Here is my interview with Daithi Kavanagh

 

Name:  Daithi Kavanagh

Age:    56

Where are you from – Ballyshelin, Trinity, Co. Wexford.

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

I am married to Caroline and I have two teenage children Ella and Rory aged 17 and 14. I recently went back to adult education having sat my leaving certificate in 2014 and am now doing a third level course in Irish Culture and Heritage.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

My debut novel ‘The Gun’ has just been published by Tirgearr Publishing i.e 30^th September 2014 as an eReader four weeks after I started my third level course.

 

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing approx two years ago when I started on an adult education course. My English teacher felt I had a talent for creative writing and encouraged  me to continue.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When Tirgearr accepted my novel it struck home that maybe I actually can write.
 

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

The anger that existed in Ireland after the economic collapse inspired me to write this book.
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I tend to read Nordic crime novels and am very much influenced by this type of writing.

 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

From the outset the gun itself took on a huge role in the book. This is the reason I named the book ‘The Gun’.

 

 

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

Sometimes peoples personalities such as Sullivan’s mature better in less favourable circumstances and if people are pushed to far they will strike out.

 

 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

I feel in general that the characters and the events come across as realistic and most of the places mentioned in it are places where I grew up and have lived in for most of my life.

 

 

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

The recession to a large degree influenced my writing and some of the experiences of the characters are loosely based on my own.
 

 

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

With regard to my own writing writers such as Stieg Larsson, Henning Mankel and Ian Rankin are a big influence.

 

 

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

Henning Mankel.

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Police by Jo Nesbo

 

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

I am enjoying Jo Nesbo at the moment.

 

 

Fiona: What are your current projects?

My current projects are my new book The Brotherhood and I am doing a third level course in Irish Culture and Heritage.

 

 

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

Kemberlee in Tirgearr Publishing, Troy my editor and my English teacher Jim Maguire.

 

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I would love it to become my career.

 

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

No I’m happy with the way my book has turned out.

 

 

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

Through encouragement from my English teacher Jim Maguire.

 

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

The Gun is an Irish crime novel involving a political serial killer (The Deerstalker) and a detective called Tadhg Sullivan who is trying to end his reign of terror.

 

 

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

Finding time to write whilst trying to maintain a balance between work and family life can be challenging.

 

 

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

Arnaldar Indroason who is an Icelandic crime writer. What strikes me is his empathy with his fellow human beings.

 

 

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

No. My books so far are based in Ireland but there are aspects of the stories that are related to outside influences. In my second book in the series – The Brotherhood Sullivan and Horowitz an ex CIA agent have to travel to the Middle East.

 

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Tirgearr Publishing with some ideas from my brother Sean.
 

 

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

Having the time to dedicate to it. I enjoy the actual writing as I get to stay in bed to do it!

 

 

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

That anything is possible.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Believe in yourself and do it. Don’t give up.

 

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

I hope my writing inspires people to be nicer to each other as it has done with me.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Chopper ( book about Hells Angels). I was 12 years old when I read it. My second book was Wuthering Heights.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

My wife!

 

 

Fiona: Is there one person pass or present you would To meet and why?

Michael Davitt an Irish Patriot who was born in England and had more empathy with the common man than in my opinion anybody past or present.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Music, singing, politics, history and Irish Culture.

 

 

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

Crime Dramas.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music:

I like simple plain food i.e. Bacon and Cabbage, steak and chips etc. Colours – green, blue and brown. Music – Irish traditional.

 

 

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

Historian or Archaeologist.

 

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

www.daithikavanagh.blogspot.com

http://www.tirgearrpublishing.com/authors/Kavanagh_Daithi/the-gun.htm

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NU8MDTA

 

 

Here is my interview with Andrea McKenzie Raine

Name   Andrea McKenzie Raine

Age 39

Where are you from

Victoria, BC, Canada

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

I studied creative writing and English literature at the University of Victoria, and graduated in 2000 with a B.A. in English Literature. I continued to write poetry and fiction and became an active member of my writing community. Since my college days, I have been a regular attendee at a successful reading series called Planet Earth Poetry (formerly known as Mocambopo) where I have connected with many aspiring and established writers locally and nationally. My family has always been supportive of my writing aspirations – my parents encouraged me when I was younger (and still do), and more recently my husband has acknowledged the importance of writing in my life; before we became parents he would often tell me to ‘go and write’ while he made dinner, etc. My husband and I work full-time and are raising our two boys, aged 5 and 2, with the help of day-care and grandparents during the day. So, the days are a bit of a juggling act, and my writing time is limited and precious. My oldest son is now aware of my writing life and he has accompanied me at poetry readings and often asks me about my novel. I am very fortunate to have such an understanding, loving, creative and supportive network of people in my life as I embark on this journey.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

In December 2013, I published my debut novel Turnstiles through Inkwater Press. Now I am working on a prequel novella, A Crowded Heart. I have another local reading in November 17, 2014, at the Pen-In-Hand Reading Series at Serious Coffee. I am also thrilled to be receiving wonderful reviews of my book.

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I have been writing since I could hold a pencil. It is something ingrained in me and I have always had the desire to express myself through journaling, poetry and creative stories. I was the kid who became excited in class whenever the teacher assigned creative writing, while most of the other kids groaned and whined. I started writing my first journal when I was six, and at age seven I would write little ‘ding-dong’ poems in homemade cards for family members. My third grade teacher told me that she expected to see a novel written by me one day, and my mom eventually started asking me to write poems in other people’s birthday cards. So, I had support from an early age from people close to me, which helped encourage me to continue writing and developing my craft.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

In the third grade, I knew writing was an important part of my life. I seriously began thinking about writing as a career and considered myself a writer, albeit very young and unpublished. I couldn’t really call myself an author, and expect others to see me in the same light, until my first book of poems A Mother’s String was published by Ekstasis Editions in 2005.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I always knew I had a novel inside me, but I didn’t feel like I had much to say until I embarked on a two-month solo backpacking trip through Western Europe in the summer 1998.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

My writing tends to be more in the ‘literary fiction’ category; I have read a lot of classical literature and I prefer to paint pictures with words and go beneath the skin of my characters. I write more about my characters’ inner lives and struggles. I also incorporate poetic language into my fiction. My writing is accessible and entertaining, but I believe my work also has many layers and an underlying message for the reader to explore and ponder.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The working title came to me in the early stages of writing my book, and it stuck. I was thinking of Turnstiles in a concrete way: train travel. Then Turnstiles became a metaphor for traversing through rites of passage, and crossing both geographical and personal landscapes to discover new places or perceptions.

 

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

I believe there are many layers to explore in Turnstiles, but ultimately I hope readers will grasp the idea that everything can change in a heartbeat; the world is full of possibilities, and the key to accessing those possibilities could simply be an act of kindness or changing the course of your day. Also, things aren’t always what they seem – the person you dismiss as an out-of-work bum sitting on the sidewalk may have a great spark inside of them that hasn’t been able to shine yet, and the person who seems to ‘have it all’ may be battling with demons that you wouldn’t wish on anybody.

 

 
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Writing Turnstiles was a cathartic journey for me, although most of it is fiction. I did explore some issues I was working through:  finding my way into steady, rewarding employment after university; muddling through my ‘single life’ and the disappointment of failed relationships; and trying to find my own place and purpose in the world.

 

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

I have never been through anything as severe as my characters; however, I was able to impart empathy for their situations on some level. I’ve watched a lot of movies, read a lot of books, taken pieces from the lives of others and mine own – basically, I’ve lived on this planet for nearly 40 years and paid attention.

 

 
Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

Crime and Punishment by Dostoevsky;

 

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

Patrick Lane

 

 
Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Break In Two by MJ Summers. I don’t usually read steamy romances, so this one is kind of new for me. I also simply need an escape at the moment. My husband and I work full-time and we have two rambunctious boys who are five and two; sometimes it’s nice to read some light fiction. I like to alternate between classic literature and contemporary fiction.

 

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

Arleen Pare and Pamela Porter

 

 
Fiona: What are your current projects?

As I mentioned, I am working on a prequel novella titled A Crowded Heart. I am also trying to find a home for my second poetry manuscript, Spectrums & Apertures and a chapbook of ghazals titled A Year of Mornings.

 

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

I have a wonderful writing group called the Waywords. Our focus is poetry, but the sole act of writing is at the core of the group. They have definitely been a large part of my support network, and cheering me in on all my writing endeavours.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Absolutely. I have so many ideas, and other novels that I have started and want to finish. My novel Turnstiles also has more legs: a spin-off and possible sequel.

 

 

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

No. I have lived with these characters and their individual stories long enough that I feel every rock has been overturned.

 

 

 

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

It was always there. I don’t know when or how the first impulse to write began. I do remember that my first grade teacher gave our class an assignment to keep a daily journal, and I took it very seriously and enjoyed the chance to write down all of my daily events. The record of those events also conjured up emotions about them. I also taught myself to read books before I started school, so I think my desire for books began at a very early age and I knew I wanted to be a part of that creative world.

 

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

The prequel novella I am working on is centered on a main character in Turnstiles who the reader never gets to meet because he is deceased from the beginning of the novel. However, the choices he made in his life have a direct influence on the way the lives of the other characters unfold. He is painted in a bad light, and I felt that he needed an opportunity to tell his side of the story.

 

 

 

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

Finding the time to write; to get lost in that other world.

 

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

Diana Gabaldon is my favourite author because her writing is epic, adventurous, historical, interpersonal, human, vivid and poetic.

 

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

My novel, Turnstiles, is largely set in London, Paris and Germany; when I returned from my backpacking trip, the landscapes and people of these countries were fresh in my mind.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Inkwater Press worked with me to find the perfect cover for my book.

 

 

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

The hardest part was delving into those darker places.

 

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

I think I learned that there is a light at the end of any dark tunnel.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Keep writing. Don’t lose the spark, or drop the thread no matter how little time you have to write, or how long it takes to complete a poem, short story, or novel. Take the time to get your thoughts down on paper – brain dump into a journal (you may find little gems later). Remember to let your characters take you wherever they want to go.

 

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

I am a new author, but I have a lot to say and I have been working on my craft for a long time. I am grateful to all of the readers who have taken a chance on reading my first book.  There will be more to come.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Ramona, Age 8 by Beverly Cleary

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

My children make me laugh and cry.

 

 

Fiona: Is there one person past or present you would want to meet and why?

Emile Zola. I don’t know how much we could say to each other since I don’t speak French, but I would like to meet him because he was prolific and brave; he wrote for the sake of humanity.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

I enjoy scrapbooking my sons’ baby books and travel books.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Lasagne/red/classical and rock

 

 

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

I honestly don’t know. Writing is in my blood. Perhaps I would have continued studying ballet.

 

 

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

My author website is http://andreamckenzieraine.com

My author blog is http://arainewriter.blogspot.ca

 

Here is my interview with Tina Smith

 

Name Tina Smith

Age 31

 

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

I was born in the Bega Valley in New South Wales Australia. I have one younger brother. I’m the oldest.  I spent the first 7 years of my life in a tiny town in Victoria before moving back to the Valley where I attended Candelo primary and Bega High. I had a terrible reputation as a ‘bad girl’. My friends new the truth, it was a complete ruse.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I am producing two anthology novels, Night Life and Lacing Shadows. I have plans to extend the short stories I have written about vampires and Aliens into novels. I am also aiming to complete the Wolf Sirens Series, releasing book #6 next year. It will be followed by The Shade Before us—a prequel to Wolf Sirens.

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I was born a writer, I have a wild imagination and I’m very introverted. I stared writing as a child. I used to make up stories to tell my friends and my brother. I didn’t attempt anything serious until I started on Wolf Sirens, though I was a journal and poem writer since I was a kid. I suspect that I cultivated the idea of Wolf Sirens for some time in the back of my mind.
 

 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I published Wolf Sirens, my first book. It wasn’t until I had it in my hands that I realized I was a writer.
 

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Twilight, to be honest—that book has a lot to answer for! Wuthering heights was an influence as well as my life and personal heartbreak.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I think I do have my own style. It’s detailed and I like to mislead the reader. I have a lot of conflicting reviews. But I feel if you want more from the genre of PNR, you’ll appreciate what I do.
 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

A lot of thinking and word combining. It’s original and it fitted so well.

 

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

Probably, I think you can tell from reading it that I am a firm believer in true love. I don’t think books should reflect the author’s morals but funnily enough I think my dislike of high scruples and convention shines through. At the same time it’s chaste in style, I am quite liberal. I like strong female protagonists with heart and I’m somewhat of a feminist. I think girls should have good female role models. I believe in gender equality and I tried indirectly to paint that kind of world.

 

 
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

It’s a strange cataclysm of things, one of them being experiences I have had. The setting is based on Bega. Pieces of relationships and feelings I have felt. Art versus life. Lila is the tougher version of my younger self. I think I am a lone wolf at heart. It’s my totem animal. PN is a metaphor for life. It’s a heightened reality in a way, a tool I use to enhance and explore emotions.

 

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

Cres is closely based on friends of mine from high school. I’m a pantser and I layer up my novels, by about the fifth going over I have developed my characters and the interesting detail. It happens as I go along. I just have to be in the Wolf Sirens zone. I channel parts of my life into it.
 

 

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

Twilight, Call of the Wild, White Fang, Checkers, Shiver and Children of the Dust. Everything I read or see or hear about is fodder. But those are strong influences. As were Roald Dahl and Paul Jennings and Emily Rodda when I was a kid. John Marsden’s When the War Began and Lindsay Andersons Looking for Alibrandi, in high school. All of those stories and story tellers influenced me.

 

 

 
Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I am reading Thirst by Ava Delany. It’s about vampires.

 

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

I love Amanda Hocking actually. I also really love Colleen Hoover’s books.

 

 
Fiona: What are your current projects?

I am chipping away at Wolf Sirens #5, Dawn in Shade. We are almost done. Then I start work on Wolf Sirens #6, Storm in Shade. I am also going to extend the short stories that I have written for the anthologies. They have been well received and I would love to take them further, one is about vampirism and the other is about aliens—good looking aliens. The novellas all seem to have my trademark mystery and detail.

 

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

My mother’s best friend, Sally and her husband have encouraged me from the very start. They read over my work when no one else had seen it and it’s due to their enthusiasm that I took the plunge to show my secret to the world.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I do now, though at the same time I know more than ever that that is a hard thing to achieve. I hope to be able to financially support myself on my novels and spend every day doing nothing but writing.

 

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

No, I work over them as hard and as much as I can and when they are done, they are done. I cannot go back and read them over once they are out. I am evolving as a writer and I am usually in a different zone once a work is done. I would hate to think that I could make it better, it is what it is. I hope that it is well received; I might rethink my current opinion if it was not. However I plan the plots in my head long before the words hit the page and long before the public read the pages. So I stand by all twists and turns. They aren’t up to me, the story writes itself.

 

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

I like tales. I loved the story of Puss in Boots and other fairytales as a small child. I used to beg my parents to read to me. They were so sick of it they bought me books on tape. There is something innate in me. When I was inline in heaven God handed me a love of words. No one else in my family shares my passion, but my mother’s side are all very creative. Writing is my outlet, my art. Plus I like being alone for extended periods so it’s all fallen into place.

 

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

I used to think I hated writing high action but strangely I do like writing action books, I just don’t like writing the intensive parts like battles. I do it well, apparently, but it is my least favourite part of the job of telling a story. That’s why I like Fever so much (book #2 Wolf Sirens series), it’s a slower pace, a slow burner. All my books have a pace all their own. I feel like every with novel in the series the pace increases. It all heats up and by book #6 it’s on fire.

 

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

I love Colleen Hoover, I love the twist, she excels at good surprises in her stories. The nice ‘slap in the face’ surprises make her stories great. Amanda Hocking’s style is very different and I have strived to emulate her zombie novels, I love her pace and Hollow men and Hollow Land inspired me hugely. I hadn’t read much action and the style rubbed off. I also adore An Rice’s Vampires. Their personality is so well depicted. I also like to take my love of contemporary fiction and inject it into my Paranormal. Books like Atonement and The Book Thief. I hadn’t read Hunger Games until after I had written and published WS1 and I think my style was comparable. Katniss and Lila have similarities— attitude and a bow.

 

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

No, but here’s hoping that I might get that opportunity in the near future.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I did, necessity is the mother of invention. I have a limited budget and I am a perfectionist, so I worked hard and taught myself how to use photo shop. I am happy with the results.

 

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

Editing, first and second rounds before I give it to my editor and proof reader. That is work! The story still has some very rough edges and you have to squeeze and push until it pops out the other side as a fully formed baby/book.

 

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

What didn’t I learn! I learnt so much about editing. I was a newb before I started writing the series. I have learnt about formatting, cover design, computers, facebook, promo, touring and bloggers. The one thing I employ a lot in my writing is “Show Don’t tell.” The reader doesn’t want to be told what you said, they want to hear it. They don’t want to be told the Bar was grimy, they should be shown.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

I like that saying. “Write like no one will read it and edit like everyone will.” I also abide by the idea that, apart from spilling your heart and soul on the page and working really hard at it, that you must write what you would never tell your mother. That’s what people want to read.

 

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

Tell your friends how great the book was. The hardest part about being Indie is that I have a small advertising budget. Word of mouth is the best thing you can do for a book and a writer you love. It keeps me in business.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

It was probably Roald Dahl’s Rotten Nursery Rhymes—and I loved it. I starred in the primary school play based on it and I knew everyone’s lines. However, a case of stage fright meant I didn’t face the audience on opening night. I had my back to the audience most of the time because I was so shy!

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

What doesn’t! I am an emotional creature, I’ve had to toughen up a lot. It’s a cruel world and the strong prey on the weak. As far as laughter goes I am amused by fairly immature humour and embarrassing tales (who isn’t?). Certain people think I am hilarious and others don’t get it at all. I am the queen of the dead pan, so if you aren’t on the wave length you can think I am serious, at times I am being serious (I’m very melodramatic) but I do see the funny side. My daughter thinks I am a bag of laughs and my mother just thinks I am complaining, she frequently scolds me.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Yes, beading, walking the dog, soaping and I can cook. Most of my spare time is spent watching movies for inspiration, reading for inspiration and eavesdropping for ideas. I try to soak up art like a sponge. But writing my series is my life, when I am not at work in customer service and more often than not nowadays I am marketing or promoting the series and the anthologies—so I have to squash in spare time.

 

 

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

I watched Divergent recently and loved it! They did a good job of keeping it close to the book. It was a thrill.

I love reality talent shows at the moment. I like So You Think You Can Dance and any one of the Singing shows like Idol. I get a kick out of seeing people pursue their passion. The dancers remind me of the wolves in wolf sirens. They are agile and strong and super fit.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music?

Aqua, chocolate, and my favourite song is ‘My Immortal’ by Evanescence. Last night I had ‘All about that Base’ by Meghan Trainor spinning on replay in my head. I was up at 2.30a.m in the morning singing it. I had had no coffee (I can’t handle the stuff), so it remains a mystery…perhaps it’s a full moon?

 

 

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

I’m able to adapt and pick up most things, I work in customer service and I find it so draining and not something that I naturally excel at. My mother runs a store so that’s where I started out. I imagine that I could have been a baker of fantastical cakes, in reality I would probably practise as a naturopath but my heart isn’t in it. I have spent the last seven years completing the over 30 subjects required for the advanced diploma whilst working in a health food store. Unlike with writing there were many road blocks and it was a long road but I always finish what I start.

Writing comes naturally to me. I dislike reality; I am only truly at peace when I am creating an alternate world, even one filled with sadness, death and violence. I am the first to admit I am an oddity. But don’t oddballs make the best authors?

 

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

 

Goodreads; http://www.goodreads.com/TinaSmith

 

Kindle: Forbidden; http://www.amazon.com/dp/B009GG06AS Wolf Sirens Fever; http://www.amazon.com/Wolf-Sirens-Fev… Night Fall: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00D6BUDH0

Dusk in Shade: http://www.amazon.com/Wolf-Sirens-Shade-Wolves-Sunset-ebook/dp/B00HKQLLBY

 

Smashwords: Forbidden; https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/210115 Fever: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/248222 Night Fall: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/321480 Dusk in Shade: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/388578

 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/tinawolfsirens Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/wolfsirens/boards/ Facebook; http://www.facebook.com/wolfsirens

 

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Tina-Smith/e/B008V3H97A

Website: wolfsirens.com

 

 

Fiona: Can you  share a little of your current work with us? Sure. (I’ll attach it). Wolf Sirens #5 Dawn in Shade. It is due for release in October.

 

 

Wolf Sirens #5 Teaser:

Due for release October 2014

 

We all relaxed a little as we hit the open countryside but the sky was still buzzing with electrical threads that seemed to culminate around a white sun in a frosty blue sky.

Dillon reached across behind Marcus, and handed me something. Bullets. I found the pistol and loaded the magazine as I nodded my thanks.

“Crain, remember that I’m the only one who knows where your friends are.” He reminded me. As we neared the other boundary of Shade the sky was the same; it cut off our way out of the Valley. Mason got out and tried throwing a rock that dissolved into it. He paced the glowing perimeter.

“What is this?” he asked, I realized he actually expected an answer from me. The wounded guy who was already starting to sweat looked at me sullenly like he too might expect me to answer them. “You said it would be the same, how did you know?”

“Ha, now you think that I have the answers?” It was ironic. “You are on your own.” I jumped down and tucked the gun in my belt, casting a worried look at Fre before addressing them. “Oh, and just a heads up; that guy is infected, he’ll be one of them in about an hour.” I looked away from him and started walking.

“Wait, wait!” Dom called, clambering out of the vehicle “Please, is there any cure?” Marcus followed him, equally anxious to hear what I said as he clutched his bandaged arm.

I strode back over to him and shoved the army issue rifle slung on his shoulder into his arms, pointing the muzzle at his chin.

His face was pained and he looked dirty and damp with sweat.

“Do it now,” I urged through clamped teeth, “and it will be quick or you will cause these men a lot of pain.” My heart was beating fast as I held his horrified stare.

“If you had any guts, any mercy, you would do it and if it was you, you’d want him to do it for you.” I swallowed. That was the cold truth.

Dom had his hand on my shoulder. “Let him go,” he cautioned. But there was no need.

“Have it your way. But maybe you should know something before I leave you for dead.” All attention was on me. “Shoot them in the head or with a direct shot to the heart, otherwise they heal.” I stepped back and turned. “Take care of the kid,” I said over my shoulder as I strode away, I avoided her innocent face. Neither did I look back as I strode down the road. Night would be falling, soon. I needed to find a hiding spot on high ground. I watched the weaving white blue wavy lines in the sky above the mountains with interest.

I was about to head off-road when I heard the familiar whir of the Hummer. I stepped further aside. But they slowed and pulled up.

The sick guy, Marcus, was still with them. “I told you to kill him,” I snarled.

“Get us out of here alive Crain and I’ll make sure you get to see your friends.” I stopped and looked at Dillon. I glanced at Dom.

He could do better than that. “You’ll let them go.”

“They’ll be released,” he assured me. I hid my relief behind a scowl.

I nodded.

“What should we do?” Dom asked.

They were lost without me and they knew it. Things had swung in my favour, only my instincts told me I was better off alone and Dillon might not even have the kind of authority to return my friends, if they were alive.

“Kill him,” I advised ignoring Marcus.

Dom stated his case. “Look, we are soldiers; killing is what we do. But we don’t kill our own.” His voice deepened. They all stared hopefully at me, even the driver, O’Donnell, as his arm rested over the top of the steering wheel.

“Maybe that’s been your biggest mistake.” I looked at Marcus Green. He was already turned. I knew what I had to do for Fre. “He isn’t a soldier anymore,” I warned. His face was clearer. I lifted my gun to pull the trigger but Mason dived on me and I fell back under the force as the infected soldier leapt, transformed, at Dom. I was winded and I struggled to get up, but all I could see was Lab Coat struggling. Fre. I thought with despair as I wriggled under Mason’s weight.

Mason grabbed my arm. He let me up but held me back, firmly. Thankfully, I saw a hypodermic needle protruding from a wolf’s eye, then Marcus reformed into a dead naked human. Dom panicked, pushing the body back. Mason let go of me. I struggled for breath as I walked over and shot Marcus in the head point blank. The bullet blew out the back of his skull, the splatter flicked over my face. We were all in a state of shock, breathing heavily, still tense for action as the echo of the shot died down and I dropped the hand that held the pistol.

 

Here is my interview with Bellann Summer

Name  Bellann Summer

Age  Between 21 and 65

Where are you from: I’m from the midwest of the United States of America

A little about your self `ie your education Family life etc   – I’m an ex-accountant, office manager. I’m married with three children, two boys and a girl. We also have two miniature black and tan dachshunds. We live in the middle of the woods on a lake which suits my nature.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

The big news is that I have been asked by Siren Publishing to become an exclusive author. And I have accepted.

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I actually became unemployed last year and thought what the heck. I sat down and wrote a story. I then followed the directions for submitting to Siren Publishing. And the rest is history.

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I think I started to believe it was real around book 10.

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I was watching the news and saw a house being swept away by a flooding river. I thought about what would happen if there was a group of experts that could come in and help. Rescue for Hire was born.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I don’t know. I write the way I think and make sure it isn’t boring.

 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Out of thin air.

 

 

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

One character was kidnapped and abused. He vowed to never be a victim again, no matter what. Even though he was kidnapped again and abused, he wouldn’t succumb to being a victim. He fought against his attacker the whole way. I hope someone reading it in whatever situation they are in, can realize they can fight and not be a victim.

 
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Other than the paranormal series, I try to keep it pretty real.

 

 

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

Some, all, none and a few.

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m reading one by Skye Michaels, Sean Michaels and Helen Bruch Pearson

 

 

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I am working on Lubirea Mia 3. This is about a bigoted lion shifter and a very stubborn human.  The readers will get an inside look at the big cat council in this one.

 

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I hope so. I’m going to give it my best shot.

 

 

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

 

My latest book is Rescue for Hire 6 – Gabriel’s Pretty turned out pretty good. Maybe I would explain the epilogue happened 6 months after the original story. Although in the next story it is explained.

 

 

 

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

Here is a snippet :

Prologue

One year earlier during a mate sealing ritual between Samuel, Simon’s brother, and Riley.

Taking Riley’s hand, Samuel went over and stood on the soft white rug. Riley positioned himself in front of him and Samuel put his arms around his lubirea mai, pulling his back solidly against Samuel’s front. Samuel braced himself as Simon came toward them, his green eyes glowing.

Simon reached out his hands, ready to place them on lubirea mai symbols on their chests. The tips of his fingers were mere millimeters from their skin, when Riley spoke.

“Simon Craydon, I wish with all my heart that when you meet your mate, he or she will refuse to bow down to you until you’ve bowed to them first.”

Simon’s fingers froze for just a moment and white light burst in his blazing green eyes. The next moment the palms of his hands connected with the blurry scarred lubirea mai symbols on their chests. “Lion cat to human, human to lion cat. You are now united, becoming one in heart, soul and body. It is what is and what will be. For eternity and a day.” Simon’s deep voice echoed in the vast still room.

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

Just when I conquer on habit a new one develops. Sighs.

 

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

The awesome Harris Channing

 

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Learn the game of promotion. Don’t assume because you have a book published you are going to sell a million copies. It takes putting in the time to promote your book and yourself.

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

Thank you with all my heart.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

See Dick and Jane

 

 

Fiona: Is there one person pass or present you would

To meet and why? I would love to meet my grandfather who died when my mother was 2 years old. I feel a connection with him when hearing all the stories about him. I would love to see and hear how he thinks. He was quite a successful man, but died on July 4^th when he was only 52.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Reading, camping, fishing, knitting, crocheting and reading.

 

 

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

I like reality TV, The Big Bang Theory and Criminal Minds.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Mint M&M’s, popcorn. Green is my favorite color and I like pop music.

 

 

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

 

Tell us where we can find you on the internet. http://authorbellann.blogspot.com, http://www.bookstrand.com/bellann-summer,
http://www.amazon.com/Bellann-Summer/e/B00J2GL7YG/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1, http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/bellann-summer?keyword=bellann+summer&store=ebook,

 

http://www.bookstrand.com/bellann-summer

http://www.amazon.com/Bellann-Summer/e/B00J2GL7YG/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1412027749&sr=1-2-ent

Here is my interview with Charlotte Blackwell

Name  Charlotte Blackwell

Age 37

Where are you from Alberta, Canada

A little about your self `ie your education Family life etc  I’m a stay at home mom of three amazing kids. Ages 15, 11 and 8. I retired as a nurse when my youngest was born.  My husband works away from home. I’m also very involved in music. I love discovering new bands.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I’m almost finished an adult romance and hope to get back to the Embrace Series soon. Book 5 here we come.

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

Professionally I started writing about four years ago, but have always found myself writing my feelings and thoughts down.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When it was all I could focus on. I had a story I wanted to tell and it had to come out. That’s when I knew.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

After reading some other YA books, I thought I can do this…so I did.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I prefer to write in first person, present tense. I like to insert myself into the character. I guess I feel it’s easier to understand them.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I knew I wanted Embrace in the title, that is what I call it when a human is turned to a vampire. From there I just wrote out lots of combinations and picked what fit. Immortal Embrace seemed perfect for the first book.

 

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

There’s a few messages throughout the series. I would say the main one is being true to yourself.

 

 
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

It’s a series about vampires and witches and such, so obviously that part isn’t realistic. Although the relationships, personalities and bonds are all realistic. Many are actually taken from my own experiences.

 

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

As I mentioned before, lots of the book is taken from my own experiences. Mostly in the form of personalities and relationships.

 

 
Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

Every book I read affects me in one way or another. I think as a reader we all take a piece of what we read and keep it inside of us.

 

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

My good friend Kathi S. Barton, she is amazing and blows me away with her creativity.

 

 
Fiona: What book are you reading now?

The Bondage Club by Alexandrea Weis.

 

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

Pretty much every book I read. I don’t read a lot of mainstream authors. I prefer up and coming, self published, unknown.

 

 
Fiona: What are your current projects?

The Climb, it’s a romance with a spicy side and lots of ups and downs. I am in love with this story and it’s taken me over two years to finish it. Now I’m just in the rewrite and cleaning stage.

 

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

My readers, without them I wouldn’t have any reason to write. Doing it for myself is calming, but doing it for others is exhilarating.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes and no. You have to put the time and effort into your writing for it to be a career.

 

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

No, because I did the best I could when I wrote each book. Each one made me a better writer and taught me more. Every good or bad review pushed me further and will continue to do so with my future works.

 

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

I was always better at expressing my emotions on paper than to someone’s face.

 

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

You can read the first chapter here at SYTYCW  http://www.soyouthinkyoucanwrite.com/manuscripts-sytycw-2014/the-climb/

 

 

 

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

Mostly just writing through blocks and busy times in life. I tend to take too much on.

 

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

Hmmm, I actually have so many. Kathi S. Barton, Joanne Buchanan, Mary Ting, Lindsay Anne Kendal. They all have different styles and such amazing stories.

 

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

I have a little, I’ve been to Edmonton, Alberta; Vancouver BC; and a few places in Texas. I’m hoping to go to Vegas in April.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

My publisher and I work together on an idea, but she does all the work.

 

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

Putting it out there for others to read, to judge, to let them inside of a small part of me.

 

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

To always believe in your dreams and not let what others think tear you away from who you truly are.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Just the basics. Write, write some more, read, and be kind to others. Most of all though, believe in yourself.

 

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

Thank you so much for believing in me, my little stories and encouraging and supporting me. It means more than you could ever know. Most of all thank you for being patient in waiting for my next books.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I believe it was Heidi

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

My kids, I take them to activities and such. Also I’m huge into music and love going to live shows.

 

 

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

It depends on my mood. Right now I’m watching the Pretty Little Liars series on Netflix.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

I love Italian food, blue and Marianas Trench….but in all honesty I could write a novel about music I like and why.

 

 

 

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

Something in the music industry. Maybe promotions or booking.

 

Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? If so what is it? http://charlotteblackwell.blogspot.ca/ I haven’t been very active on it lately but hope to start posting weekly again.

 

Amazon page http://www.amazon.com/Charlotte-Blackwell/e/B005FD1QB4/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1412024541&sr=1-2-ent

Here is my interview with S. Briones Lim

 

 

Name S. Briones Lim

Age 31

Where are you from: Originally from San Diego, California but now live in Virginia

A little about yourself `ie your education Family life etc

I am an Honors graduate (Summa Cum Laude) from Old Dominion University with a degree in psychology. I am happily married and a proud rescue mom of my Doxi mix, Roscoe and proud “sister” of our family pug, Tobi.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I am now a proud author with Limitless Publishing and have just recently released my Contemporary Romance/New Adult novel, Palace Hills, which is now available on Amazon, B&N, KOBO and iBooks. Aside from this release, I have just completed a Chick-Lit novel and another New Adult novel. Given that I entered the market initially as a Paranormal Romance author, I have been itching to write another book in this genre. Thus, I have also officially started writing my newest novel, which I must say is creepily romantic 😉

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I’ve been writing ever since I was a child. I loved writing poetry and short stories and actually still have most of them filed away at my parents’ house. I “seriously” began writing in 2013 and actually published my first book that year.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Honestly, I think when I finally saw my book available on Amazon. It was so surreal and yes, I had to take a screenshot of that moment!

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

The very first book I wrote was Green: A Life Force Novel. It was actually inspired by a dream that I had on January 29, 2013. I only know the precise date because I had written the entry down in my dream journal.

Palace Hills is my first book released through Limitless Publishing. I actually came up with the premise of the story back in 2006 and was inspired by different things going on in my life during that time – crushes, music I listened to, etc. etc.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I tend to write in first person narrative. Though I do have a novel written in third person narrative, I find that I prefer first person both as a reader and a writer. There’s something about getting into the characters’ minds that is utterly fascinating.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Since Palace Hills is my newest novel, let’s focus on that one J My newest novel centers on the fictional town of Palace Hills and it seemed fitting to name the novel after it.

 

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

Self-forgiveness is the main theme of my novel. We all have regrets, but what’s important is forgiving ourselves and learning from our mistakes.

 

 
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

It’s realistic in the sense that certain events could happen. However, Palace Hills is completely fictional.

 

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

No, they’re completely fictional.

 

 
Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

There are so many! Where do I even begin? From childhood books like the Berenstain Bears and I’ll Love You Forever, all the way to recent reads like Twilight, The Lux series and Hunger Games. All the books I’ve read have influenced me in some regard. That being said, go Babysitters’’ Club!

 

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

What’s awesome about being part of the Limitless Publishing team is that we are very supportive of one another. We are a close-knit network who is there for one another in all aspects of the literary industry. Thus, I consider all my Limitless Publishing teammates as my mentors.

 

 
Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I am finishing up the newest installment of the Lorien Legacies, The Revenge of Seven. I have been following this series from the start!

 

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

I am a one-click addict! There are so many new authors that I discover all the time. The list is just insane!

 

 
Fiona: What are your current projects?

I am currently in the process of writing my newest Paranormal Romance; however I am also revising my New Adult book, which I actually had written while in recovery from surgery this past summer. Let’s just say the revisions are hefty as I wrote a majority of the novel while on pain meds.

 

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

My friends have supported me throughout this whole venture. My best friend was actually the person who pushed me to finally write Palace Hills as I kept procrastinating on it. Thanks Stephanie!  Also, my friend Jayne Thurber-Smith is a genius when it comes to editing!

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

At the moment I have a full-time job and moonlight as a writer at night. I do hope that one day I can make this a full-time career.

 

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

It took me eight years to finally write Palace Hills and I’m more than happy with it J

 

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

I was always a bookworm so I think my interest in writing was inevitable. I remember thinking, “Why can’t I make up my own stories?”

 

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

The sharp bite of the cold car window did little to snap me out of my melancholic daze. I pressed my forehead against the glass, ignoring the stray strands of hair that matted against my skin. I gazed out the window and quickly became lost in the scenery around me. The rush of buildings soon turned to trees and subsequently to bland colored houses and power lines. It was like the beginning of a bad fairy tale, yet somehow I knew there would be no happily ever after to my story.

Too fast.

It was all happening too fast. Why couldn’t we just stop the car and slow everything down? Why couldn’t things go back to normal?

I shut my eyes as if to wish everything away. In just two weeks, my life as I knew it changed completely. There had to be a way to get it all back…but how?

My eyelids were shut so tightly, it began to induce a tiny headache. I didn’t care; I needed to pray, dream and wish all I could. Yet, I knew no matter how hard I prayed, dreamt, or wished, none of them would ever come true. I also knew that when I opened my eyes we’d be in our new home, Palace Hills.

Palace Hills.

I always scoffed at the name. The never ending streets of torn up houses and rusted chain link fences looked anything but a palace. I guess the city contractor had a sense of humor, and it was probably needed considering the pathetic state of the neighborhood. At least someone could find the humor in the situation. I know I found none.

 

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

I tend to get very emotional when I write. I guess you can call it “method-writing.” Often when I’m writing a very passionate scene I can get very depressed. I really need to work on it, but at the same time it helps make the scenes more real.

 

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

I love, love, love Jennifer L. Armentrout. I love how her books leave you hanging off the edge of your seats and I love all the new book boyfriends I get every time I read her stories!
 

 

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

At the moment no, but we’ll see in the future J I’m always up for traveling!

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I designed the covers for my self-published books (Green, Red, Silver, Parricide and Plan A: Lycaon’s Kiss). I went to art school for Graphic Design so that really helped out a lot.

Palace Hills was designed by the talented people at Redbird Designs and I think they did an excellent job.

 

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

Nina, the main character in Palace Hills, made some pretty difficult choices in the wake of her situation. I want my readers to empathize with her, yet it was hard to portray her in such a way that my readers wouldn’t hate or become angry with her. It was such a fine line between understanding and anger and I think I succeeded in not crossing it.

 

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

I know it sounds silly, but I learned that as a writer I have the ability to touch my readers emotionally. Sure, I’ve read books that touched me but to think that I wrote something that affected my readers? Amazing! It was very enlightening, humbling and I am awestruck by it. I feel so blessed to have such awesome readers.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Just write. Don’t let self-negating thoughts stop you from doing it. Write your little hearts out!

 

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

Thank you for all your support. Writing has always been a dream of mine and I couldn’t have accomplished it without all of you.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Oh gosh, no I don’t. However, I can tell you I was obsessed with The Sweet Valley Twins and Babysitter’s Club.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Wow, that’s a loaded question. I tend to wear my heart on my sleeves and am a very emotional person. There’s a lot that can make me laugh and cry, haha.

 

 

Fiona: Is there one person past or present you would to meet and why?

I know people are expecting some deep answer to this, but to be honest I would love to meet a certain group of people. Specifically, I’d LOVE to meet the Backstreet Boys. I’ve loved them since I was 13 years old. Their music speaks to me and has gotten me through many difficult times. I have always wanted to meet them, but alas never could. I’ve tried following their buses and even reaching out to different contacts, but still nada. So if anyone knows them please send them my way!

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

I love sketching, painting and graphic design. And of course I really love reading, but I think writing and reading always go hand in hand J

 

 

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

I have so many TV shows I love! Just to name a few: Law & Order: SVU, 19 Kids and Counting, Face Off, Teen Wolf, Sons of Anarchy, Ghost Hunters and Ghost Adventures.

Film-wise I love: Insidious, Conjuring, Divergent, Paranormal Activity, Hunger Games Series, Divergent, Twilight Saga and did I mention Divergent? 😉

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Sushi/Green/ Top 40

 

 

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

As I currently have a full-time job in media, hobby-wise I’d probably be focused on my art – specifically sketches in charcoal.

 

 

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

My blog is: sbrioneslimauthor.wordpress.com. Stop by and leave a comment! I love chatting with new people.

 

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1q6W53G

Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/palace-hill

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22913745-palace-hills

Facebook: facebook.com/authorsbrioneslim

 

Twitter: @sbrioneslim

Instagram:  @sbrioneslim

Pinterest: @sbrioneslim

 

Here is my interview with Christoph Fischer

 

Name Christoph Fischer

Age Mid-forties – i.e. ‘my prime’

Where are you from: Born in Southern Germany, now living in rural Britain

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

I did my A-levels at an old-fashioned grammar school in Bavaria, moved to Hamburg to become a librarian and ended up in London working for the British Film Institute and British Airways.
I come from a large family and now have three labradoodles as child substitutes with my partner.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

My new book “Conditions” will be out on October 16^th. It is a contemporary novel about friends, family, mental health and a funeral. I published three historical novels but after my last novel, “Time To Let Go” (a book about Alzheimer’s), was surprisingly popular I decided to follow with another contemporary book.

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?
Five years ago I tried to write a handbook for a workshop and whilst I sat at the computer, I wrote down a short story, just to see if I could write fiction. To my surprise the short story turned into a novel and suddenly I had ideas for another. I wrote a few before I decided to publish one of them, “The Luck of the Weissensteiners” in late 2012.
My new book, “Conditions” will be my fifth published book but it originated from the very first ‘short story’ I wrote and is my ‘original’ first book.

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?
A key scene in “Conditions” is a funeral, which is based on one I personally attended. The family division at a moment of grief shocked me and I always wanted to know more about it, although I never found out. It inspired the central conflict in the book.
On a wider scale, I grew up in an environment where I felt I didn’t fit in and consequently, I always ended up being friends with other misfits; that has influenced the people that populate “Conditions”.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?
I tend to write the first draft with a plotline in mind but characters and events take on their own life, so I also become part spectator as the story unfolds.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?
Intuitively. I kept thinking of names but none of them fitted. Then “Conditions” popped into my mind and I liked it. I gradually realized how well it worked.

 

 
Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
Yes. I do, but I don’t want to spoil the experience by spelling it out and hitting you over the head with it. Something along the lines of “You’re not alone”

 

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

“Crime and Punsihment” by Dostoyevsky, “Shantaram” by Gregory David Roberts, “We Need to Talk about Kevin” by Lionel Shriver and “The Slap” by Christos Tsiolkas
 

 

Fiona: If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
My beta readers Paulette Mahurin, Melodie Ramone, Fran Lewis and my editors (both writers) David Lawlor and Wanda Hartzenberg
 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?
“Americanah” by Chimaamanda Ngozi Adichie and “His Name was Ben” by Paulette Mahurin

 

 
Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?
Far too many, Murielle Cyr, S. Rose,, Nichols Sansbury Smith, PC.Zick, Judith Barrow, Travis Luedke, Dianne Harman, Dab10…

 

Fiona: What are your current projects?
“In Search of a Revolution”, a historical novel set in Scandinavia between 1918 and 1850. It is about two Danish men whose friendship is tested by war, politics and love.
 

 

Fiona: Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.
My partner Ryan whose patience and kindness puts most of us to shame.
 

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?
I am starting to see it a bit like that but I am enjoying the experience so much that I know I will always write, even if I ever grow tired of publishing and marketing.
 

 

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
I learned a lot from feedback, critical reviews and from continuously writing, so part of me is always tempted to go back over old material with an editing pen. However, I am not sure I would change more than minor details. I know if someone edited one of my favorite books I might be quite upset about it.
 

 

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

Martha Introduction 

Martha was petit and fragile looking with bleach blonde hair, very light skin and lots of freckles. She seemed lost in her overly large black dress.  When she saw it was a stranger answering the door she trembled, mumbling a barely audible greeting. Charles quickly stuck his head out of the kitchen and shouted:

“Martha, this is my friend Simon.”

She looked puzzled.

“Remember, I said there’d be someone from Torquay. The orchid guy?”

She nodded slightly, hesitantly stepped into the hallway and looked searchingly around.

“Talk to each other while I’m making dinner,” Charles ordered them. “I’ll be out soon. Go, sit in the living room!”

Martha shrugged and gave a little grin, then stood there waiting for Simon to do something.

“You have been here before, haven’t you?” he asked surprised at her lack of initiative.

“Yes, of course,” she said, continuing to stand until he started to walk. Only then did she move towards the living room, following his lead. She sat down on the sofa, put her handbag on the floor and folded her hands over her knees. She remained that way, without saying a further word, her gaze averted towards the floor. Simon sat down on the other sofa and tried to think of the right thing to say, but was stumped. Although she was as shy as Charles had predicted, there was something quite forceful underneath that exterior that didn’t sit comfortable with him. An unspoken pressure surrounded that woman and tensed up the atmosphere. She, too, had very attractive features, he thought. A hint of Meg Ryan maybe, if only her face was more relaxed.

“Can I get you a drink?” he eventually asked, grateful that something had finally sprung to mind.

“No thank you,” she said, her voice cracking halfway through the first syllable. He noticed that her eyes were melancholic and seemed to be continually searching for something. She smiled and shrugged as if to apologise for it. Only then did Simon remember being told about her drinking problem and felt the sting of embarrassment. To add to his discomfort Martha now seemed to have lost some of her initial shyness and looked expectantly at him. The mounting pressure began to feel very uncomfortable.

He remembered her story vaguely from one of Charles’s long monologues. Martha and Charles had met in hospital after his accident at the estate while she was being treated for nasty bruises and fractures – souvenirs from a recent fight with her latest abusive husband. The memory made him even more self-conscious as to what to speak to her about.

“How was the journey?” Simon had finally thought to ask.

“Alright,” she said, repeating her grin and shrug routine.

“Are you still living in…” Simon paused, realising that he couldn’t remember the name of the town.

“I’m still in the same place that I lived in with my ex-husband Clive,” she said eagerly. She had moved to the front of the seat and was leaning towards him. “It has to be sold to complete the divorce settlement and the sale is taking its time,” she added.

“Sorry to hear that,” he said, surprised by her sudden change of attitude.

“Like our marriage, the sale has turned into a tedious and painful affair,” she said, giggling slightly.

“I see,” Simon said, feeling embarrassed by the sudden intimacy. “I hadn’t meant to ask that, of course.”

“I don’t mind talking about it,” she said. “I’m in AA and there we share everything. Clive and I worked at the same firm and nothing about the split has ever been secret. Everyone knows my story and in parts I find that quite liberating. Charles probably mentioned the saga to you. At least he probably told you why I don’t drink,” she added.

Simon was stunned into silence by her forwardness.

“You don’t have to get embarrassed,” she assured him.

“I am embarrassed,” he said, to which she just shrugged her shoulders.

**********************************************************

Martha on the Bus

On the bus she couldn’t resist her curiosity and opened the text from Clive, bracing herself for another huge blow. Had he taken the house off the market yet again or was it going to be some regular abuse he often sent her when he was out drunk with his mates?

“I miss you!”

Martha head was throbbing. Was this a hoax… a sick joke? What on earth was he playing at?

She wanted to reply “I miss you, too” which would have been wrong … probably.  And what if it was his girlfriend playing a prank?

She shouldn’t reply at all. Ignore it. Leave him be. She opened her book and tried to focus on it. She couldn’t retain a single word she was reading. “I miss you!” “I miss you!” echoed over and over in her head.

When was she ever going to beat her addiction to him? It was ridiculous to think that only half an hour ago a semi-naked hunk had woken her up and it had not stirred her sexual appetite, yet a text from her abusive ex-husband did. When was the whole nightmare ever going to end – one way or another? What did he want now? She had to know, so she put the book down, got her phone out and started to compose a text. “Dear Clive…” She deleted the ‘dear’ in case it would make the text sound too familiar or make her sound too soft. “What do you want?” she tried, then she deleted that as well. She didn’t want to appear too aggressive in case it would trigger a nasty reply.

“Why do you…”, no she had to delete that also. He would say that was passive aggressive again. God, she had no chance with that man. She typed: “????”

That was good. He could make of that what he wanted. After all, his text had not only come like a bolt from the blue, it had been inconclusive… a testing of the waters, without giving anything away himself. She would, as usual, come running and open her heart to him, and he could then decide if he wanted her or not without having made one single promise.

Could he really be thinking about her? Did he want her back? Had his little child girlfriend become too boring or bored herself? Was it like Elaine had foretold?

Clive had volatile moods and could easily change his mind again and make her look like a fool if her reply was too positive. Her “????” was good, it did not give anything away and, maybe this once, she could have the upper hand in this relationship. She pressed send and immediately regretted it, tormented by worry and fear. She stared at her phone waiting for an instant reply – despite her better knowledge of Clive’s elusive phone manners.

She got to the end of her journey and changed onto another bus. Still no reply. She worried now that she’d made a fool of herself. If he had texted her last night while being drunk, he probably didn’t even remember sending the message. She should have ignored it after all. What an idiot she was when it came to dealing with this man.

By the time Martha got home she was in a hysterics over it. Of course there were no more texts from Clive. Instead there was a message on her home answer machine from the estate agent saying that there was going to be an extra viewing later that day and could she make sure the place was as presentable as possible. She had left the place in as good a state as she could, all she could do now was to take her bag and hide it under the bed. Probably best to leave the flat for the afternoon. A hysterical owner was not going to help sell the place – if it ever came to that. Then again, she’d only just arrived and it would be great to be at home at least for a little while. She would be careful not to make a mess and just have a quick coffee in the kitchen.

Her mobile phone bleeped twice, telling her she had a text message. Her heart started to race.

“Having lots of fun in the woods. No need to worry. Sorry for not txtg earlier. Love Emma and Jo.”
At last, word from her daughters. If this constant waiting for a message from Clive was going to continue Martha might well have a heart attack by the end of the day. She scolded herself for not really caring much about the message from the girls. She usually would have been worried about them the whole morning. Today, all she could think of was Clive. What a bad mother she had become.

*****************************************

Ruth and Sarah

“Don’t you think it’s comforting that Henry died a happy and loved man?” Sarah asked.

“I find Charles too annoying to think he made Henry happy. His tendency to talk and talk… mainly about himself – I question whether he has the ability to love anybody but himself; at least not the way I wanted Henry to be loved,” Ruth said, turning back to the window. “You think too much of him.”

“I’m not idealising Charles,” Sarah said. “I just didn’t find him as difficult as you obviously did. I considered him more of an eccentric than a nuisance. I don’t want everybody on this planet to be the same and predictable. He had a lot of character. If the price for that is a little madness as you call it, then that is a good bargain in my books!” Sarah said. “How did it happen anyway? His mother I mean, how did she die?”

“No idea,” Ruth answered. “It said in the newspaper that she died after a long illness, so I guess it was either her blood disease or maybe cancer? I can ask around if you want to know. I really don’t think you should take too much interest in it, you’ll get carried away. Are you not angry at Charles at all?” asked Ruth.

“I never really was that angry with him. Everything that happened must have been a tremendous shock for Charles. He’s such a sensitive soul. First Henry dying so sudden and then he got burnt and needed to go into hospital,” Sarah had to fight back tears which she didn’t want Ruth to see. She stood up and walked towards the bookshelves until she realised that she was in front of her secret chocolate stash and, feeling self-conscious, she quickly returned to her seat.

“We’ve been through this before,” Ruth said with surprising warmth and implied understanding but still standing with her back to her mother.

She was staring over the estate… the estate that would be hers one day.
“You lost a son,” she said, “I lost my brother and David lost a brother-in-law. We all knew Henry forever, Charles knew him for a year at the most. I thought it was disgraceful the way he played the widower and tried to get all the sympathy for himself. That was not gentlemanly, it was self-centred and annoying.”

“Yes, I know he can be self-centred, but I believe that he truly loved Henry, regardless of how long they’d been a couple. I found at least a dozen framed snap shots of Charles in Henry’s desk after he’d died. He wasn’t good at expressing his feelings but those pictures told their own story. Henry loved doing everything the right way and to manage the estate well. I am sure he loved ‘managing’ Charles and, like myself, he must have loved the life force of that man brought to our home. All grief is self-pity. You can’t tell Charles how much he’s entitled to, especially when their affection was so obviously genuine. Don’t you remember that night when they danced cheek to cheek in the party room? Wasn’t that so romantic?”

“Oh mother you can be so incredibly naïve,” she said laughing gently. “They were drunk, that’s all it was. I thought it was rather common, if I’m honest with you. The way Henry threw half of his tuxedo on the floor. They were drunk and full of lust, not love. Gay men have such an incredible sexual appetite, and your son was no exception, I’m sure. That’s why they bear the brunt of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve got a very good gay friend at my stables and have nothing against them as a group. You still have to be honest and call a spade a spade,” Ruth said with conviction.

“You can be so mean and cynical!” countered her mother.

“And you can be so naïve it hurts to watch.” Ruth turned slowly towards Sarah and put her hand on her arm.
“If you send word to Charles then you need to be sure of the consequences, because he’ll come here running and stick his feet under our table as he did before. If you are fine with that, please go ahead. I want nothing to do with it. I’m still upset with him about the legal matters.” She gave her mother an imploring look.  “Forgive my honesty. I mean to protect you, too.”

**************************************************

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
Continuity, not the big things like the time line and general events, but the tiny little details you make up while focusing on a different matter. Hair color of a secondary character, car type, etc.
 

 

Fiona: Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?
Lionel Shriver and Christos Tsiolkas, both for their raw honesty and uncompromising writing.
 

 

Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?
Not yet, but I did go to the London Book Fair this year and am planning to attend a few more in the future, now that I know how it all works.
 

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?
All my covers were designed by Daz Smith of nethed.com and I must say he is a wizard.
 

 

Fiona: What was the hardest part of writing your book?
“Conditions” was my first book and had all the usual ‘first book’ errors, such as repetition and over-emphasizing my points, or including viewpoints that have nothing to do with the story.
 

 

Fiona: Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?
I found myself in almost all the characters I wrote, in one way or another. In that respect writing is a sometimes uncomfortable look in the mirror but it can also be liberating and very cathartic. I learned a lot of personal lessons.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?
Yes. Write as much as you can because only practice makes perfect. And don’t get knocked down by criticism. Take from it what helps and keep going.
 

 

Fiona: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
Reviews are important to writers. If you have taken the time to read a book, consider leaving a comment on the website where you bought it. Independent writers in particular live from word of mouth and benefit from any fuss made about them. Remember that we do not have a big PR machine behind us, so if you liked a book you can make a big difference by just writing a few lines about it.
 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?
It was called Konrad and was about a boy who came out of a tin. Apart from that, I grew up with Enid Blyton, Astrid Lindgren and Ottfried Preussler.
Grown up books: “The Idiot” by Dostoyevsky and “Heimatmuseum” by Siegfried Lenz.
 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?
Comedy TV, such as: Scrubs, Friends and Six Feet Under.
My friends. Writers: Ian Hutson, Duncan Whitehead and Aaron David.

 

Fiona: Is there one person past or present you would like to meet and why?

Swedish author Henning Mankell seems a fascinating character with all the theatre and charity work he is doing aside his writing.
Dead: My grandfather on my father’s side, who lived on the other side of the iron curtain and whom I never got to meet.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?
Walking my dogs, cycling, running, travelling and films.

 

 

Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?
Dexter, Modern Family, Big Bang Theory
 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music
Macrobiotic Vegan Tofu Salads (or Haribo and Pizza on naughty days) / Blue and Red / Cheesy Pop or atmospheric chill out music

 

 

Fiona: If you were not a writer what else would you like to have done?
Sports professional, location scout, dog whisperer

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a blog/website?

Website: http://www.christophfischerbooks.com/

Blog: http://writerchristophfischer.wordpress.com/

 

 

 

 

The Luck of the Weissensteiners (Three Nations Trilogy Book 1)

In the sleepy town of Bratislava in 1933 a romantic girl falls for a bookseller from Berlin. Greta Weissensteiner, daughter of a Jewish weaver, slowly settles in with the Winkelmeier clan just as the developments in Germany start to make waves in Europe and re-draws the visible and invisible borders. The political climate in the multifaceted cultural jigsaw puzzle of disintegrating Czechoslovakia becomes more complex and affects relations between the couple and the families. The story follows them through the war with its predictable and also its unexpected turns and events and the equally hard times after.
But this is no ordinary romance; in fact it is not a romance at all, but a powerful, often sad, Holocaust story. What makes The Luck of the Weissensteiners so extraordinary is the chance to consider the many different people who were never in concentration camps, never in the military, yet who nonetheless had their own indelible Holocaust experiences. This is a wide-ranging, historically accurate exploration of the connections between social location, personal integrity and, as the title says, luck.

On Amazon:  http://smarturl.it/Weissensteiners
On Goodreads: http://bit.ly/12Rnup8

On Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1bua395

Trailer: http://studio.stupeflix.com/v/OtmyZh4Dmc/?autoplay=1

B&N  http://ow.ly/Btvas

 

Sebastian (Three Nations Trilogy Book 2)

Sebastian is the story of a young man who has his leg amputated before World War I. When his father is drafted to the war it falls on to him to run the family grocery store in Vienna, to grow into his responsibilities, bear loss and uncertainty and hopefully find love.
Sebastian Schreiber, his extended family, their friends and the store employees experience the ‘golden days’ of pre-war Vienna and the timed of the war and the end of the Monarchy while trying to make a living and to preserve what they hold dear.
Fischer convincingly describes life in Vienna during the war, how it affected the people in an otherwise safe and prosperous location, the beginning of the end for the Monarchy, the arrival of modern thoughts and trends, the Viennese class system and the end of an era.
As in the first part of the trilogy, “The Luck of The Weissensteiners” we are confronted again with themes of identity, Nationality and borders. The step back in time made from Book 1 and the change of location from Slovakia to Austria enables the reader to see the parallels and the differences deliberately out of the sequential order. This helps to see one not as the consequence of the other, but to experience them as the momentary reality as it must have felt for the people at the time.

On Amazon: http://smarturl.it/TNTSeb
On Goodreads: http://ow.ly/pthHZ

On Facebook: http://ow.ly/pthNy

Trailer: http://studio.stupeflix.com/v/95jvSpHf5a/

B&N http://ow.ly/Btvbw

The Black Eagle Inn (Three Nations Trilogy Book 3)

The Black Eagle Inn is an old established Restaurant and Farm business in the sleepy Bavarian countryside outside of Heimkirchen.  Childless Anna Hinterberger has fought hard to make it her own and keep it running through WWII. Religion and rivalry divide her family as one of her nephews, Markus has got her heart and another nephew, Lukas got her ear. Her husband Herbert is still missing and for the wider family life in post-war Germany also has some unexpected challenges in store.

Once again Fischer tells a family saga with war in the far background and weaves the political and religious into the personal. Being the third in the Three Nations Trilogy this book offers another perspective on war, its impact on people and the themes of nations and identity.

On Facebook: http://ow.ly/pAX3y

On Goodreads: http://ow.ly/pAX8G

On Amazon: http://smarturl.it/TBEI
Trailer: http://studio.stupeflix.com/v/mB2JZUuBaI/

Time To Let Go:

Time to Let Go is a contemporary family drama set in Britain.
Following a traumatic incident at work Stewardess Hanna Korhonen decides to take time off work and leaves her home in London to spend quality time with her elderly parents in rural England. There she finds that neither can she run away from her problems, nor does her family provide the easy getaway place that she has hoped for. Her mother suffers from Alzheimer’s disease and, while being confronted with the consequences of her issues at work, she and her entire family are forced to reassess their lives.
The book takes a close look at family dynamics and at human nature in a time of a crisis. Their challenges, individual and shared, take the Korhonens on a journey of self-discovery and redemption.

On Facebook: http://ow.ly/BtKtQ

On Goodreads:  http://ow.ly/BtKs7

On Amazon: http://smarturl.it/TTLG

Conditions

When Charles and Tony’s mother dies the estranged brothers must struggle to pick up the pieces, particularly so given that one of them is mentally challenged and the other bitter about his place within the family.
The conflict is drawn out over materialistic issues, but there are other underlying problems which go to the heart of what it means to be part of a family which, in one way or another. has cast one aside.
Prejudice, misconceptions and the human condition in all forms feature in this contemporary drama revolving around a group of people who attend the subsequent funeral at the British South Coast.
Meet flamboyant gardener Charles, loner Simon, selfless psychic Elaine, narcissistic body-builder Edgar, Martha and her version of unconditional love and many others as they try to deal with the event and its aftermath.

On Facebook: http://ow.ly/C0ZqX

On Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NZ1VTBU

On Goodreads: http://ow.ly/C0Ziw

Short Biography:

Christoph Fischer was born in Germany, near the Austrian border, as the son of a Sudeten-German father and a Bavarian mother. Not a full local in the eyes and ears of his peers he developed an ambiguous sense of belonging and home in Bavaria. He moved to Hamburg in pursuit of his studies and to lead a life of literary indulgence. After a few years he moved on to the UK where he now lives in a small hamlet, not far from Bath.  He and his partner have three Labradoodles to complete their family.

Christoph worked for the British Film Institute, in Libraries, Museums and for an airline. ‘The Luck of The Weissensteiners’ was published in November 2012; ‘Sebastian’ in May 2013 and The Black Eagle Inn in October 2013. In May 2014 he published his first contemporary novel “Time To Let Go” in May. He has written several other novels which are in the later stages of editing and finalisation.

Website: http://www.christophfischerbooks.com/

Blog: http://writerchristophfischer.wordpress.com/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6590171.Christoph_Fischer

Amazon: http://ow.ly/BtveY

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CFFBooks

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/christophffisch/

Google +: https://plus.google.com/u/0/106213860775307052243

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=241333846

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/WriterChristophFischer?ref=hl

All Facebook links:

http://www.facebook.com/WriterChristophFischer?ref=hl

http://www.facebook.com/TheLuckOfTheWeissensteiners?ref=hl

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sebastian/489427467776001?ref=hl

http://www.facebook.com/TheBlackEagleInn?ref=hl

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Time-To-Let-Go/257989361049799?ref=hl

 

Here is my interview with Gracie Wilson

 

Name Gracie Wilson

Age 25

Where are you from Ontario Canada

A little about your self `ie your education Family life etc   I have a large extended family. Blood doesn’t make a family in my world. I have a medical education background and have taken classes in psychology.  I am a huge animal and nature lover! ❤

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I’m currently working on The Missing Girl and Storm Corp book Two. I also have a secret in the works.

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing November 20ish 2013 on a dare from a friend. She told me to enroll in the November Novel month and I did completing my book in five days.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Sometimes I still don’t.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Loss. All the guilt and other issues that come with moving on.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

First person New Adult.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I like to think of myself as the original Lonely Girl.

 

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

Loss can be overwhelming, take it a day at a time. The world can become bright again, maybe never as bright but not pitch black anymore.

 

 
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

A far amount is taken from life experience.

 

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

My own life. Some is dramatic flare of course.

 

 
Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

Anne Frank as a youth/child. Now pretty much anything by Rachel Van Dyken, Jamie McGuire, Abbi Glines and Jennifer Armentrout.

 

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

Jae Hall and Sable Hunter

 

 
Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m working currently on my next book but I’m waiting for Shame by Rachel Van Dyken, like I needed it yesterday.

 

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

I read so many indie authors and newbies. This is always a hard question because what is new, new to me? New to the writing world?

 

 
Fiona: What are your current projects?

The Missing Girl and Storm Corp Two… and my WIP Finding  Darby.

 

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

Jae Hall. Amazing friend and always there when I need to talk.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I try to, I understand its something that takes years to build on. When people ask what I do, I say I write.

 

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

Not one thing.

 

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

I read…. A lot. Friends were always saying I should write a story about my past… I took pieces of it and made the Lonely Girl.

 

 

 
Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us? Finding Darby – unedited –  “Being without you is like days without the sun, nothing to chase away the shadows, nothing to keep away my demons. Don’t you see Darby, without you I’ve been wandering around in my own personal dark hell. With no end in sight, until you. Once I saw you the light began to flicker through, the more I’m with you, the brighter my world becomes. Don’t ask me to go back to that darkness, I’d rather die than not have my light. My everything and that all starts with you.”

Ethan – Finding Darby

 

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

The emotions can be overwhelming and draining. The nerves… that never changes.

 

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

Rachel Van Dyken…. Nixon… can I say more? Yummy 😛

 

 

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

I haven’t yet but I will be traveling for signings next year.

 

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

For the Lonely Girl Series I take the pictures and my publisher puts it together for the cover.

 

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

The Lonely Girl Series is hard because I based the main character off of me and my loss. So it’s hard to write at times. Sometimes I have to get out of my own head and jump into another project and come back to it.

 

 

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

Ryan O’leary (Editor and Co-owner of my publisher) He has taught me so much. He helped me bring The Lonely Girl to where I really wanted it. He is a constant help when it comes to me overthinking something. He taught me to trust my gut and go with it. Nerves get in the way a lot when you write.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Write for you, at the end of the day you alone must live with your story.

 

 

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

I wanted my story to become your story. When you read The Lonely Girl I hope you can see that.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

A book about catching a fish alive and counting to 10. The first WHOLE none school book I read was Angela’s Ashes… I was very young when I read this and my parents didn’t know… I was so happy to have read it though I wouldn’t let my kid read it at the age I was. So I’ve hidden my copy. Hehe.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Memories and Love… and BOOKS ugh like Maybe Someday by Colleen Hoover and The Fault In Our Stars by John Green

 

 

Fiona: Is there one person pass or present you would To meet and why?

Corey Aka Michael (in the Lonely Girl), It has been ten years since I could pick up a phone and call him. I’d give anything to see him again.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ? I read… does that count. I also play soft ball.

 

 

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

I don’t really watch much tv, I’m a reader. I go through binges though where I will watch a whole series… I LOVE BONES 😀 I did like SOA until Gemma went all crazy and killed my favourite character.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Food, anything healthy or unprocessed. Other things hurt my tummy.
Colour Green! LIKE BRIGHT GREEN

 

Music, Anything really. I like Country, rock, top 40’s it all depends.

 

 

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

I wanted to be a vet.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? If so what is it? I only use my facebook page. http://www.facebook.com/graciewilsonauthor

Amazon Page http://www.amazon.com/Gracie-Wilson/e/B00IIDMDNS/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1

  ~*~ FREE ~*~ September 26, 27 and 28th the heartbreaking novel and emotional roller coaster The Lonely Girl is #free on Amazom  http://www.amazon.com/Lonely-Girl-1-Gracie-Wilson/dp/1500924008/ref=la_B00IIDMDNS_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1411855702&sr=1-1

The Lonely Girl What if one day you woke up and found your heart had been shattered? You lost the one person you loved more than anything. What happens when you learn to move on even though you thought you’d never be able to again? Is it worth the risk to try and let someone in? Is it better to be left alone then take the chance of more heartache? This time will be different. Becca slowly starts to put the shattered pieces of her heart back together only to have it broken again by someone she trusted. Can her heart that was barely healed in the first place be fixed, again? Becca falls for someone new, but will her heart be safe. Will she survive the secrets that come out from the past? Love is worth the risk. Can she really believe that? The question is: is he worth the risk?

 

Amazon  http://www.amazon.com/Broken-Girl-Lonely-Book-ebook/dp/B00MTBGQ8I/ref=la_B00IIDMDNS_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1411855702&sr=1-2

All Becca Potts seems to know is darkness, pain and loss.

Every time she gets ahead another secret or event sends her spiraling back.

Dillon’s attack has left her fighting for all she holds dear.

Now she has to be brave and pick up the pieces. Hearts will be shattered and love will be rewritten. Becca has to navigate through the chaos that is plaguing her life and figure out what she wants.

Nothing is going as planned but it never has.

Here is my interview with Cass Peterson

Name Cass Peterson

Age 56

Where are you from?  I’m a Midlands girl but dream of living near the sea, so one day I might just do a flit!

A little about yourself , ie your education Family life etc

Cass Peterson is my pen name, and I write erotic romance as Cass for a good reason so my personal details have to remain shrouded in mystery. I don’t have any formal writing training and this isn’t my main job.  Sorry to be so secretive, Fiona!

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

One Night in San Francisco is my first publication with Tirgearr – it’s out on September 26^th and the cover is GORGEOUS. I’ve just started writing a full length erotic romance with elements of comedy and am enjoying writing it very much.

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing sometime before I was eight and now I just can’t stop. It’s my passion. Well, that and wine. And food. And my family of course (not in that order!)

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I began to get magazine articles accepted. It was a great feeling and still is – magical.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I love song lyrics and I wanted to write a book with a quote from a song at the head of each chapter to link with the character who was featured. I had no idea then about the problems of quoting from lyrics and the expense of getting permission. That book has been rewritten lots of times but isn’t publishable (yet).

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

It varies with the genre I’m dabbling in.

 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

It’s part of Tirgearr’s One Night in … series. I chose San Fran because I love it so much.

 

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

Only that past relationships can cramp your style – let them go.

 

 
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Hmmm …no comment!

 

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

See above …

 

 
Fiona: What books have most influenced your life?

The Lord of the Rings trilogy, The Kama Sutra and Agatha Christie’s Poirot stories.

 

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

In writing erotic/romantic fiction, Jilly Cooper. But I’m ruder.

 

 
Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Another of the One Night in … series. This one is set in Boyse and it’s by Troy Lambert. Very pacey.

 

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

My lovely publicist and friend Lucy Felthouse writes great smut with attitude and giggles, especially for one so young and innocent looking!

 

 
Fiona: What are your current projects?

A Cass novel, and various other things under my own name.

 

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

My writing group. Total stars.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Not at the moment but maybe in a couple of years, fingers crossed.

 

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

I wouldn’t use the ‘c’ word. With hindsight, I hate it.

 

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

Nurtured by a brilliant run of teachers and my parents.

 

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

Here’s a steamy bit from early in the story:

He broke off as his fingers began to move faster and I arched my back in ecstasy. I wanted this blissful sensation to last for as long as possible but he was pushing me to the brink much too quickly, the sensation of his hard, forceful middle finger driving me insane. I was so wet now that I was beginning to regret the no underwear decision. Unable to resist a whimper, I felt my entire body clench as the massive orgasm hit, waves of delight coursing through every inch of me. After a moment, still breathing heavily, I turned to look at him.

 

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

Fitting it into the day job. I get up very early.

 

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

Terry Pratchett – I love his humour and the incredible attention to detail in his make believe worlds.

 

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

I would like to say yes – but that’s one for the future.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Tirgearr’s in-house designer. She’s amazing..

 

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

Making all the action happen in one night.

 

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

I think I learned how to keep the cast of characters small when writing a novella – I always try to pack too many people into a full-length novel and there isn’t time in a novella to let them all breathe.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Rejections are a pain, but they’re a fact of life. Smile, eat cake and get on with the next mailing.

 

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

Just a huge ‘thank you’ for taking the time to read ONiSF – so much appreciated. And I hope you come back for more.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Probably a Little Grey Rabbit story by Alison Uttley.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

I love to go walking, especially if there’s a sea view, and I love to cook, eat and drink.

 

 

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

Anything funny, especially Victoria Wood and Bill Bailey. Films – old black and white movies, and Dirty Dancing type films.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Food – curry. Colours – silver and blue. Music – old glam rock stuff

 

 

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

I would love to have been an artist or a chef.

 

 

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

http://casspeterson.co.uk   Thanks for the interview, Fiona – great questions!

Here is my interview with A. J. Cosmo

 

 

 

Name  A. J. Cosmo

 

Age33

 

Where are you from?

I was born in Illinois, went to college in Georgia, and now live in Los Angeles.

 

A little about your self your education Family life etc

I have a Masters in Film from the Savannah College of Art and Design with an undergraduate degree in Painting. I was not born an only child. My sister died when I was eight and nothing has been the same since.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I’m currently working on the 10^th Monsters A to Z book (tentatively titled E is for Eselwesel) which will be released the second week of October. Monsters A to Z is a huge project two years in the making that spans 26 books by different authors.

 

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I started writing in the second grade and never stopped. I don’t know why I write. To me it feels more like a compulsion. I have to write. The struggle in life is to find a way to create and still live in the real world. We are asked in our society to create something worth enough to sell to another person. So I have strived to do just that. Three years ago I started writing children’s books because they were an awesome way to incorporate my illustration skills. It stuck and I’ve been enjoying creating these books ever since.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

After a lifetime of struggling to call myself an artist, I finally accepted that title earlier this year. I have a profound respect for arts, artists, creators, and writers, so much so that I used to constantly ask permission from other people to call myself one of them. Yet you have to own the craft before anyone will recognize you as a craftsman. So I think it’s less important to call yourself a writer and critical to actually write.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I was unemployed, far from home, and didn’t have anywhere to go for Thanksgiving. So I  went to a free Thanksgiving lunch hosted by the Salvation Army.  There I met a man who sat at our table and demanded gravy for the entire hour that we were there. To this man gravy was such a part of Thanksgiving that he absolutely could not tolerate having a meal, even a free one, without it. So he asked and asked and asked and annoyed until finally he made that gravy appear. It felt like a kid’s book had played out in front of me. So I decided to write it down, illustrate it, and what resulted was Gordon’s Gravy, my first Kindle children’s book. (Unfortunately this book is no longer available.)

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I apparently am sparse in my prose. I prefer to leave a lot of emotion and internal thoughts up to the reader. This comes from the training in screenwriting that I have had. I know some people don’t like it but other’s, the theatrical among us, enjoy the freedom for interpretation.

 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Creating over thirty titles has taught me a thing or two about naming. For one, I’m no longer allowed to use “The” in the title. Second, people like to have at least one recognizable word in the title. Third, Amazon’s search engine is brutal and the words have to be “searchable” so expect to see many more bland titles in the future from our fellow writers.

 

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

We’re all storytellers. We all have experiences to share. We all have meaning to grasp. The world is shaped by our stories and our perceptions, so tell the right ones.

 

 

 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Well don’t tell my fans, but I’ve made up most of the monsters. 😀 Seriously though, the books are about the intersection of reality and fantasy. Imagination illuminates real life. My monsters may not be real, but the emotions that they create and the morals that they tell are most certainly real.

 

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

Many of the boys that appear in my books are extensions of me. The stories are either based off of an experience I’ve had, something I’ve found interesting, or an idea that I feel must be expressed.

 

 
Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

Anything by Roahl Dahl, Dr. Seuss, or Douglas Adams.

 

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

I have to go to screenwriting for this one but that would be Charlie Kaufman. No other modern writer has been as daring in his medium as he has.

 

 
Fiona: What book are you reading now?

100 Cupboards by N. D. Wilson as well as The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater.

 

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

Ransom Riggs. He’s done an excellent job of world building and breaking ground.

 

 
Fiona: What are your current projects?

I have 16 more Monsters A to Z books to do, an autism themed series, a series of horror books under a different pen name, my first iBook (due in October) and the 3^rd Imagibles book early next year. 😀

 

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

God. Outside of him I have to give a nod to Mariette Herold who has supported me immensely, Bevery Blue, my number on fan and great friend, the SCBWI organization for putting so many resources at our disposal, Jeff Albaugh for helping me craft my voice, and last but not least Ricardo Aldape for risking everything on me.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I have to. There’s no choice anymore. If you give yourself to something, you have to commit fully. This isn’t a hobby, it’s a life.

 

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

There are always improvements in hindsight. However, we can’t get caught up on perfectionism. The flaws that are left behind are beautiful and intrinsic to the work. Too many artists wreck their ships on the rocks of perfection.

 

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

I wanted to be heard. Among all the chaos of my sister’s illness and the feeling of being powerless, I wanted to have a voice. I wanted to make a difference.

 

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

“The Eselwesel live in ditches next to paved roads. When a car stops by the side of the road with a flat tire, the Eselwesel will sneak out of the ditch and crawl underneath the car. When the driver, after changing the flat, drives on his way, the Eselwesel hangs on to the underside of the car and rides until the car stops again. Eselwesels are never content where they are, so they constantly roam the roads in search of happiness.”

 

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

Sticking with one idea. I have so many of them. Beyond that, research, the more I research the more I want to write into the story and the larger the book becomes. So I’m actually afraid of research because it creates more work! LOL

 

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

Douglas Adams. He has a way of looking at the world in a hilariously pessimistic manner.

 

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

Only in my imagination.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I do all of the graphic work on my covers. Occasionally I get a helping hand and some insight from the wonderful Ricardo Aldape.

 

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

The Monsters A to Z series is a huge undertaking. I didn’t think about it when I started it. Which is great, because the scale of it would have stopped me right there. Sometimes the worst thing you can do to yourself is to think about how much has to be done.

 

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

I’ve learned so much about life from writing. When we write we learn about our soul. When we sell that writing we learn about the world. When we live off of writing we measure our grit.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Get it done, get it out there, and move on to the next book. Don’t speak for yourself; let the work do that for you. Don’t gloat; no one believes it anyway. Help everyone you can. Be humble. Be confident. Get back to work.

 

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

You can change the story of the world.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

“If You Give a Mouse a Cookie.” It will be with me forever. LOL

 

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

I laugh at nearly everything, so long as someone wasn’t hurt for the laugh. I also cry at nearly anything, because I feel that we are all connected.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I love to play videogames, particularly Nintendo games.

 

 

 

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

Anything with dinosaurs, aliens, or genuine human emotion.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Halva, gluten free pizza, Korean BBQ. Purple, blue, and green (my favorite color changes every year.) Music would be anything eccentric in any category except country. Lately I’ve been getting into house dance music. Go figure.

 

 

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

A trade such as welding or plumbing.

 

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

ajcosmo.com/blog