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~ My interviews with many authors

authorsinterviews

Monthly Archives: January 2014

Here is my interview with Jacob Rayne

30 Thursday Jan 2014

Posted by fionamcvie1964 in Uncategorized

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Name Jacob Rayne

Age 29

Where are you from

A small town called Bishop Auckland in the North East of England.

A little about yourself `ie your education Family life etc

I’ve been happily married to the woman of my dreams for just over four years. We have an amazing sixteen month old daughter who we are both immensely proud of. When I’m not wrist deep in dirty nappies I love writing dark, disturbing horror stories.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I’ve recently self-published two of my horror novellas, Sunshine and Flesh Harvest, through Amazon.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sunshine-Jacob-Rayne-ebook/dp/B00HRK2D5G/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1391120881&sr=8-2&keywords=jacob+rayne

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Flesh-Harvest-Jacob-Rayne-ebook/dp/B00HRJ35A4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1391120881&sr=8-1&keywords=jacob+rayne

The reviews are starting to come in and so far they’re making me a very happy man! There’s another novella, Digital Children, due for release during the first week in March.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I always loved to write stories as a kid, it was something that I couldn’t wait to get as an assignment. The first thing I wrote as an adult was a story called Becoming… which has been around for almost a decade now. I started that because I was bored one day and fancied trying something new.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I started taking this seriously which was about three years ago when I began writing a hitman novel called Karma Personified.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

The very first book I wrote was Becoming… I was reading and watching a lot of horror and I decided to give it a go myself. The first handwritten draft of it was stuck in a bin bag in the loft because I was immensely proud of it. I thought there was something worth holding onto, so I kept it. A few years down the line, a chance comment by my wife made me dig it out and start working on it again. Ten years and many, many edits and rewrites later it’s almost ready for release!

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Fast and furious. Do you remember the Looney Tunes character Taz? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c54SvkgQ04A

That’s what my stories remind me of – flying at you, wide-eyed, spitting and snarling, trying to tear you limb from limb. My books are filled with action and gore and I try to make them as addictive as possible. There’s a bit of gallows humour in there too. A few readers have told me that my stories would make great movies. One even said they could see it as a Tarantino film, which pretty much made my year!

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

This is going to sound really cheesy, but it’s the truth so I’m stuck with it! The title of Sunshine actually came to me in a dream. I had the title in my mind for almost a year before the right story idea came along and everything linked together perfectly.

The title of Flesh Harvest was inspired by the events that take place in the story. Initially, I wanted to call it Blood Harvest, but I had read a book with that title the previous year, so that was out. On reflection, I much prefer Flesh Harvest as a title, so everything worked out for the better.

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

Yes, there is hope no matter how bad the situation, but be careful who you trust. Don’t be a dick or it’ll usually come back to bite you on the arse!

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Hopefully none of it, I wouldn’t like to think either of those things had actually happened!

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

No, but some of my characters have a little of me in there.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

Stephen King’s IT, Pet Sematary. A fantastic book called Mr Shivers, by Robert Jackson Bennett. Love that one! Shaun Hutson’s Body Count, Compulsion. James Herbert was an awesome writer. And I love most of Richard Laymon’s stuff too. It’s a real shame those two are no longer with us.

I’ve always loved Charlie and the Chocolate Factory too. Roald Dahl is probably the best kid’s writer ever.

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

There are a few, but probably the one I have the most to be grateful for has been Rod Glenn of Wild Wolf Publishing. He’s helped me a lot and he’s a brilliant writer. The Sinema series is outstanding.

I’d also like to mention Poppet, Reggie, Chuck Lovatt, and the Light Brothers. All have given me very helpful feedback and advice and are all great writers.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Night Shift by Stephen King, I’ve just started Twisted Souls by Shaun Hutson too.

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

The Light Brothers, Adam and Evans, are both really talented guys. Check out Adam’s Serving the Spirits and Gone.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Adam-Light/e/B0075WNUK8/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2?qid=1391122216&sr=8-2

For Evans, try Don’t Need No Water and The Mole People Beneath the City.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Evans-Light/e/B0075WB5WI/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1391122256&sr=8-1

I’m starting to get into Iain Rob Wright’s stuff too.

My friend Richard Rhys Jones wrote House in Wales, which is one hell of a book.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/House-Wales-Richard-Rhys-Jones-ebook/dp/B00C2SL5DY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1391122286&sr=8-1&keywords=house+in+wales

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I’m currently editing the first novel of a five book apocalyptic horror series, tentatively titled Dying Breed. I’ve got a great feeling about it; there are some really creepy bits and funny one-liners. My wife keeps giving me funny looks cos I keep laughing at the computer screen! I’m hoping part one will be ready for release by Christmas.

I’m also going to give Digital Children, my upcoming novella release, a final run through. Becoming… needs another edit too. Once that’s all done, I’m going to sort out the second and third (and, hopefully, fourth and fifth) parts of the Dying Breed series.

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

My wife’s cousin, Ian. He’s always been positive and supportive. He’s a beast of a drummer too.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I hope so. The time I get to spend doing it every day just isn’t enough. I’d love to do this full time and I’m working my backside off to make sure that happens.

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

No, I’m happy with them as they are.

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

Through reading and watching horror movies. The one thing I remember was watching The Shining as a kid and thinking Wow! It was the blood in the elevator I remember most, such an unforgettable and powerful image.

It took a good many years from that to starting this seriously, but I was always drawn to horror stories and films more than any others. As a teenager I always remember walking into a video store and looking at all the horror movies and feeling like a kid in a sweetshop! I still get a bit like that in the horror section in Waterstones and HMV.

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

Yes, this is from Becoming…

The dying October sun was shedding the last of its blood onto the dark clouds above Marshton town as Rhonda Williams pulled her car into the driveway of her detached home. The fading light meant that she had kept her headlights on for the duration of her short journey from the office on the main street.

Cursing, she realised that the bin men had left the bin recklessly across the bottom of the drive. There was no way she could park the car without getting out and moving the bin. Raindrops spattered the windscreen as she opened the door.

‘Just great,’ she hissed, putting one of her work files over her head to shield it from the concussive force of the falling rain as she hauled the bin back to its usual position by the back door.

As she dusted the stale dirt from her hands, she noticed that the kitchen light was on. ‘Lazy little bastards,’ she hissed, realising that her teenaged son, Mark, and her eleven year old daughter, Hannah, were home and hadn’t been arsed to put the bin back. ‘How many goddamned times do I have to tell them?’ she muttered as she got back into the car.

She parked the car in front of the garage and got out, again sheltering under the file as she used the light from the boot to search for the correct key. With it in hand, she pulled the bag of shopping from the boot and moved to the door. She inserted the key and turned it, feeling a strange sense of something being wrong.

The bottle of sparkling wine in the shopping bag clinked against the door as she fumbled and dropped the key. Then it struck her what was wrong: eyes were crawling over her skin like dozens of tiny spiders. She looked round and saw no one.

Muttering angry words beneath her breath, she put the bag down and bent to pick up the keys. As she concentrated on the key, a gloved hand lifted the lid of the wheely bin next to the one she’d dragged back along the drive. She heard gurgling laughter then the bin lid slamming shut.

She jolted and spun to face the source of the noise. Her entire body shaking with the fear that pulsed through her, she grabbed the lid of the bin.

Pulled it up.

A white-painted face stared up at her. The eyes were painted with black crosses, the nose was a black circle and the mouth a dark grin that seemed to stretch from ear to ear. A shock of fuzzy black hair sat atop the leering face.

She froze in her confusion.

The clown let out a low, disturbing chuckle then stood up from the bin. Rhonda’s heart leapt into her throat. Her eyes were drawn to the cleaver in the clown’s hand. It was dripping with blood that looked black in the fading light.

The clown’s movement towards her shocked her into action. She picked up the bag of shopping and turned the door handle. The hinges squealed as the door opened. She pulled the key out of the lock and forced her trembling body through the doorway.

She slammed the door on the clown’s arm which was reaching through the doorway for her. She tried to force the door shut but the meaty limb blocked its path. The clown barged the door with his shoulder. His black- and white-painted face appeared in the open door. Thinking fast, she pulled the wine bottle out and swung it at his head.

The bottle exploded, showering glass and fizzing wine everywhere. The clown stumbled back just enough to allow her to get the door shut. At first, her shaking hand missed the keyhole but finally the key sunk in. She lifted the handle and turned the key, just as the clown hurled himself against the glass.

To her relief the glass held, but she knew that it wouldn’t last forever.

The clown’s insane face pressed against the window, distorted by the pressure he was exerting on the glass. His wounds left small slicks of blood down the window. He let out an insane laugh that would stay with her as long as she lived…

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

Keeping everything flowing nicely and developing characters without slowing down the action and boring people. I put such a huge emphasis on the action (because that’s what I personally look for in a book) that I can sometimes overlook other aspects of the story.

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

At the moment I’d have to say it was Shaun Hutson. When he’s on top form there’s no one who writes stories as addictive as him. I love his short chapters that keep you reading, cos you’re like, ‘One more chapter,’ and before you realize it, you’re another fifty pages down the line!

He has great cliffhanger endings to his chapters so you have to know what happens next and I love his detailed descriptions of gore and action.

The thing I most admire though is how the story starts in the midst of the action and hooks you immediately, there’s no boring scene-setting where you’re half-tempted to put the book down.

I definitely try to keep all of those things in mind in my own work.

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

No, save to pick out CDs or to make dozens of cups of tea!

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I made them myself and I was amazed how well they turned out as art is certainly not my forte!

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

Finding the time in a hectic lifestyle. The writing itself – and I hope to say this without jinxing myself – seems to come easily to me. I just put some music on and off I go.

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

Yes, that the ending doesn’t usually end up the way you think it will and that it is best to let the story go where it wants to go and not think about it too much.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Yes, if this is really what you want to do then stick at it.

Make sure your work is as good as it can be before you submit/self-publish.

Read a lot and try to figure out what it is that makes each book good or bad.

Don’t try to copy anyone or follow trends. People can spot a bandwagon-jumper a mile off. Do your own thing.

Get feedback on your work from friends and family and take their advice on board. If more than one person says to change something, then chances are it needs changing. If only one person says to change something then it’s your call.

One last thing, if you aren’t sure if it’s good enough to release/submit then it probably isn’t. Keep at it until you’re certain it’s ready.

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

Thank you so much for your support so far. I hope we have many happy years together. I’d love to know what you think of my stories, so find me on Facebook or Goodreads. And, in the nicest possible way, I hope I give you nightmares!

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I don’t but the first book I remember really enjoying was To Kill a Mockingbird.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I play with my daughter,  read, play guitar, watch TV, play with my daughter some more and I love eating. Oh, and beer!

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

I love 24, that always kept you wanting more. Dexter is great. My favourite show at the moment is either Sons of Anarchy or Walking Dead. I’m really enjoying Jericho at the moment too.

Filmswise, I’d have to say The Shining, Fight Club, This is Spinal Tap, Airplane, Kill Bill and Pulp Fiction are my favourites. Well, any Tarantino film really.

I have a soft spot for the Scream and Nightmare on Elm Street movies as I grew up watching those. The remake of Nightmare on Elm Street was brilliant. The Evil Dead one was good too. Anything starring Bruce Lee or Sammy L Jackson is usually worth a watch.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

I love pizza, shepherd’s pie, lasagne.

Colours – black, red, green

Music – I listen to metal the vast majority of the time. My favourite bands are Machine Head, Slipknot, Pantera, Slayer, Soulfly and I’m really getting into Gojira.

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

I’d have a lot more time to play guitar so reckon I’d be in a metal band.

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

Yes, it’s http://jacobrayne.wordpress.com/ You can also catch me on Facebook, Goodreads, Occasionally on Twitter.

I’d just like to say a big thank you to you, Fiona, for this opportunity. I’m extremely grateful for you having me on here. Cheers!

 

Here is my interview with David James Keaton

30 Thursday Jan 2014

Posted by fionamcvie1964 in Uncategorized

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Name: David James Keaton

 

Age: Highlander

 

Where are you from? Millbury, Ohio.

A little about yourself, `ie your education, family life, etc.

First, I just wanted to be clear I was talking about the first Highlander up there, not the sequels. Anyway, I received my BFA from Bowling Green State University after taking about a decade longer than I should have to finish up. I was painting houses and plumbing and doing twentysome other jobs at the time. I received my MFA from the University of Pittsburgh, where I met my wife. We live in Louisville, Kentucky, where she’s getting her Ph.D at U of L, and I’m teaching composition at Elizabethtown Community College in Elizabethtown. I’m the editor and founder of Flywheel Magazine, the fiction editor of The Heartland Review, and I have about fifty stories in various places – print, online, some in that new e-book sorcery.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

 

My first novel is due out this summer from Broken River Books. It’s been through a couple name changes, but now it’s called The Last Projector. There are a couple intersecting storylines, dealing mostly with a former paramedic turned adult-film director in the twilight of his career, and the details of a mystery surrounding the cover-up of an assault in the back of his ambulance. There’s a lot of other craziness going on, and a ton of ‘80s movie talk

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

 

I wrote my first book in fifth grade, Galactic Grapes, Superworm, and Other Comics (the grapes turned into their own enemies, the ‘Retched Raisins,’ if they battled their foes in the sunlight), and this project was inspired by a desire to avoid actual schoolwork. I was allowed to sit in the hall to draw and bind this book during regular class time. So I loved getting “sent out to the hall,” even though this was usually considered a punishment. 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

 

I consider myself more of a typer. I would only feel comfortable with such a noble title if I used a quill.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

 

I’ve been told it’s kind of ranty/stream-of-consciousness sometimes, but that’s due to an attempt to make it sound über-conversational, as if the story is delivered by someone sitting in the car with you.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

 

Galactic Grapes? Alliteration and fruit leaves few options! The Last Projector is set around a drive-in for a lot of the story, so that’s where that title came from. And there’s also quite a bit of the “projecting” you find in psychology books when you’re researching about terrible people.

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

 

The Last Projector tries to address women’s lack of agency in crime novels and movies and the rescue fantasies of young men in particular. It rubs the hero’s face right into that nonsense. I’ve recently spent a lot of time with Jane Campion’s films, particularly The Piano and In The Cut, and I feel there’s a similar vibe with this book, a dark comedy about the sexual hang-ups of thrillers. Or something. I was lucky finding J. David Osborne game to publish this, as his Broken Rivers Books is also concerned with addressing these troubling noir and crime tropes in new ways

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

 

Exactly 79%


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

 

A combination of all these things, combined with wish-fulfillment, revenge fantasies, and imaginary movie titles and their imaginary pornographic parodies.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

 

Recently rereading World According to Garp and reading three words a day from Blood Meridian. That one’s hard. Also Ballard’s Crash and Concrete Island (a perfect double-feature read), Palaniuk’s Lullaby really stuck with me (more than Fight Club actually, but maybe not more than the movie version), Ellison’s Deathbird Stories, Spoon River Anthology, Lord of the Flies, the Outlaw Bible of American Literature, and those little Edward Gorey hardcovers.


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

 

I guess Chuck Kinder was my mentor. But if he didn’t exist, it would be necessary to invent him.


Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Smonk by Tom Franklin and Peckerwood by Jedidiah Ayres.

 

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

Just got turned on to Tom Franklin and I’ve been going back and finding old Gordon Williams paperbacks like The Last Day of Lincoln Charles and The Man Who Loved Women. Nick Mamatas just got on my radar, and I’m putting a toe in that water. Jedidiah Ayres just released Peckerwood (also through Broken River Books), so like I said, I’m currently enjoying the hell out of that. It’s like having an entire cable series crammed into a book. He’s a very visual-minded writer. And I’m also in the middle of the late Cort McMeel’s Short, and something called The Raw Shark Texts that I haven’t made up my mind about yet. Some multimedia upstart named Tony McMillian produced and illustrated a book called Nefarious Twit, which I’m very much looking forward to, not just because I helped Kickstart that sucker.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

 

Revising The Last Projector, running around a bit doing readings with my last book Fish Bites Cop!: Stories To Bash Authorities that came out through Comet Press last Spring, and working on a couple screenplays and a new novel.

 

http://www.amazon.com/Fish-Bites-Stories-Bash-Authorities/dp/1936964376

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

My crazy wife Amy Lueck. I met a lot of great
writers at the University of Pittsburgh. Also, when
I was an undergrad at BGSU, I was fortunate enough
to have classes with a hat trick of great writers
who have gone on to kick the world’s ass. Alan
Heathcock, Anthony Doerr, and Mike Czyniejewski. I
name-drop these guys often because I now realize
how rewarding their classes were, how supportive
they were of my terrible freshman writing, and I
still remember the stories they assigned and count
them among my favorites. Wolff’s “Hunters in the
Snow” and “Bullet in the Head,” and Cheever’s “The
Swimmer,” and “Enormous Radio.” I reread those a

lot. I’m not sure I learned anything about writing
in an MFA program, or even if it’s possible, but I
definitely learned a lot about reading.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

 

No idea really. Some of my favorite stories have a hard time finding a home and are often ignored while I sometimes get emails from strangers wanting to talk about stories I wrote in just a couple hours and didn’t really consider. And some of the things getting published by big houses make you go, “Yeeeesh.” So none of it makes any sense to me at all.


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

 

For Fish Bites Cop!, I wish I could add about 30 more stories. For Last Projector, 50 more pages, and a pop-up section in the middle.

 

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

 

I wrote about bugs a lot as a kid. My first story was the ol’ spider bites you in the hand and then weeks later…a bunch of spiders burst out. My next story was about an alien that bit you in the back, and then a bunch of aliens burst out. My third story was about a crab that bit you in the foot… you get the picture. I’d just seen Alien.

 

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


This story is in Fish Bites Cop:

http://thefiddleback.com/issue-items/swatter

 

And this is a teeny, tiny part of The Last Projector:

 

http://pulpmetalmagazine.wordpress.com/2011/06/05/trophies-by-david-james-keaton/

 

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

 

To the reader? I like to think I jump the rails in ways some writers might not. For example I won’t hesitate to use a cliché like “jump the rails.”


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

 

My favorites shift constantly, but right now I’m into Cormac McCarthy’s fiction and Harlan Ellison and John Irving’s nonfiction. T.C. Boyle, too. I reread old Stephen King a lot on trips. It’s such comfort food for children of the ‘80s.


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

I did a little mini-tour for Fish Bites Cop! that took me to Chicago and St. Louis mostly, and repeatedly. The tour ends down the street at Carmichael’s Books here in Louisville, where most of it was written.


Fiona: Who designed the covers?

 

The cover to Fish Bites Cop! was designed by Mark Dancey, who is famous for, among other things, album covers and band posters for people like Soundgarden, Tenacious D, Big Chief and Five Horse Johnson. More importantly, he was one of the founding fathers of the greatest magazine of all time, Motorbooty. I highly recommend tracking down back issues.

The cover of The Last Projector will be designed by Matthew Revert, who has done all of the Broken River Books covers so far for their launch titles:

 

http://jdavidosborne.com/2013/10/11/broken-river-books-the-launch-titles/


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

Bumbling around with computers, revision, having too many versions everywhere, short versions chopped up for submissions, long versions resulting from reassembly, versions where I liked some of the edits I’d made to get it published but then felt some cut too much so I start trying to assemble a Frankenstory thing that’s part revision, part what I’d always loved that made it weird and indulgent. Usually I realize the edits helped. But not always.

 

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

 

A month or so after I finished it, I learned what it was really about.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

 

Yes. Stop giving writing advice.

 

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

 

I’m sorry.

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

 

I’m not sure if it’s the first book, but I remember really loving The Great Brain by John D. Fitzgerald, and Tom Sawyer. And The Phantom Tollbooth. And the Choose Your Own Adventure books, like everybody else.

 

Fiona: Other than writing, do you have any hobbies?

 

I watch a lot of movies, read less than I should. And lately, I’ve been obsessed with writing reviews for a defunct videogame system called the Atari Lynx:

 

http://davidjameskeaton.com/lynx/

 

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

 

Anything from the ‘80s, preferably on VHS for maximum nostalgic frustration.

 

Fiona: Favorite foods/colors/music?

 

Really into spaghetti squash these days. We discovered it when we tried to cut down on having pasta five days a week. They are amazing creations. You bake it, then scrape the thing with a fork, and it turns into spaghetti right before your eyes. I still can’t believe it when it happens.

Favorite color… green?

Favorite music… anything noisy and terrible and conducive to driving.

 

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

 

Crab fishing! Or a typer.

 

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

davidjameskeaton.com and http://www.flywheelmag.com

Here is my interview with Tara Fox Hall

30 Thursday Jan 2014

Posted by fionamcvie1964 in Uncategorized

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Name: Tara Fox Hall (biological name and pen name)

Age: alas, 38

Where are you from: New York State, Binghamton originally

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

Tara Fox Hall received her bachelor’s degree in mathematics with a double minor in chemistry and biology from Binghamton University. Tara Fox Hall’s writing credits include nonfiction, horror, suspense, action-adventure, erotica, and contemporary and historical paranormal romantic drama She is the author of the paranormal fantasy Lash series, the paranormal romantic drama Promise Me series, and the transgender erotic Grow a Pair series. Her horror stories have appeared in Deadman’s Tome, Flashes in the Dark, Ghastly Door, The Halloween Alliance, Black Petals, SNM Horror Magazine, Microhorror, Dark Eclipse, Cemetery Moon, and various anthologies, including the recently published charity works In Vein and Shifters. She also coauthored the essay “The Allure of the Serial Killer,” published in Serial Killers – Philosophy for Everyone: Being and Killing (Wiley-Blackwell, 2010) and authored the essay “Paradox in Film and Fiction,” published in Journal of Experimental and Theoretical Artificial Intelligence’s special issue Paradox and Mind (Taylor and Francis, 2013). Tara divides her free time unequally between writing novels and short stories, chainsawing firewood, caring for stray animals, sewing cat and dog beds for donation to animal shelters, and target practice.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Tara: My latest news is that I have an upcoming new Promise Me novel out, Point of No Return. This is book #7 in the paranormal dramatic romance series. I also recently released a shifter erotica short story called Stalking You in late December.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

Tara: I began writing one page short non-fiction stories based on animal life on my farm. A friend who published a little magazine began publishing them. I often rescued or helped various animals that I came across in daily life. Sharing them with others made me feel I was helping twice, in that readers would be inclined to help animals in trouble they came across if they were previously moved by my stories.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Tara: I began writing my first book in late summer/early fall of 2006, when my mom was misdiagnosed with cancer. I’d always said I would write her a book, but never could make myself sit still longer than a page-long short story. I truly thought I was going to lose her, and that was enough motivation for me to make myself sit down and begin Promise Me.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Tara: I considered myself a writer when my mother finished my draft of Promise Me, and said, “What happens next?” I had never thought beyond one book, intending only to make good on my promise to her. But once she asked the question, I wanted to keep writing. The story just kept pouring out of me, book after book.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Tara: I think that if someone knows my style of writing and has read my work, they can probably tell my writing from another author’s work. But in terms of POV when writing, I switch between first person and third person easily.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Tara: I initially picked Promise as the title of my first book, to convey all the hope of an initial beginning of a relationship that was very emotional and binding. That morphed to Promise Me and Broken Promise, when the book was so long it had to be divided up into two separate books for publication.

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

Tara: That we all go through a hell of a lot in life, and it’s never too late to change your fate, or have the courage to try something new, or say you were sorry, or be someone that you always wished you were. It’s too late when you die. Until then, there is always the chance to become something greater than you are.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Tara: I have never had a vampire lying ill in my basement, but many of the aspects of the series are real. All my pets are based on pets I have or have had. All the aspects of Sar, in terms of how she looks, her opinions, her personality, her strengths and weaknesses are based on my own. Similarly, the males of the books—Danial, Terian, Devlin, Lash, and Theo—all were originally based on people I knew, sometimes a mix of several persons. Many of the funny sayings are things from real conversations I’ve had with people. Sar’s home, Devlin’s home, Danial’s home, the various scenes, etc. are all based on real places I have visited myself, or researched. For example, the cottage where Sar finds Theo in Taken for His Own is based on a cabin my cousin in Denver, CO had years ago. The central part of Devlin’s home, Hayden, is based on my aunt and uncle’s home they used to have near Binghamton, NY. I have been to the Everglades, and descriptions of that in the books are based on my memories. I try to make things as real as possible for readers. I actually plotted several of my various book scenes at a website called www.placingliterature.com, so readers could see they were based on real places.

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

Tara: Per above, in writing Promise Me, the initial scenes were generated by imagining what I would do if I found a vampire. The rest followed from imagining how a real vampire would be; jaded, tired of vampire groupies yet dependent on them for blood, working at something meaningful to fill the endless nights, and probably having trouble in the love department.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

Tara: I’m working on the third book in the Grow a Pair Series, and the fifth book in the Lash series. I also am putting out new Promise Me series books regularly. Book #7 comes out in a few weeks, Point of No Return. Books 8 and 9 will be out later this year.

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

Tara: God

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Tara: I see writing as a necessary part of my life, something I’ll always do, and hope to get better at in time.

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

Tara: no.

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

Tara: Sure! Here it is:

Devlin moved off me, and pulled me into his arms. “It seems forever since I was with you last,” he panted. “Much too long.”

“It was just a week, Dev,” I said, my breaths also coming fast.

“Never again,” he murmured, biting me gently. “You’ll come to me every few days, Sar.” He licked my neck, sighing gently. “I had wanted to do this again,” he said contentedly. “And now you are well enough to do it with me.”

A small part of me had been worried that Dev wouldn’t be as interested in me now that I was his and no longer forbidden. Instead, he acted more excited now than he had been before. Relieved, I reached up to caress his face, running my fingers into his hair.

“I love the way you touch me,” he whispered softly. “So casually, but with such emotion.”

I didn’t reply, just continued to stroke him gently.

“You like my touch as well, Sar,” he whispered. He sucked gently at my neck.

“Ouch!” I said, jerking back from him. “Why must you do that?”

“I like to do it,” he said, giving me a satisfied smile, and then did it again.

“Stop,” I said grumpily. “Bite and drink, or just lick me, but stop doing that. It hurts.”

Devlin blinked his eyes at me curiously. “Does it really hurt, or is it that it feels unsettling?”

“It makes my nerves jangle, like a pinch does,” I said with a rueful smile. “Is it some kind of vampire foreplay, that you enjoy it so much?”

“It’s my kind of foreplay,” he whispered, baring his fangs in a wide smile.

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

Tara: Not usually so far, but I really should go to more conventions and do more public appearances. I’m going to work harder at that in the next 2 years.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Tara: Caroline Andrus at Melange Books designed all the Promise Me Covers, and the covers for Make Me Behave and other anthologies. Deron Douglas designed the covers of the 3rd and 4th Lash books; the first two were designed by Jennifer Bradley of Bradley Publishing. BK Knight of Beau to Beau put together the covers for the Grow A Pair books and the cover for The Chalet and Forbidden Conversations. Last but not least, Robert Helmbrecht arranged for all the covers of the Hazardous Press anthologies, and coordinated with Luke Spooner of Carrion House to make custom covers for both of my recent releases Stalking You and The Tightening Spiral.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Tara: Don’t Give Up!

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

Tara: Thank you for reading, first off! I know I would be nowhere without my readers. And if you enjoy my books…please tell someone you know who appreciates the same kind of books you do. Loan them one of your books, if possible, so they can see what they think. I would be very grateful. The greatest joy an author can have is getting our work read and having people tell us how much the story we created meant to them.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Tara: No. But I was partial to the Black Stallion series in grade school. I read the entire series!

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

Tara: I like to latchhook rugs, sew cat and dog beds for charities, knit scarves, garden, rescue animals, read, swim, walk, and quilt.

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

Tara: I am currently following Hannibal, Hell on Wheels, Turn, Sleepy Hollow, Supernatural, The Mentalist, and what I can get of the 4 major tennis tournaments. I enjoyed Breaking Bad immensely!

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Tara: Eel, chocolate, french fries, salad, pizza, soup, maple fudge/grey, black, red, blue, green/anything that is not hiphop or rap, unless its Irish Rap

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

Tara: I’m not sure; I’m still deciding on new things to attempt. Like I said above, there is still time! J

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

Tara: tarafoxhall.com is my website. My blog and other links are below:

Tara’s Email: tarafoxhallATgmail.com

 

Tara’s Blog: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5286654.Tara_Fox_Hall/blog

 

Tara’s Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tara-Fox-Hall/151813374904903

 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/TerrorFoxHall

 

Here is my interview with Dennis Higgins

30 Thursday Jan 2014

Posted by fionamcvie1964 in Uncategorized

≈ 3 Comments

Name: Dennis Higgins

Age: The common age.

Where are you from? Chicago, USA.

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

I went to Catholic school for elementary and high school. I had some community college, but not for writing, for electronics.

I live in the suburbs of Chicago with my wife, two silly dogs and three birds.

I have three grown kids who are all away from the house.

I love writing and time travel.  

Here are the titles of my three available books:

Parallel Roads (Lost on Route 66)

Katya and Cyrus Time Pilgrims

Almost Yesterday

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

Dennis: First of all, thanks for having me, Fiona. I have recently completed my forth book and the last in my Time Pilgrim series. It is currently being reviewed by my publisher. I am now between projects and that is why I have time to do fab interviews like this one.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

Dennis: I have always sort of wanted to write. I just didn’t know I really could be published. Years ago, when I met my wife online, we started writing one of my early fantasies…to time travel to 1871 to the great Chicago Fire. We did it for fun in a never ending story type of format, where I would write a paragraph and then she would. It was terrible because we were falling in love and it was mostly our characters heading off into a barn or a carriage or anywhere else they could find to be alone. Later, I took on the project myself, but that ended up being my second book, Katya and Cyrus Time Pilgrims.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Dennis: With my first book, Parallel Roads (Lost on Route 66). I knew I was a good story teller, I didn’t know if I could put it all down in book form. But I had this idea that I knew had never been done before. A time travel story about a man desperate to find out what happened to his Grandma Kate who disappeared down Route 66 back in 1946. He follows her path and ends up in her time following her as a young woman. I wrote it and people loved it. I was a writer.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Dennis: As I said I always wanted to. My wife said to me one day, just write the first paragraph. I did and I sent it to her on email. It is still much like the opening line in Parallel Roads.

“Grandma disappeared only weeks after giving birth to my dad. She left Chicago via Route 66 on March 22, 1946, but never arrived at Aunt Karen’s in Burbank. Today they call it postpartum depression, but back then I’m sure she felt like she had gone insane.”

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Dennis: I would call it simplified. Straight forward, the way people talk.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Dennis: Parallel Roads was my wife’s brainstorm after reading my manuscript. Katya and Cyrus were the characters we used in our original never ending story, but I came up with Time Pilgrims because in these stories, my young characters are just learning what time travel is all about. So they are like pilgrims embarking on a new journey. Almost Yesterday is a play on words and tenses.

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

Dennis: Not really. I did get angry with the books that treated faith or the Catholic Church like the enemy, such as the DaVinci Code, so I throw in everyday faith in a positive light, not just Catholic, but multi-cultural faith. Not everybody in my books have it but it is mostly taken for granted.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Dennis: Except for the time travel itself, all of it is accurate. I research events and places from the past. I’m also careful about how each character speaks. Even my UK characters.

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

Dennis: Not really, but I think all authors put a touch of themselves and the people and places around them.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

Dennis: Somewhere in Time, The Time Travelers Wife, Time and Again and Harry Potter.

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

Dennis: Richard Matheson who wrote Somewhere in Time, What Dreams May Come, Stir of Echoes. They were all great movies too. He also used to write for the Twilight Zone series. Unfortunately, he has passed on.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Dennis: All Bottled Up by Angela Rose which ironically is a Scottish adventure.  I recently discovered that I had more Scottish in me, than I thought. I am related to the famous American, Davy Crockett and he was Scottish and Irish. I recently traced my ancestry back to a single family who came to the new world in the 1600s from Scotland.

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

Dennis: Sure, I have a lot of Indie author friends and I love some of their books. Too many to list.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

Dennis: I sort of answered that above about my latest news. I am working around something in my brain, but it’s a secret.

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

Dennis: Sometimes virtual friends you meet on social networks can be more supportive than family members. I met a super talented multi-genre author who specializes in children’s books who I have made my virtual sister, having lost mine years ago to suicide. Her name is Author Virginia Wright.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Dennis: I want it to be. I know I will do it for the rest of my life. Still can’t quit my day job, Fiona.

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

Dennis: Nope.

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

Dennis: When I was a young boy is school, I was called a daydreamer. Today I’m sure I would have been diagnosed with ADD. I could always think up stories in my head. I never suffer from writers block. The stories always flood out.

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

Dennis: Sure. I have my characters doing pilgrimages in the American Civil War, where they address the issue of slavery. Another falls in love with an Indian maiden before the white man came to the land. Others meet Paul Revere during the Revolutionary War, experience the infamous Oklahoma Dust Bowl, and take a trip to Greenwich, England to meet their adversaries face to face. This is just to name a few. Secrets and mysteries that started in Katya and Cyrus are all revealed when this one comes out.

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

Dennis: I was once told I am all about dialogue and action. I have to concentrate on descriptive writing. I tend to tell stories through people talking to each other, much like in the movies.

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

Dennis: I should travel more, like a book tour, but I have other responsibilities at home. I have done a lot of travelling in the past which helps my writing be better-rounded. I have been to the UK, Malaysia, Europe, China, and the Philippines. Plus all over the United States, including Route 66.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Dennis: Parallel Roads was designed by me but done by my ex daughter in-law. Katya and Cyrus Time Pilgrims and Almost Yesterday were made by my publisher from my descriptions.

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

Dennis: To me, it’s not the writing, but the promotions.

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

Dennis: I learned lots of things. I had to research the past, so I could submerge myself in how people talked, felt and responded to things in other times and places. I learned tons about the publishing world and I even get to be interviewed by a nice Scottish lady. My first actually.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Dennis: All writers I know go through this period where they think they suck. They think they are frauds and not real authors. The truth is, they are and they don’t suck. Realize that someone or many people will be loving what they write.

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

Dennis: If you read me and you’ve liked what you’ve read, take the time and leave a review on Amazon or where ever you got my book from.  Know that my books are full of fun and a touch of romance. They are easy reads, never too heavy.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Dennis: Old Yeller. I don’t even know who wrote it, but I used to love dog stories. That’s why I have a dog time traveler in Almost Yesterday as sort of tribute.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

Dennis: Not so much anymore. Writing and social networking has taken up most of my hobby time. I still work a day job to pay the bills so the next question will be easy to answer, since I come home tired and crash in front of the TV at night.

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

Dennis: My wife and I watch a lot of different shows. We like edgy shows like Being Human and The Walking Dead, but also enjoy comedies such as The Big Bang Theory and the Simpsons. We watch Doctor Who and recently found a UK show called IT Group that cracked us up. For movies, I like the Marvel ones, like Iron Man and the Avengers, anything time travel related and even the romantic comedies.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Dennis: Pizza, hands down, but if the readers of your blog have never been to Chicago, they don’t know exactly what I am talking about. My favorite color is teal or any mixture of blue and green. I like pop/rock music. I have always loved the Beatles and the Moody Blues, but I like modern rock as well, such as Mumford & Sons, Estelle, Lorde and Muse.

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

Dennis: An actor of screen or stage. I would have liked to be in musicals, such as Phantom of the opera or West Side Story.

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

http://www.timepilgrims.com/

Dennis: Fiona, thank you again for the interview. It was a lot of fun.

Here is my interview with Jonathan Winn

29 Wednesday Jan 2014

Posted by fionamcvie1964 in Uncategorized

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Name Jonathan Winn

Age 44

Where are you from

Born in Washington State

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

Raised in a very small town in Washington State, moved to LA after graduating high school and then, ten years later, picked up and left for NYC where I was for seventeen years.  I now bounce back and forth between LA and Texas.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

The Prologue to my next book, “Martuk … the Holy:  Proseuche”, the sequel to my award-winning debut novel “Martuk … the Holy”, will be published as a short story called “Amaranthine” in the April edition of Under the Bed magazine, with the book itself to follow in May.  I’m also hoping to have ‘The Tall Priest”, the latest installment in The Martuk Series, an ongoing collection of Short Fiction inspired by “Martuk … ” ready by the end of February.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began as a screenwriter in the summer of 2004.  The fiction writing didn’t begin until March 2009.  And why?  I don’t know.  Why not?  I love writing, I have stories to tell, and writing, for me, is a great job.  Why WOULDN’T I do it?

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When my first screenplay ended up on the desk of an Exec at DreamWorks.  Although they didn’t run with it, that’s when I knew I could do this.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

The story Martuk needed to be told.  When you’re walking through Washington Square Park with your dogs and you suddenly find this man, this immortal, whispering in your ear, it becomes pretty obvious pretty quick that this is worth paying attention to.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I’m not sure what this means.  We all have our own unique voice, of course.  And I absolutely cannot write unless I have music blaring through my headphones.  Does that answer the question?  🙂

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I didn’t.  My Martuk gave it to me, including the ellipse.  And how can you disagree with an immortal man whispering in your ear?

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

Nope.  I want them to take a ride, have them enjoy the read, and, hopefully, be intrigued enough to come back for more.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Well, the streets he walks in Paris are ones I’m very familiar with.  And my research into the ancient city of Uruk and Jerusalem in the 1st century was pretty intense.  So, although it’s certainly not an info-dump of historical accuracy, I did try to give as much a sense of life in those times, and in modern day Paris, as I could without derailing the narrative.

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

Ha!  No, not really.  I’m not immortal, nor is anyone I know.  Or at least I don’t think they are.  Now you’ve got me wondering.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

Although my views have changed as I’ve gotten older, the first time I read Anne Rice’s “The Witching Hour” was like a thunderclap.  It just stunned me that she was able to tell such a complicated story spanning several generations in such an apparently easy, off-hand way.  It’s still a favorite of mine.

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

Yikes!  I’ve never thought about this.  Well, Rice is a great storyteller, for the most part.  And Stephen King has become a bit more economical with his words since his earlier work, which is good for me to see as I do tend to go on a bit and, Lord knows, Martuk isn’t a perfect book.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m between books, kind of.  I just finished Reza Aslan’s “Zealot: The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth”, which was a very good read, and have sorta started Stephen King’s “The Shining”, but am finding it a bit slow.  Again, it’s good to revisit a favorite author’s earlier work.  Helps to remind you that even the best started somewhere.

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

Not really, though I’ve recently become more involved in Facebook and am finding myself intrigued by people like Mercedes M. Yardley, who just released her debut novel “Nameless: The Darkness Comes” and Shane McKenzie whose book “Stork” I downloaded when it was free.  Looking forward to carving out some time to discover these two, and more.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I’m readying “Martuk … the Holy:  Proseuche”, the sequel to “Martuk … the Holy”, for a May release.  I’m also getting “The Tall Priest”, the fourth installment in The Martuk Series, an ongoing collection of Short Fiction inspired by “Martuk … ” set up to see the light of day sometime in February.  Add to that the various short stories I’m writing to submit to Shroud and Dark Regions Press and others, and I’m a pretty busy boy.

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

Mark Smith, a longtime friend of mine, has been wonderful and has a great pair of eyes when it comes to my work.  And a newer friend, Chris Todd, has a constant interest in my work, how it’s going, what I’m writing, so on and so forth.  It’s great to have people like that keeping you on your toes.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I see it as my life.

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

Of course.  You grow as a writer, revisit your earlier work, and immediately see things you’d do differently.  But it’s important to have those earlier efforts.  It’s nice to applaud your progress as each book, hopefully, is better than the last.

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

Nope.  I recall walking through the park with my dogs and suddenly having this tortured immortal with a three-book arc in my head.

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

Sure.  Here’s an excerpt from “Martuk … the Holy:  Proseuche”, the book I’m readying for release in May —

Words, symbols, signs, they littered her body, these silent prayers chiseled into her flesh.  There was a time when they had bled, and her skin had wept.  But now all was quiet.  A maze of ridges and wounds.  The never forgotten memory of the knife’s blade.

She bent forward, her hair covering her face as she gazed into the empty bowl, barely heard whispers on her lips.

I glanced into the wide, smooth wood and saw only the thin layer of dust and a remnant of a cobweb.  This was not a bowl where fire burned or spices were ground to dust.

She then spoke, her voice a whisper, the word lost to me.

Bending low, her lips near the sanded wood, she spoke the word again.

Again, my ears couldn’t catch it.

Arching her back, she raised up, her head tilted skyward,

and, again, the word came.

“Ephphatha.”

I knew this word.  It was an ancient word.   A word crackling with magic and power.

Open, it meant.  Be open.  Open for me.  I am open.  Come forth.  You are welcome.

Open.

Cecilia remained seated, her legs crossed, her eyes closed, her scarred flesh naked, the wild tumble of her dark hair falling past her shoulders to land on her breasts.  She was quiet, no other long-forgotten words passing her lips.

She needed only one.

And that one she had spoken.

Ephphatha.

She looked at me now, her eyes giving nothing but the glazed look of one on the verge of surrender.  And then she looked to the bowl.

I, too, looked.

Water lapped the edges.

I closed my eyes, and then opened them again, sure that what I was seeing was a trick of the light.  Or a mistake.

But no.  Clear water now lapped the edges of the bowl.  Where only a layer of dust and the forgotten memory of a cobweb had been, there was water.  Deep, clear water.  Water that threatened to rise over the wood and slap our legs or spill onto the floor.

She lifted her hand and stretched her fingers wide.  And then, placing her palm on the surface, her flesh just grazing the liquid, she made a circle once, twice, and then a third time, this witch again whispering words I couldn’t hear.

It became hypnotic.  The flickering candles.  Cecilia, naked and powerful.  Her hand oh so gentle as she caressed the sudden water.  The whispers.  These words of magic, of an ancient and dark and ominous magic, passing her lips, but not gracing my ears.

From somewhere, there was a low, insistent buzz.  A ringing, perhaps, in my ears.  But more than that.  It was a something I could feel on my skin and in my bones.  Vibrating against my teeth and stinging my eyes.  It was the sound of something living and breathing and waiting in the shadows.

I wanted to look around, to peer into the dark that surrounded us outside the safety of the candlelight, but I couldn’t turn my head.  My body felt light, my mind thick, my mouth dry.  I swallowed, my stomach turning and churning.  And then I swallowed again, my hand, awkward and slow, wiping sweat from my brow.

She was now bending forward, her hand still moving, the water spreading in one small ripple after another.  And then she bent back, her body arched, the water still on her palm.  Forward again, her shoulders hunching, her face moving near the bowl, her lips mouthing words I couldn’t hear.  Rocking back and forth, the water living now, gathering to wrap around her hand, reach up her arm and caress the scarred flesh as it wormed into the ridges of those words and symbols and signs.

I wanted to lie down.  Needed to rest my head, my stomach still turning in dangerous heaves and belches.  But I couldn’t, whatever movement I would need to make seeming too difficult or complicated or slow.

As if reading the chaos in my heart, Cecilia lifted her head.

From beneath the wild mane of her hair, her eyes caught mine.  They drew me downward, my gaze following hers into the water.

In the clear liquid in the bowl, a fire burned.

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

It changes from book to book.  With the full-length novels, there’s a battle between spreading your literary wing and keeping your narrative on-track and somewhat streamlined.  I still wrestle with that.  With the short fiction, it’s more a matter of boiling the story down to its essence so that it fits in the 13K to 15K word limit I’ve set for myself.  Needless to say, those short fiction books are jam packed with action and move like lightning.

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

Honest to god, I love the work of Susan Wise Bauer.  The way this woman, who doesn’t write in my genre, by the way, brings ancient history to life is too impressive for words.  Her books are fantastic, brilliantly paced reads driven by fact-based events and people and decisions and mistakes that happened centuries ago.

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

No, not yet.  But I know some authors who travel all the time.  But I’m not in demand, so it’s not an issue.  Besides, I’d miss my dogs too much.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Timothy Burch, an incredibly talented artist and good friend.

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

Taking my hands off the wheel and just letting the story tell itself.  It’s good to have that “map”, so to speak, as long as you accept you’ll be tossing it out the window at some point and just giving in to the twin devils of Inspiration and Creation.

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

Yes, I learned books are incredibly difficult to write and anyone, ANYONE, who has the fortitude and determination and stamina to follow it through to THE END deserves our applause and respect and support.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

If you’re not writing, write.  If you’re writing and you feel like it sucks, keep going.  I promise you, the only way to find your voice on the page will be to write through the crap until you get to the good stuff.  Don’t worry, it’s there.

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

Thank you.  For supporting my insanity, for applauding my imagination, for sticking with me through all those annoying descriptives, for insisting I write more and do more, for assuring me that what I do is worth your attention and, of course, for buying my books, I thank you.  A million kajillion bazillion times, I thank you.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Nope, but I’m sure it had a lot of pictures and very small words. 🙂

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I play tennis, so that’s a nice break in the writing day.  I also cook, often ignoring the recipes so it turns out better.  Other than that, I spend my days, weekends included, writing.  It’s what I do.  It’s my life, day in, day out.

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

Not to sound too boring, but I don’t watch TV that much and rarely have the patience for a film, though I write them.  Hard to choose a favorite, though, so I won’t even try.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Foods — anything that tastes good.  I’m not picky and will try anything.  Colors — red and blue and yellow and, okay, probably all of them.  Again, not picky.  Music — write to hard-driving remixes done by people no one has ever heard of that I discover on YouTube.  Also have an affinity for classical and anything else that doesn’t make my ears bleed.

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

I’m also an actor, so I’m doing the two things I’ve wanted to do.  Lucky me!

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

People are welcome to Friend me on Facebook or Follow me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/Jonathan_Winn or take a look at my work via my website at http://martuktheholy.com

Martuk … the Holy:

Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Martuk-Holy-Jonathan-Winn-ebook/dp/B007HPQPV4/ref

The Wounded King, Book One, The Martuk Series:

http://www.amazon.com/The-Wounded-King-Martuk-Series-ebook/dp/B008D72S3E/ref

The Elder, Book Two, The Martuk Series:

http://www.amazon.com/The-Elder-Martuk-Series-ebook/dp/B008Y65ZUM/ref

Red and Gold, Book Three, The Martuk Series:

Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Red-Gold-Martuk-Jonathan-Winn-ebook/dp/B00F4499F4/ref

Here is my interview with Morgan Kearns

29 Wednesday Jan 2014

Posted by fionamcvie1964 in Uncategorized

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Name: Morgan Kearns

Age: Wouldn’t you like to know *wink*

Where are you from:

I grew up near Salt Lake City, Utah and moved to Arizona when I was 19.

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

Prior to becoming a mother, I worked in television news for ten years. Now, all these years later, I’m happily married—almost 19 years—with four amazing kids and an English Bulldog, Gus.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

 My newest release, Hard Break (Deadlines & Diamonds, #5) was released November 21st, 2013. It’s the story of Photojournalist Ian McCallister and widowed, mother of three Kayla Black. It’s a wonderfully heart-breaking story. Read and try not to fall in love with Ian, I dare you. *wink*

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

 I began writing because I had voices in my head telling me to do so. No, I’m not schizophrenic…LOL. I began typing my first word in August of 2007 and published Fade to Black (Deadlines & Diamonds, #1) in November of 2009.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

The day a woman approached me and said, “Oh my gosh, I loved your book! When’s the next one coming out?”

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

 Those damned voices. Rich, Kate and Jesse had a story they desperately wanted told.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

 I really like to write humor. My books all have a healthy dose of LOL.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Because my books are all based on the Television News or Baseball, all of my titles reflect that. Fade to Black, In It To Win It, Out of Left Field, Lucky 13 and Hard Break. A “hard break” is when the network takes over control from the affiliate. Have you ever been watching the news and midsentence the commercial takes over. Yep, you’ve witnessed a “hard break” at its finest. *grins*

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

 Kayla sees some pretty low points in Hard Break, so does Ian as he witnesses her downward spiral. My goal for readers is that when life is at its hardest, look for the people with their hand out to help you. Don’t push them away. No one is an island.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Hard Break is completely fiction. Chase is loosely modeled after my own eleven- and nine-year-old sons. However, Matt in Lucky 13 is ALL my own 13-year-old. The attitude, the adoration for his mama, yep, he’s a great kid!

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

Everyone I come in contact with and everything that’s happened to me have made me who I am—just like everybody else. Of course the influence my writing.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

Twilight. Before you cringe, allow me to explain. The Twilight series reintroduced me to a love of reading. Before then I never considered myself a reader, especially not for enjoyment. Now, I always have a book—or two—I’m in the process of reading. So, yeah, I was totally influenced by Twilight. Thank you, Stephenie Meyer!

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

 For the umpteenth time, I re-reading the Black Dagger Brotherhood series. Can’t wait for The King!

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

 Rose Gordon-Historical, Kris Tualla-Historical, Kindle Alexander—contemporary cowboys, really HAWT cowboys, Lexi Ryan—contemporary…gosh, the list could go on forever!

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I’m working on When at First (Deadlines & Diamonds, #6) which will be out May 2014. It’s the story of Rockets’ First baseman, Mason James. His life has been turned upside down, and just when he gets the change to right it, he screws it up.

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

 That’s easy: Kris Tualla. I met Kris in February of 2011. She invited me to participate in Arizona Dreamin’ as a featured author. In 2012, I became her co-chair and in 2013, with her blessing, started Buildin’ the Dream, an authors helping authors sister conference. Meeting her changed my life for the absolute better! And neither of us has ever looked back.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

It didn’t start out that way, but now? Yeah, I spend WAY too much time doing it—and all the aspects that go along with promoting my work—to consider it anything else.

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

No. I was afraid some might construe Ian as opportunist, but Kayla would never have made it through without him—whether she’s willing to admit it or not.

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

 I sound like a broken record, but it was those ridiculous voices. It was either write or truly be fitted for a straight-jacket.

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

 Here’s a quick excerpt from When at First: He sauntered over to where the luggage debuted from unknown depths and shoved his hands in his pockets. With no hat on, he felt naked. Shit, he may as well be standing bare-skinned with a flashing g-string strapped around his goods. He barely resisted the urge to resituate himself in his boxers. Instead he plowed his fingers through his hair—and could feel the hat-head.

Oh man, the first order of business was to get a hat. Maybe he’d get a cowboy hat. One of them straw ones, like Toby Keith and Kenny Chesney wore. He’d bet he’d look pretty damn good in a cowboy hat. Girls always said how sexy he was in a baseball hat. He nodded, agreeing with the voice in his head. Yeah, he’d get himself a cowboy hat. ©MorganKearns2014

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

Finding the time. Not only do I have my writing career—and all it entails, but I’m a mother of four, AND do the books for my husband’s stucco company.

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

I have multiple favorite authors. JR Ward is amazing. The way she can write description never ceases to amaze me. Lynsay Sands and Janet Evanovich write humor with the best of them! Other favorites include: Kallypso Masters, Lexi Ryan, Molly Harper, Kathryn Ashe, Kris Tualla—really, I’m not just pimping her, I love her books!, Siobhan Muir, and the list goes on and on.

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

I guess I don’t HAVE to travel, but the truth is, I choose to do quite a bit of traveling. Mostly in the state of Arizona, but I do travel to other states occasionally.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

 I have utilized a couple of different Graphic Designers. Hard Break was done by Anya Kelleye with Anya Kelleye Designs. I love her. She’s very open to the author’s opinions and does beautiful work.

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

 It’s always hard when the characters don’t want to let me in. I’ve got a Deadlines & Diamonds novella I’ve got nearly half done. They are stubborn and won’t give me where to go. At some point they’ll open up, I’m sure.

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

 I’ve learned that sometimes what the CHARACTER wants is NOT what the READER wants. Unfortunately, I’m not sure I’d change a thing if I could go back and do it again.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

ALWAYS utilize an editor, one who’s been to school…for editing!

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

I love my readers. In fact, some of them have become very good friends. I’m grateful to everyone who has ever picked up one of my books. So, that’s what I’d say, THANK YOU!

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

 I don’t remember the FIRST book I ever read, but I do remember reading and loving The Boxcar Children way back in the day. I can’t wait until my little girl can read them.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I don’t have a whole lot of “free” time, but I do love to read. And watching my boys play sports is a highlight any day of the week!

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

 Anything that makes me laugh! I don’t do scary…at all. TV: Chicago Fire #TeamSeveride, Hawaii Five-O, Cupcake Wars (even though I hate to cook…lol) Movies: Pitch Perfect, Gone with the Wind, Pretty Woman, How to Lose a Guy. Gosh, I could go on forever.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Favorite foods: Pretty much anything I didn’t have to cook. Colors: ROCKETS’ Blue, baby! *wink* Music: Depends on my mood—everything from Debussy to Def Lepard, Pacabel to Pink.

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

I’d probably still be doing all the crafty stuff (scrapbooking, cardmaking, etc) I did before writing filled my time.

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

Here is all of my contact info:

Website: MorganKearns.com

Blog: authormorgankearns.blogspot.com

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

Twitter: @MorganKearns

Pinterest: @MorganKearnsCom

Here is my interview with Vonda Sinclair

29 Wednesday Jan 2014

Posted by fionamcvie1964 in Uncategorized

≈ 2 Comments

Name Vonda Sinclair

Where are you from? First, thank you so much for inviting me to your blog for an interview! I live in the picturesque mountains of North Carolina in the US.

A little about your self `ie your education, family life, etc.  I’ve been married to my wonderful husband for twenty-five years. I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology, but have always enjoyed writing more.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

 I’m working on the sixth book in my Highland Adventure series of Scottish historical romances. The title of this one is My Rebel Highlander and it’s about Rebbie, an entertaining Scottish earl who has appeared in the last four books. My latest release was My Notorious Highlander in October.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I started writing in elementary school when we were given an assignment to write a short story. Mine turned into a long story. LOL

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

 Probably around twenty years ago.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

 Reading books I loved. I wanted to give it a try. I especially loved the idea of creating unique, real and memorable characters.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I feel I have a voice that works well for historical romance. I love creating imagery and visuals using words.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The title of each book describes the hero of that book. I have been using “My” and “Highlander” and then I put a descriptive word in the middle that will hopefully capture the reader’s imagination. My Fierce Highlander, My Wild Highlander, My Brave Highlander, My Daring Highlander, My Notorious Highlander, etc. Each book stands alone as a complete romance story, but the stories are connected through family and friend relationships.

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

 Love conquers all. And love is the most powerful force in the universe. I like to show this through the developing relationships of my characters.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

 Yes, I write full time.

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

 I generally try to keep most of my work in progress under wraps until it’s almost ready to go. 🙂 But I can share some of my last book, My Notorious Highlander.

Loch Shin, Scotland, June, 1619

 

Torrin MacLeod awoke to the sounds of his men talking outside the tent. Dawn had arrived but, being close to midsummer, ’twas still early, around four in the morning.

“Chief,” Struan, his sword-bearer, said just outside.

“Aye?” Torrin sat up, his eyes scratchy from lack of sleep.

“Riders approaching.”

Having slept fully clothed in his belted plaid, shirt and doublet, Torrin pushed through the flaps of the tent and joined his clansmen. “How many?”

“Six or eight.” His brawny sword-bearer narrowed his eyes and squinted into the distance.

Indeed, those approaching through the mist from the south rode along the trail by Loch Shin at a quick pace. “They’re in a hurry.”

“Aye.”

The other six MacLeods in his own party stood at the ready, though they appeared deceptively relaxed. He didn’t have to tell them to prepare for an attack. They all well knew anyone could quickly turn into an enemy. He always took his best-trained guards with him whenever he traveled. They’d just left Lairg the day before. After his business there was completed, they’d headed north toward Durness. His good friend and foster brother, Iain Stewart, had wanted to accompany him, but Torrin had left while the man slept off a bad bout of drunkenness from the night before. He didn’t need Iain’s help on this mission.

None of his men, except Struan, had guessed his purpose in going to Durness. Of course, Struan could read him easily, and he knew Torrin held a keen interest in Lady Jessie MacKay. An interest that had only increased over the last several months since he’d first met her, even though he hadn’t seen her again.

She haunted him. Her flaming red hair and her bright blue eyes wouldn’t leave his mind or his dreams. Never had he seen such a beautiful lady. She had the presence of a Norse goddess, tall, lithe, and statuesque… almost as tall as Torrin.

Not only were the clan elders hounding him about marrying, but he was ready for a wife. At twenty-eight, he knew ’twas past time for him to marry and sire an heir. His younger brother was already married and had a wee bairn, a lass. He felt left behind. He’d arranged to marry Isobel MacKenzie, but Chief Dirk MacKay, Jessie’s brother, had snatched Isobel from beneath his nose. He didn’t hold it against Dirk. Torrin had been uncertain of the match anyway. But Jessie… she was a woman he didn’t wish to let slip through his fingers.

The riders, swathed in belted plaids, slowed as they approached and eyed Torrin and his men cautiously.

Here’s what the book is about:

My Notorious Highlander – Chief Torrin MacLeod vows to possess and wed the spirited lady who stole his heart the previous winter. But Lady Jessie MacKay wants naught to do with the dangerous warrior, no matter how devilishly handsome and charming he is. When Torrin arrives unexpectedly at Jessie’s home, along with Gregor MacBain, a man Jessie was formerly handfasted to, she is thrown off-kilter. She never wanted to see either man again, but now they are vying for her hand. Torrin promises to protect her from the devious MacBain, but how can she trust Torrin when she has witnessed how lethal he is?

The more time Torrin spends with the strong and independent Jessie, the more determined he is to win her heart. Once she allows him a kiss, he feels her passion flame as hot as his own. After she knows Torrin better, Jessie finds herself falling for the fearsome Highlander. But the odds are stacked against them. The sinister MacBain is bent on kidnapping Jessie, making her his bride and killing Torrin, while Jessie’s conniving younger brother, Haldane, is determined to use Jessie to take over the castle in his older brother’s absence. Jessie fears she can never be with the man she loves, while Torrin will do everything in his power to ensure they are together forever. In his heart, she is the only lady for him.

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

Not really. It’s just a process that takes time. So maybe patience is the biggest challenge. I need to feel the characters’ emotions as I’m writing them. I enjoy writing action scenes and fight scenes. I also love writing romantic scenes. It’s a lot of fun for me.

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

Laura Kinsale. She turns historical romance into an art form. The way she puts words together is so beautiful and hypnotizing.

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

 I have made a few research trips to Scotland, which I LOVE. I find great joy in visiting all the castles and investigating the history. My latest book is set in Durness, so it was wonderful seeing and feeling what it was like there in summer, when my book is set there. I love describing the beautiful Scottish settings. I want to make the readers feel they are there.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

 Believe in yourself and your work. Keep honing your craft. Keep improving.

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

 Thank you for reading my books! It gives me a great thrill to know people are reading my books and enjoying them.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Thumbelina and The Bear in the Boat were two of them. 🙂

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

 Yes, I enjoy taking photos. If I’m not writing, I’m happiest taking pics in Scotland. 🙂

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

 I enjoy Castle, The Bachelor, Chopped, House Hunters, Monarch of the Glen, shows about history and archeology, some comedies, Jeopardy, etc. A little of this, and a little of that.

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

 www.vondasinclair.com

My Notorious Highlander buy links

B&N http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/my-notorious-highlander-vonda-sinclair/1117318060?ean=2940148831570

Amazon: http://amzn.com/B00GB5M4K2

Smashwords: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/372642

Here’s the link to my latest book (My Notorious Highlander) at Amazon UK.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00GB5M4K2

The first book in the series (My Fierce Highlander) is available at a lower price. For a brief time around Feb 21 it will be on sale for .99 cents US, and less than that in the UK.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B005ESI94C

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords | Diesel | Apple/iTunes |Print | Kobo

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Bio: Vonda Sinclair’s favorite indulgent pastime is exploring Scotland, from Edinburgh to the untamed and windblown north coast. She also enjoys creating hot Highland heroes and spirited lasses to drive them mad. Her historical romances have won an EPIC Award and a National Readers’ Choice Award. She lives with her amazing and supportive husband in the mountains of North Carolina where she is no doubt creating another Scottish story.

Here is my interview with Jane Bwye

28 Tuesday Jan 2014

Posted by fionamcvie1964 in Uncategorized

≈ 2 Comments

Name: Jane Bwye

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing at the age of nineteen at University, when the editor of the Kenya Weekly News advised me to read Somerset Maugham’s stories, and asked me to send back a series of “Letters from Oxford.” But I never thought of myself as an author until my book, Breath of Africa http://www.janebwye.com/breath-of-africa was published by Crooked Cat http://www.crookedcatbooks.com/ last March.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The title was taken from the part in the book where Caroline first sees the immensity of Ngorongoro Crater, in Tanzania. The picture for Breath of Africa was painted by my daughter. Laurence Patterson of Crooked Cat painstakingly designed it to fit just-so onto the cover.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

Ever since I learned to read, I have been a gregarious reader, and the book which has had the most influence on my life is the Bible. Nicholas Monserrat and his “Tribe” Books gave me the inspiration to start writing my book (see There’s Always Hope: http://jbwye.com/2012/12/10/there-is-always-hope-shining-through/ )

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

I would love to meet John le Carre and John Grisham, and have read all their books. Modern books I’ve enjoyed are The Life of Pi, which made my sides ache with laughter, and The Kite Runner. I enjoy detective stories, especially those of fellow Crooked Cat authors, Catriona King and David Robinson.

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

You ask about a mentor. Writing, as you know, is a personal exercise. It’s the perfecting and smoothing over which takes time and effort, and for that I have learned to listen to my peers. I listen, and choose whether or not to take each piece of advice. In the end, it is only their opinion, and it is my book. For Breath of Africa, I leant on the knowledge and advice of John Sibi Okumu, a Kenyan TV personality and erstwhile colleague, who authenticated the African characters. I guess if I could choose an author mentor, it would be Morris West, whose books I have especially enjoyed through the years.

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

The most challenging thing about writing is forcing my myself to pick up that pen (or bring up a blank Word window) and WRITE something, when my brain is drained, a story has lost its impetus, or I have come against a brick wall.

Fiona: Do have any advise for other writers?

My advice to other authors would be help each other and persevere. If you want something hard enough, you will succeed, and the sense of achievement will be worth all the time and effort. I felt I had to troll the agents and publishers, because I lacked confidence. But I treated it as a marketing exercise, and made sure the rejections had minimal adverse effect, because I looked forward to the next possibility. I found peer review websites very rewarding, and the competitive animal in me helped me reach Gold Medal status on the Authonomy site. http://authonomy.com/ . It’s the book that counts. Each book sold gives me a little thrill, and I’ve learned that making money out of it is of secondary importance.

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

To those of my readers who have given me feedback – I say thank you with all my heart. Your encouragement is priceless, and even if the book has disappointed you in any way, your reaction is valuable, for no two expectations are the same. Every review is like gold dust, to me as well as to potential readers.

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

My website: http://www.janebwye.com

My blog: http://jbwye.com

 

Here is my interview with Jessica Aspen

27 Monday Jan 2014

Posted by fionamcvie1964 in Uncategorized

≈ 2 Comments

Name : Jessica Aspen

Where are you from: Boulder, Colorado

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

I’m a Colorado Gal married to a Colorado Guy and we live with the typical two kids, cat, and a dog within fifteen minutes of where we grew up. Maybe that’s why the mountains and snow figure so strongly in my writing. I have two degrees, one in Elementary Ed that I’ve barely used, and one in English Literature. Loved my degrees, but I’ve found that I needed an entirely new set of tools for writing, so I’ve taken many, many classes in workshops and online classes in writing and romance writing. College didn’t teach me what I really needed to know to be an author, get your butt in the chair and write! When I’m not writing I love to hike, swim, and eat dark chocolate, and much of my time is spent making sure my Lab-mix, Molly, is happy and exercised.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

 I am inches away from my second release in the Tales of the Dark Court. Maybe even by the time this interview is out there Prince by Blood and Bone will be published. It’s another steamy, twisted fairy tale and I am happy to announce that it is twisted from the classic Beauty and the Beast. Then I’ll be off and working on book three, Broken Mirror.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

 I’ve written off and on for years, but in 2007 I got serious and decided I was going to really finish an entire book. In 2008 I started The Dark Huntsman, and now I have four (maybe five!) books published.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

My very first one was a romantic suspense that is still sitting unfinished on a disk somewhere, but The Dark Huntsman was inspired by my love of fairy tales and my desire to see more twisted fairy tales and paranormal romance out there. Of course, since then both paranormal romance and twisted fairy tales have taken off, but in 2008 they were just beginning to have their hey-day.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

 I like to have a story that moves, in fact, my critique partner is always telling me to slow down and add details. Which I do, but I love fast paced plotting and fast paced romances with some steam.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic? None of it. I love fantasy because you can create entire worlds. Even my modern day world that Trina and Logan go in and out of is different from our world. It has the gypsy witches, magic works, and the fae have a strong influence on our Earth.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

This is difficult. I think, in regards to these books, Jim Butcher’s The Dresden Files, Laurel K. Hamilton’s Merry Gentry series, George MacDonald’s fairy tales, have all influenced me strongly. But I’m a huge reader and avid devourer of fiction and history, so it all comes into play somewhere.

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

 Even though I have never met him, and I don’t read horror, Stephen King’s On Writing has been an amazing influence. I love to re-read it and learn something new every time. I think the best thing he teaches is that writing is hard, and the only way to be successful is to treat it like a job. Writer’s who wait for the muse do not succeed, so write!

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m currently reading Holley Trent’s Shrew & Company series about women who were experimented on to control their mood swings and have now formed a paranormal detective agency. Love it!

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

Thea Harrison is my new favorite. If you haven’t read the Elder Races series, run out and buy it. Seriously, right now. Dragon Bound won a Rita in 2012, and it truly deserved the honor.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

Currently I’m working on getting my twist of Beauty and the Beast, Prince by Blood and Bone, out the door. This project has been fraught with delays, and it’s been a big lesson to me in acceptance as well as making sure I have contracts in place on due dates. But it should be out in February! Here’s a quick blurb:

Lost Underhill, trapped with a monster, Bryanna must draw on powers she doesn’t believe she has and escape to find her family. But when the monster turns out to be a handsome fae lord who needs her as much as she needs him, will she be able to find her strength and become the witch he believes her to be?

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

 Love that phrasing, ENTITY. ‘grin’ Seriously, the Romance Writers of America and especially my local chapter, Colorado Romance Writers, have both been instrumental in my career. I thought given my English Lit degree and my massive experience as  a reader of romances, that writing a romance would be easy. It’s not. It takes an average of eight years of focused writing to see a book successfully published, and if it hadn’t been for the focused workshops and classes I’ve been able to take for very low cost, I think it might have taken me a lot longer than that. I truly appreciate the people and support both of these groups have provided. Thanks everyone!

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

 Yes, absolutely. I work part of the year at another job, but for much of the year I am writing, working on my books, and my career full time. Ever since I started focusing on writing as a job, and not a hobby, my happiness has increased. Even when there is no reward, or there is criticism, this is what I want to do. I love being an author!

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

I think authors always find things later they’d change, but at some point you have to say it’s finished. If you don’t, the editing never ends and the book is never published. I try to just move on to the next and focus on that one.

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

When I was about three years old I learned that people actually wrote books. I can remember the wonder of it all. A person created this amazing thing. At that point I wanted to be a writer and it became my number two goal, after being a mommy, bumping artist down to number three. I’d still love to be an artist, but I think I’ll stick to writing and parenting for now.

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

 Here’s the blurb from The Dark Huntsman, A Fantasy Romance of the Black Court

Desperate to save the last of her family from the murderous Faery Queen, Trina Mac Elvy weaves a spell of entrapment. But instead of a common soldier, the queen has released the Dark Huntsman, a full blooded fae with lethal powers.

Caged for treason, Logan Ni Brennan, is ready to do anything to win free of the manipulative queen, even if it includes running a last errand for her…murdering a witch. The sight of Trina, ready to fight despite the odds, gives him another option: use the witch as a chess piece, put the queen’s son on the throne, and bring down the queen forever.

As the queen slides into insanity and her closest advisor makes plans to succeed to the throne, Logan secrets Trina away in the enchanted forest and makes a decisive move in his dangerous game of manipulation. But the gaming tables of fate turn on him, and when Trina’s life is threatened he discovers he risks more than his freedom…he risks his heart.

Excerpt:

Riding into the dry-as-bones mountains on the back of the puca, Logan’s anger seared bitter in his chest. It rolled off him in waves, pulling thunder down from the sky. He toyed idly with the storm letting his anger draw the danger of the lightening to him as he seethed. Fifteen years away from his hounds. Fifteen years of Solanum’s running wild, the puca causing havoc wherever he went. Fifteen years of Logan’s life eaten away in the hole of the queen’s dungeons.

And now he was to kill witches for the queen. A fact that rubbed him raw.

Humans were amusing companions, why create trouble? Irritated with the brief flare of morality, he smothered it with brutal force. It didn’t fucking matter what he wanted. It never had.

Lightening cracked. The eerie silent hounds of the Dark Hunt tightened around him, their tense glances and snapping teeth reflections of his flaring emotions.

He had no room for second thoughts tonight. The Black Queen had given him no reason why she needed these witches killed, but if he satisfied her it might give him his freedom. At the very least it would give him some space. Maybe some time to figure out a way to stay out of the dungeons. And time to figure out how to truly extricate himself from her bloody dominion.

Because no matter what she had promised him, he knew, there was no way she would simply let him go. Not after the way he had betrayed her.

Solanum tossed his head and bucked. “Quit squeezing my ribs.” Lurid green faery flames leapt from his hooves, igniting short-lived cold fires in the dry Wyoming brush.

“Cease, horse,” Logan said, squeezing his legs a little more. Punching Solanum’s buttons felt good, really good. Just like his wrath at the queen felt good. Justified.

The puca tossed his long mane into Logan’s eyes. “Lay off, or you’ll be eating dirt,” the puca snarled, his nostrils flaring in the dimming light.

Solanum’s irritation put a hard smile on Logan’s lips. He tightened his legs and drove the puca harder down the hill through the brewing storm.

A hound pushed in close. Solanum’s hoof lashed out, connecting with a solid thud. The hound’s yipe sounded inside Logan’s head as he regained his balance, cursing the hound’s behavior and the puca’s intolerance.

He was back. The hounds would get used to him again. And Solanum too.

Thunder crashed in the sky, following him down into the shadowed hills as he approached the witches’ lair. Nostrils burning from the ozone, nerves tingling, he distracted himself with the dark moist wind, manipulating it to blow through the dry autumn brush like a child’s tantrum.

He laughed, the spiteful wind stealing away the dark sound as cracks of thunder echoed off the mountains. He let the anger simmer and the lightening moved further away. He wasn’t free yet, and he wasn’t suicidal. What he was, was trapped. And it pissed him off, the frustration riding him like a hag.

What could he do when the queen changed her mind and refused to release him from her service? What if the bitch thought she could use him then put him back into her dungeons Underhill, calling him to her side like a lapdog? He needed a way to show her there would be repercussions. He needed leverage.

In the distance, thunder rumbled and they tipped over the edge of the valley in search of the witch. A wavering glow of candles shone above the last few rocks.

Almost there.

The telltale traces of a spell raised the hair on the back of his neck. He extended his Gift to perceive what he couldn’t yet see. A labyrinth set by a single inexperienced witch. His lips twitched. As protection it might have worked, had the Faery Queen sent her regular henchman. Unluckily for the witch, the queen had unleashed him. The Dark Huntsman.

He would kill the wench, and be done with this thing between himself and the queen of the Tuatha De Dannan. And when the queen refused to release him? He’d deal with that when the time came.

The wind carried the hot dry smell of sage mixed with the smell of fear and musky female. He inhaled the raw flavor of the witch, the taste of her fear and anger and power slid down his throat, easing his rage.

The anxious hounds shifted around him, sensing the proximity of their prey. Solanum rounded the rock.

And there she was.

The sight of her rocked him back like a blow, almost knocking him to the ground. And he realized that despite the stasis, fifteen years had been too long a time to be without a woman.

Glimmers of power limned her naked body and the silver blade of the athame that gleamed between her breasts. Her legs were spread slightly apart, tensed for battle. Long black hair crackled and lifted with static. Her expressive face was poised on the edge of dilemma, her body caught between the need to hold the spell and the need for action.

He paused to let the feel of power and woman roll through him.

Beautiful.

Unexpected.

Green, almond shaped eyes widened. Her stance firmed, her shoulders pulled back, and her full breasts rose, nipples tightened with cold or fear. Something wild and raw he hadn’t felt in a hundred years stabbed low in his gut.

His agenda changed.

The queen wanted to kill the witch. Why? His plan of placating the queen suddenly seemed weak. She’d never let him go without leverage, and here was leverage standing naked and lovely before him. He had a new plan.

Screw the queen.

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

 Everything, LOL! Seriously, when I’m writing, it’s the writing, and when I’m editing, it’s the editing. Right now I’m waiting on the cover for Prince by Blood and Bone, and the waiting is so very difficult. I feel like a kid forced to wait an extra week for her birthday party. I want the book to come out now. Yes, I’m channeling that girl who turns into a plum in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, but when my cover gets here I’ll forget all about it and the most difficult thing will be getting it all put together and on Amazon.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Kari Ayasha with Cover to Cover Designs has done an amazing job on both covers, The Dark Huntsman and Prince by Blood and Bone. I love her new take on fantasy romance.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

 Keep writing, make a schedule and stick to it, and stop editing and get it to someone else to look at. We’re our own worst critics, let someone else have a chance!

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

I am so appreciative of all the amazing reviews The Dark Huntsman has had. I wasn’t sure if twisted fairy tales and fantasy still had a place, you hear a lot about how paranormal isn’t big anymore, but I think it does have a fan base and I’m thrilled so many of you love my books. Thank you!

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

No, but I do remember my two favorites were Ferdinand, and Are You My Mother. I read them both to my girls and somehow that poor bird’s search for a mother still has resonance with toddlers, despite the lack of a variety of colors. I think they both contain life’s essential question: where do I belong?

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

 I love to walk and to hike in the Rocky Mountains. I read (of course). I’ve tried everything from knitting to jewelry making, but given all those up for writing.

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

 Grimm, Once Upon a Time, Justified, Downton Abbey, CSI, Bones. Oh, and True Blood. I’m looking forward to seeing how Diane Gabaldon’s Outlander plays out this summer.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Dark chocolate, all colors, and lots of different music. Right now you would find everything from Hedley to Tom Petty to Pink on my ipod. Anything I can work out to is great!

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

 Believe it or not I wish I’d studied DNA and biology. I took a lot of anthropology courses when I was in college and the study of DNA fascinated me but I had no idea of using that as a career. Now I wish someone (say a guidance counsellor?) had talked to me about everything I was interested in and let me know what kind of opportunities were out there. Would I have stuck with it? Who knows? Maybe I’d still be here writing.

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

 I do, I blog at least twice a week on writing, the paranormal, and miscellaneous subjects. Here it is and also a few other ways to get in touch with me:

Website: http://jessicaaspen.com

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5759763.Jessica_Aspen

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JessicaAspen

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JessicaAspenAuthor

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/jessicaaspen/

Join the Jessica Aspen mailing list! Get the scoop on new releases and sales.http://eepurl.com/zs4Sj

To discover The Dark Huntsman, A Fantasy Romance of the Black Court

 

Amazon http://bookshow.me/B00FN2P7A8

AllRomance Ebooks https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thedarkhuntsmanafantasyromanceoftheblackcourt-1401437-153.html

 Barnes and Noble http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-dark-huntsman-jessica-aspen/1117310563?ean=2940148186489&itm=1&usri=2940148186489

Add to Goodreads Shelf: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18481503-the-dark-huntsman

 

Author Bio:

Jessica Aspen has always wanted to be spirited away to a world inhabited by elves, were-wolves and sexy men who walk on the dark side of the knife. Luckily, she’s able to explore her fantasy side and delve into new worlds by writing paranormal romance. She loves indulging in dark chocolate, reading eclectic novels, and dreaming of ocean vacations, but instead spends most of her time, writing, walking the dog, and hiking in the Colorado Rockies.  To sign up for Jessica Aspen’s new release email please go to: http://eepurl.com/zs4Sj

Tags:

fantasy, fantasy romance, fae, fairy tales, twisted fairy tales, elves, witches, magic, the dark huntsman, tales of the black court, paranormal, paranormal romance, jessica aspen, evil queen, snow white

Here is my interview with Viv Drewa

27 Monday Jan 2014

Posted by fionamcvie1964 in Uncategorized

≈ Leave a comment

Name Viv Drewa

Age   59

Where are you from

Born in Detroit, Michigan, live in Fort Gratiot, Michigan

I’ve enjoyed reading and writing since 1963. I studied medicinal chemistry at the University of Michigan but my passion has always been writing.

I was awarded third place for my nonfiction short story about my grandfather’s escape from Poland. Later, I rewrote this story and was published in the “Polish American Journal” as “”From the Pages of Grandfather’s Life”

Since I preferred writing I took creative writing and journalism courses to help  transition to fulfill my dream of becoming a writer. I worked as an intern for Port Huron’s ‘The Times Herald”, and also wrote, edited and did the layout or the Blue Water Multiple Sclerosis newsletter “Thumb Prints.”

Most of my life I worked as a Pharmacy Technician at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit.

I also write a blog for ShareTV for the shows: River Monsters, Finding Bigfoot and The blacklist.

I spends my free time working with physically and mentally challenged adults; a cause close to my heart.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

 I just published my second novel, “The Angler and the Owl” on Amazon.com and Amazon.com.uk. The links are:


US: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?rh=n%3A133140011%2Ck%3Athe+angler+and+the+owl&keywords=the+angler+and+the+owl&ie=UTF8

UK: http://www.amazon.com.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?rh=n%3A133140011%2Ck%3Athe+angler+and+the+owl&keywords=the+angler+and+the+owl&ie=UTF8


Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I read my first novel at age 9, “The Whispering Sword” but don’t remember the author. That sparked my imagination and started reading and writing.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I published a short story on my grandfather’s escape from Poland in 1993. I won third place in a contest in high school and rewrote it for the Polish American Journal.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Decided it was time. I tried writing children’s books but that wasn’t working out for me. I wanted to be a writer so I came up with an idea and let it flow.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Since my novels all have owls in them I use that in my titles. Then I use something from the story itself. “The Angler and the Owl” started out all right but I wasn’t sure what my male protagonist was going to be. One night my husband and I were watching River Monsters and that fit perfectly.

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

Love can be found when you’re older.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

I’d say 90%. I spent three weeks researching, even though River Monsters filmed a lot in the Amazon, to be sure I got things right. Also, my knowledge of medicine helped me with parts of the novel.

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

My first two novels are. Dr. Christopher Donnan, archaeologist, in my first novel, and Jeremy Wade in my second.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

Action/adventure, paranormal and thriller.

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

Stephen King, because of his way of weaving his stories.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I just finished “Common Sense would be Good” by Alec Hawkes, and started “Haunted: Ten Tales of Ghosts”.

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

Alexander Kavalier, Carol Kauffman, Rayne Hall, Joanne Jayntine, Alec Hawkes.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I’m working on my third novel, which will be the only one not to take place in South America, but will still have an owl in it.

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

My friend Carol Goodin, who is also my editor.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes. Even at my age I still have a lot of stories to tell.

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

No. It came out exactly as I wanted it.

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

Reading. I was impressed by the use of imagination to tell stories.

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

It’s a paranormal murder/mystery. That’s all I’ll say.

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

When I get writer’s block, or have three or more ways I can go with a scene.

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

Stephen King and Michael Weems. I love how their stories flow.

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

Wish I could. I’d love to visit South America. I’ve been in love with it since I was 10 and learned about the different countries there.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Right now I do. I plan on having Titan do my next book, though.

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

My first two novels practically wrote themselves. The third one is more difficult because I’m going off-script. I have the owl, but I’m not in South America, and it won’t feature a mature single woman who meets a good man.

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

I love to learn so all the research I’ve done has educated me on archaeological sites and the different owls for each novel. I also learned a lot about the Amazon River.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Don’t give up. Finding your voice may take a while but once you do you’ll be able to treat readers with fantastic stories.

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

I’m not really a romance writer but I want mature women to know love is always out there.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Yes, “The Whispering Sword”.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I sew, crochet, cross stitch and, of course, read.

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

River Monsters, Finding Bigfoot, The Blacklist, NCIS, CSI, Grimm, to name a few

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Pizza, green, Country, Rege, Pop, Opera and Classical

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

Became a professional traveler, maybe.

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

Http://theowlladyblog.wordpress.com  It’s new so there’s not much on it yet. Still trying to get the hang of it.

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