence Oliver paid her scar. It was as if he was determined to heal her from the outside in. When the shirt cleared her head she reached down to bury her fingers in his silken hair and arched her back to allow him more access.  He reached around to unhook her bra like a pro and she trembled as he laid her down across the couch. 

“I want to taste you, Juni.”  His words were gruff, and she felt her face heat as she propped up on her elbows to glance down at him.

“No one’s ever done that before,” she said.

“They didn’t know what they were missing.”

“Actually, I think they were terrified of giving me a heart attack.” 

His eyed filled with understanding as he unbuttoned her pants.

“Makes it easier for me to spoil you for any other man. Now be a good girl and lift your hips.”

Her heart thudded in her ears as she watched him peel off her pants and move between her legs. He reminded her of a panther. His body was lithe and toned and his movements were full of purpose. She felt stalked. He glanced up and pierced her with those jade green eyes and she was incapable of looking away as he lowered his face to her sky blue boy shorts. He purred as he inhaled deeply.

“You smell good, Juniper.” He traced down the seam of her lips and pulled her damp underwear between the lips of her pussy. “You’re so wet; you soaked through your panties.”   She cried out at the friction he created as he rubbed them against her sensitive clit.

“That’s it, baby, drip for me.”  Her hips moved with the rhythm he created as her tiny nub became engorged with blood. She gave a whimper of protest when he pulled away only to cry out when he eased a finger inside her.

“You’re so tight.”  He removed his finger and lifted it to his lips. “Mhmm, and sweet.”  He eased the slender digit back inside her and pulled out again. “Have you ever tasted yourself?”         

“No,” she said. Her voice was barely above a whisper in the silent room. “Then you have to try it.”  He offered her the glistening finger and she twirled her tongue around it. It wasn’t bad, salty and rich with a hint of musk.

“Fuck, who knew you were such a dirty girl?”

“I did say I wanted to experience everything I never got to before.”

“You will.”

His words were a vow as he undid the bows on either side of her hips, and removed her sky blue boy shorts, which had become a torture device. He spread her wide and licked a path that made her cry out as she bucked.

“That’s it. I want to hear how much you’re enjoying it.” He pulled back to place a kiss on her neatly trimmed bush.

“I can tell you’ll need to be restrained.” 

 His arm was a dead weight as he came up to hold her hips in place. His stiff tongue plunged deep as his nose stimulated her clitoris. Juniper’s world narrowed to the swirls, thrusts, and flicks he skillfully applied. Her hands came up to grip the arm of the couch and she clamped her thighs around him as tremors came over her body. A searing heat burned its way through her body as she found her release.

“Oliver!”

 His name flew from her lips as she ground her pussy into his face and rode out the most explosive orgasm she’d ever experienced. He continued to lick her slit as her breathing evened and her eyes refocused.

“I want to be inside you, Juniper. I want to feel those wet walls around me.”  He peered up at her from beneath long blond lashes. “Do you want that?”

“God, yes.”

“Not here.” He moved away and held out hand to help her off the couch. “When I make love to you for the first time it’s going to be in my own bed.”

“And that’s what we’re going to do?” she asked.  Her eyes narrowed as she studied his face carefully. They’d never really spoken in depth about their emotions.

“Would you rather I fuck you?”  The crude word made her eyes shine with lust.

“I’d rather you do both. You did promise me everything on my list.”

He growled low in his throat, wrapped an arm around her hips, and pulled her body flush against his.

“Don’t tempt me, Juniper. You’ll find yourself ass up in my bed, begging for mercy.”

The words made her lick her suddenly dry lips. The thought of him pounding into her from behind while she held on to the bed for dear life made her pussy flutter. This was what she’d been dreaming about since that night up against the wall at Cupa.

“Interesting, I think you might like that,” he said.

 She met his gaze and nodded, unable to break the intense connection as one his hands stroked up her back.

  His warm hand cupped the back of her neck and he pulled her closer. She melted against him as he walked backwards, never breaking their lip lock.  She was a quivering mass of need by the time they reached the bedroom.  When her knees hit the edge of the bed, she allowed herself to fall back. She propped up on her elbows, tense as she anticipated his next move. She watched the fingers that had brought her so much pleasure just moments before unbutton his jeans and lower his zipper. She sat up and licked her lips as his cock sprang free. He was thick, about eight inches long, with a prominent vein that ran down the side. Pre-cum leaked from the swollen red tip.
“Can I taste you?” she asked. Her gaze fixed on the milky white drop that threatened to fall.

“You can do whatever you want to me.”

She bent down and licked the pearl-colored liquid. It was brackish with a hint of musk that belonged to Oliver. Her tongue darted out to explore his slit and cum flowed freely.

“God, Juni.”

 She moaned when his hips bucked, and he buried his fingers in her hair, pulling her closer. Her throat relaxed as she licked, sucked and stroked him to a trembling mess of man. The control he’d relinquished was heady and she found herself approaching her own climax right along with him.

“Stop, baby, stop!”

He pulled free and she frowned, licking her lips. “I wasn’t done.”

“Unless you want me to come, you are.” 

His hands were gentle as he pushed her back onto the bed. Oliver followed suit once he’d kicked his pants and boxers away.  He eased two fingers inside her and stirred. Her hands fisted into the bed sheets as she sought more friction.

“You’re ready for me, aren’t you?”

“Yes. Do you have a condom?”

“I bought some, especially for you.”  He leaned over her body and opened the top drawer of the nightstand beside the bed.  He tore the top off the silver square with ease, and rolled it down his shaft before he settled in between her legs. He teased her with his thick head, easing in and out until she was desperate for real penetration. 

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

 Each book presents me with a different challenge, but in general brain storming , plotting and outlining is the hardest.

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

 I love Laurel. K. Hamilton , J.R. Ward, and Sherillyn Kenyon, equally. I love their gritty urban edge, and the well written “worlds” they’ve created. It’s so easy to identify with the characters, despite the supernatural situations going on, and they have the perfect balance between adventure and romance.

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

Not yet, but I’m hoping to change that next year with appearances at some of the writer’s conventions I have my eyes on.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

 Oh I’ve had fabulous artists, Sour Cherry Designs, Dara England,  Mina Carter, Jinger heastons,and Dawn Dominique

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

 With, What the Heart Knows, the hardest part was listening to my muse. I had the entire book planned out as a sweet romance, and then the characters protested and it turned into a paranormal/ horror story with a hint of mystery, and thriller.. I had never written a story where I needed to drop clues and have them come together at just the right time. It was a lot of fun, but a challenge to be sure.

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

  I learned a lot about survivors’ guilt, and grief.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Never stop writing. There are days when nothing good will come but rubbish or just getting to one hundred words feels like pulling teeth. Push through it, and write each day. Remember you can always go back and fix things in editing, but if you don’t’ write there’s nothing. Also read, books, newspapers, magazines, and make sure you get out of the house.  You never know when the muse will strike and let’s face it sitting in front of the computer day in and day out can get you in a rut, breaks are good.

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

Thank you for all your support. Feed back is always welcome, and I love to meet new people so feel free to drop me a line.

Fiona: If you were not a writer what else would you like to have done? Honestly, I’m doing it. I’ve always wanted to be a stay at home, and I feel blessed to be able to live that dream.

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

I do! http://www.shylacoltsstraightshot.wordpress.com

Here our interview with Larry Archley, Jr

Name: Larry Atchley, Jr.

Age: 40

Where are you from:  Born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA, but I grew up in Grapevine, Texas, USA so I consider myself an honorary Texan.

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

I graduated high school and went to a community college for a few years, trying to figure out what I wanted to do for a career. I always wanted to be a writer, but I figured it was too hard to make a career out of that so I figured I’d study to be a teacher. Specifically I wanted to be a university professor teaching philosophy and history. I never finished college however, which is something I really sort of regret. But I know I am on the path I was meant to walk, so I just keep moving forward with my life. I live with my wife, Sussie who is a freelance photographer, and my daughter Alina who is an artist and jewelry maker. We all share a house in the suburbs of Dallas Texas with our two cats Samwise and Prue and our two Jack Russell terrier dogs, Frodo and Rosie. My parents own a small cattle ranch in Oklahoma. I am a Qi-Gong Kung Fu martial artist, radio show host, and a paranormal investigator. I like reading and collecting books on all kinds of subjects and genres, watching movies, listening to music, hiking in the woods, archery, mountain biking, road cycling, photography, and collecting and sharing quotes.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

My story “Ragnarok & Roll” was just published in July in the shared world anthology Rogues in Hell, which is the latest book in the Heroes in Hell series created by Janet Morris, and edited by her and her writer/musician husband, Chris Morris. I was also recently inducted into the writers club The Fictioneers by founder and fellow writer, Michael H. Hanson. I have some more stories that have been accepted to be published later this year. “The Shadow of a Doubt” will be in the horror anthology What Scares the Boogeyman, which is being created and compiled by author John Manning. My story “Time for a Change” will appear in the shared world anthology Sha’Daa Pawns, created by Michael H. Hanson and edited by Edward McKeown.  I also have a poem called “The Shadow People” which will be part of the collection The Book of Night, created by Richard Groller. These will all be released by Perseid Publishing I believe sometime in late 2012. I also will be appearing as a guest at An Evening With the Authors at my local Bedford Public Library on September 15th, 2012. 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I think it probably started in the sixth or seventh grade when I was given an assignment to write a poem. Everyone in the class dreaded that homework, but I found it to be really fun and refreshing. Later in school we were told to write a short story and I think I wrote something science fiction because that was one of the things I loved to read and watch on movies and television. I really enjoyed the process of creating a setting and characters and coming up with a story about them. I’ve been a writer ever since.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I think ever since I wrote my first poem and story in school. I didn’t consider myself a professional writer however until I had my first published story, which was only last year in 2011 with “Remember, Remember, Hell in November” in the Heroes in Hell anthology Lawyers in Hell. I was fortunate enough to meet Janet Morris online through her Sacred Band facebook page and websites. When she found out I was a writer, she invited me to submit a story to the book that would re-boot the Heroes in Hell series that started back in 1986. It has been one of my favorite series of all time so it is really an honor to write stories for it.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I’m still writing my first book actually, which is a mix of sword & sorcery, dark fantasy, and has elements of horror in it. I was inspired and influenced by a lot of fantasy books I’d grown up reading, and also by a character I actually created and played in role playing games who I felt needed to have his story told. My first published short story, “Remember, Remember, Hell in November” was inspired by England’s Guy Fawkes bonfire night that is celebrated on the 5th of November every year. 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I never know how to answer this question. I really like to just write like I’m telling a story to someone in the room. I have a love of clever turns of phrases. I really want to leave the reader with a sense of something that will stick in their minds for the rest of their lives. Maybe just an imprint of a scene in their mind, of something dark and sinister that a character did, or had done to them. I like to call up disturbing things from the depths of the abyss and have them entwine themselves around a readers soul.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The title to my short story, “Remember, Remember, Hell in November” comes from the English rhyme “Remember, Remember, the Fifth of November, Gunpowder Treason and Plot. I see no reason why Gunpowder Treason, should ever be forgot. I am not sure on what the title to my novel will be yet, I’m still tinkering around with some ideas for that.

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

In the novel, maybe just that you can draw upon the darkest depths of your being and find what you need to overcome any adversity. In my short story it’s probably the concept that mankind can be just as violent and diabolical as His Satanic Majesty himself. 
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

The novel is very much entrenched in fantasy. The short story is based upon real events that happened to historical figure Guy Fawkes. As all the characters except one, the Welcome Woman, are based on real people who have died throughout history, I tried to model them on the real personas as much as possible. Also since the story does take place in Hell, the setting is pretty fantastical as well.

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

Not really, because I based these characters on either the historic figures they represent or an amalgamation of various archetypes from mythology, fiction, and history. My life has not been nearly as exciting as the lives of my characters, so I can’t really base the experiences in the stories on my own life. I tend to live vicariously through my characters.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

The Poetic and Prose Eddas of Norse mythology. The many Norse and Icelandic sagas. Shakespeare’s plays, Dante’s Inferno, Edgar Allan Poe’s stories and poetry, Grimm’s Fairy Tales, the tales of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, Douglas Adams’ Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy series, The Sacred Band series of stories and books by Janet Morris and Chris Morris. The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien, Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury, Robert E. Howard’s Conan stories, H.P. Lovecraft’s stories, The Man Who Used the Universe by Alan Dean Foster, the Thieves’ World series created by Lynn Abbey and Robert Asprin.

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

I can’t choose just one. Janet Morris and Chris Morris have been and continue to be great mentors to me. Not just with regard to my Heroes in Hell stories but with helping me learn, grow and evolve as a new writer in everything I do. My first mentor as a writer was author Sarah A. Hoyt whose writers workshop I attended in 2010. Author and editor Amanda Green continues to be a mentor to me through her writers circle group I attend twice a month.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Dark Chances by Allan Gilbreath, The Hero Within: Six Archetypes We Live By, by Carol S. Pearson, PH.D, Chaptered and Versed, Poetic and Cursed, by Zombie Zak, A Brief History of Modern Psychology by Ludy T. Benjamin, Jr. 
Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I’m working on my dark fantasy sword & sorcery novel. A new story that will hopefully appear in the next Heroes in Hell anthology, Dreamers in Hell. Also I’m close to wrapping up a fantasy short story, and I’m working on a new story to submit to the forth book in the Sha’Daa series Sha’Daa Facets.  I have several other stories in the planning stages but not started yet, involving  several genres like space opera, Victorian era historical horror, and heroic or high fantasy.

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

Most of us Hellion authors who write for the Heroes in Hell series like to joke about having to sell our souls to His Satanic Majesty the Devil in order to be published in the books. All kidding aside though, I would say for me it has always been the archetype of the wanderer, the seeker of knowledge and inspiration, sometimes personified in figures like the Norse Odin, the Anglo Saxon Woden, and the British Merlin. This archetype is one that has served as a model for me personally throughout my life.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career? I definitely see it as a career. Right now it is not one that I can support myself or my family on, but I would like it to be so one day.

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

There are always things I want to change after I finish with a story, but I know that at some point I have to call it done and hurl it out into the world to be read. Besides, there are plenty more stories I need to write.

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

It came from my love of reading. I wanted to tell great and fantastic stories like the ones my favorite authors wrote, but with my own ideas and flavor. Also I just have these characters that are inside me that are begging me to tell their stories. They won’t leave me alone until I do.  

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

Here’s a passage from my story “Ragnarok & Roll” that is in the shared world anthology Rogues in Hell:

“So, mein herr,” von Richthofen said, “I was not briefed about this mission before we left.  All I know is I have coordinates to an island.  I assume we are not flying around hell with a band of trigger happy Vikings armed with all this modern firepower just for fun, no?  What is our objective, if I may ask?”

“Yes, you may ask,” LaVey said. “I may need your help.  Have you heard of the Spear of Longinus?”

“Ja, but only from the legends.  It is said to be the spear that pierced Christ’s side when he was crucified.”

“Yes.  That spear is what we’re after,” LaVey said.

“But how do you know if it even really exists, and is in hell?” von Richthofen asked.

“Oh, it exists and it’s in hell.  I sold it to a knight named Parsival who came into my store in New Hell,” LaVey said.  “I thought it was a fake.”

“Mein  Teufel,” von Richthofen said.

The plane lurched and bucked at the invocation.

“I don’t think He had anything to do with it.  Besides, using that name here is bad luck,” LaVey said.  “After I sold it, this Parsival used the spear to kill some blob that spewed out demons on the island where we’re heading.  His Satanic Majesty found out about it from Azrael, an Angel of Death, who noticed when so powerful an entity was permanently killed.”

“Permanently?” von Richthofen asked.  “Not reassigned to the mortuary?”

“No reassignment.  According to Azrael, who confirmed with the Undertaker, this demon-maker didn’t show up on Slab A; it didn’t rematerialize somewhere else; it just ceased to exist.  At least as far as anyone in heaven or hell knows anyway.”

“But that’s incredible,” von Richthofen said.  “If it’s true …”

“… then the spear of Longinus is among the most powerful weapons in all of hell,” LaVey said.  “His Satanic Majesty ordered me to bring it to him personally.”

“Ach du lieber,” von Richthofen said.  “I would not want to be in your boots, mein freund.”

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

Getting through the middle section of any story seems to be the hardest part for me. I almost always know the beginning and the end, but the middle always seems to perplex me and make me have to muddle through it.

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

That’s a tough one. it’s hard to pick just one and I probably answer this question differently every time I’m asked it. I really like the late Douglas Adams for his never ending witticisms, his wonderful way to use a turn of phrase, and his humor.

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

I go to fantasy/science fiction literary fan conventions when I can afford it. The farthest I’ve traveled for one is LibertyCon in Chattanooga Tennessee. It takes about a fourteen hour drive to get there. Most of the time I stick to the ones around North Texas, because I can’t afford to go on too many road trips throughout the year.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

The covers for Lawyers in Hell and Rogues in Hell were designed by Sonja Aghabekian, but many of the Hellion authors had input as to what artwork would be used. We voted on what our favorites were and when it came down to just a couple of them, Janet Morris would cast the deciding vote. The Rogues in Hell cover features a painting called The Triumph of the Genius of Destruction, by Mihaly Zichy from 1878. Lawyers in Hell has the painting Sturz der rebellischen Engel, by Sebastiano Ricci, from 1720. They are both very evocative pieces of art and make great covers.

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

The hardest part of writing my novel is stopping myself from trying to over edit it and just finish the damn thing. With the short stories it was getting through the middle parts that was tough. There is important stuff that needs to happen in order to get the characters to the end, but for some reason I just struggle with the mid-section of stories.

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

I always learn something from every story. In my story “Ragnarok & Roll” I learned not to try too hard at making a story a thrill-a-minute escapade and focus instead on the characters which are what the story should always really be about.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Stick with it. Write as often as you possibly can and finish the stories you start. Send them out until they find a publisher that appreciates them and shares your vision and wants to show them to the world. Also network with as many writers, editors and publishers as you can. You never know what kind of connections you will make, and what it can lead to. That’s how I got my break into having my first story published and that led to even more chances to get more stories published.

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

Thanks for reading my stories. I hope you enjoy them. I hope they will leave you with a lasting impression. Check out my blog at  http://www.larryatchleyjr.wordpress.com. Also, check out the facebook group Irredeemable Order of Hellions where you can interact with me and other Hellion authors from the Heroes in Hell series. There are also many creative, talented, funny people there like artists, musicians, poets, writers, and lots of great fans of the series. Won’t you join us? We will save you a place in the…I mean BY the fire.

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

I’ve always wanted to be a professional radio show disc jockey or show host. I actually am co-hosting a live radio show now called Pairanormal on TMV Cafe internet radio on Friday nights at 9:00 PM CST. I wanted to be a private detective for a long time. Also a philosophy and history professor. A professional public speaker. My biggest dream job is probably to be a singer/songwriter/musician. Maybe even a big time rock & roll star. Hell yeah!