Here is my interview with Susanne Bellamy

Name Susanne Bellamy

Age Should know better!

Where are you from

 Queensland, but on the mountain, not the coast

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

 Married with a pigeon pair; went to uni and worked ever since.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

My latest news is that I’ve published a novella, “One Night in Sorrento” and picked up a new contract this month. Can’t say more on that one just yet!

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

 Three years ago, when my husband was on his fourth trip to Nepal (he’s been on two more since!), I challenged myself to write a full length novel. I did and “White ginger” came third in the Romance Writers of Australia Emerald Award.

 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

 I’m not sure I do still, not when I think of the wonderful authors who continue to inspire me. But perhaps I will in 2014 when I have the opportunity of writing full time rather than trying to fit it in around work.

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

 “White Ginger” is a blend of many factors—a deep love of musicals and novels (think “South Pacific” and James Michener), a strong social conscience, concern for the environment, and the fact my husband was away for five weeks! 

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

 Readers have described it as lyrical and descriptive. 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The setting of my first novel is Hawaii so “White Ginger” captured the setting, the perfumes and worked as a symbol. On so many levels it was perfect. My novella, “One Night in Sorrento”, is set on the Amalfi Coast over the course of twenty-four hours.

 

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

“White Ginger” is about a man, Arne, who stands up to a big developer in order to protect his community and the reef. I’m deeply concerned about the decisions being made by our government and the negative impact they will have on our Great Barrier Reef. I wish we had an Arne to win this battle.

 

 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Aside from the fact that it is a romance, I researched all the details. Hours passed as I delved into Hawaiian reef fish and hula dancing, surfing and volcanoes. I believe it is important that readers know they can trust the ‘facts’ in my writing. I don’t want them jarred out of the story by factual errors.

 

 

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

Well, I confess I did give Amelie my worst phobia!

 

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

 Where to begin! I’ve always been a big reader, often having three different genres of books on the go at one time. From Enid Blyton and “The Faraway Tree” (I always wanted a slide down the inside of a giant tree) to “The Book Thief”, I lose myself in great story-telling.

 

 

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

 Annie Seaton. She is an amazingly generous and talented writer with drive and energy that is really inspiring.

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Annie Seaton’s newly released “Tangling with the CEO”. Then I have Jane Beckenham’s “the Highwayman’s Bride” ready on my Kindle.

 

 

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

Lily Malone, Elizabeth Ellen Carter and Noelle Clark. Oh, and M L Stedman and Hannah Kent, all in this year.

 

 

Fiona: What are your current projects?

“Merger in Melbourne” (I hope this title remains the same) which will be out sometime in 2014.

 

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

The women in my staffroom at work. They have kept me sane and functioning on many occasions when I wanted to throw my laptop out the window.

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes, but I know I have a very steep learning curve when it comes to social media. I’m a very private person and I find it difficult to ‘share’ my life.

 

 

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

Again, it’s something I’ve always done. Winning an essay competition as a teenager probably helped, but it’s the form of communication in which I am most comfortable. I like to plan, write then reshape my words until they feel just right.

 

 

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

This is from One Night in Sorrento:

Luca d’Alberghi came through the tunnel and rounded a curve into Atrani as a woman dressed in gray jumped off the kerb in front of him. Swearing inside his helmet, he braked and swerved. She spun off to the side, and he lost sight of her as he corrected his bike’s wild wobble. Adrenaline coursed through his body as he pulled into the bus stop.

Madre mia, I could have killed her.

Lightning reflexes alone had saved her life. And the fact he hadn’t had time to regain speed after he’d waited for the luxury coach to negotiate the last corner.

Heart thumping, he kicked down the stand, lifted off his helmet, and hurried back to her. She lay on her side like a crumpled doll, a tumble of auburn hair hiding her face. He dropped to his knees beside her and reached for her hand. Her skin was cool and soft, and his fingers met around her slim wrist as he pushed the gray sleeve back and focussed on locating her pulse.

Regular beats thudded beneath his fingers, and he huffed out a sigh of relief. He moved on, running his hands down her legs as he checked for broken bones. Had she hit her head in the fall?

Two waiters from the nearby trattoria came running across to help.

“Non toccare.” He tried to project calm but he didn’t want her to move until a doctor had seen her.

The woman groaned and struggled to sit up. She pushed into a sitting position with her head bowed and groaned again.

 “Signorina?Non muovetevi!” Gently, he placed a hand on her shoulder and hoped his touch would stop her.

She raised her hand unsteadily and pushed his arm away.

Under his breath, he offered up a few choice words about stubborn women who wouldn’t listen, and who jumped in front of his bike. He placed both hands on her shoulders to restrain her as she pushed against him “Do not move. You may have hit your head.”

 

 

 

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

 

 Occasionally I lapse into ‘purple prose’ when I’m stuck on an idea. What I most enjoy is dialogue and finding each character’s voice.

 

 

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

 

There are a number of authors whose writing I love, some for their lyrical style, others for their deep conflict and layering.

 

 

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

 LOL—“HAVE to travel”—I love that! Certainly, travel stimulates and inspires ideas. Our trip around Italy last year stimulated several ideas, one of which became One Night in Sorrento which was published early in December.

 

 

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

 

 Ann Smith designed my cover; it’s just beautiful. The photo is one of mine snapped one evening on the Amalfi Coast.

 

 

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

 

 Procrastination is my biggest enemy so setting a daily goal helps me.

 

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

 

Perseverance and editing pay off.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

 

Turn off the internet! And stay off it! Save the ‘research’ for a time when you feel less creative, and definitely after you’ve reached your daily word count goal.

 

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

I’d love to hear from you, what you enjoyed about the story/characters etc.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

 Possibly an Enid Blyton novel. I read all of those when I was a kid.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

TRAVEL!!!! 😀 And music (not that I can play any instrument, but I love listening and dancing to it.)

 

 

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

M.A.S.H., Frasier, Monk, New Tricks—great story lines and really interesting characters.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

 Italian/Purple/Il Divo

 

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

Archaeology

 

Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? If so what is it? http://www.susannebellamy.com/my-blog.html

 

 

Here is my interview with Morag McKendrick Pippin

 

Name Morag McKendrick Pippin 

 

 

Age ‘I have never been more than 29, 30 at the very most. Twenty-nine when the shades are pink 30 when they are not.’

 

 

 

Where are you from

 I was born in the Puget Sound region of Washington State. My mother was English and my father came from just outside Glasgow. I have dual citizenship and have spent half of my life crossing the Atlantic to visit my family.

 

 

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

  After leaving college with a degree in Journalism and discovering the compensation less than generous I set out to become a ‘Jill of all trades,’ dabbling in various ventures: bartending and bar management, modelling, travel consulting, bookkeeping, retail and commission sales – and moonlighting as an entertainment columnist for a paper in southern California.

 

 

 

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

 

 I didn’t start out to be a writer. But I have always been a voracious reader. An activity which my father encouraged and my mother discouraged because she knew all too well if left to my own devices I wouldn’t do anything else!

I’ve always written letters. Regarding writing fiction it wasn’t my idea!My husband came up to our bedroom and discovered me one night in bed with his rival – a romance novel. “Unfaithful wench!” he cried. “You read so many books why don’t you write one yourself?”
“Write!” I gasped in horror. “Write? That’s far too hard a job. I don’t want to work that hard! Why, I’d rather dance naked in a strip bar!”
My husband snorted. “‘She doth protest too much methinks.’”
To my consternation, his idea continually crept into my conscious mind. It figures prince charming would turn out to fit Lady Caro Lamb’s description of Lord Byron as ‘mad, bad, and dangerous to know.’

 

 

 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

 

I never really have considered myself a writer. I am a story teller.

 

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

 

My first book BLOOD MOON OVER BENGAL was inspired by my dad’s stories of India. After being evacuated off Dunkirk Beach in WWII his battalion was sent to Calcutta. They made regular sorties into Burma. Hand to hand combat. He served in India 1940-1947. One of his stories was heartbreaking: he fell in love with a girl. He was about to propose to her when he found out she was part Indian. In those days that was death to a career. He was already the second youngest Lt. Col. In India. If he married her he would become a pariah and his family would have disowned him. His army career would have ended. He’d have been sent purposefully on suicide missions. I wanted that story to enjoy a happy ending.

 

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

 

My point of view is British. It just came out that way. Which will prove a challenge in the U.S. set thriller I have planned. But if one doesn’t challenge oneself one doesn’t grow.

 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

 

A blood moon is a harbinger of ill tidings. Perfidia is a Glenn Miller song. It went with the content and the time PERFDIA is set in.

 

 

 

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

 

 For BLOOD MOON OVER BENGAL and PERFIDIA the theme is tolerance toward our fellow human beings. The theme in BLOOD MOON OVER BRITAIN is that war is hell. Nothing romantic about it. It’s hell for the ‘right’ side, the ‘wrong’ side and everyone else.

 

 

 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

 

 After all the research for every book as realistic as possible!

 

 

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

 

Always. Every book includes one of my dad’s stories. As for me: I went to tanning just after checking the mail to find I’d placed in an unpublished writing contest. My head was in the clouds! When finished with tanning I opened the door to a chilling draft. I looked down at myself. I was wearing everything but my trousers! All under things, shirt, and jacket were in place on my body. My purse was slung over my shoulder. My shoes were on my feet. Really lucky it was November. If not I’d have walked into the lobby! I put that scene in BLOOD MOON OVER BRITAIN.

 

 

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

 

 Probably Barbara Erskine’s books.

 

 

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

 

 Probably my Uncle Charlie’s letters he wrote home to my grandparents from Singapore post war. I discovered them one sunny, cold winter’s morning when helping my mom clean up her attic. Uncle Charlie was long dead but his letters brought him vividly to life. His letters were full of sharp wit, dry humour, and tongue in cheek observations.

 

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

 

 BELIEVING THE LIE by Elizabeth George

 

 

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

 

Janette Hargo

 

 

Fiona: What are your current projects?

 

A U.S. set thriller and a supernatural thriller set in contemporary Scotland

 

 

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

 

Romance Writers of America

 

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

 

One of my careers

 

 

 

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

 

 

No

 

 

 

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

 

 My dad could sit down and write a story without any hesitation in a matter of minutes. I wanted to do that. So I majored in journalism – only to discover I hated writing articles!

 

 

 

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

 

A supernatural thriller set in contemporary Scotland. Ghosts, mediums, clairvoyance, suspense, black ops.

 

 

 

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

 

 Yes – a blank page!

 

 

 

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

 

Barbara Erskin. I’m there: I don’t read that the rain is falling –I feel it seeping into the collar of my coat.

 

 

 

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

 

 Sometimes. The last scene in BLOOD MOON OVER BRITAIN took place on a hilly path in St. Just, Cornwall. I knew once I was walking on that hill it had to be written into a book. On the other hand, I’ve never been to 1932, 1939, or 1942, lol!

I consult experts in the fields in which I need first hand knowledge. I interviewed WWII veterans, a retired army colonel who gave me a map of immediate post war Berlin, my youngest uncle was a pathfinder in the RAF, a medical examiner, veterinarian, SAS, police officers, doctors, and military historians.

 

 

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

 

 Artists at Dorchester Publishing.

 

 

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

 

 The love scenes. They must be real but not purple.

 

 

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

 

 Yes – I’m an idealist. I’d never known that. It took me quite by surprise. As well as historical trivia. For example how the mob killed off its members in the ’20s and ’30s to collect the life insurance they had taken out on them.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

 

Rejections are discouraging but don’t quit. Many people start books but don’t finish. Finish it!

 

 

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

 

Thank you for reading my books and your kind support!

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

 

The first adult book I read was DIRTY HARRY when I was 11 or 12.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

 

 

 Reading, traveling, hiking (in non snake territory!), courtyard gardening, ice skating and rollerblading, dancing, and loving my Princelings. They are huge Maine coon cats who act as my muses:-) Fergus and Sinji.

 

 

 

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

 

In the U.K.: Coronation Street, EastEnders, and The Voice. In the U.S.: Paranormal State, Celebrity Ghost Stories, American Horror Story, Sons of Anarchy, Walking Dead, Mad Men, True Blood, NCIS, CSI, Dateline.

 

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music 

 

 

 Food: Butter cream frosting, peanut butter parfaits, pizza. In the U.K:. A fish supper.

Colors: French blue, royal blue, dark pink, and lavender.

Music: Reggae, Caribbean beat, rock, blues, rockin’ blues, ’80s, Bluegrass (which has its roots in Scottish folk music).

 

 

 

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

 

History professor, history researcher, archeologist.

 

 

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

http://moragmckendrickpippin.com

http://moragmckendrickpippin.blogspot.com/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/

 

Here is my interview with Jim Musgrave

Name Jim Musgrave

Age  67

Where are you from  Fall River, Massachusetts (home to Lizzie Borden “with an axe, gave her mother, etc.”)

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

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I’ve having an interactive “Ebook Launch into the Stratosphere” on 1/2/14 via Facebook.   I am getting completely into the Steampunk counter-culture with this fourth book in my Pat O’Malley Steampunk Mystery Series, Steam City Pirates, so the book will have original music and a “Steam City Pirates” theme song, original illustrations, an interactive companion web site, video games (for bored readers), and a great story line.  I’m trying to keep up with the next big leap in cyberspace, so I hope folks can tune-in and enjoy the total experience.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began to write in what they used to call “Grammar School” (although they no longer teach real grammar—even in high school or college) because they (the teachers) told me to do it.  I began writing for myself when I was also in Grammar School, and I first became addicted to seeing my imagination on paper (and teachers liked it [mostly] as well).  Therefore, I have yet to stop.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I cannot remember a time when I did not think of myself as a writer.  As with most addicted writers, it was only a matter of “quality” that kept me doubting myself.  Was I creating enough good drugs (words) to keep the reader addicted?  Most “authors” are like drug dealers—they are constantly worried about the quality and potency of their product.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I wrote a non-fiction book entitled The Digital Scribe:  A Writer’s Guide to Electronic Media in 1995.  I was inspired by the New Age of online technology that was looming on the horizon.  It was a trip to write, and I’m still proud of the “multimedia creative writing exercises” in it.  The rest of what I wrote about has already been usurped by the constantly changing technologies out there.  Writing that book led me down the road to independent publishing and writing fiction.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I like to call my writing style “invention by collective conscious and unconscious,” as I have always viewed the Internet as a link to our true collective identity.  The late Tim Leary (of LSD infamy), wanted to die online because he believed his soul energy would exist forever in cyberspace.  I kind of believe something to that effect, although I write with one hand on the Google throttle and the other on a cup of coffee, and my mind’s hand on my forever present imagination dirigible controls!

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I wanted to go against the stereotypical world of Johnny Depp pirates, so I figured out that intellectual pirates from the future would be a nice touch, and they would be out of the ordinary “Arrrghhh!” mentality.  The plot of my adventure/mystery hangs on the premise of “what if inventors from the future wanted to keep the world frozen in the Steampunk Age because they know the Earth will end by nuclear disaster unless they can do so?”  This is the world my hero (and his pals) must face, and I decided to call it “Steam City Pirates” because these are the villains who live under Central Park who are good/bad guys.  I’ve always hated totally bad guys.  Sherlock Holmes’s Moriarty was devious and a genius, and so is my Master Inquisitor Abraham Toky Manette.

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

That living in the NOW is the most important time to focus upon when one considers how to live well.  We spend too much time thinking about the past and worrying about the future.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

There was, indeed, a New York City in the 1860s.  I research the reality of what existed at that time (word use, historical places, etc.), but the Steampunk universe gives me a lot of leeway to create an entirely new world of science fiction and fantasy realities that do not exist except in my imagination.

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

I am from the Alan Watts and D. T. Suzuki school of Zen, so whatever I do is a reflection of everything.  And, of course, everything around me is a reflection of me.  Put that in your pipe and smoke it, young Grasshopper.  What more can I say?

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

Again, in the Way of Zen, “each book influences my life” in some way if I am living in the NOW.  Whether the influence goes into my unconscious or stays readily available in my RAM, it still has an influence.  If I were to choose two books I was paying most attention to while reading them, they would be Siddhartha, by Hermann Hesse, and Raise High the Roofbeam, Carpenters and Seymour, an Introduction, by J. D. Salinger.  Make what you want of how they “influence me” today.

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

Toss-up between Salinger, Hesse, and Kafka.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I read several at the same time.  Fiction:  Coyote:  The Outlander by Chantal Noordeloos and non-Fiction:  Command and Control by Eric Schlosser and just two.

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

Jacob M. Appel is great, and he likes my stuff!   Konrath is my hero as an indie pubber/author.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I’m beginning the fourth Steampunk Mystery with Pat O’Malley.  It’s tentatively called Manifest Trickery.  It has these same Steampunk Pirates sending young, unwary pioneers into alternate universes instead of into Oregon, Wyoming or California of the 1860s.

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

Alcoholics Anonymous and all the Twelve-Steppers out there.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

No, it shall forever remain play.  I guess you could call that a “playful career,” right?  James Michener did:  “The master in the art of living makes little distinction between his work and his play, his labor and his leisure, his mind and his body, his information and his recreation, his love and his religion. He hardly knows which is which. He simply pursues his vision of excellence at whatever he does, leaving others to decide whether he is working or playing. To him he’s always doing both. ”

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

Whoops!  Thanks to Createspace and modern technology, I can do it!   If I were locked up in some legal contract with one of the “Big 5,” I could not do this very easily.  However, I suppose I won’t change anything unless my fans get on me enough.

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

I totally pissed-off my stepmother by writing about her as she really was, and this intrigued me deeply.  What other power does words have over people?  I was off to the writing races.

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

Here’s a brief excerpt from the prologue to Manifest Trickery:  “Westward Ho!”

New York City, May, 1869.

As he stood at the entrance to the Midway, Barabbas Clay could hear all the steam-powered music and smell the odors of beer, popped corn and varieties of tobacco coming from the large tent along the center path of the Coney Island Steam City Amusement Park.  At 21, Barabbas was ready for adventure.

He had read the posters all over town proclaiming the solicitation of “Pioneering Adventure Seekers Wanted for Western Expansion!”  As he flicked a strand of red hair from his forehead with his right hand, the young man self-consciously pulled at the waist of his dark blue infantry trousers with the sky blue stripes down the sides.  He knew he could be fined for wearing part of his old Army uniform, but he didn’t have the money to buy new pants.

The organization sponsoring this recruiting venture was known to everyone in New York City.  The World Scientific Advancement Society for Progress was bringing the city into the steam era of progress, and now they were flexing their muscles by sending cadres of “pioneers” out into the Wild West to establish new towns and spread a message of the new technological wonders of steam.

The young vet had also read in the penny press about what people saw on Coney Island.  A giant monster was destroyed by an onrushing water creature that exploded.  Speculation about the source of these two anomalies ranged from Confederate saboteurs to aliens from other worlds.  Witnesses said that when they “woke-up they found themselves inexplicably at the seashore watching the ensuing disaster unfold before their very eyes.”

Barabbas was an out-of-work veteran, one of the thousands of his kind, looking to once again gain a foothold in society.  Even though he had fought valiantly on the battlefields for the North, the government money for vets was quickly being absorbed by a Congress wanting to fuel the expansion of their “Manifest Destiny.”  Barabbas believed this private company called the World Scientific Advancement Society for Progress could give him more hope than the government, so he wanted to look into what they had to offer.  His family was poor, living in Five Points, and his mother was a working widow in the garment trade, needing to feed four young ones.  Barabbas knew if he could earn enough money at this pioneering job he could help his mother out.

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

I find getting historical details down correctly to be most challenging.  I know intellectually that all writing comes from imagination and not fact.  Therefore, it’s difficult putting down other people’s ideas of fact, especially when they (also) never experienced the era upon which they are pontificating.

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

J. D. Salinger because he remained true to his Vedanta philosophy of life.

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

No, although I am beginning to attend Steampunk festivals beginning with one in March at the Wild West Convention in Tucson, AZ.  I’ll be on an authors’ panel to discuss “How has writing Steampunk freed your imagination?”

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

The cover artist is Jade Zivanovic, and she’s awesome.  Ari B. Bernabei is my illustrator, and his work trips me out as well.

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

Putting the words down (joke).  The writing by “assmossis.”  Philip Roth wrote standing up and I can see why!

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

Let my imagination take me where it wants to go.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Live in the eternal NOW and take it seriously while having fun doing it.

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

Read more stuff.  Read more stuff that pisses you off or challenges your thinking about things.  Read more to enjoy being pissed off or being challenged.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Holy cow!  No.  I suppose Life with Dick and Jane (really boring).

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Watching spectator sports (mostly so I can make wiseass comments).  I used to be a sports editor.

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

Anything Hollywood can turn out that’s not a formula.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Lasagna, Chinese (of all shapes and sizes), and most classical music.  The color red.

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

I was a teacher.  It kept me writing, and I helped a few souls enter into the reading passion.

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

http://contempinstruct.com/Forevermore/

Here is my interview with Queen of Spades ( Monica F. Brown-Martinez )

Name:  Queen of Spades

Age:  Um…how old do you think I look? (lol)

Where are you from?  I’m originally from Mississippi, but I’m currently residing in New Jersey.

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

I’d like to do a slight variation from this: a sprinkling of meat and potatoes (basics) with a glass of fruity red wine (fun).

Five basics about me:

1.  I’m from a small town called Summit: population-slightly under 1,700.

2.  I was raised by my grandparents.

3.  I’m a first generation college student and the first in my immediate family to hold two bachelor’s degrees.

4.  My favorite season is Fall with Spring being a close second.

5.  I was born in September, but that’s not the only reason why Fall is my favorite season.

Five fun facts:

1.  Although it is now alright to do single spacing after periods in a sentence, I still tend to do double spacing.  To me, it just seems to look better.  It’s one of those old habits I can’t quite let go of.

2.  Confession: I am very particular when it comes to the type of pen I use for writing.  If it isn’t a Pilot Precise V5 Rolling Ball (Extra Fine point) or a Pilot G2 Retractable Gel Roller, then the pen will not be used in my journal or for writing my poetry or stories.  The pen can be used for other miscellaneous things, though.

3.  I set my clocks up to ten minutes fast.  It’s a habit I picked up very young when I would have to go down the road to catch the school bus.  My eyes would think it was later, even though my brain knows to subtract ten minutes.  Needless to say, I’m almost always on time.

4.  My love for blue goes deeper than it being one half of the colors of my sorority.  I’ve always been a fan of it.  I love how serene it makes me feel, plus it can go with almost any color.  For me, it’s not only the “new black” it is better than black, particularly since black can often convey negative emotions as well as powerful ones.

5.  Despite their dip in popularity, I still would like to have my current poetry books and future writings available in hardcover as well as paperback and electronically.  I have a soft spot for hardcover.  There’s just something about the ambiance of physically holding the work that technology cannot replace.  

Fiona: Tell us your latest news!

Well, Fiona, Spaded Truths: Themes and Proclamations got released this past December.  I recently sent my other poetry collection, Private Pain: Amidst These Ashes, for beta reading.  If all goes well, Private Pain: Amidst These Ashes, should be slated for a February release date.

In addition, I have been writing short stories.  I plan on putting a collection of them together and calling the end result Continuous Drips.  I tentatively put the release date for winter 2014, but I’ve been feeling extremely inspired, and the stories have been flowing freely.  I’m not sure if it is enough for me to bump up my release date, but it is definitely worth some thought.  Most of my writings have been poetry, so this will be my first attempt at releasing work that is different. 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing around the age of eleven.  The writing began due to some turbulence going on in my life.  I felt as if I had no outlet to vocally express myself.  I began to journal, and the journaling led to writing some poetry. 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Although I started writing at eleven, I didn’t consider myself a writer until in high school.  I was invited to write editorials as well as share my poetry as part of the high school newspaper.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I was part of this Internet poetry community called International House of Poets.  A fellow poet and I thought it would be a good idea to put together an anthology of different styles of poetry from different types of poets.  The end result was Soulful Branches: Simply Words.  It has everything: haiku, dark poetry, erotica; you name it; it has it!  Although it was beautifully done, there were a few downsides.  The major one being that although this fellow poet and I funded and hosted the project, we could not control the cost of the final product.  By the time we figured it out, it was too late. 

Many people had asked me for years when I was going to do a collection, and I had put it off.  However, due to my experience with that particular company, I wanted to find a more affordable way to get my product out there.  The end result was the first Spaded Truths, and I did that one via Lulu in the fall of 2005.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I can’t say I have a style, per se.  I aim to have a “connectability component” with my readers.  I don’t get overly caught up in the lines having to rhyme or have a certain rhythm; if it comes out like that, terrific.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Spaded Truths: Themes and Proclamations is actually a revamp of the original Spaded Truths.  Spaded goes along with the last part of my pseudonym (the spade).  Truths comes from certain issues that I feel strongly about and/or things that embody my truths. 

As far as the “Themes and Proclamations”, the “Themes” cover twenty-six different words from A-Z while the “Proclamations” cover my thoughts as it relates to each themes.  I expand on both in the form of a poem.

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

(2^nd link: Spaded Truths banner)

With Spaded Truths: Themes and Proclamations, the overall message is simple: “The greatest injustice you can do to Self is not live in your truth.”  This collection is just an extension of that statement, and everyone’s definition of what his/her truth is different.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Some of the poems are very loosely based on events that happened in my past while others cover certain current events that I felt strongly about.

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

It is a mix of it all.  For example, there is a write called “Mistaken Identity” that is slightly based on an experience I went through.  “Critical Condition” was the combination of experiences from a few people I knew.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

Wow!  That is a tough one.  The top three would be “The Color Purple” by Alice Walker, “Black Feeling, Black Talk” by Nikki Giovanni, and “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” by Maya Angelou.  Each of these has a quiet strength, yet also possess a revolutionary feel. 

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

Y. Correa, most definitely.  I first met her in the Goodreads group, All Authors Blog, and she came up with this idea to be part of the All Authors Blog Blitz.  She has really been supportive and has provided great feedback and knowledge-from editing to marketing.  There had been a period of about seven years where I had stopped actively publishing, so when I decided to begin again, I realized there were so many things to learn and there were so many outlets present that I didn’t know about before.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I am almost finished reading Vermin by Adrienne Silcock.

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

There are quite a few, but I’ll try to limit to three for time.  One of the great things about being a reviewer (I also do reviews for The Review Board) is the opportunity to read different genres of works by different authors. 

Alyssa Auch is one.  Lunula really impressed me.  Another is Nicola McDonagh: the way she conveys her stories as well as the pictures that accompanies them just stay with you.  I also like how she sounds when she reads the stories: she definitely has the voice to do audio books as well as print.  I’m a fan of the engaging ambiance of Beem Weeks.  He mainly does historical fiction, and Jazz Baby is the blueprint of the deep South (Mississippi) done right.  That read just makes you feel like you are sitting on the porch while listening to your grandma tell stories of way back when.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

Lol…as a writer, reviewer, or magazine contributor?  I guess you’ve already picked up that I wear many crowns.

I think I already cover the writer aspect: Private Pain: Amidst These Ashes and Continuous Drips.  Private Pain: Amidst These Ashes does lean a bit controversial and touches on some pretty sticky topics, so it won’t be for everyone. 

As reviewer of The Review Board:  The Review Board does do reviews on webisodes, movies, TV shows, and music, but the main focus has been books (particularly indie).  Since The Review Board does take all genres, we’ve been getting a lot of requests.  My reviewer name is slightly different from my author pseudonym.  I go under the name No Labels Unleashed.  There’s plenty of reading and reviewing: spring and summer is pretty much booked for 2014 already.  Exciting times! 

As Magazine Contributor:  I’m also a contributor for All Authors Magazine.  I host a column called A Queen’s Ramblings.  In the upcoming January issue, I talk about this piece I wrote entitled “Misfortune” and the mechanics of whether it was actually a short story or not.  I also did a special article (part information/part comedy) on the pros and cons of doing book review swaps.

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

The writing community I’ve encountered on the Internet, mainly from Goodreads and Koobug.  Actually, some of them have proved more supportive than my family members.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Eventually, I would.  I am very patient and know that it does take time.  However, I don’t want to be one of those people who do it as a career and end up not liking it once the transition takes place.  I don’t want what I love to ever feel like it’s a chore or a burden, yet I have seen some people who took the risk and have never picked up a pen again.

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

Since Spaded Truths: Themes and Proclamations served as the revamp (changes) to the original, I would have to go with “no.”

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

The answer is similar to my response to “When and why did you begin writing?”

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

This is going to be a tricky one; I’m not sure what the rating is on this website.  In other words, I need to find one that won’t be too overly risky for the audience…lol.

Here is an excerpt from “The Anger of Kindness”, a poem featured in Spaded Truths: Themes and Proclamations:

Kindness is on the verge of being extinct.

 

The Anger of Kindness

 

All I wanted
Was to know what it was like
To touch lives.
To deliver a smile
Or put a light in someone’s eyes.

 

I never really
Asked for much
Except for a simple “Thank You”
And someday,
For the love to be returned.

 

But the more I give,
The more you take;
The more I care,
The more you forsake.

 

Although you’re careless
And treat me as if I’m
Just a word:

 

I’m much more than that!

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

Not necessarily with writing overall.  With the next project, Private Pain: Amidst These Ashes, the challenge was to find the balance between censoring and authenticity.  I didn’t want to overly censor because I felt like it would dampen the intensity associated with the experiences outlined, yet on the same token, I had to judge how much I could get away with simply because of the emotions involved.

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

Indie or traditional?  Traditional: Stephen King.  I fell in love with his work when I was 12 years old and haven’t stopped reading him sense.  The attention he puts into detail; the way the images cling like Super Glue to the imagination-phenomenal.  

Indie: I have to go with Perri Forrest.  I consider her a mad scientist when it comes to her work.  Her timing with scenes and the way she paints her characters in her works are always beautifully done.  She definitely “writes life into fiction.”  I respect the way she refuses to be placed in a particular box (genre and/or race), and I applaud that all the way.

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

No, not yet.  It may pick up in the future.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

(Private Pain: Amidst These Ashes)

(Spaded Truths: Themes and Proclamations)

(Eclectic: Skin Edition)

Private Pain: Amidst These Ashes, Spaded Truths: Themes and Proclamations, and Eclectic: Skin Edition were designed by Anthony J.F. Minter.  He also designed the paperback covers of Eclectic: Beyond The Skin and Reflections of Soul.

 (Eclectic: Beyond the Skin e-book cover)

(Reflections of Soul e-book cover)

The electronic covers for Eclectic: Beyond the Skin and Reflections of Soul were done by Fancy Face Kreations.

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

The hardest part was getting it properly formatted for electronic distribution.  I had been so accustomed to just doing print books.  I think I’m getting the hang of it, though.  I make sure to not use the same file for my print book that I do for my electronic book.  I made that mistake before and had to spend time revamping and reloading.  It’s better to do it right the very first time and not take short cuts.

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

At times, you have to walk a fine line, especially if some of the things you’re writing about stem from actual experiences or the experiences of others.  With Spaded Truths: Themes and Proclamations, I know there are certain issues and topics where people may not agree with what’s stated and may decide this will be a collection they stay away from.  I had to decide whether I’d be fully okay with it.  I am.  I am proud of the presentation of this work.  Even the most controversial things have to be talked about.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

1.  Build a meaningful relationship to the person you are networking with.  Don’t just hit the person up when you want a favor or when you need something.  Try to build a lasting rapport. 

2.  Be selective in the type of social networking sites you are a part of.  Figure out how much you are going to utilize each site/method.  Just because it’s out there doesn’t mean you have to sign up for it.  It’s better to have a select few networking places you’re dedicated to than to take on everything and end up not having time for any of them.

3.  Put EXTRA eyes on your work.  I know that’s probably been said a trillion times, but in my experience as a reviewer, I still see works out on various publishing platforms (Amazon included) where the writer doesn’t take time to spell check, correct grammar or format properly.  I’ve also encountered the attitude, “If the works good, errors here and there will be overlooked.”  That’s not necessarily the case.  If there’s one or two errors, maybe, but if there’s enough of them throughout the write, the reader is going to take more time proofreading than enjoying the story.  Invest the time to give the work another look, even if it means delaying the launch of the work.  In this instance, it’s best that the work be presented accurately than timely.

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

I love you and thank you for your support.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I cannot recall.  I was (and still am) such an avid reader.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

I love reading (you probably picked up on that).  I like doing abstract sketches.  I do a bit of gaming via Facebook as well as on Xbox.  I lean towards strategy games and fighting games.

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

TV show wise: I am a fan of Scandal.  It’s not because of the forbidden love affair between Olivia Pope and the President but because of all of the other storylines that are involved.  I also like Dexter.  The show is officially over with, but I’ve been playing catch up via Netflix.  I’m currently on Season Five.

I like different types of films, but I am drawn to documentaries, action/adventure, horror, stand-up comedy, and situational comedies/dramas.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Favorite food:  French fries are my weakness.
Favorite colors: Blue and gold.
Favorite music: My tastes are pretty eclectic.  Although rhythm and blues and pop are my top ones, I also listen to rock, alternative, blues, classical, and jazz. 

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

That is a tough one.  Right now, writing is my secondary income.  In the past, I have done restaurant and retail management.  Although I am accustomed to doing management roles, I was not a fan of all of the hours I had to put in.  That, and my workaholic tendencies, made for a pretty bad combination.  I didn’t fully gauge when it was time to slow down until my health became impacted.  In addition, the company I worked for changed ownership and decided to bring in its own people, so a lot of us lost our jobs.  Where I’m working at now is a lot calmer in terms of atmosphere but doesn’t provide that level of challenge and performance I had become accustomed to in the two fields I originated from.

I wouldn’t mind going back into management or a field that has guidance or mentoring components.  I love to help people, but I’m not a fan of all the office and backdoor politics that people in the higher levels of management tend to adopt.  At this stage, I’m even open to just going into business for myself.  There is practically no security in working for someone else anymore.   

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

Blog: A Queen’s Ramblings
http://queenofspadesthepoet.blogspot.com

Website: Queen of Spades, Life Writer

http://authorqueenofspades.wix.com

http://authorqos.com

My Other Networking Spots:

Twitter:  @authorqspades ( https://twitter.com/authorqspades )
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/authoressqueenofspades
Amazon Author Page: http://Author.to/QueenofSpades
Goodreads Author Page: https://www.goodreads.com/nolabels
Koobug: http://www.koobug.com/queenofspades
About.Me: http://about.me/authorqspades

Here is my interview with Nicky Jayne

Name  Nicky Jayne

Age 31

Where are you from Las Vegas Nevada

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

I am married to an US Airman, currently stationed in the US. We have been married for 11 years in January. I have 2 boys who are the light of my life. I studied with UOP for 4 years and received my bachelor’s degree in Business accounting and finance. People think I am nuts because I absolutely hate numbers.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Latest news… Hmm let me see. I am in the middle of finishing off my fourth book which seems to be taking me a lot longer than first expected. I aim to have it out by March.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing in July of 2013. I have never been one to be able to sit and write down words. But as an avid writer I thought I would give it a shot and lone behold I came up with my first series. “The Embrace Series” I have fallen in love with writing, I don’t think I could stop even if I tried.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

The day I hit publish on September 29^th with Embracing Life. Although it was solidified when I completed NaNoWrimo this year. It took me 23 days to write a 60k novel and I was able to release it shortly after.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Nothing really inspired me to write it, I was really just playing around. But as the story grew and my beta readers sent back comments and awesome feedback. I pushed myself forward and completed it. Just the sight of my words, in print brings tears to my eyes.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

No not really.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

It literally just came to me. Out of nowhere, I typed in the boldest largest font I could and it stuck. It fit the storyline perfectly.

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

Yes! I am a true believer of the message, but I really need to take my own advice sometimes. “Embrace Life and all its challenges”

No matter how bad your life, your day even your hour may be you have to embrace all that comes with it and keep looking forward. There is no sense in giving up.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

None, It is completely fiction for me.

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

No! Not at the time of writing anyway. But as I moved around in the world of “Books” many people have commented on how they have dealt with something similar. “Embracing Life” and “Embracing Love” is for them.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

I don’t have any really. But I will say that I have grown to know some authors and have read their work and their books have shaped how I am today.

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

I have a list lol! But as I just finished reading 50SOG for the fifth time. E L would have to be one I would like to consider a mentor.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I am reading a new author.. Layla Stevens. Her work is new fresh and I am enjoying being one of the first to read her amazing work.

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

Layla Stevens, S K Hartley and David Hamilton are just the first 3 on the top of my list.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

Currently I am working on my fourth book “Taking Flight”

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

My beta readers and my editor. They were beyond supportive in all areas. Whether I was having a crazy plot change or a bad day. They were never too far away from me,

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes very much so. Wherever I go I think of writing, I don’t think i could concentrate on a “Normal” job with all these stories and characters running through my head,

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

My latest book “Footprints” is a heart felt one and yes I think I would. I would make it longer and I would add more the inside facts to being in the military.

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

No!
Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us?

Absolutely… Here is a teaser from my upcoming release “Taking Flight”….UNEDITED

Willow:

My skin blushes and my hands become sweaty as I take the last remaining steps.  My body has taken over; I am moving, but I want to stop I just can’t. As I get closer to the deep solid door, I can hear a tiny voice echo within. Followed by a much deeper voice. I stand stock still, frozen. I run my little fingers over the door, feeling its soft shaped moldings, with each grain the voices echoes making the door give off a small vibration.

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

Not getting distracted. Being a mom and a wife has it daily challenges of course. So I tend to write when the kids and the husband are away. However my brain doesn’t shut off when they walk back through the door. So trying to write something whilst there are in and under foot becomes hard.
Fiona: Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

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

2014 will be a big year, I have  signings lined up.
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Kari Ayasha at CovertoCover designs

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

The end. I know there is more… I can write more and I hate writing those 2 words. However for those who have read my books, I have a sick fascination with cliffhangers J

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

I learnt a lot from Embracing life. From words, descriptions and my writing style. I am learning daily on how to write better and I am thankful to my kickass editor(s) for all the hard work they put in.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Don’t give up! Don’t shut your characters up. They speak to you at the weirdest and most inappropriate times, but don’t hide from them.

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

Thank you! Without you there is no me. Yes sure I would still write, whether I would publish would be a different matter. I am grateful and thankful for those have read all my work and still love me afterwards. You have no idea how grateful I am for you. Thank you for sticking beside me and helping me though the rough times. You truly are the best I could ask for.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Lion Witch and the Wardrobe. I LOVE those books.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

As a mother to boys, I have a strew of hobbies…all boy related lol! I am avid camper hiker, and I love to ride horses. I also have a mean talent for building skyscrapers out of legos lol

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

Love romance… Anything smushy kissy and lovey I am into. I love Castle, Beauty and the Beast.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

PURPLE…Anyone who knows me, knows I have a fascination with PURPLE lol. I listen to all genres of music.

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

I would love to own my own ranch somewhere on the side of a mountain. But if I had to do something now, I would be back behind a desk somewhere adding subtracting and slaving over a string of numbers.

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

http://authornickyjayne.wordpress.com/

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nicky-Jayne/409522015823277?ref=hl

Here is my interview with Alix Richards

 

Name Alix Richards (given name Jo Pfander)

Age 39

Where are you from

Michigan originally, live in Wyoming now

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

I grew up and attended school in Michigan, moved to Wyoming about seven years ago. Five children and one adorable grandson later here I am.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I am currently spreading my creative wings within the world I fashioned for my characters. Starting new series and working on the original one as well as checking out submissions for other publishing houses. Keeping tummy-turning nerves down by breathing. Did you know attacking nerves are common even when you’ve gotten six contracts? Yeah, it still happens.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I started writing after my grandmother told me to document the stories I’d been telling my younger siblings and cousins. At the time I wanted to own a dance club, bar, I didn’t want to write. She said I was a born storyteller, writer. It took a couple years before that took hold and I caved. About age 12.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I always considered myself a writer, cause that’s what I do. I write. Poems, lyrics, stories, journal. I cannot not write.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

The stories I used to tell my siblings and cousins. Their joy and excitement. Their not wanting to wait for more, wanting to hear what happens right now.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I don’t believe so. Although I’ve been told my writing style is very unique and deep.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

For Soul Bound, I used the fact Joy and Jairo were binding together their souls. That was what it was about. For Soul Memory, I wanted the readers to understand that our souls retain memories, even if we don’t believe they do. An odd belief, but then again what else out there is odd when seen from another’s perspective?

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

I would like readers to be open minded. To take what they’re reading and believe it’s possible. That anything is possible.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

More realistic then many think. It’s taking the concept of Twin Flames, or Twin Souls as they are also called and creating story lines involving couples. Their lives, lessons, love and their reality. I was surprised to find as much information about the Twin Flame/Twin Soul concept and the amount of people who do believe they exist.

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

Events and experiences in my life, mixed with a few others.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

As an avid reader, that’s a loaded question. LOL But for the most part, I’d have to say every book I’ve read has influenced my life equally. I couldn’t name one over another.

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

Sherrilyn Kenyon and Christine Feehan. After reading their books, I gathered the courage to submit my own and take a chance.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Right now, I’m in the middle of edits. But last month I was reading J.R. Ward’s Black Dagger Brotherhood books. As soon as I’m through edits I plan to grab Kay Dee Royal’s Savage Smoke. I’m excited about reading it, and can’t wait to start!

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

Mel Favreaux at the moment and Stephanie Becken. I’ve read a couple of their books and can’t wait to get my hands on more.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

Currently I’ve started a new series and waiting to hear back from my publisher. I also have another couple Twin Flame books in the works. There is also another series I’m cleaning up for submission after the New Year. I always have something in the works.

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

Janquel, a very dear and best friend.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes, I do. It’s what I’ve wanted every since I started writing when I was 12. Guess my grandmother was right, huh? LOL

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

No, I don’t think so. I might have pushed myself faster to complete it, then again, creativity is a being onto itself. It ebbs and flows as it wants. As writers, we’re just the tool the Muse uses.

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

When I first started documenting that first story. I couldn’t stop. From there it continued to grow and expand, until I reached this point.

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

Making sure as much as I write fantasy I want it believable. That’s the challenge. Making it appear real. I would like to be the writer who takes a reader on a trip through the world I created. That just for a moment they were able to escape reality and dream.

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

Sherrilyn Kenyon. That it seems real. It is real, for the time I’m reading her book. I love it!

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

Not really. I’m still in the early stages of my career.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

My covers are designed by a cover artist through my current publisher.

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

Soul Memory was the hardest one to write, because of the interaction in dreams and then in reality. I have to say that was the hardest. Making sure the awake time flowed with the dreams and recollections of Jairo and Joy. Soul Bound was slightly easier, although making sure I had Jairo’s part realistic was interesting. I’m a woman, so writing in the male POV was hard.

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

As funny as it sounds I learned a little about myself with each book I finished and submitted. It’s hard to pinpoint exactly which was which or where, but I can safely say I learned to be myself no matter what others think or say. I’m the one who has to live with my decisions, not those who say I should be doing what they say.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Grow a thick skin. Know the difference between someone cutting you down and actual creative criticism. Know and learn your craft, take classes, do research. Never stop learning, readers change their minds and what they’re reading often. Write what you want to read. Remember, you can’t please everyone, so don’t even try. You’ll be the one who’s unhappy in the long run if you do.

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

Thank you for taking the time to check out my work. I hope it doesn’t disappoint.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

It was 101 Dalmatians, and not the one based on the Walt Disney movies.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I read almost everything and anything. I enjoy learning, so doing research is fun.

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

When I get a chance to watch television I enjoy The Walking Dead, CSI, Criminal Minds, America Unearthed and other shows on The History Channel. When it comes to movies, anything with action (Fast and Furious, Bond, ect.). I also enjoy fantasy (Lord of The Ring trilogy, Star Wars, ect.).

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Italian and Mexican, a huge fan of pizza. Can eat that day in and day out. I love red, have from as far back as I can remember. As for music, it depends. I pretty much love all music, but my all time faves are Def Leppard, Bon Jovi, Duran Duran, Led Zepplin, Fleetwood Mac, Stevie Nicks, Nickelback, The Eagles, Halestorm, Evanescence, to name just a few.

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

Work at a bar or dance club. People and music, what more could anyone ask for? A forever party.

Fiona: Do you have a blog/website?

 If so what is it?

I can be found on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AlixRichards

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Alix-Richards/163865084640

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6472517.Alix_Richards

And my Souls Immortal Blog: http://soulsimmortal.blogspot.com/

Here is my interview with Lynda Renham

 

Name Lynda Renham

Age No way, lady J

Where are you from

Essex land, where all the best people come from.

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

I live with my husband and our cat Bendy in the Cotswolds in Oxfordshire.  I was educated in the school of hard knocks.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I’ve got a fab new book out which is about me! And believe me my life is one crazy adventure. It’s a small little ditty and is on Kindle for 99p and is titled ‘Confessions of a Chocoholic’

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I started writing at school under the desk because I was so bored at school. I had my first piece published in a children’s magazine when I was nine.

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I was watching the film ‘The Holiday’ and thought can I create the feel good feeling in a book. I tried with my first book ‘Wedding Cake to Turin’ and was thrilled. I’ve not looked back.

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The latest novel ‘The Dog’s Bollocks’ came from a reviewer calling the book ‘The Dog’s Bollocks’ and the phrase is mentioned in the book too. So it seemed a fitting title.

 

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

Only the one: ‘It’s fun, enjoy have a laugh, this is just a party’ If I can make someone laugh while I am here then that’s enough for me.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

I write fiction so it’s realistic to a degree but in romantic comedy there has to be a bit of unrealism else it is difficult to make a book funny

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

All the things that happen to the characters in my books have happened to me or someone else. I really do those crazy things that my characters do.

 

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

I can’t think of a book that has really influenced my life to be honest. If I have to mention an author it would be Iris Murdoch, a wonderful British author who I have always admired.

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

A Fine Line by Rohiton Mistry, which is fabulous.

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

No, not really.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

My new novel which I can’t tell you too much about I’m afraid.

.
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes, I do. It is also a vocation as I could NOT write.
.
Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us?

I don’t share WIP publicly until it is published for obvious reasons.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Gracie klumpp designed all my covers except for ‘Confessions of a Chocoholic’ which was done by Amy Rogers.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Don’t give up. Those three words are the best advice any writer can have.

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

Thank you, thank you, thank you. You’re fabulous. Your lovely comments on FB and Twitter and your emails really make those writer block days all worth it.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Photography, I love it. I have a little web page dedicated to it.

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

I don’t have a TV, I don’t have the time for one.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Food-chocolate-white-I love Lady Gaga

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

Read my book ‘Confessions of a Chocoholic’ to see what I have done. But if I couldn’t be a writer I’d love to have been a comedian.

 Fiona: Do you have a blog/website?

http://www.renham.co.uk

Here are links to my pages

 

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lynda-Renham/170503619694017?fref=ts  (Facebook)

https://twitter.com/Lyndarenham  Twitter

Link for new book ‘The Dog’s Bollocks’

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Dogs-Bollocks-Romantic-Comedy-ebook/dp/B00EUIFF6W/ref=la_B004U1PWDU_1_3_bnp_1_kin?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1388264432&sr=1-3

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Confessions-Chocoholic-Lynda-Renham-ebook/dp/B00HCQ3NIQ/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1388264628&sr=8-2&keywords=renham

Confessions of a Chocoholic.

Here is my interview with Ailsa Abraham (Cameron Lawton)

 

Name – Ailsa Abraham (Cameron Lawton)

Age  57

Where are you from  – Hard to remember. I was very nearly born on a train and seem to have been travelling all my life ever since. My family are from Edinburgh but I have deep ties with Cornwall where I grew up and London which is my spiritual home.

A little about your self `ie your education Family life etc  – Fairly conventional education despite changing schools so regularly. The headmistress of my all-girls school went a bit potty when I announced I wanted to be an actress so I got myself into London University studying Drama & English plus Teaching on my own. It was tough doing two degrees at the same time but I’m really glad I did it.

I’ve lived in France for the last twenty-odd years, first in Brittany and for the last ten in the east, not too far from the Swiss border. I’m with my third husband, a retired Royal Navy officer and we currently have two dogs but we’ve been a clearing house for the RSPCA (French equivalent) most of our 18 years together.We live in a 300 year-old farmhouse known as the Bingergread Cottage which is very traditional but with all mod.cons. Our village is tiny and in the middle of nowhere which is great but I could sometimes wish to be nearer a bit of culture.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

  I wrote Shaman’s Drum from the point where I first saw the flash “scene”which started it all going in my mind. Unfortunately, that meant there was a huge amount of back-story that readers wanted to know. The prequel is now finished and awaiting edits with my publisher Crooked Cat so that should be released in 2014. As Cameron Lawton I have another title to submit to MLRPress which will be the next in my series of army detective fiction. I’m looking forward to that as another gory murder rather than paranormal adventure with a huge dollop of romance.

As if that weren’t enough, my husband and I are starting a promotion business called PandA Promo, specialising in authors wanting launch parties and videos which is yet an other of my interests. We shall be open for business from 4^th January and hope that everyone will come to our FB launch party.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Professionally, do you mean? I’ve always written for my own and friends’ amusement but it wasn’t until I got my first piece accepted for cash that I felt I could call myself a “writer”. That was a short story for Metro Fiction and shortly after that MLRP accepted a novella but asked for a longer work with the same characters. That was the moment when I was definitively “writer”.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

 Not at all. I am a complete genre slut. I sometimes play games with my author friends who give me a genre to try out and bet me I can’t. I suppose my “voice” is light with touches of humour and very visual. I try to avoid pretentiousness and flowery prose. I have no literary delusions although I am a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association which is an honour.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life? – In both genres I write from my own experience. Witchcraft, shamanism, pagan practice and the study of all religions have been part of my existence for as long as I can remember so it was natural to write  Shaman’s Drum around those topics. I also served in the Royal Air Force for four years which is what prompted me to set Rory and Jack’s adventures in the military when writing as Cameron Lawton.

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

 No, not for the books but I travel a great deal for fun. We have a beat up old Renault Trafic that my husband kitted out as the smallest camping car in the world plus a caravan that is in line for a telegram from the Queen. We go all around Europe exploring and that is one of our major hobbies. We do this because our family is us and two hounds. Hotels tend to take a dim view of woofers who like to sleep on beds. The alternative is camping which suits us all fine.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

 Strangely, I do. It was at infant school and the first words of it were “Come, Tip. Here, Tip, Come here, Tip”. I can still see the illustration at the top of each page. I read it in about half an hour and threw it down in disgust saying “I hope I get a new one tomorrow ‘cos I done that one.” The next –  I didn’t like the ending so I re-wrote it and that may be when I started to be a writer.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

 Masses! I’ve already mentioned making videos and running promotion. I also have three motorbikes which are my passion in the summer. Wintertime is for knitting, crochet and other crafting which qualify as my main occupation. I nearly always end up giving my creations away and make lots of things for charity. Animal welfare is an obsession with me so much of my work is donated to sanctuaries or raffles to that purpose. Recently I’ve taken up music again. I’m a decent singer but also enjoy playing the Native American flute, penny whistles, recorder and for Christmas I was given my first transverse flute (Chinese bamboo) which will be a real challenge. I also go a bit wild on drums as part of my shamanic practices.

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

 Unsurprisingly, I adore TV detective shows. They are probably responsible for my decision to write in that genre. Comedy obviously, and I’m a complete culture vulture where history is concerned. My happiest evening is with a good “historical mystery uncovered” programme while knitting. I have Radio 4 on all the time except when I change over to Gold for the Oldies to sing along to.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

 I’m vegetarian. My favourite food is pasta. Colours? I wear black a lot but that is part of my goth/punk persona which I borrowed from Riga, a character in Shaman’s Drum. Colours aren’t as important as textures. I love to mix up silk, leather and denim (potty about denim). I’ve got a collection of leather belts with massive buckles and my real weakness is boots. I can’t wear heels due to a completely knackered spine so I compensate by wearing the fanciest boots I can get my paws on. Music? Again my tastes are totally catholic – from classical through Celtic rock, folk, golden oldies, heavy metal… I really don’t have a favourite.

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

 I’ve been extraordinarily lucky. All the things I desperately wanted to do, I’ve had the chance of doing. I’ve been a vet nurse, survival instructor and flown planes for fun. I enjoyed teaching English to adults in France but my life now is ideal.

Thank you so much for inviting me over and I do hope you’ll return the favour and come and visit us at the Bingergread Cottage soon.

My blog is http://ailsaabraham.com/

and the new one for my business is http://pandapromo.co/

My Amazon Author Page is http://https://authorcentral.amazon.co.uk/gp/profile
And my Cameron Lawton books can be found here. http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowAuthorBooks.php?list=_ABKLIST110&author=Cameron!Lawton

Here is my interview with Karli Rush

 

Name Karli Rush

Age (Old enough to know better but young enough to do it anyway) and if you really want a hint I’m the exact same age as Jenny McCarthy.

Where are you from: A small town in Oklahoma

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

I will give you 10 things about me you don’t know till now

1.                    I’m an autism advocate

2.                    I have worked in Hospice for many years

3.                    I met Jay Leno once

4.                    My favorite color is black but I tell everyone purple.

5.                    Some of my much loved places that I have lived are Las Vegas and Denver.

6.                    I’ve drag raced

7.                    I rode horses bareback as a kid.

8.                    I have more books in my head than I have published.

9.                    I studied psychology in college but took a major turn toward the medical field.     Experienced, EMT basics, Dental Hygiene assistant, to working in the psychiatric         ward in Virginia.

10.                I am very diverse with music, books, and people.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Karli:  I have several things on my plate for 2014! My last installment of the Bound series which will be titled Ice Bound and it is a stand alone novel all about Marc, it will be entirely his POV.  I am several chapters into writing my first ever contemporary romance, keep an eye out for “Let Your Heart Drive” as well.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

Karli:  In 2011 after a good friend of mine suggested I take up a creative hobby.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Karli:  February 23, 2012. That is when I hit the publish button on my first novel, Crescent Bound, and I realized there was no turning back for me.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Karli:  I didn’t really recognize that I had all of this coming to me until I put my fingers on the keyboard. The story or rather the dream just poured out. I don’t remember anything specific as an inspiration point.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Karli:  Yes, I write generally first person, present tense just like Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins. I can’t seem to write any other way.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Karli:  Not sure on that either, they seem to show up when I need them to at the right time, and right moment. It’s kind of like a word or an expression highlights itself for me and I jot it down. If you have ever watched the movie ‘A Beautiful Mind,’ then you have the idea of what I’m trying to explain.

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

Karli:  Absolutely, in the Crescent Bound Series I wanted to show, although it is paranormal, a true representation of Witches or Wicca. I also try to put in a theme of tolerance and acceptance. If I could sum it in just two words it would be, Know thyself.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Karli:  All the magic spells and rituals are based in facts. The drag racing is pretty close. I also wanted characters that are flawed, critical, mistake driven and fun.

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

Karli: I have drag raced before, so, yes. There is no way that my experiences can’t be in there, even if the influence is subtle, it’s still there.  In several books I have worked some people into one of my characters that I personally know. The funny part is that they are exclusively the antagonist.

Fiona: What books have influenced your life most?

Karli: The books that influenced me were usually non-fiction and on specific topics like Autism and Reiki.  It is usually something that interests me at the time.

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

Karli:  I have several on that list, but if I had to pick one that I would hope to really learn from it would be…CD Reiss.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Karli:  Strings (Hard Rock Harlots) by Kendall Grey – This one is as sexually gritty as it gets.

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

Karli:  CD. Reiss, Ava Lore, Kendall Grey, Colleen Hoover, Andrea Randall, Penelope Douglas, Lauren Hammond, Andrea Brynn, Tarryn Fisher, Brooklyn Hudson, Emma Chase, K.A. Tucker, Brooklyn James, Jennifer Armentrout, Aleatha Romig, and J.A. Redmerski. Whew! I’ll stop there, lol.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

Karli:  “The House” is a paranormal haunting story that I am publishing one part at a time on my blog for free http://rushboundblog.wordpress.com/ I am up to part 6 as of this interview.  “Let Your Heart Drive” is my firs contemporary romance that is about 20% done. Here’s the blurb – It is a tale of a young girl, Sinead Noelle, she’s struggling with life and all that it has to throw at her. She hungers to stand on her own two feet and face her own secret demons. What she finds during this life’s journey is, Shawn. A young man who works in road-side for a car rental company. He doesn’t know it yet but all this time he’s been living a life filled with ease as he helps support his sister and niece. He thinks life is good, but then his own life spins out of control with a single phone call.  When destiny brings these two together will barriers be broken, walls be destroyed, and secrets revealed? Coming 2014!

“Ice Bound” is book five in the Bound series it’s about 40% done and here’s the blurb –

Marcus Colten is living the perfect life, high school football star and dating the head cheerleader. He is popular, skilled in athletics and from a wealthy family. The football team he quarterbacks for just won their first district championship.  Marc doesn’t show it, but he is being haunted. Orphaned at the early age of two, he has ghostly memories of a past that makes his flawless model life feel out of place and then there are the illusive dreams. Visions of someone that relentlessly possess his nights. What does it all mean? Where will it all lead? This time, he’s not the one that is at the top of the game.

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

Karli:  That’s a hard one. Let me see. I would say that Lisa Allen Monaghan has truly coached me through this. Regardless of my fears, she believed in me from the very beginning.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Karli:  I sure do. I am lucky and very happy being an author.

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

Karli:  Well, for my latest book, Pine Needles. No, not in the least.

I always want the best quality I can for my readers, in all aspects of my novels. I do review and revise as I strive to become the best I can be.

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

Karli:  I kept having these dreams about Alyssa and Marc (Crescent Bound) and they wouldn’t go away, so I started writing their story down and I never stopped. Factoid: In my dreams Alyssa’s car she drove was really a canary yellow 1986 Mustang. But I had to change it to the times, so, we have the 2011 Shelby Mustang, black.

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

Karli:  My latest story is free on my blog http://rushboundblog.wordpress.com/

Part 1

The only thing stronger than love is insanity.

 –    MichaelXavier

The House

            One more step and the skin-crawling, creaking sound echoes throughout the hall. “Richard! Don’t, I—I really don’t feel good about this anymore,” I practically bark at him as we edge closer to the last door. We’ve investigated the lower floor, all the old, decrepit rooms, and the chancy stairs were my worst fear but we managed to sneak past the precarious areas. Now, we are standing at the last room down the unlit hall. The door is wide open like it’s welcoming us inside. The hot humid air has dropped significantly in temperature. It’s been well over a hundred degrees all summer long and now, I can see my breath. I can see his.

            “Rich, please. Let’s just head back, it’s getting late. We can start fresh tomorrow,” I plead but he shakes his head in refusal.

            “Naw, we got this, Keria.” He tugs on his lucky baseball cap, easing it over his eyes a bit and quirks a smirky grin at me.  My eyebrows bolt up and I wave the flashlight purposely in-between us.

            “Do you not see this?” My breath expels out a cold mist and the hair on the back on my neck rises.

            He taps on the device in his hand and explains, “Yeah, it means we’re not alone.” The meter looking ghost detector is completely lit up green. It doesn’t flash nor flicker, just a steady, solid color. Which makes me grimace even more, I’m not a paranormal investigator like Rich is. This is my very first time exploring a haunted house. I suck in a nervous breath as he motions for us to move forward. The house goes perfectly still as if it’s waiting for something, hanging onto an eerie anticipation. Five more steps and we’re at the threshold of the pitch-black room. 

            “Rich, you’re sure about this? I mean we don’t know how long this place has been abandoned or how secure this structure is,” I probe as I flash the light around us and then shine it inside the room. My hand goes sweaty and I grip the flashlight tighter, there’s nothing in the room. It’s not like the others, it’s entirely bare, empty, as if someone sterilized it from the ceiling to the floor. You know how they always say rooms like this smell moldy or musty? Well, this one smells like it’s tainted with blossoms, it’s so over-powering even Rich glances back at me. We both distinctly smell it and he reaches out, giving my hand a gentle squeeze.

            “You know, for being a Rookie, I’m impressed. Come on, it’s the last room.” I attempt to send him a quick confident smile but something breathes down the right side of my neck. I grasp at my throat and stare at Rich. How do I tell him I can’t do this? How can I step one foot in front of the other when all I want to do is run the other way? My answer comes when he steps through the time-worn doorway.

            “Come on Keria, give me some light. It’s dark as shit in here!” I raise my shaking hand holding the flashlight and watch him walk to the middle of the room. An icy cold touch lands on my shoulder and I drop the light to the floor.

            “Keria! Get it together girl!” he shouts but I’ve already snagged the flashlight from the ground and twirl around to see if I’m still the only one standing in the darkened cold hall. Whirling back to Rich I shake off the feeling of being observed.

            “Got it, sorry.” I start to take a step into the room when I hear the house breathe, literally every board and nail within the room screeches together. And in the center, where Richard stands, the floor bows and bends upward and then breaks away. He plummets with the pollution of rotten wood and rusted, eroded fumes. My light illuminates a nothingness as he disappears from my sight.

            “Richard!” The cracking and splintering shards of wood resound with a deafening residual. My ears ring and my heart pounds as I scream out again, “Richard!”

            Nothing…

            But

            My

            Cold

            Breath…it’s the only sound within the room.

            I readjust my hand on the Maglite and run toward the stairs. I’m shaking, everything in me wants to lock up but I’m so terrified I bolt without another reasonable thought. The worn wooden steps hold my weight as I race downstairs. It’s hauntingly dark and vacant. Nothing appears in my sight as I shine my light through the bleak hallway. Pace after wary pace I enter the room where Richard fell through. I clamp my hand fiercely over the only thing which guides me. Not a breath escapes from my lips when I approach the doorway, the lambent luster grazes slowly across the flooring. But I see only the hardwood surface. Untouched, no clouds of dust or debris, no broken shards of rustic wood. No Richard. As if nothing at all had happened. I take a step closer, suck in a hearty breath and whisper, “Richard!” 

            I cling to my shirt as I ease in, I can feel my heart pounding, trembling through the fabric. The fractional light threads outward offering me nothing but the barren baseboards and lifeless walls. A smell drifts by just as the cool air bristles the hair down my neck. The scent is intertwined with sunflowers and blood. And that same panicky feeling surges a rush in me, a dire urgency to get the hell out of here. But I grit my teeth together and raise my voice a bit louder than before and yell, “Richard, please! Where are you?!”

            The house is abnormally quiet as I drag my light downward, searching the floor where I thought Rich would be. Chairs, aged books, and raged, dusty curtains are all over creation in here. It’s exactly how we first saw it before, not a thing out-of-place. And I raise my flashlight upward, to the ceiling, half expecting the hole that he fell through. But I know from seeing the room there will be no evidence to what I just witnessed on the floor above. The ceiling is still committedly intact. Am I losing my mind? I know I’m not, I know what I saw and he has to be in here. I take another step further inside the room, and just as my hand slips off the door frame, a cold unpleasant shiver weaves through my spine. A deep, detached voice growls right next to my ear, “Get out!”

            I nearly drop my light as I spin around and run for the front door. Ambling faster down the broken cement steps I charge for my car. Never looking back, never losing my balance because I feel the vileness, the immorality breathing inside that house. I’ve, we’ve trespassed into something I can’t even begin to explain and Rich is somewhere still inside. I fumble with my keys to get them into the ignition. Once my headlights glare at the house not forty feet away, I lock the doors and debate. He’s in there and I can’t just drive the hell off. I rub my hands over my face and in-between my shaking fingertips I look up. In the window I see a shape, a silhouette of a tall man and it’s not Rich. My foot slams heavily on the gas pedal and I drive like a manic on the rough, isolated dirt road.    

            The entire time my eyes flicker nervously back and forth from the road to my rearview mirror. The sensation of being followed keeps prickling my frayed nerves. I even feel like the woods have eyes and are watching me speed past the trees. Something malicious lives inside that abandoned house, it’s real, just as real as the tears that swell inside my eyes. And I never want to go back there, but I have to find out what happened to Richard. Worry, fear, and guilt consume me, what happened to him? Is he still alive… alive inside that cursed house?    

 

 

To be continued…

 

 

 

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

Karli:  Yes. One, balance – family time, writing time, promoting time, personal time, which are all important but making sure one of these doesn’t rob from the other is quite a challenge. Even so, I think I’m managing okay. Two, there are at times too many voices coming to me at once. Can’t write quick enough. Lol.

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

Karli:  Ouch! I have to pick one? Andrea Randall who wrote “In the Stillness.” What strikes me is the level of intense emotion that blended beautifully through this novel. You feel everything, every bump, every crevice, every single word and I loved it.

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

Karli:  Several times I have ventured out to book related jaunts. From drag racing strips to book signing events to even haunted places. But I much rather retreat into my writer’s cave with a great cup of coffee.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Karli:  I do.

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

 

Karli:  The publicizing that comes with getting the word out, but I love this part of it, the interviews are one of my favorites.

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

Karli:  The amount of knowledge I have taken in since beginning this career is breathtaking. I now approach life as an author does. I am evaluating everyone I meet to see if I will use them in a future book. Their traits, their demeanor, and habits anything that intrigues me may become part of my antagonists or protagonists. *wink*

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Karli: Write your first book. Tuck it away and write your second book. Six months later pull it out and re-write book one. It will help improve the quality of your book so much. If you haven’t read “On Writing” by Stephen King then you should, it is so worth it.

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

Karli:  Thank you, thank you, and THANK YOU! I have had quite a few messages sent to me that will forever touch my heart. These messages mean more than anything to me and I promise to keep writing, keep giving you what you love. My goal is to become a better writer with each word I type. I can only hope that my readers enjoy the growth I am going through as they come along for the ride with me.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Karli: The Black Stallion by Walter Farley. I use to read it over and over to my great-grandmother as a young child. I struggled and botched some of the words but my great-grandmother never scolded or berated me. She knew I had an adoration for horses and for books, she always encouraged me and listened to me with such love and understanding which made it an experience I will never forget. So, yes, I definitely remember my first book.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

Karli: Zumba, hiking, biking, camping, ghost hunting, oh, and shopping!

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

Karli:  I don’t really watch TV, but if I do it’s American Horror Story, Game of Thrones, Sons of Anarchy, and Dracula. My favorite films are Fast & Furious 6, A Haunted House, We’re the Millers and Unconditional.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Karli:  Homemade chili in (gf/cf) bread bowls / Purple / My music changes just as randomly as the weather does here in Oklahoma. Lol. Right now it’s Ana Brun.

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

Karli:  Joined the Peace Corps. It was at one point a discussion my oldest son and I had but he chose college and I became a writer.

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

Karli:  I sure do, and here they are:

Karli Rush links

 

Karli Rush – Genre:  Paranormal Romance (soon to come contemporary romance)

 

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Karli-Rush/456180034468576 

 

Blog:  http://rushboundblog.wordpress.com/

 

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/KarliRush 

 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/KarliRush 

 

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Karli-Rush/e/B007DJNOMW/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1 

 

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/KarliRush 

 

Other: http://rushbound.blogspot.com/ 

 

Pintrest: http://www.pinterest.com/rushbound/boards/

 

Website: http://crescentbound.wix.com/karli-rush

 

Wattpad: http://www.wattpad.com/user/KarliRush

 

Print copies of my books are available at Amazon and CreateSpace 

Here is my interview with Alexandra Butcher

 

 Name: Alexandra Butcher

Age: 38 and lots of bits

Where are you from? UK

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

 I grew up in South East England in a very loving household. We were always encouraged to read, study and be creative and that has resulted in one writer, one artist and one teacher in the family.  I studied politics and sociology at University and later Classical Studies with the Open University, since then I have completed a variety of online courses, including one about Leonardo Da Vinci.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Hmm I just finished a course called Plagues, Witches and War: The Worlds of Historical Fiction. There’s a review on my blog. I am working on Book 3 of my series and several anthology pieces, which I hope will materialize sometime in 2014.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

 Oh gosh, I guess at school. As I said at home we were encouraged to be creative and at school I was the one doing the poem or story for the school display. Why? Writing is a form of escapism, I was bullied and I think that may have something to do with it. More than that there were stories and poems in my head and they wanted to be written.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I started a novel years ago (which is terrible) and I have been writing poetry and short stories for years. I think I always have been a writer, just not one who was published until recently.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Ignoring the terrible one I mentioned earlier Book I of my series actually was born from an adventure I had written for an online game I played with some friends. The group broke up, as real life has the habit of getting in the way and I decided to do something with all the notes and ideas I had. I had worked on something a few years back which never grew to fruition so I mixed the two ideas and the world of Erana the stories which grew from it appeared.  I was encouraged to self-publish and I have to say hitting publish was one of the most terrifying things I have done. No writer likes to think that their work is rubbish and that no one wants to read it, the first time someone I didn’t know bought the book I was amazed. It is a really good feeling and I am so glad I did it.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I guess my writing is quite formal, and very descriptive. I have a lot of world building and I tend to write how I like to read.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The Light Beyond the Storm is a play on words – the two lead characters are the Storm Mage Archos and Dii’Athella who (at least in book II) is the Lady of the Light.

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

 People see different things in the books they read, and even different messages in the same books. Some are intentional and some stem from the reader’s own opinions and education. There is no specific message in my books, although the themes of abuse, racism, ignorance and the power of fear are all there.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

 It is fantasy so it isn’t based on real events or people if that is what you mean. There is quite a bit of research involved so in that respect there is some realism.

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

 No.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

How long a list do you want? Let’s see – Count of Monte Christo, Wuthering Heights, Phantom of the Opera, Lord of the Rings, Discworld Series, I, the Sun, the Sacred Band, Schindler’s List, the Odyssey….

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

 Janet Morris, the writer of fantasy, although there are many writers whose work I admire and who in their own way have influenced me.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Beyond Sanctuary by Janet Morris and also a book about Jack the Ripper. I tend to read a couple of books at once.

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

 J.D Hallowell is great, he writes dragon fantasy and his series is very good.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

 I am working on Book III of my series and a few anthology pieces. I am also trying to study and hope to start writing for magazine and yahoo voices at some point soon. I am also working on a collection of dark fairy tales and some short stories set in the world featured in my novel.

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

 My best friend Diana has been a real rock for me. She beta reads and tells me when things don’t work and she listens to my moaningJ

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

It would be very nice! At the moment, honestly no, I have bills to pay and I need a day job. Very few indies make enough to give up the day job but sometimes it happens. Who knows what the future will bring?

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

 That depends – if we are talking about my work in progress then yes, it has had a few incarnations thus far. One of the anthology pieces I would have expanded and I guess in Book II of the series I might have found a way of linking in more teasers for later books.

 

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

 I have always loved reading and I have written poetry since I was at junior school. Most of my poetry is deeply introspective and I would be unlikely to show it to anyone but it was very cathartic. The story telling came from there, I guess. I used to write a lot of what is now called fan-fiction for Phantom of the Opera some of which is good….some isn’t. Writing is a release, a place of refuge and a great joy.

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

This is the prologue of book 3 as it now stands – Kherak Var knew her days were numbered. As a Shaman of the Trollkind she was granted an inkling of when she would go to serve at the feet of the goddess she favoured. To say she was unafraid would not be the truth, for only a fool does not fear death and Kherak was not a fool.

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

Writing when I am stressed or tired, oh and being disciplined enough to write every day.

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

 Again I doubt I can pick just one. Every author is unique, with their own style and even reading a book a few times I find something new each time. I like Gaston Leroux as his books scare the pants off me;) The mysteries are excellent and the horror is very psychological. Modern writers – Terry Pratchett as the Discworld books are very funny and he is a great writer.

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

 No

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Oxana Mazur is the photographer.

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

Book I was finished and Book II was started when my mother was suffering from cancer, so finding the motivation then was difficult. Being disciplined and writing every day is something I struggle with.

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

There was quite a bit of research involved, including herbalism, geography, researching fight scenes and weapons. I learned a lot about the writing process and finding the confidence to actually publish taught me a lot.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

 Be patient, keep writing, love what you do. Most writers don’t make much money, at least not initially and so be realistic and keep writing. Also read the FAQ and Terms of Service with your publisher, Amazon, Smashwords etc. You are doing business with them, and it really helps to know what you can expect and what is required.  Write what you know and what makes you happy, don’t force the book to be something it isn’t.

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

 Enjoy the books, and if you do tell your friends;)

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Not the first, I have a terrible memory. I used to love the Thomas the Tank Engine Books when I was little. I used to read the Willard Price books a lot too.  Books which stuck in my mind – Watership Down, Dracula, Phantom of the Opera, Soul Music.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

I like photography (although I am not very good), reading, history and nature. I used to make jewelry but I wasn’t very good at that either, and now it just makes my back condition hurt. I used to do a lot of Roleplay games but as most of my RPG friends have moved away or no longer play it isn’t something I have done for a while.

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

 Mythbusters, Dr Who, CSI, science, history and nature programmes. Films – last one I watched was Thor: The Dark World. I like fantasy, sci-fi, action films and superheroes.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

 Food- Cheese, Colour-black and purple,  Music -Classical, Queen or Musicals

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

When I was little I wanted to be a steam train driver, a jcb driver or a pilot. I almost joined the Armed Forces but due to a knee injury I would have failed the medical. Other than that, honestly I have no idea! Now I would like to work somewhere I could use my qualifications, perhaps in a historical field. I think as you get older the idealism of youth is replaced by the reality of paying bills.

 Fiona: Do you have a blog/website?

If so what is it? www.libraryoferana.wordpress.com which features author, reader and reviewer interviews, info about the books, posts about writing, book reviews, and lots more.

Book Links:

The Light Beyond the Storm Chronicles – Book 1 http://www.amazon.com/Light-Beyond-Storm-Chronicles–ebook/dp/B0088DQO9C

https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/290716

The Shining Citadel

http://www.amazon.com/The-Shining-Citadel-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B00D4CF6W8

https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/352783?ref=ALB123

Anthologies:

Wyrd Worlds

 http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/355249

http://www.wyrdstar.co.uk/books/wyrdworlds.html

No Sleeves and Short Dresses – Summer Anthology – Bliss Charity.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/No-Sleeves-Short-Dresses-Anthology/dp/1492234494/https://www.createspace.com/4414094

A Splendid Salmagundi

http://www.amazon.com/A-Splendid-Salmagundi-ebook/dp/B009RBQSA4