Here is my interview with A. J. Leavens

Name : A. J. Leavens
Age: 37
Where are you from? Alberta, Canada
A little about your self (Your education, Family life etc…) I’ve got 4 boys who may or may not be inspirations for the characters in my books. I’ve been married for 15 years, and I hope to visit Rome and Paris in the next ten years.

 
Fiona: Tell us your latest news?
A.J.: I’m currently working on Death’s Midnight, Book Two of The Meechan Chronicles. It picks up right after Brooks, Hotaru and Slade set off to shut down IRIS. Just crossed the 50,000 word mark in the first draft!

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?
A.J.: When I was 12, I fell in love with Piers Anthony’s Xanth series and Terry Brooks’ Landover series. I read them as fast as they came out. When I hit Grade 8, I wrote a story that took my favorite characters from both series and melded them into one book. It was full of magic and crazy powers. It really got the bug going.

 

 

By the time I hit high school, I was hooked. I took English all the way to Grade 13 (It’s an Ontario thing), and was even selected to be part of a new writing development class that they were piloting with a poem I wrote entitled My Father, The Tree. Somewhere, my dad has a copy of that, framed.

 

 

I prefer to write fantasy and sci-fi, as it allows me to use my over-over-active imagination, but I’m slowly working on a mystery novel also. It’s a long work in progress that keeps getting put on the back burner.

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?
A.J.: Since I was about 12. Ever since I took that first foray in to telling a story on paper.

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

A.J.: My wife and I were playing Risk with my teenaged sons, and I looked at the game board, and asked “What would it take to get the world to actually align itself like this?” The first answer that popped into my head was Nuclear War.

I took a picture of the game board and used that as a basis for the world, circa 2308. I wanted an elitist society to exist (The Emissaries), but with a Big Brother feel to it. That’s how IRIS came into being.

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?
A.J.: I believe in the future, that many of our current diseases will be cured. Of course, that means that there will probably be a population crunch at some point. I wanted it to convey the ending of Death.

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

A.J.: There have been some recent developments in the world that highlight (to extremes) what can happen if the wrong people have power – or the right people have power but choose to wield it wrongly. What I want readers to take away from Death’s Twilight is that yes, there are corrupted people (systems) in the world. There always have been, and probably always will be. But if the people who know about it are willing to stand up and do something about it, there is a chance for hope and peace.

 
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?
A.J.: Many of the locations the Emissaries travel to or interact with are/were real locations. Melrose, for example, was a great little pub restaurant that made the most amazing BBQ Bacon Burger. They closed last year. A lot of the tech in the book is possible, but I’m not aware of its existence at this point.

 
Fiona: What book are you reading now?
A.J.: I’m currently reading Chasing the Demon by Louise G. White. I’m only 50 or so pages in at the moment, but it is intense and action-packed right from the get go.

 
Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?
A.J.: Daniel A. Dennis has a series that is definitely worth reading. Fate’s Haven is a great dystopian/sci-fi tale that is incredibly well written with characters that stay with you. Get your hands on his books if you can.

 
Fiona: What are your current projects?
A.J.: Besides finishing Death’s Midnight, I’m also working on the podcast/audio book for Death’s Twilight. Episode Eight comes out on the 14th of September. It’s available through iTunes and major podcatcher services – FREE!

 
Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us?
A.J.: Sure! Here’s the Prologue:

CASEY STATION, ANTARTICA

For nearly three hundred years, the Casey Station monitoring station has housed the Integrated Registration Information System. Originally designed as a data collection terminal, it was modified as needed to collect and monitor new types of data since Andrew Johnson was CEO of the World in 2177.

As more and more control was given to the System to monitor and collect, it began to develop the programs, protocols and subroutines it needed to assimilate the data and provide reliable information to those that needed it. When the final modification was made in 2217, the Integrated Registration Information System became self-aware and started referring to herself as IRIS.

As a fail-safe, a young programmer named Bill Brooks installed a covert back door into the source code, allowing access should it be required for further programming and routine maintenance. That back door was never used. In the final years of the twenty-fourth century, IRIS began protecting herself from all who might strive to bring her—or the biggest secret mankind has ever held—to the world’s knowledge.

IRIS definitely didn’t want the world knowing that she was controlling the mortality rate by utilizing diseases that had been eradicated more than fifty years ago. She also didn’t want the world to know that she was able to track anyone on the planet, at any time, using a small chip that was installed into every chronometer made by every company in the world. A sizeable transfer from the Department of Defense’s EmergActive budget—which was nearly limitless and had minimal oversight—ensured cooperation from all parties.

This same budget allowed IRIS to keep Viktor Frankl, the discoverer of the cure for Cancer, hidden safely in a villa in what would have been called Sweden before The Great Fire—the time when every nuclear device on the planet was launched in retaliation to a militant group that history has forgotten. Frankl, whom released small parts of Cancer’s cure every four years or so, lived in luxury thanks to a stipend of almost ten million Steel Royals per year.

And so went the status quo, until an Emissary, one of IRIS’ private army of contract killers, found out information that threatened IRIS’ secrets. In an effort to keep these secrets, IRIS sent an Emissary after one of her own. She needed to bury the secret but without warning, they both disappeared. Utilizing all her resources to their full extent brought IRIS no measure of satisfaction. They simply didn’t exist.

EmergActive had a clause that allowed for the activation of additional Emissaries for protection of the State above and beyond the two thousand, one hundred and ninety that usually functioned to control the population. Exploiting this clause, IRIS called up four Beta Trainees and, activating them into Alpha Status, along with two existing Alphas, set them immediately on the rapidly cooling trail of Slade Meechan and Hotaru Kogame, the rogue Emissaries. The loose ends needed to be tied up.

 
Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
A.J.: Mostly finding time. I’m crazy busy, and I have a calendar with ten different schedules on it that overlap in some very creative ways. I aim for about 1000 words/day into my current work, but it doesn’t always happen. I have to be able to spend time with my family. That’s more important than the book.

 
Fiona: Who designed the cover?
A.J.: I was very lucky to have had my cover designed by Farah Evers from Farah Evers Designs. I won the cover in a contest, but I was so impressed, I’m in talks with her to design the cover for the second book. You should check out her work: http://www.faraheversdesigns.com

 
Fiona: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
A.J.: I am so grateful and humbled for all of the support you’ve shown to this work. From simple things like posting reviews (which I am VERY VERY grateful for), to sending emails or messages asking questions about the world Slade live in, I am so touched that you have accepted my work. The story continues, though…

 
Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? If so, what is it?
A.J.: You can keep up with all things Meechan Chronicles at: http://www.meechanchronicles.com

Amazon Link http://wp.me/p3uv2y-1w4

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Here is my interview with D. John Watson

 

Name D. John Watson but you can call m D. or John, I’ll answer to either.
Age Old enough to remember Disco. Seriously, I’ll turn 51 this year.
Where are you from. Originally Rhode Island but I grew outside the main campus of UCONN. Go Huskies!! A little about your self `ie your education Family life etc I grew near a large collage campus, in fact my high school is right across the school from their art building where I spent a lot of time. I had tried art school but eventually fell into the restaurant. business where I’ve been every since. I’m married with three children and three grandchildren.

 
Fiona: Tell us your latest news?
I’ve just started doing a regular column in an ezine called Authors Magazine and a blog dedicated to authors, artists and anyone who works with publishing. I also just submitted an a couple of stories for anthologies

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?
I’ve always been a big reader and I took a creative writing course in high school, failed miserable by the way. But I found I loved writing so I kept at it.

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I guess it was when I opened that box for the first time and held a book with my name on the over.

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?
It was a sketch I’d done and redone a couple of times and I had to know the story behind it.

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?
No, not really, I do with whatever style works for the story.

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?
The subtitles were easy because they were all based on the stories with the books themselves but and I knew fairly early this was going to be a big project so The Chronicles of Irindia gave it the scope I wanted to get across. And Irindia is the name of the land it takes place in. Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp? I hadn’t written it with a message in mind but I guess if I had to ascribe one, it would be, look beyond your pre-inscribed truths about hat is possible.

 
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?
I try to make it as realistic as possible, which is pretty difficult in a fantasy book. I base my characters on real people and I delve into real languages and mythologies.

 
Fiona: Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?
I’ve done a little moving around in the past few years so that’s reflected in the opening few chapters. And just for the sake of realism, I tend to base people and places on those I know first hand as much as possible.

 
Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?
My own. I’m not trying to sound narcissistic but I was researching for a book that is being written and I wanted to have a feel for martial arts so I could portray it more accurately. I signed up for a class and five years later, I was an assistant instructor. The book is still in the works but the impact it’s had has really filtered into so many other parts of my life Fiona: If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor? This one is a tie for me so I’d have to go with James Clavel and Eric Lustbader. Both of them are so meticulous in their writing and it their research.

 
Fiona: What book are you reading now?
Caliban by Roger McBride Allen who has taken over the Isaac Asimov robot books.

 
Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?
Nickolas Sansbury Smith. I’ve read a couple of his books and I want to read more of them.

 
Fiona: What are your current projects?
Right now I’m finishing the last book in the Irindia series while I begin making the changes I need for the first one. At the same time, I have the blog called Artistic Reflections and I have a regular column in All Authors Magazine plus I have a couple of stories going into anthologies within the next year.

 
Fiona: Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.
I’ve met some very helpful people in the Face Book groups I belong to who’ve been very helpful and supportive .

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?
I would love to be that lucky.

 
Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
I might not have made the story so large for a first outing. .

 
Fiona: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
The writing was a natural extension of my art and love of reading. I started out taking a creative writing class in high school, while I failed.

 
Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us?
Aside from finishing the Irindia books, I have a project that was partially inspired by James Clavel’s Shogun. It was that book which propelled me into the martial arts. It’s going to have some very heavy Asian influences but at the same time, it’s science fiction.

 
Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
Not getting sidetracked by other things.

 
Fiona: Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?
Tom Clancy. I like the detail he puts into his writing. He was an incredibly writer who always wrote as though he were writing from personal experience.

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

Not yet.

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?
I did. I knew what I wanted but I got impatient and rushed it, using a photo and a template. But recently I discovered a friend with a real talent who took my colored sketch and really did a fantastic job with it. I don’t hve a final cover yet but I’m looking forward to see what my publisher comes up with

 
Fiona: What was the hardest part of writing your book?
The editing. It was harder than I thought. Writers fall in love with their words so we’re not the most objective when it comes to that part of the process.

 
Fiona: Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?
I learned it was harder than I thought and that I should have begun the brand building way sooner than I did.

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?
Don’t give up. It’s tempting sometimes but you just have to keep at it. Don’t let anything or anyone dissuade you from doing what you love.

 
Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Not really, I‘ve read so many.

 
Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?
Art, cooking, reading of course and martial arts.

 
Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?
Walking Dead and Last Samurai.

 
Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music
Foods, anything with pasta. Music, the Blues or old Sinatra but I’m also into the Grateful Dead. Color is Blue.

 
Fiona: If you were not a writer what else would you like to have done?
I would have loved nothing more than to have been able to stay on as a martial arts instructor

 
Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? If so what is it? It’s called Artistic Reflections and it’s fairly new. The link is  http://djohnwatson.blogspot.co.uk/

The idea was to showcase anyone in the publishing industry, not just authors but editors, over artists maybe even publishers. Right now I offer interviews like this but I also spotlight authors etc. who have new projects they want to promote.
Twitter. @DJohnWatson

Here is my interview with Mary Anne Edwards

 

Name: Mary Anne Edwards
Age: Past 50 and heading toward 60
Where are you from: Born in Mercedes, TX, but now I live near Atlanta, GA.
A little about your self `ie your education Family life etc: I’ve been married for 33+ years to a practically perfect man. I have no children. I used to have a cat, but he died June, 2013, cancer. He was a great cat. I have a Pinterest board dedicated to him. I will probably adopted another cat or two next year. I worked in the accounting world for way too many years before retiring early to write full-time.

 

 
Fiona: Tell us your latest news?
My second book, “A Good Girl”, will be released on September 23rd. I’m excited about that.

 

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?
Gosh, it seems like I was born with a pen in my hand. My mother wrote poetry, short stories, songs, and such. Being inspired by her, I began to write. My husband encouraged me to write fulltime.

 

 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?
When one of my short stories was published. I felt like I had been given the seal of approval.

 

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?
The first one has not been published, but it started off as a short story then grew into a novel length manuscript. The title is “Useless Beauty” and it’s a stand-alone women’s fiction. My first published manuscript, “Brilliant Disguise”, was inspired by real life.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?
My genre doesn’t fit neatly into one style. “Brilliant Disguise” is a mystery with a touch of romance and a little bit of women’s fiction tossed into the mix. My style has been compared to Agatha Christie, Caroline Graham, and Donald Bain.

 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I get my titles from music. A line in a song with jump out at me and I think, Hey, that’s my book in a nutshell.

 

 

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

Things aren’t always what they appear to be. And it’s never too late for love.

 

 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?
A lot of the book is realistic because I write what I know. Of course it’s embellished a bit.

 

 

Fiona: Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?
Yes to both. For instance, someone said that they thought Marian cried too much in “Brilliant Disguise”. Well, that was based on me going through perimenpause. I cried a lot. Everything made me cry. Thank goodness for HRT.

 

 

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?
Of course, the Bible, an exercise book by Debbie Drake, and several books by Agatha Christie.

 

 

Fiona: If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
Anne Perry if you’re wanting an author who’s alive. But if I could have anyone, Agatha Christie.

 

 
Fiona: What book are you reading now?
The Feathers by Cynthia Lott

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?
Stacy Allen, Cynthia Lott, and David Burnsworth to name a few.

 

 
Fiona: What are your current projects?
I’m working on my third book in The Charlie McClung Mysteries. There will be a total of ten in the series. The first one of course is “Brilliant Disguise”.

 

 

Fiona: Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.
Sisters in Crime – Atlanta Chapter

 

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?
Most definitely. I have eight more books in The Charlie McClung Mysteries to finish. And I want to publish “Useless Beauty” and rework my collection of short stories “My Favorite Work of Art”.

 

 

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
I may add some more descriptions or details.

 

 

 

Fiona: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
Not really, I mean my mother has always been creative. So, I was intrigued, inspired by her imagination. I’ve always loved to read even as a young child. After reading a book, I would sometimes say, I could’ve written that and even better. One day my husband told me to go ahead and write a book. The rest is history.

 

 
Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us?
The third book in The Charlie McClung Mysteries is set on a cruise ship. It takes place a few weeks after “A Good Girl” ends. Oh, I almost forgot to mention the title, “Criminal Kind”, and will be released April, 2015.

 

 

 

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
Marketing is tougher than writing a book. But actual writing, would be everyday things’ like, the house needs to be cleaned or ironing needs to done. Things like that distracts me.

 

 

 

Fiona: Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?
Agatha Christie. I love her clean stories and complicated yet logical plots.

 

 

 

Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?
No, my cities are imaginary, but based on places I know well. The third book takes place on a cruise ship. My husband and I love to cruise so I’m familiar with cruise ships. Plus, I have a wonderful cruise consultant who helps with details.

 

 

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?
Jasmine Woodworth. “Brilliant Disguise” was her first ever book cover design.

 

 

 

Fiona: What was the hardest part of writing your book?
My own self-doubt. I need reassurance that my writing is worthy for someone to invest their time in reading my novels. I love reviews, especially the really good ones. Editing is killer, too.

 

 

 

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

I can’t self-edit and not everything I write is gold.

 

 

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers? Just get the words on paper. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Most important, find a great editor and graphic designer.

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

I love you! I love hearing from my readers. They can contact me through my website or Facebook. And what’s even better is when they write a review. I feel loved when they do. I get goose bumps. Oh, I’ve had several people tell me that they think “Brilliant Disguise” would make a great movie or weekly series. So, I’ve made a Pinterest board, Charlie McClung Mysteries Cast Possibilities, where readers can pin their ideas. I think I have to invite them. If so, they can send me a request and I will be more than happy to add them.

 

 
Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?
Some of my first memories are of Trixie Belden mysteries and books by Frank G. Slaughter

 

 
Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?
I do a little bit of gardening and a lot of reading. Oh, I love Pinterest. I have boards for each of my books.

 

 
Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?
I watch a ton of British Mysteries, like Scott & Bailey, DCI Banks, Trouble in Paradise, New Tricks, Sherlock Holmes, just to name a few. I love historical dramas like Downton Abbey and the sort. I watch Grimm, Falling Skies, The Musketeers, Major Crime, Rizzoli & Isles, the list goes on and on. When it comes to movies it’s Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Pacific Rim, Hot Fuzz, World’s End, Shaun of the Dead, Overboard, Baby Boom, Road to Perdition, etc…

 

 
Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music
I love authentic Mexican and Italian food. My favorite colors are purple, red, pink, and orange. Tom Petty is my all-time favorite musician. And if Love Shack by the B52’s starts to play, I’ll be on the dance floor even if I’m the only one dancing.

 

 
Fiona: If you were not a writer what else would you like to have done?
A special education teacher. I was a special education teacher’s aide in high school. For many years, I sat on the board of Rockdale Cares, a non-profit advocacy group for the developmentally challenged. Now, I sit on their advisory board.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? If so what is it?
I have a website,
Mary Anne’s website
http://www.maryanneedwards.com
Mary Anne on Pinterest
http://www.pinterest.com/maryanneedwards
Mary Anne on Twitter
twitter.com/maedwards58
Mary Anne on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/authormaryanneedwards
Mary Anne on Linkedin
http://www.linkedin.com/in/maryanneedwards
Mary Anne on Amazon
amazon.com/author/edwardsmary
Mary Anne on Google+
google.com/+MaryAnneEdwards

 

http://www.amazon.com/Brilliant-Disguise-Charlie-McClung-Mysteries-ebook/dp/B00HYYOARE/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1409456090&sr=1-1&keywords=brilliant+disguise

 

http://www.amazon.com/Good-Girl-Charlie-McClung-Mystery-ebook/dp/B00N2EHLFS/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1409456482&sr=1-3&keywords=mary+anne+edwards

Here is my interview with Meredith Wild

 
Name Meredith Wild
Age 32
Where are you from

I grew up in the Midwest, but I now reside in New Hampshire with my husband and three children.
A little about your self `ie your education Family life etc

I’m a thirty-something mother of three. I’ve spent the past decade running various Internet businesses. I refer to these as my “day job.” I hold a bachelor’s in English from a quintessential New England college, and I am horrified daily by my inability to find my own typos. My days consist of begging to sleep in, then launching myself into a flurry of kid-related obligations and day job work. My nights consist of spending time with my real life hero and figuring out how to create more hours in the day to write!

I prefer beaches to mountains, chocolate to vanilla, and Internet to TV. That said, Trueblood, Shameless, and Game of Thrones give my life purpose. In my spare time, of which I have none, I like to do absolutely nothing, preferably on a pool raft with a refreshing adult beverage in hand.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I’m in the process of writing Hard Limit which is due to release before the end of the year.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?
I began writing fiction in January of 2013. After reading quite a bit in the romance genre, I decided to pen my own story—one I would want to read.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I got the idea for Hardwired after seeking out a high profile tech CEO for professional advice on one of my recent startups. I was a nervous wreck leading up to the call, but once we got talking, I was shocked at how approachable and helpful he was considering all of his success. He also had a really sexy phone voice. A few days later, inspiration struck and I started writing again. Hardwired began after a false start with another story that I’d shelved a couple months prior.

 

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

I understand that women read in this genre in large part for the fantasy aspect, but I enjoy building on that fantasy by portraying heroines who are modern, successful, sexually aware, and not so easily swept away. I’m always tackling other themes too, like gender roles, power play, and healing. I think these keep the relationships a little more interesting and the struggles more real. I hope that my readers walk away feeling empowered and aroused.

 

 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

There are bits and pieces of my soul in the heroes, the heroines and even the bad guys of my stories. That said, at the end of the day my characters are purely fictional, imbued with physical or personality traits that might be inspired by any number of people or experiences that have come into my life. Rarely is a character or a situation a representation of a single person or experience.

 

 

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

I’ve never really had a mentor, but rather tend to find myself in mentoring roles. Those relationships hold a set of lessons all their own. I look up to many of the authors of our time who have made a life of writing great fiction—Stephen King, Anne Rice, Sylvia Day, and countless others.

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone

 

 

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

Helen Hardt, Ella Frank, and Mia Sheridan are a few of my current favorites.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Absolutely. I’m very lucky to be able to support myself and my family with my writing.

 

 

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

No. I could reread and pick it apart, but at some point you have to let the story go, put it out into the world, and move forward.

 

 

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

Writing in the first person through an entire series is a challenge. I try hard to keep Erica’s internal dialogue fresh and relatable. Dual perspectives is much easier, I feel.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?
Not much, but I do occasionally take an afternoon trip to different places around Boston to scout out locations for scenes for The Hacker Series.

 

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I design all of my own covers.

 

 

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

Finishing it under a soul-crushing deadline. I love to write, but writing under intense pressure has its pros and cons. The book was finished, but I probably took a couple years off my life to make it happen.

 

 

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

Don’t publicize any more soul-crushing deadlines.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?
If writing is a dream you have, fight for it. Let the laundry pile up. Give your kids candy for breakfast if it gives you an hour to write. Carve out the time for yourself, because no one else will. If I had known what serious writing would do for me, I would have started fighting for it a lot sooner than I did. I think the first step to success is believing that you can do it, and that you deserve the space and time to do it. Make time, even if you aren’t convinced you deserve it. Get the story out, at all costs! Tell the demons to STFU and just write.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
I LOVE my readers! They keep me going, and they make this wonderful journey all the more exciting with their encouragement and support. I can’t wait to share more stories with you! 😀

 

 
Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

I make jewelry and of course I am an avid reader! I also really love graphic design and tinkering with websites.

 

 

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

Trueblood, Game of Thrones, House Hunters International

 

 
Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Fried Chicken / Green / Alternative

 

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

Probably teach English or creative writing.

 

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

http://www.meredithwild.com

 

Here is my interview with Decadent Kane

 
Name Decadent Kane
Age 32
Where are you from Wyoming
A little about your self `ie your education Family life etc I’m an author, mother, friend, crafter, and much more including part elf.

 
Fiona: Tell us your latest news?
My first print edition has just released- my publisher put all 5 of my elven novellas into a one book set called Elven Obsession.

 

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?
I began writing in 5th grade, and honestly because I wanted to- I don’t have an awe inspiring reason- it just happened and I ran with it.

 

 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I’ve always considered myself a writer, as far back as I can remember.

 

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?
I was dared to write about Santa’s elves, a spy, and making it sexy- I had to take that dare and poof Ribbon of Darkness was born.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?
Are elves a style? LOL How about steamy paranormal romance? Actually I’m not aware of what my true writing style is, I just know I have one and people enjoy it. That’s good enough for me.

 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?
My editor helped me come up with my title to my first book- taking my leading ladies name and using it to the best advantage- which is now how my titles go- each title in the series has a character name in it.

 

 

Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
If there is I didn’t know I was putting it there. LOL It’s supposed to be fun, entertaining, and let a reader see elves in a new way.

 

 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?
The sex? Maybe? LOL The book store…some of the more concrete ideas…

 

 

Fiona: Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?
No. I don’t tend to use people in my books- I have once or twice used an experience but nothing big- more like a sentence I overheard or something.

 

 

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?
As a writer- Kresley Coles Immortals after dark series have influenced me a great deal- I adore how she writes.

 

 

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

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?
Sterling by Dannika Dark

 

 

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?
Many. Brantwijn Serrah and her unique 4 fanged vampires and fae like characters.
Torie James and her new Camelot vision.
And so many more.

 

 

Fiona: What are your current projects?
I’m working on a demon novel and coming this November will be working on the drow kings novel.

 

 

Fiona: Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.
Entity- LOL sounds like ghosts. Outside of family members- the online writing community is amazing.

 

 

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

 

 

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
No.

 

 

Fiona: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
I wish I did- but sadly, I remember writing, not what started it.

 

 

Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us?
Not at the moment- I don’t have much written. LOL But if you want to read some excerpts of past books or the free read I have going every Tursday for the next few weeks- hop pn over to my blog and check it out http://www.decadentkane.blogspot.com

 

 

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
Revisions are always challenging, and marketing is a big challenge.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?
No. And I like it better that way. I’m not a huge fan of travel.

 

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Fiona jayde

 

 

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

 

 

Fiona: Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?
I learned that sometimes characters buff you and refuse to tell you their story- in which case you whip out the honey and hope for the best.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?
Always keep writing even when it’s crap.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
I create things for enjoyment. I want my readers to have a brief but light heart6ed stay in a world that isn’t their own.

 

 
Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?
No. But interesting question. I remember being young and reading R.L. Stine Goosebumps.

 

 
Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?
Yes- I enjoy making jewelry, book marks, paper crafts, and anything crafty really. I don’t do cooking though. I can cook it’s just more of hey use the microwave kind of thing.

 

 
Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?
I love Castle. Game of Thrones. Tinker bell movies. Bones. Dracula and many more…

 

 
Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music
Food- strawberries. Colors blues and purples sometimes pinks. Music- I adore P!nk

 

 
Fiona: If you were not a writer what else would you like to have done?
Be a professional book critic! LOL

Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? If so what is it?
Blog: http://www.decadentkane.blogspot.com and I use it as my website.
Thanks for having me.

Find my books here http://www.breathlesspress.com/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=210
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/DecadentKane

 

 

 

Here is my interview with Selena Haskins

 
Name Selena Haskins
Age Sometimes I feel like I’m 26, other times I’m reminded that I’m not.
Where are you from- Washington, DC
A little about your self -ie your education Family life etc – I’m married with a beautiful son who impresses me more and more each day

 

 
Fiona: Tell us your latest news?
Riding the Waves-The Price of Fame and Fortune is my latest novel that was just released this summer. It’s a follow-up to my debut novel, but it can also be read independently.

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?
It started with having a vivid imagination as a kid. I was a daydreamer, and one of my teachers told me to write about the things I think about. All these characters and stories came to my mind so I would write about them.

 

 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?
By the time I reached school high and began writing for the school newspaper, I knew I was a writer.

 

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?
I wrote my first book when I was 16. My Uncle was an animation artist, and I would write the dialogue for his characters. He liked it so much that he told me to write a story about it. I did, but I never published it.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?
My writing style is a combination of expository and narrative.

 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?
I came up with the title of my first book, A River Moves Forward as a symbolic theme to show readers how you can still move forward despite trials in your life. Rivers always pass over the rocky things underneath, and in life we have some rocky situations too, but we have to keep pushed ahead and leave those things behind in order to have a successful future.

 

 

Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
The message is my story is about forgiveness. In fact books one and two will highlight the importance of forgiveness as a way to heal yourself and your relationships with others.

 

 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?
I would say half of it is realistic and the other half is fiction. Sometimes readers have said it almost feels too real, but by the same token that’s why they enjoy my books.

 

 

Fiona: Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?
I believe art imitates life, and it’s hard for me to write about something I don’t know about, haven’t experienced, or lived it vicariously through someone else. My stories are a combination of all of those things, and my imagination.

 

 

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?
The Bible. I know it’s a non-fiction book, but if you read the story of David, the book of Acts, Kings, and four gospels. It’s all filled with non-stop action and drama. I do take it seriously of course and I’m definitely uplifted by it, but it’s truly an inspiration because it helps me to write stories that will engage people and leave them walking about with something they can learn from.

 

 

Fiona: If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
I wouldn’t want to choose because I’ve learned something from different writers. One writer may teach me about marketing, another may teach me about plot development, and another may teach me how to keep my voice with my stories. I learn from different writers.

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?
When You’ve Been Blessed by Adrienne Thompson

 

 

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?
Well, these authors are new to me, but they may not be new in terms of being published since I’m just reading their books. I’ve enjoyed reading books by Stacey Adams Hawkins, La’Tonya West, TM Brown, Adrienne Thompson, Janice G. Ross.

 

 

Fiona: What are your current projects?
I’m working on a short-story comedy.

 

 

Fiona: Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.
My JBU sisters- Tina Brown, Janice G. Ross, Adrienne Thompson, CoCo Dunlap, Tamika Christy, and my two favorite authors supported me too- Margaret Johnson-Hodge and Omar Tyree.

 

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?
I do. I enjoy it very much. I wish I could write full-time and live off my earnings.

 

 

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
Being the perfectionist that I am, I would always change something about every story that I write, but I have to put a period at the end of my thought process and let it be. Otherwise the story would either go on forever or I may change something that the reader just may like.

 

 

Fiona: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
It started as a child. I think the creativity was innate. As I grew, I sort of developed intuitiveness about people that sometimes makes me a good judge of character. I feel it also helps me to develop authentic and believable characters.

 

 

Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us?
The project I’m currently working on is a short-story comedy about a woman who is a widow, and it’s just her and her son. He meets and falls in love with a woman he eventually wants to marry, but his mother is not happy about the idea, and plots a scheme to break up the relationship.

 

 

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
The challenge I face when writing is trying not to edit anything. I learned it’s important to write the whole story first then go back and make changes.

 

 

Fiona: Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?
I really enjoy the works of J. California Cooper and Margaret Johnson-Hodge. The reason I enjoy J. California Cooper is because of her unique writing style, storytelling, and there’s always a positive message at the end of her stories. I also enjoy Margaret Johnson-Hodge because of her choice of words when she’s describing her scenes. Her words paint an easy picture for readers to visualize, and her stories are really good.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?
I do, because there aren’t a lot of local book events where I live.

 

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?
My first book was designed by Quality Press, my second book was designed by Adrienne Thompson.

 

 

Fiona: What was the hardest part of writing your book?
Rewrites. I think almost every author hates rewriting, but in the end it’s worth it.

 

 

Fiona: Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?
I learn from each book I write, and I try to get better with every new book project. I would rather not mention the specifics of what I learned because pointing them out would make it noticeable to a reader who may not have necessarily picked up on it before.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?
Always remember that writing is a growing process whether you’re a best-selling author or new to the publishing industry. Stay humble. Humility will override stubborn tendencies that could stunt your growth process. Accept honest criticism as a way to grow as well.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have anything specific thing that you want to say to your readers?
I wrote as a hobby, and I decided to publish at least one book to see what would happen. Because of my readers’ support, I now want to keep writing and publishing stories that they can enjoy. So, thank you readers!

 

 
Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?
Forever by Judy Blume

 

 
Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?
I love music, movies, and I’m a gamer. I like to play videogames and card games.

 

 
Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?
My taste is so eclectic where do I began? I love watching movies based on real-life events or someone’s real life story. For instance, the move Ray is a favorite, Malcolm X, and a Beautiful Mind just to name a few.

 

 
Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music :
My favorite color is purple

 

 
Fiona: If you were not a writer what else would you like to have done?
Visual Art or Acting.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? If so what is it? http://www.booksbyselena.com/

 
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Selena-Haskins/e/B00BHYA3ZA/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1409240163&sr=1-2-ent

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/selena-haskins?store=allproducts&keyword=selena+haskins

Here is my interview with T.L. Gray

Name T.L. Gray
Age 43
Where are you from – Atlanta, Georgia
A little about your self `ie your education Family life etc : Author of The Arcainian Series (The Blood of Cain & The Arcainians already released), Milledgeville Misfit, Keezy’s 10 Awesome Rules for Teenage Date, and several short stories in many online magazines, and a short story “The Kid” in the anthology “Triumph over Tragedy”. I’m the founder/agent at North Star Literary Agency, Founder of North Star Editing Services, and am a Contributing Writer for several print and online magazines.

 

 
Fiona: Tell us your latest news?
I’ve just signed my 5th author with North Star and I’m working on my 5th novel.

 

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?
Since I could put pencil to paper, but professionally in 2009. I did the corporate career first.

 

 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?
When I got accepted by my first literary agent in 2009.

 

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?
Telling stories to my children and finding it difficult to keep them from mixing together, so I started writing them down. Before I knew it, I had several manuscripts (rough drafts, mind you) but full manuscripts.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?
No, I mix it up with every novel.

 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?
Whatever fits in or about the time I’m writing.

 

 

Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
I want them to care about the characters and take an adventure, not just read a story.

 

 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?
I try to make it as realistic as possible. At least plausible.

 

 

Fiona: Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?
A mixture of both. It’s best to write what you know.

 

 

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?
Nancy Drew, Harry Potter, Ursula K. Leguin, Christopher Paolini, Mark Lawrence, Michael J. Sullivan, Anthony Ryan, Jeff Suwak, Patrick Rothfuss, R.M. James, Teri Cross Chetwood, Marti Weaver.

 

 

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

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?
The Prince of Fools by Mark Lawrence

 

 

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

 

 

Fiona: What are your current projects?
I have several novels in the works – a fantasy called “Hunter and Chase” and another called, “Ink”. I’m currently working on a novel called “Star Dust” that I’ve already received an offer for a film adaptation.

 

 

Fiona: Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.
My writing friends, fellow authors I’ve met at signings, conferences and conventions.

 

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?
Yes, but I know it’s not like that for everyone.

 

 

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
No, it is as it’s supposed to be. I don’t feel those are MY stories. I’ve just been blessed with the opportunity to be the Scribe of my Imagination.

 

 

Fiona: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
I had to entertain five brothers growing up and telling stories was the best way to do that.

 

 

Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us?
What do you mean? Like an excerpt? I’ll post one at the end of this interview.

 

 

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
The research. I do extensive research.

 

 

Fiona: Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?
Jeff Suwak – he moves my soul by the way he sees the world and is able to convey that beauty within it. Also, Mark Lawrence. I consider him a modern-day philosopher of our generation. He’s brilliant.

 

 

 

Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?
Not really, but sometimes I have.

 

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?
Actually, I have. I never liked anything my publishers came up with – so I designed my own.

 

 

Fiona: What was the hardest part of writing your book?
The research and finding the time to get it done, then the editing and knowing when to stop editing.

 

 

Fiona: Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?
I learn more and more about me in every story, every blog post, and every novel I write.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?
Do what you love and don’t let anyone else stop you. This is your dream.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
Thank you for reading my stories.

 

 
Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?
Nancy Drew and The Old Clock.

 

 
Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?
Boy, do I… first off… writing isn’t my hobby. My hobbies are hiking, white water rafting, sky diving, exercise, gourmet cooking, being outdoors, hanging out with friends, blogging, etc.

 

 
Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?
Anything with a good storyline. I like cooking shows.

 

 
Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music
ah, there’s too many to name.

 

 
Fiona: If you were not a writer what else would you like to have done?
Be an explorer or Scientist.

 
Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? If so what is it? I have a few blogs: http://www.tlgray.blogspot.com and http://www.authortlgray.wordpress.com – also my agency has one at http://www.northstarliterary.com Here is the link to my published books: http://www.tlgray.blogspot.com/p/tls.html

 

This is the Akuma symbol. It means… heaven, angel, star dust, 10. It is the symbol I’m using for my character, the Archangel Mikhael, in my new WIP currently called Star Dust. Michael is also the patron saint of the Airborne Infantry, which fits perfectly.

Excerpt from Star Dust by T.L. Gray

Mikhael took his seat. Kenya sat beside me. Kal and Emma took the two seats on the opposite side of the table, Kal across from Kenya and Emma across from Mikhael. Something inside Mikhael felt satisfied that she had chosen to sit next to him and not Kal. He couldn’t stop the small smile that tugged on his lips.
Sitting in front of Mikhael was a chilled plate filled with romaine lettuce, tomatoes, black olives, drunken goat cheese, crumbled feta, sliced roasted almonds, dried pomegranates and small wedges of tangerine, all drizzled with olive oil, garlic and rosemary. On a tray in the center of the table sat a plate of sliced strawberries, red and green grapes and wedges of various hard cheeses. “Wow, this looks amazing.” He looked to Kenya and smiled, “I see you’re serving delicious red apples.”
She laughed. “Yes. Just for you,” Kenya answered and then motioned toward the other two. “Kal and Emma helped me prepare everything. We have some roasted Rosemary chicken for an entrée later and a delicious chocolate cake for dessert.”
Kaemon gazed up and down the table. “I don’t see any apples.”
Mikhael smiled at Kenya, knowing that it was their little inside joke where they called red grapes delicious red apples. “Of course you wouldn’t.” He leaned back and rubbed his stomach. “I have a feeling PT is going to be quite difficult in the morning.”
“PT?” Kal asked and then shoved a large fork full of salad into his mouth, still scanning the table, most likely still looking for apples.
“Physical Training. Our soldiers are required a basic session of PT every morning.”
Kal groaned and then swallowed his bite of food. “I’d hate to have to be forced to exercise every morning whether I felt like it or not.”
“Without regular physical training the temple would not have the stamina or endurance to complete its mission.” Mikhael felt an agitation from the young man, though he didn’t understand why.
“I suppose that makes sense. I’d still hate it though. It’s my body and I would want to be the one to decide if I forced it into an exercise routine or not.” Kal took a large sip of his wine.
“A soldier’s fitness isn’t for himself. It’s for when he has to push harder and faster than the enemy, or carry that weak soldier in the team that just became a liability.” Mikhael moved some of the salad around on his plate but he didn’t take a bite. His mouth felt dry, his throat parched, and he wanted to take a drink of the water sitting in front of him, but his stomach felt in a knot. His mind raced through his thoughts wondering at the reason these human feelings were coursing through him so strongly. “Besides, your body is no longer your own but property of the United States Army until you retire.”
Kenya nodded. “That’s a great point, Mikhael. I’ve never looked at it that way. I was somewhat of the same mind as Kal, thinking it arcane how a soldier is constantly pushed to physical limits almost on a daily basis.”
“Why do you consider it arcane?” Mikhael turned his head to look at Kenya. He almost lost his thought when he looked into her hazel eyes and noticed the shimmer of her glossy lips, coated now with a thin layer of olive oil from her salad. She opened her mouth to speak.
“Because of tradition, of course,” Kal interjected. He waved the end of his fork in the air as he spoke as if the action emphasized his point.
Mikhael kept his gaze on Kenya, ignoring Kal’s interruption, as she closed her mouth and nodded her agreement to Kal’s interruption.
Kal rattled on, unaware of his intrusion. “Traditions often enslave and entrap a man into a system of beliefs and practices that prevents their ability to think for themselves or outside the lines of conformity.” He stabbed his fork into his salad. “This leads to blind obedience. A man who does not think for himself will find himself a slave to a man who does.”
“Alexander the Great once said, ‘Without knowledge, skill cannot be focused. Without skill, strength cannot be brought to bear, and without strength, knowledge may not be applied.’” Mikhael turned his gaze toward Kal. “It is in my experience that when a body is conditioned in routine, able to respond with a subconscious automatic reflex, it frees the mind for greater thinking, quicker responses, and deeper understanding.” He then turned his gaze back to Kenya.
She smiled and answered, “Very well said, Mikhael. Is that something they teach you when you become a Drill Sergeant?”
“Contrary to popular belief I’m not a drone. I am also not a mouthpiece for what I’ve been told or taught. I think for myself and regularly conduct my own study of human nature.” He didn’t understand what possessed him to say what he said next or do what he did. All he knew was that in that moment, gazing into her hazel eyes the two of them connected on an intellectual and physical level. He reached up with his right hand and gently rubbed the outer shell of her ear and said, “Like I just learned something very interesting about the earlobe.” He leaned over and whispered, “The ears can be very sensual. Not only because they receive whispered secrets …” He pursed his lips and lightly blew on her ear. “…but the bundles of nerve endings can lead to arousal.”
Kenya shivered.
Mikhael shivered in return.
“Da-a-yum,” answered Emma. “That was smooth, Drill Sergeant.”

Here is my intervie with Joy M Byrd

 

My name is Joy M Byrd
Age 47 years old
Where are you from
I grew up in a little town about twenty miles west of Cooperstown NY in a little hamlet called Burlington Flats
A little about your self `ie your education Family life etc
I have been married to my husband for almost 28 years and we have 4 kids and live on a farm in the country..

 

 
Fiona: Tell us your latest news?
I am working on a new book and have one ready to go.

 

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?
I started writing when I was ten and have been doing it ever since

 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I guess I considered myself a writer from the start.

 

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?
I wrote my first book because it was something I wanted to do. It was inspired a little from some things that happened in college and just kind of snowballed from there.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?
Not really, I just write what I would like to read

 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?
Passionate Choices came from the story line because the heroine had to make some difficult choices in her life.

 

 

Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
Not really, just to enjoy it.

 

 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?
I think it believable that it could happen.

 

 

Fiona: Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?
Very little, just a couple of events I elaborated on with dramatic license.

 
.
Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?
The Bible has been the most influence in my life. But I also read many novel by Lindsay Mckenna, BJ Daniels & Delores Fossen, HelenKay Dimon.

 

 

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

 

 
Fiona: What book are you reading now?
Traceless by HelenKay Dimon..

 

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

 

 

Fiona: What are your current projects?
Song of Love that is based in the country music industry and it is all done and ready to be sent.

 

 

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

 

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?
Yes I do,

 

 

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
No.

 

 

Fiona: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
It has just been something that I have always loved to do.

 

 

Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us?
I am working on “Michael’s Heart” about a father of six who is diagnosed with testicular cancer and the woman who is standing by his side as he fights for his life even though her husband died from the same disease. It’s a tough one to write.

 

 

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
When I get writer’s block that is a huge challenge and not always easy to get through.

 

 

Fiona: Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?
Lindsay Mckenna and I love how she is so in depth with all her characters and their history.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?
No, but I would love to get the chance to someday.

 

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?
PublishAmerica sent me two designs and I chose which one I wanted to use.

 

 

Fiona: What was the hardest part of writing your book?
Getting the time to do it because my kids were little.

 

 

Fiona: Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?
Yeah, do not edit it yourself as a final draft.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?
Don’t give up.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
Thank you for buying my book and I hope to have more to come for you soon..

 

 
Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?
Charlotte’s Web.

 

 
Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?
Reading, quilting, baking, sewing, and gardening when I can.

 

 
Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?
I love Castle, Hawaii Five-0, (the new one with Alex O’laughlin), Rizzoli & Isles, and Major Crimes, I like romance movies and liked Nicholas Sparks’ The Lucky One and Dear John. I sometimes like to watch the SciFi movies and do enjoy Scifi shows like The Outer Limits and The Twilight Zone, and Star Trek movies.

 

 
Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music
I love Italian food especially Pizza. Love pinks & mauves and blues and Contemporary Christian music and Country music.

 

 
Fiona: If you were not a writer what else would you like to have done?
I have no idea really. Maybe an actress or singer.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? If so what is it?
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Passionate-Choices and you can find my book on PublishAmerica at http://www.americastarbooks.net/sc/productsearch.cgi?storeid=*1a5ce440a0a34abc0842724ed84a15&search_field=Joy+M+Byrd.

 

Blurb

Jennifer Covvington has a gorgeous boyfriend who is, unfortunately, engaged to another woman. When Jennifer breaks up with Jared Philips, his volatile temper is revealed. Porter Brayden, the tall, dark-haired, handsome doctor she met when she was injured playing volleyball, persuades Jennifer to let him hire a bodyguard to protect her after he becomes concerned about her safety.

Porter calls Tyler Robinson to protect Jennifer. Immediately, she is attracted to this muscular, quiet man. As time goes by, she becomes drawn to Tyler more and more, especially after she spends a night sheltered in his strong arms. But she is also attracted to Porter and is not quite sure what she should do or where her feelings are taking her.

Amazon buying link http://www.amazon.com/Passionate-Choices-Joy-M-Byrd/dp/1424165237/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1409183318&sr=1-1-fkmr0&keywords=Passionate+Choices+by+joy+m+bird

 

Here is my interview with Rayme Sciaroni

 
Name: Rayme Sciaroni
Age: 54
Where are you from: Born & raised in Sonora, California
A little about your self `ie your education Family life etc: Growing up in a small town had limited resources for the kind of creativity that I possessed. I loved music and began playing piano by ear and teaching myself songs. My mother quickly enrolled me into piano lessons to learn how to read music.
I was the middle child of five kids, 2 older and 2 younger. Both sets were closer to each other in age and had more in common with each other. Thus, I stayed at the piano and played and played and played.
High School introduced me to performing arts in which I excelled at, then moved to San Jose, California, where I continued music theory as well as musical theatre. I became musical director for a barn dinner theatre group in Santa Cruz. From there, a quick stint as pianist for a ballet company in Columbus, Ohio, then on to New York City where I continued playing piano for ballet classes as well as hiring myself out as pianist for some of the finer restaurants through out the city.
I was admitted into the BMI Music Theatre Workshop as composer/lyricist upon arriving in the Big Apple and teamed up with a lyricist to write a musical revue, “The Gym”. Immediately securing a place into the ASCAP Music Theatre Workshop with “The Gym”, mentors such as Broadway composers/lyricists Stephen Sondheim and Martin Charnin, the work was presented into the prestigious New Dramatists Guild and had various workshops throughout the country. Interestingly enough, “The Gym” is now being resurrected for another joyful run!

 

 
Fiona: Tell us your latest news?
RAYME: I am so proud of my first attempt at writing “Dinner for God”, a non-religious story of fiction that garnered 5 book awards: Winner-Indie Excellence Book Awards and Finalist: Next Generation Indie Book Awards, Beverly Hills Book Awards, International Book Awards and 2013 USA Best Book Awards.

 

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?
RAYME: I used to write stories all the time beginning in high school. I always loved my creative writing classes and always had good starts for stories, but never took myself too seriously as a writer. I’ve always started all of my creative quests with questions that would pop into my head that would begin with, “What would happen if…” or, “What would I do if…” And by writing these different questions down, it would begin my exploring different ways to approach a particular piece of information.

 

 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?
RAYME: I honestly think I first considered myself an actual writer when I finished and had published “Dinner for God”.

 

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?
RAYME: There it was. One of my questions! I was having lunch by myself at home one day when suddenly I asked myself, “If God were coming to my house for dinner, what would I serve?” I dropped my fork and asked myself again seriously, “If God were coming to my house for dinner, what would I serve? And what would I wear? And who would I invite? And what would we talk about?” Thus started my journey on what that would be like.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?
RAYME: I think I might. I will always go for humor wherever I can find it. I’m anxious to start my next book to see what sort of devices I want to try for it.

 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?
RAYME: After I started thinking about my initial story, the title fell naturally into place. I’m also thrilled that the title of “Dinner for God” instantly catches people’s imaginations when they see it and almost always ask, “Dinner for God…what’s that?”

 

 

Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
RAYME: Absolutely! My story is not a religious one, though many people can shy away from the title with the word ‘God’ in it. For me, using the word and the idea of ‘God’ was a fun way of exploring the possibility that if whatever one considers their ‘Divine Energy’ to be, imagine putting that source in a human form and coming to your table for dinner. Suddenly this particular dinner becomes more important somehow. More thought is given to the entire presentation. A certain way to behave, a certain way to dress, an extra amount of attention is given to the preparation of the food being served.
And my question is, “Why would we take all that trouble to make such a dinner for God and not for everyone in our lives?”

 

 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?
RAYME: The story is a fictional one, but the characters are based on many encounters with wonderful Beings that I have had the honor of having contact with in many different shapes and forms. Many of the singular characters are a conglomeration of a few people that I have come across in my own life. Others are made up completely by myself but were given real life circumstances that I either have been touched by or have been aware of.

 

 

Fiona: Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?
RAYME: There are many experiences in the book that are based on events in my own life. Mostly the wonderful little jewels of sentences that I have had the pleasure of hearing and recognizing the beauty and humor of them.

 

 

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?
RAYME: Too many to count. I love good writing. “Pillars of the Earth” and “World Without End” by Ken Follet. The Earth’s Children series, by Jean M. Auel starting with “The Clan of the Cave Bear”. The humorous observations of David Sedaris in “Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim”. The fantasy world of J.K. Rowling – The Harry Potter series. The obscure short stories in “The Roald Dahl Omnibus”. The classics of Charles Dickens with “A Christmas Carol” and “Great Expectations”. And what I consider to be the most beautiful and succinct style of writing I can only dream of is that of any Jane Austen novel. “Pride and Prejudice”, “Emma”, “Sense and Sensibility”, to name but a few.

 

Fiona: If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
RAYME: I take pleasure in being inspired by many different authors for many different reasons. The list above may be my first go-to place.

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?
RAYME: “Miss Pettigrew Lives For A Day” by Winifred Watson.

 

 

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?
RAYME: There are many and I am constantly on the look out for good writing, past or new authors. Have any suggestions?

 

 

Fiona: What are your current projects?
RAYME: I recently completed a companion book for “Dinner for God” entitled, “The Dinner for God Planner”. This gives the reader an opportunity to hold their own unique dinner for ‘God’ and guides them from planning and executing a menu, guest list, topics to discuss, theme suggestions, grace possibilities, everything one would want to know to make this particular dinner a memorable one. There are also many pages in between each section for journaling the experience along the way.

 

 

Fiona: Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.
RAYME: ALL of my friends, ALL of the time! There has never been a more faithful and supportive group in the history of the world! I feel uber-blessed for them!

 

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?
RAYME: It is! But in many different kinds of writing for me – story telling, music writing, lyric writing, stage writing, musical theatre writing and children’s stories.

 

 

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
RAYME: I had the opportunity to live with my story for quite a while before offering it out into the world. I must honestly say there is nothing I would change in “Dinner for God”.

 

 

Fiona: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
RAYME: I was always fascinated with a good story. Whether it came from a television show, a movie or a good book, I could never get enough of this kind of entertainment that took me beyond the story and into the wonderings of it’s workings. How it began, where did the idea come from, etc.

 

 

Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us?
RAYME: Am completing a children’s story that I am very excited about as well as a sequel to “Dinner for God” that will be entitled “Dessert for God”. This new story will have some of the characters in it from the first story but mainly takes place in a children’s theatre space.

 

 

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
RAYME: I think finding my own unique twist in telling a story that will not only be interesting to readers but will captivate them as well. I’ve taken the risk with “Dinner for God” by adding another one of my gifts as a song writer and have written 5 original songs that are integrated into the story. The song lyrics are in the book in the place that they would be and a CD of the 5 songs are also available.

 

 

Fiona: Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?
RAYME: Currently it is Ken Follet. His diligence in studying the time frame he chooses to write about in his historic novels are not only fascinating, but I learn bits of history from them as well. The same goes for Jean M. Auel. Had I been given “The Clan of the Cave Bear” in school, I would have ACED the Ice Age quiz!

 

 

Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?
RAYME: For “Dinner for God”, no. I set it in a similar setting to where I live. Research however for some of the characters and their circumstances did have to be sought out both on line as well as asking many different people with similar challenges about different aspects of their Being.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?
RAYME: A wonderful friend and graphic designer, Barron Henzel: http://www.henzeldesign.com. I had a fairly specific vision for how I wanted the cover to be as well as color combination and he was able to fulfill my idea and make it even grander than anything I could have ever imagined!

 

 

Fiona: What was the hardest part of writing your book?
RAYME: Starting. The blank screen can be intimidating and many ideas were coming out of me all at the same time that I feared I was going to miss some of them. So I didn’t even try to do anything cohesive at first. I just started writing and when another idea came up that I knew I wanted to use later down the road, I just wrote it (in red) right in the middle of whatever it was I was writing and kept going.

 

 

Fiona: Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?
RAYME: Ha! The embarrassing fact that my age gives me away when I learned in high school in my manual typewriting class that one must always put TWO spaces after a sentence. Not so anymore, and I admit I STILL put two spaces after a sentence. ARGH!

 

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?
RAYME: Keep writing! I know that’s been said a million times over by many other, if not ALL writers but it’s true! Even when you’re wanting to go a specific way in your writing and your brain is going some place else, write it down! Even write down the frustration of writing! There is always something in everything that you write that you will undoubtedly use somewhere down the line. Keep writing!!! And did I mention, KEEP WRITING?

 

 

Fiona: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
RAYME: Take the unusual yet extremely rewarding and journey of “Dinner for God”. It’s a launching point for you and your loved ones to create an opportunity to communicate on a deeper and more loving level. There is always more to learn about each other. Let this be the vehicle for you to surprise not only your guests, but yourself. And ALWAYS keep it Joy-FULL.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?
RAYME: “The Golden Egg Book” by Margaret Wise Brown and illustrated by Leonard Weisgard. I still have a copy of it. Not mine from when I first read it, but I found it again much later in life and treasure it so.

 

 
Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?
RAYME: Besides writing music…directing, choreographing, designing greeting cards, crafting.

 

 
Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?
RAYME: LOVE movies. Television shows…I don’t do too much of. I can’t bother watching whiny reality shows. I’m too busy living my own life.

 

 
Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music
RAYME: Favorite Foods: Pizza, Gelato, Roasted Vegetables. Favorite Colors: I can’t tell you which is my favorite because it’ll make all the other colors feel bad. Favorite Music: The next song I hear.

 

 
Fiona: If you were not a writer what else would you like to have done?
RAYME: Interior Designing or Set/Lighting Design.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? If so what is it?
RAYME: http://www.dinnerforgod.com where you can find recipes for all of the dishes that are served in the book, some bonus tips, sheet music of the songs and join my blog!
If you have any questions or something you’d like to share, please feel free to contact me at: rayme@dinnerforgod.com. I’d love to hear from you!
“Dinner for God” available at:

 

http://www.amazon.com/Dinner-God-Inspirational-Interfaith-Experience/dp/0985093110/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409116492&sr=8-1&keywords=Dinner+for+God

“Dinner for God” CD available at:
http://www.amazon.com/Songs-Dinner-God-Rayme-Scarioni/dp/B0093SCZAS/ref=pd_bxgy_b_img_y

 

“Dinner for God Planner” available at:
http://www.amazon.com/Dinner-God-Planner-Rayme-Sciaroni/dp/0985093188/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1409116589&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=Dinner+for+God+Planner
“Dinner for God” Kindle version:
http://www.amazon.com/Dinner-God-Rayme-Sciaroni-ebook/dp/B00962GD8Q/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1409116644&sr=1-1&keywords=Dinner+for+God
Audible:
http://www.audible.com/pd/Fiction/Dinner-for-God-Audiobook/B00ATEEFQ2/ref=a_search_c4_1_1_srTtl?qid=1409116708&sr=1-1
Nook:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dinner-for-god-rayme-sciaroni/1114156869?ean=2940016004952

Here is my interview with Ann Gimpel

Name: Ann Gimpel
Age: Aw, that’s classified.
Where are you from? Originally Seattle, Washington, but I’ve lived in California for a long time, currently in Mammoth Lakes.
A little about your self `ie your education Family life etc: I’m a Ph.D level licensed psychologist and worked in that field for many years. I started writing in 2008, and now I write full time. I’m married (to the same man for forever). We have three grown kids and four grandchildren.

 

 
Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Let’s see. Witch’s Bane just released. Witches Rule, last book in that series is coming in November. I just completed Earth’s Hope, last book in the Earth Reclaimed trilogy. It’s with my publisher. And I’m shopping for a home for Icy Passage a novel that came out of a recent trip to Antarctica.

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

2008. Hard to say why. I’ve always been a storyteller. I was one of those therapists who told stories to their clients. One day I decided to give voice to a story running around in my head and that was how this all began.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

After my first book was published in 2/11. Before that I’d had several short stories accepted for publication, but it was the book that did it.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Mountaineering. I’ve spent a large portion of my life with a pack on my back in the mountains. There’s lots of solitude, and that’s when the stories run around in my head.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Not sure quite what you mean by this question. I write urban fantasy and paranormal romance, which are the same genres I read.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I have a lot of books out there. Titles come to me while I’m writing them.

 

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

All my books have a message and it usually has something to do with the triumph of the human spirit over adversity.

 

 
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

My books mostly have “read world” settings, but many of the characters are supernatural. Magic and mythology abound. It’s another place my psychology background weaves into my writing.

 

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

Sometimes. It’s one of the benefits of being old. I’ve had a whole lot of experiences to draw on for my writing.
Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

There are so many, it’s impossible to pick just one or list them.

 

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

Robin Hobb and Nora Roberts/JD Robb

 

 
Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Sebastian by Anne Bishop

 

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

New to me authors include Nalini Singh, Sherrilyn Kenyon, and Anne Bishop.

 

 
Fiona: What are your current projects?

I have one outstanding project and that’s finishing my Dragon Lore trilogy. I need to write one more book to close it off. Once that’s done, I’ll be free to write something brand new.

 

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

I’ve been lucky. I’ve had lots of support from many quarters including my publishers, editors, and cover artists, not to mention all my author friends.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Definitely.

 

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

No. Now if you’d asked me that about my first book, I might have answered differently.

 

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

I’ve always been a writer, but before fiction, it was client notes and reports and grant proposals.

 

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

I’m going to forward you a media kit for Witch’s Bane that includes a nice long excerpt.

 

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

Characters always came easy for me, but I had to teach myself plotting, pacing and holding tension.

 

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

It varies. I like Illona Andrews Kate Daniels’ series. And I liked Sherrilyn Kenyon’s Belador books. For a book to draw me in, the world building has to be spot on. The magic systems have to be congruent, and the character arcs have to show growth. I hate whiny heroines and badass men who walk all over them, probably because it feels too much like my other career.

 

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

I travel to give myself grist for the writing mill.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Lots of people. My publishers hire those out. Fiona Jayde, Valerie Tibbs, and Kelly Shorten have done a bunch of them

 

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

The hardest part of novels is the middle. There’s always a place where I’m certain the plot is lagging and the book is dull as dishwater, but when I go back through it editing, I’m always pleasantly surprised that wasn’t the case.

 

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

Every book holds different lessons. It’s important to keep a positive attitude!

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Keep writing and find a good critique group. One where they’re honest with you. It won’t do you any good if they don’t pick your work apart. No matter how famous a writer is, they have blind spots in terms of their own writing. It’s why you need crit partners.

 

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

Just thanks so much for buying my books! Hugs and I appreciate you so much.

 

 
Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Unfortunately, no.

 

 
Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

Mountaineering, skiing, backpacking, cooking, and occasionally sewing.

 

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

I love Supernatural and the Hunger Games movies have been great.

 

 
Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music.

Food:lobster with drawn butter. Color: any shade of lavender. Music: folk singers and bluegrass. Classical too.

 

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

Exactly what I did. Psychology was my first love and I’ve never been sorry for pursuing it. It’s given me a rich background and a solid understanding of how people (and fictional characters) function.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? If so what is it?
I have both. http://www.anngimpel.com and http://anngimpel.blogspot.com

 

 

Thanks so much for a very interesting set of questions, Fiona! I feel like my bones are picked clean. Big hugs and thanks for being part of my street team.

Witch’s Bane
The Witch Chronicles, Book 2

By Ann Gimpel

Publisher: Taliesin
ISBN:

Release Date: 8/7/14

Genre: Dark Paranormal Romance
65,000 words
Two stubborn people—a witch and a mage—come together with a fierceness borne of desperation. Can passion trump their intense need for independence? Will they live long enough to find out?

 

Blurb:
Roz, Jenna, and Colleen are the last of the demon-stalking witches. So far, they’ve escaped disaster, but their luck is running low. When demons strike in the midst of Colleen’s wedding, Roz launches desperate measures because she and her sister witches are Earth’s only hedge against being overrun by Hell’s minions. As she shape-shifts to keep one step ahead of the demons, at least it takes her mind off her other problems. Personal ones. She burned through a couple of marriages with a string of loser men before, after, and in between. Though she wants to be happy for Colleen, the jealousy bug bit deep and hasn’t let go.

In Roz’s secret heart she’s attracted to Ronin, one of the Daoine Sidhe. He’s so profanely beautiful she can barely breathe around him, but he’s also headstrong and arrogant. Not good partner material, she tells herself, unless she wants to end up dusting her heart off one more time.

Ronin set his sights on Roz when she was at his home in the U.K. for a strategy meeting and he can’t get her out of his mind. Unfortunately, she’s so prickly getting close to her requires scheming. He casts an enchantment to lure her at Colleen’s wedding, but she senses the spell and rebuffs him.

Roz is used to calling the shots. So is Ronin. Sparks fly. Tempers run hot, right along with an attraction too strong to be denied. Roz and Ronin come together with a fierceness borne of desperation, but demons are determined to rid themselves of the witches for good, no matter what it takes.
Excerpt:
Ronin Redstone unwound his arm from Roz and gripped his hands together in his lap to lessen the temptation to touch her again. Where he figured most of the guests were anxious to see the bride, he’d been interested in Roz. Probably too interested since he’d bounced to his feet the moment she entered the room and had even spun the mildest of spells to coerce her to sit near him. He pressed his lips into a flat line as he wrestled with his thoughts. Ever since he’d met the tall, imposing witch at his home in northern England a couple of weeks before, he’d been able to think of little else. She even entered his dreams with her silky black hair, pronounced cheekbones, and hawk-like nose. In those dreams, she was naked, her bronze skin glimmering in moonlight.
Her heady scent, pine forests and jasmine, tickled his nostrils and made him wonder what she’d feel like in his arms. Once he kicked the door open to that slippery slope, his cock sprang to life, clearly eager to find out. He tried to clip his libido before things whirled out of control and she noticed his arousal, but his cock wasn’t in the mood for negotiation—or retreat. He wove the tiniest don’t look here spell and draped his lower body with it.
In years past, he’d simply have created a love charm, imbued it with compulsion, and bedded the woman. That probably wasn’t a good idea, though. Roz would sense his magic, be outraged he tried to coerce her, and that would be the last he ever saw of the striking witch. Never mind she had good reason to not want much to do with him since he’d been one of the key players two hundred years ago who’d suggested foisting demon stalking onto the witches. He tightened his jaw muscles. Who could have guessed his little machination to get his kin out from under a highly unpleasant task would nearly be the death of the few witches who’d inherited the power through a magical version of gene splicing? Of course, he’d also been the one to send Duncan to fetch one of the witches to quell a demon uprising in the U.K. last month. That was how they’d discovered only three of the special witches remained…
No wonder she’s not overly fond of me. Ronin grimaced, not liking the truth in his thoughts. An inner voice huffed, reminding him it wasn’t his fault the witches in question hadn’t produced more offspring, but he shushed it.
Surely I can at least charm Roz out of that sour expression on her face.
He forced his breathing into a regular pattern and glanced toward Duncan and Colleen at the front of the room. The resident witch had completed her part of the ceremony and Titania was speaking in Gaelic so old he had trouble following it. The Sidhe binding ceremony lasted at least half an hour, so he let his thoughts drift. Anywhere but to his cock, which still throbbed uncomfortably.
As de facto leader for the Sidhe, a post he held more because no one else wanted it than because of any special skills on his part, he sensed they stood at the edge of a cataclysmic event. Abbadon and his henchmen, the Irichna demons, had grown appallingly strong. Capturing them one at a time and shepherding them to the Ninth Circle of Hell where they were trapped for all eternity wasn’t a workable solution anymore. There were too many of them, and maybe not enough space in the bottom of Hell.
Because he was afraid of a firm answer regarding Hell’s demon storage capacity, he hadn’t asked Titania, though surely she’d know. If they couldn’t dump Irichna behind the Ninth Circle’s gate, he had no idea what they’d do with them. And if Abbadon consolidated his full power, Earth would be laid waste. Ronin clamped his jaws together. Apocalypse didn’t come close to describing what would happen if Abbadon were freed from protecting his demons and could concentrate on taking over Earth.
In addition to not inquiring too closely about the Irichna, I also haven’t asked about Oberon. Ronin grimaced again. If the King of Faerie were truly so tired of immortality he’d let himself fade into the Dreaming, Ronin didn’t want to know about that, either.
When did I turn into such a craven I avoid unpleasant answers?
Even though he wasn’t expecting one, a response popped up anyway. He’d loved a human woman once, but she’d died bearing their son, who’d perished right along with her. The major vessel serving her heart had ruptured, and no amount of Sidhe magic could heal her or breathe life into their dead child. Ronin withdrew from the other Sidhe after that, mostly because he didn’t want to hear their lectures about the whole debacle being his own fault. After all, they weren’t supposed to mate outside their blood. When he finally picked up the reins of command a couple of centuries later—or maybe it had been three—he held himself aloof and avoided confrontations with anyone, about anything.
He ground his jaws harder together. His internal inventory was damned depressing; it forced him to take a harsh look at himself, and he didn’t like what he saw. He glanced at Titania. She clasped Duncan’s and Colleen’s hands between her own, and his eyes widened. Had he truly spent the entire ceremony sunk in memories and self-pity?
It would appear so, he thought dryly. In moments, Titania would utter the final words, Duncan would kiss Colleen, and the ritual would be done. He barely had time to wonder why Titania hadn’t kicked up more of a fuss about Duncan marrying a mortal, when the bridal pair kissed.
The tiniest sigh escaped Roz, and he looked sidelong at her. Her full lips were parted in half a smile, and she looked captivated by the ancient binding that had unfolded, mostly without him paying one whit of attention to it. She leaned toward him, her earlier ire apparently forgotten. “They make such a lovely couple,” she whispered.
Ronin narrowed his eyes and looked hard at Duncan and Colleen, wrapped in one another’s arms and kissing enthusiastically. He didn’t know about the lovely couple part, because he didn’t view the world that way. “They do look happy,” he whispered back because he thought he ought to say something.
Bubba, who’d been standing off to one side, made a grab for a bag Ronin hadn’t noticed before. The changeling reached inside and Ronin’s internal alarm went off. The changeling was about to throw something at the couple. Had the creature been co-opted by demons? It wasn’t unheard of since their race contained a smattering of demon blood. Afraid if he hesitated he’d be too late, Ronin pulled strong magic and rose to his feet.
Before he could loose it, Roz fastened a hand around his lower arm. “It’s just rice,” she said, her voice still low. “He’s going to throw rice at them. Stand down.”
Ronin met her dark, luminous gaze. “What sort of custom is that?” he demanded. Magic thrummed around him, making the air shimmer in iridescent hues. The changeling indeed tossed rice high in the air, showering everyone within a ten-foot radius of him, laughed uproariously, and then did it again.
“An old one.” Roz tugged on his arm and he sat reluctantly. “Bubba adores Colleen. He’s laid his life on the line for her a bazillion times. He’d never hurt her.”
“Better safe than sorry,” he muttered, feeling like an ass. “How was I to know?”
“It’s okay.” She let go of his arm and patted one of his hands.
As long as he was in an apologizing mood—they were rare for him—Ronin exhaled sharply and said, “I’m sorry I, um, suggested you sit next to me.”
She cocked her head to one side and quirked a brow. “If you’d only suggested, it would have been fine, but you did a tad more than that.”
Flutes and guitars began to play Mendelssohn’s “Wedding March.” Colleen and Duncan turned and floated up the center aisle with Bubba right behind, still throwing rice. Even Ronin had to admit they looked radiant. He’d known Duncan his entire life, and he’d never seen his fellow Sidhe look so carefree and besotted with joy. In one wild, unrestrained moment, before he glossed his emotions over with rationality, he wanted the same for himself.
Ronin felt Roz’s gaze still on him and knew he couldn’t ignore her comment. “You’re right,” he said stiffly. “I did do more than that.”
She repositioned herself so he had to look at her. “Why?”
Because I’ve wanted to strip you naked and worship your body from the day I met you. He cloaked his mind, hoping he’d been fast enough and she hadn’t read his thoughts. “I’m not quite sure,” he stumbled over the words, because they weren’t the truth.
Her dark gaze never left him as she weighed his statement. Finally she nodded, almost to herself. “When you figure it out,” she said and winked broadly, “be sure to let me know.”
Heat rose from his neck and swooshed over the top of his head. Damn! He was a Sidhe and a warrior. It was unseemly to blush like a love-struck maid. He opened his mouth to stammer some sort of reply, but she got up, along with the rest of the guests. “Come on,” she said. “I’m starving.”
He’d been afraid the second the ceremony was over, she’d race away from him as far and as fast as she could, but she’d just invited him to eat with her, at least he thought she had. He bit back a smile until just the edges of his mouth twitched. Maybe she didn’t abhor him as much as it seemed when she’d shot him that poisonous look once she sensed his magic.
I learned something. I have to ask her, not simply push her to do what I want. He hurried after her swishing skirt, not wanting to lose her in the crowd. He could always locate her, but the less magic he used until she got to know him, the better.
*
Roz caught up to Jenna just inside the dining area and hugged her. “Wasn’t it just perfect?” she gushed, still caught up in the mystical pull of dual wedding ceremonies.
Jenna hugged her back and nodded. She disentangled herself and eyed her friend. “What the hell, Roz? It isn’t like you to fall all over yourself.”
Roz settled her face into its usual, stern planes. “There. Is that better?”
Jenna grinned. “Yup. There’s the grumpy witch I know and love. What happened to you anyway? I looked back and you were trailing after that hunky Sidhe.”
“He snared me in a spell.”
“Ooooh.” Jenna clapped her hands together. “He must be interested.” She leaned close. “What did he do during the ceremony?”
Roz felt her face redden. “Nothing. I got mad at him once I realized he’d bamboozled me. Hush. Here he comes.”
“Awesome.” Jenna practically vibrated with enthusiasm. “He can eat with us.”
“I already invited him.”
A knowing look crossed Jenna’s face and she opened her mouth, but Roz hissed, “Can it, sister,” just before turning to Ronin and asking, “Where would you like to sit?”
He half-bowed—a courtly, old world gesture that drove home just how old he was—lifted Jenna’s hand to his lips, and said, “Nice to see you again, Miss Jenna. Anywhere the two of you wish to settle is fine with me.”
“Maybe we should get our food first,” Jenna suggested brightly, “since the tables will fill fast.”
“Good idea,” Roz snapped, feeling unaccountably jealous. Ronin hadn’t kissed her hand, but he’d been quick enough to snatch Jenna’s.
“If you don’t want him…” Jenna spoke in their telepathic speech.
“I thought you were interested in Tristan.” Roz led the way to a buffet table and picked up a plate.
Jenna smirked. “I am, but he’s not here.”
Roz dished up an interesting looking salad, brimming with shrimp and crab, and followed it with a few slices of rare beef and a roll. They found a table beneath a leaded glass window and laid their plates down.
“I’ll get us something to drink.” Ronin smiled. “Preferences?”
“What are you getting?” Roz asked, avoiding Jenna’s gaze.
“Mead,” he answered. “It’s what I prefer.”
“I’ll take Irish whiskey,” Jenna trilled and settled into her seat.
“Just bring me a glass of one or the other,” Roz muttered. “I’m not picky.” As soon as Ronin was out of earshot, or close enough, she glared at Jenna. “Leave him alone.”
“But you’re not even sure you’re interested in him,” Jenna protested.
“And how would you know that?” Roz stuffed a forkful of salad into her mouth, chewed with a vengeance, and swallowed.
The other witch dropped her gaze, looking sheepish. “I, um, peeked.”
Roz slammed a fist on the table hard enough the dishes rattled. “You looked inside my head without asking?”
“’Fraid so. Sorry.” Jenna started eating with a studied nonchalance.
Roz exhaled and then did it again. Both of them were lonely; getting angry with her longtime friend wouldn’t serve any purpose other than creating bad water under the bridge they’d have to clear at some point. “Jenna. It’s the wedding ceremonies. All the old magic in them makes us want what Colleen and Duncan have.”
“I suppose you’re right.” Jenna’s hazel gaze met hers and she looked repentant, her brows drawn together. “I’m sorry.”
“Me too.” Roz smiled crookedly. “Let’s not fight. Not today.”

 

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Short Bio:
Ann Gimpel is a clinical psychologist, with a Jungian bent. Avocations include mountaineering, skiing, wilderness photography and, of course, writing. A lifelong aficionado of the unusual, she began writing speculative fiction a few years ago. Since then her short fiction has appeared in a number of webzines and anthologies. Her longer books run the gamut from urban fantasy to paranormal romance. She’s published over 20 books to date, with several more contracted for 2014.

A husband, grown children, grandchildren and three wolf hybrids round out her family.

Long Bio:
Ann Gimpel is a mountaineer at heart. Recently retired from a long career as a psychologist, she remembers many hours at her desk where her body may have been stuck inside four walls, but her soul was planning yet one more trip to the backcountry. Around the turn of the last century (that would be 2000, not 1900!), she managed to finagle moving to the Eastern Sierra, a mecca for those in love with the mountains. It was during long backcountry treks that Ann’s writing evolved. Unlike some who see the backcountry as an excuse to drag friends and relatives along, Ann prefers solitude. Stories always ran around in her head on those journeys, sometimes as a hedge against abject terror when challenging conditions made her fear for her life, sometimes for company. Eventually, she returned from a trip and sat down at the computer. Three months later, a five hundred page novel emerged. Oh, it wasn’t very good, but it was a beginning. And, she learned a lot between writing that novel and its sequel.

Around that time, a friend of hers suggested she try her hand at short stories. It didn’t take long before that first story found its way into print and they’ve been accepted pretty regularly since then. One of Ann’s passions has always been ecology, so her tales often have a green twist.

In addition to writing, Ann enjoys wilderness photography. She lugs pounds of camera equipment in her backpack to distant locales every year. A standing joke is that over ten percent of her pack weight is camera gear which means someone else has to carry the food! That someone is her husband. They’ve shared a life together for a very long time. Children, grandchildren and three wolf hybrids round out their family.