Here is my interview with Lacey Lane

 

Name  Lacey Lane

Age   32

Where are you from  England

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

I am currently engaged and hopefully I will be married within 12 months. Fingers crossed. My education took me as far as my A levels. University wasn’t for me.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I am currently working on a book of short horror stories. At the moment I don’t have a name for it. I am hoping to publish it as an ebook at the beginning of October. I also plan to publish it as a physical book. That will be a first for me so it is quite exciting.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I used to enjoy writing as a child. It’s something I never did in my adult life until recently. I suffer from depression and decided to rekindle my childhood passion to help ease my depression.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I guess that would be when I published my first ebook. That was in October last year.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I needed something to help ease my depression. Halloween was approaching and I love horror, so it was only natural to write a horror story.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I think it’s to early to tell at the moment. I have only published two ebooks so far. They are both completely different.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

You’ll have to read my first ebook “The Revenge of the Pumpkins. Then you’ll see how I got the name. It’s very appropriate for the book.

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

 Although The Revenge of the Pumpkins is fiction with crazy things that would never happen in real life the is a very strong message. Karma will always come back to haunt you. My second ebook The Ultimate Guide to Frugal Living  is full of ways to live frugally, save money and lower your carbon footprint. I think that it is important that everyone plays their part in helping to save the planet.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

The Revenge of the Pumpkins starts of very realistic. An ordinary Halloween. The second part of the story would only happen in your nightmares.

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

The Revenge of the Pumpkins is complete fiction and not based on myself or anyone I know. The Ultimate Guide to Frugal Living is full mainly of my own way of living.
Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most? a mentor?

That’s a hard one…. I love crime and thriller books. I would love my work to be as popular as Karin Slaughter’s work or James Pattison.
Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I am not reading anything at the moment. I am trying to concentrate on my new book so my spare time is going into that. Books I have recently read are: Tower of Tears by Rhoda D’Ettore, Murderous Little Darlings by John Hennessy, Coming Around by Tom Benson, Hawaiian Lei of Shrunken Heads by Katerina Sestakova Novotna, Touching the Wire by Rebecca Bryn and Little Big Boy by Max Power.

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

All of the above. Some are not so new but all are new to me. I would recommend all of them.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

My horror book which I have mentioned and also a new frugal book. My horror one is my main priority but sometimes out of nowhere I have a flash of frugal inspiration and I have to get on the lap top and get it down while it is fresh in my mind.

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

My partner is my rock. He’s family though so he doesn’t count for this question. I have discovered two online groups on Facebook. Indie Author Review Exchange Group ad New Authors Help Each Other. The groups are like writing families and both groups are full of support.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

At the moment it’s a hobby, but who knows what the future will bring?

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

Actually I don’t think I would. I am really proud of it.

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

 As a child I loved to write in my English classes.

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

 I’m not ready to share much yet, but it you like The Revenge of the Pumpkins you will like my new book. In it you will find pole dancing vampires and a costume party full of evil. Another story is about someone who goes to see a psychic to be told that she will die in a few days time…..

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

Grammar!

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

That is so hard….Hmm…I’ll get back to you…

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

No. Although it would be nice if I did.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

The pumpkin on the cover of The Revenge of the Pumpkins was designed by a friend of mine. Another author used the pumpkins to make my cover. For my second book I used the cover creator on amazon and another author friend “tweaked” it for me.

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

Grammar. My grammar sucks. I have a lot to learn.

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

I am learning all the time when it comes to grammar. I think I will always be learning.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Don’t give up. Join writing groups and have fun.

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

I would like to say a big thank you for taking the time to read my books. Also I really am grateful to everyone who has taken the time to leave a review. Reviews are like hugs to authors.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

 I don’t but I do remember that my dad used to read Little Miss Chatterbox to me when I was a child.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

I love it when my partner acts daft. He knows how to make me laugh. It doesn’t take much to make me cry. A happy ending on a film. A sad ending. Seeing bad things on the news.

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

Hmm.. I really haven’t got a clue.

Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone and why ?

Erm…I haven’t thought that far ahead.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Gardening and reading.

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

Buffy, Angel, The Walking Dead, The 100, Law and Order, CSI, NCIS etc.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

I really don’t have a favorite  food. I don’t have a favorite colour, but when it comes to clothes I mainly wear black. I love most types of music. Rock, Pop music from the 1980s.

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

I would love to be a lady of leisure. Unfortunately that doesn’t pay the bills.

 

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

I don’t have a blog or website but you can find me on Facebook and Twitter,

www.facebook.com/laceylaneauthor

www.twitter.com/laceylaneauthor

 

Amazon author page http://www.amazon.com/Lacey-Lane/e/B00VYMFOYK

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Here is my interview with Hannah Warren

Name: Hannah Warren

Age:*ouch* what an opening question! 58 on the 11^th hour.

Where are you from?

Venus. No that’s silly but I was born in the city of love: Paris. British mum, Dutch dad, lived in Holland most of my life.

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

For more info on me, please read my bio: http://www.hannahwarrenauthor.com/?page_id=2 I really don’t like talking about my background or family. When you read my story, you will understand. 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Tirgearr Publising have just relaunched my two earlier published books ‘Casablanca, My Heart’ and ‘The Cottage on The Border’, Book 1 in “The Jenna Kroon Series” (Friday 29 May 2015). So I’m a very happy girl right now!

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing when I could hold a pen and I don’t really know why. I was just born that way.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I still don’t consider myself a writer. I have a full-time day job. Maybe after I retire?

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Enid Blyton’s The Five Series when I was 8.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

My own? I’m not completely sure how to answer this question. I like all the wrong things in writing: long, flowing, descriptive sentences embellished with plenty of adjectives and adverbs. So, so wrong, of course! But then again, I was a poet before I was a novelist so blame the flourishing style on the ‘voice of the heart’ ánd on my addiction to 19^th century novels.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Titles are not my forte. I tend to have one and then change it again and then ask for advice from my editor(s) and then change it again.

For ‘Casablanca, My Heart’ (which is a literary romance), I was inspired by a well-known romantic film out the white city, starring Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart. The main character, Heather Simpson, is in love with Casablanca even before she has seen it and falls in love with the aristocrat Ghalib while visiting it. There are many other matters of the heart discussed in the book, hence the title.

‘The Cottage on The Border’ is the first book in The Jenna Kroon Series, the main character being 19-year old Jenna Kroon de Coligny. The second book (which I’m currently writing and which Tirgearr will hopefully publish later this year) is called ‘The Farm on Nieuw Land Road’ and the title of book 3 is ‘The House on Broadway’. The main setting of ‘The Cottage on The Border’ is – rather obviously – a derelict cottage on the border between Holland and Belgium, a haunted place, where Jenna is to find out all about her mysterious past. The border also refers to her mental state. Jenna constantly hovers on the brink of mental illness.   

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

I write about exceptional women who have to make impossible choices in life and who – though tattered and unsure what decision to take next – face fate head-on, sometimes paying for it with their lives. I don’t really see this as a message, though. It’s more that I share Doctor Zhivago’s motto: “Life is not a stroll through the meadow.” Sorry if this sounds too heavy. I don’t write comedy though comic events happen in my books and people do have genuine fun. But my general outlook on life is that it’s tough and good and bad are not distributed fairly.  

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Most of it, though Jenna is a bit of a psychic. I have a fantasy trilogy in the back of my writing head, which I’d like to try after I’ve finished the next 7 or 8 books. We’ll see.

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

As a writer you always mix real-life events with dream flashes and story-telling by others, but in essence my work is pure fiction. Half of the time I don’t even know myself what it is my subconscious is coming up with and what storyline I’m going to follow next.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most? A mentor?

As I said earlier, definitely the 19^th century classics, Russian, American, British and French, but my all-time hero is and will always be Leo Tolstoy.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m always reading two or three at the same time but I seem to be most taken by Winston Graham’s Poldark series at the moment. Now reading book 1 ‘Ross Poldark’. Historical fiction but written in the 20^th century. Light stuff that helps me to fall asleep.

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

I’ve read a lot of books written by my online author friends and some of them are really good writers. But I’m not going to give any names because I don’t want to offend the ones I’m not mentioning. Now looking forward to reading work from the authors of my new Tirgearr family. It’s a pity, however, that I’m a slow reader with little free reading time on my hands.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

Currently writing book 2 in ‘The Jenna Kroon Series’. Already mentioned that. Then book 3. After that five books in the ‘Daughter of The Alvar Series’. Book 1 ‘Ingrid’ is already on paper, as is part of book 2 ‘Agnes’. Perhaps I’ll also write a sequel to ‘Casablanca, My Heart’ and then the fantasy trilogy. Enough work to keep me busy into my late 80s.

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

I’m not sure what you mean by an entity? And sadly enough my family members do not support me. Either they aren’t readers (like my sons) or they aren’t interested in me as a whole (the rest). My online friends and my publisher are the great supporters here!

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

No, but neither do I see it as a hobby or a past-time. To me, it’s the core of my being, which is much more than a career. It’s a destination. 

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

Get rid of the clumsy sentences, make it a little shorter, skip the embellishments, go deeper into the corrupt but brilliant mind of Markus Brenner. Study all the philosophers he claims his sick, fascist body of thought is built on.

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

Through reading. Only yesterday I passed the tiny village called ‘s Heer Abtskerke, where I learnt to read and write. The school building is no longer there but as I passed through, in a flashback I could see myself as the bewildered, little girl in her rumpled frock, with ink all over her fingers trying to grasp the magic her pen could do on the page.

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

Of course. I’d be delighted. This is what I wrote today. It is part of Chapter 19 The Truth Hurts of ‘The Farm on Nieuw Land Road’. This is the episode in the story where the old rancher Andréas Pinto Xavier explains to Denise Janssen, (whom he is teaching all about the breeding of Criollo horses and who is married to his overseer Carlos), why he is so against Denise’s marriage. It has not yet been edited!!

“I’ve never been the marrying kind of guy. Of course, when I was younger, I used to enjoy the comfort of female company offered to me but that stopped abruptly after man landed on the moon. You see, two months later a certain Maria Rodriguez de Silva showed up here on the ranch claiming I’d made her pregnant. At the time, I couldn’t do anything but burst into laughter. A girl of easy virtue, perhaps even lying about the early stages of her pregnancy, coming all the way from Caracas to tell me, a simple rancher from out-of-the-way La Enena that I’d knocked her up. It was so hilarious I told her to go and find herself a rich husband elsewhere. No way, I thought she was telling the truth but it shook me awake. I had taken dangerous liberties in my drunken state and I felt remorse. So much even, that I went to confession to tell our priest what I’d been accused of. It taught me never to lie with an unknown woman again and I’ve kept that promise.” Pinto glanced at Denise again but she kept studying her hands. He pushed his empty glass in her direction. The ice cubes hadn’t even had time to melt.

“Fill it up once more.” Denise shook herself from her stupor to do as he asked. There was another long silence, in which Andréas concentrated on sipping his drink. Denise had never before seen him drink alcohol during the day, certainly not at such a rate so she became more and more worried what lay in the heavy silence. What was it to her if righteous Andréas Pinto had a child with a prostitute? Was it such a big deal? She reckoned there were more illegitimate children on this globe than kids born out of wedlock. She really couldn’t see what was making the old rancher so upset and what it had to do with her. Then he continued his monologue.

“Twenty years later, on the 6th of October 1989, I got a letter from a certain Luis Pérez Castillo from Caracas, who told me his wife Maria Perez de Silva had died the year before and that on her death bed she had told him that he wasn’t the father of their eldest son Carlos but that I had fathered the child. Luis hadn’t felt the need to get in touch with me before but now he wrote that Carlos was getting out of control, the lad was 19 by then and Luis was starting to get annoyed with him, becoming more and more aware of the differences between Carlos and his other three children.” Again Andréas sought Denise’s eyes to steady himself and this time she tried to answer his penetrating gaze but the shock she might actually be looking at her father-in-law sitting across from her made her mind otherwise go blank.

“Luis refrained from telling me in what sort of trouble Carlos was and at first I put the letter aside as I still thought it was all bogus. But then, one hot morning in February 1990, Carlos himself showed up on my doorstep. He told me his father had sent him to me to become a farmhand as he needed to spend some time away from the city. You can imagine that made my eyebrows go up high. My first concern was whether the lad knew anything about the stories being told about him and me but he reacted to none of my hints in that direction so I supposed his father had just sent him off as a one-way package without a return stamp. My second – even bigger concern – was that I immediately saw the young lad was a drug addict, big time. And that, my dear Denise, is the root of all the trouble.” Andréas halted. Sighing deeply, he took a big, white handkerchief from his trouser pocket and wiped his sweaty forehead. Then he slumped back in his chair, looking haggard. Devastation showing in his dark-brown eyes.

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

Describing people and writing sex scenes. I want my characters to appear vividly before the reader’s eyes, how they move, their peculiarities, character, looks, etc. but that is so incredibly daunting.

And sex scenes, boy-oh-boy, that’s the hardest of them all but sometimes inescapable as in life itself.

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

To avoid repetition let me not bring up Tolstoy again (whom I admire for every word he’s ever written) but say I learn something from each good book I read or listen to. Recently, I was very charmed by John Galworthy’s The Forsyte Saga. Galsworthy could do so very well what I’m still a novice at: describe characters so you see them before you.  

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

Nope. Can’t afford it.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Two of Tirgearr’s wonderful cover artists. Casa’s cover was designed by Elle J. Rossi and the Cottage by Melody Pond. Melody already designed the covers for the next two books and I have to keep them secret but they are astonishing! I can tell you that much.

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

Continuing with the story and staying glued to my office chair. Not checking Facebook or email every other minute, or leave my desk in search of a snack.

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

That the well of stories inside me is endless. That I love and I hate the process almost in equal shares.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Try to be firm and disciplined about your writing but don’t overdo it. Find the golden mean that works for you. And read, absorb, read, learn, grasp, read. The masters before you will show you how to.

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

Just that I hope they like my stories and enjoy a couple of entertaining hours while being immersed in them.

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

It was called ‘An en Moe’ (Ann and Mum) and it was the book that taught me how to read.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

I laugh/smile for many reasons: good humour, funny incidents, unexpected meetings, witticisms, the radiant sun, nature in full bloom, a child’s beaming face, a stroke of luck, love sparkling in the eye, great art, warmth, compassion, and honesty.

I cry for the fate of my children and that of my own and for all the great sadness of this precarious sublunary world, whether manmade or caused by other factors.

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

My daughter Joy. Because I miss her with every fibre of my body.

Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone and why?

No idea.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

Yoga, jogging, hiking, listening to audio books, a bit of gardening and I quite like my job.

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

Good talk shows (Dutch ones), Band of Brothers, films or series based on good books, Dance programmes.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music.

Vegetarian dishes. I like all colours. 70s music: Pink Floyd, Neil Young, Patti Smith, The Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, etc.

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

I would have liked to be a professional dancer or a doctor in Africa.

 

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

Yes: www.hannahwarrenauthor.com

Links to Casablanca, My Heart: http://www.tirgearrpublishing.com/authors/Warren_Hannah/casablanca-my-heart.htm

Links to The Cottage on The Border: http://www.tirgearrpublishing.com/authors/Warren_Hannah/the-cottage-on-the-border.htm

 

 

Here is my interview with C L Bentham

Name  Claire Bentham. (Pen name: C L Bentham)

Age  Recently turned 35.

Where are you from

A small town in the North East of the UK.

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

I’ve been married to my husband for 15 years. We met 17 years ago in a nightclub. (As you do). We have a wonderful daughter, who will turn 16 in a couple of months, and we couldn’t be any more proud of her. We’re a close knit family, and enjoy our time spent together even if that’s just sitting watching TV together.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I’ve signed up for my first ever Author Event. It’s happening in the October of 2016, and will be held over in the USA. The excitement I’m feeling knowing this is happening, well, it’s hard to explain. I have to pinch myself that little old me will be travelling over-seas with my books.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

Two years ago I began to sit and write. A friend recommended a book she’d been reading, and I enjoyed it so much, that it made me remember how I wanted to do something with writing when I was at school. A Career Advisor told me that writing wasn’t a career and that I should think of something more solid. So beginning writing after all of those years was like me saying to those from my past… “Look, I CAN do it!”

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When someone said they’d bought my first book and sat all afternoon reading it.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I think that answer is the same as a previous answer I gave. To prove I can do it.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I don’t think so? I tend to listen to what I hear in my head at the time, and just let those voices speak through my fingers.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

All of my titles come to me once I’ve acknowledged the theme of my story. But sometimes the title will come from something that’s mentioned in the book. For example: Finding the Star came from the main character’s love of a song her father would sing to her. And when she was searching for her soul-mate, her one true love, he happened to be a Movie ‘star.’

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

I write romance, so I guess I’d just like the readers to feel the moments of when that first spark happens when you meet someone.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

All fiction, but without knowing I do sometimes find I’ve added something that I hadn’t realized I’d remembered.

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

Not really. I find, as a reader myself, I want to be transported into another world. I want things to happen that probably wouldn’t happen in ‘real life’ but imagine that they could. I have admitted before though that, some things the characters say are based on what someone I know has said in passing. In my finding series books, the group of girlfriends of the main character do have the mannerisms of my group of friends.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most? a mentor?

Oh I think ALL books can influence in their own way. And any-one who sits and writes, I believe are mentors. By sinking into their books, reading their words, is inspirational.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I haven’t read for a few weeks due to writing, but I have recently finished the second installment of a series by, romance Author; Jodi Malpas.

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

Not new, but new to me, is Author Melissa J Rutter. I received a copy of one of her books, and really enjoyed it. So I will be trying to catch up on some more of her books.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I’m about to release my first ever trilogy this year. The CLICK trilogy is, of course, romance but with a mix of darkness. It’s a story about how sometimes romance isn’t always what we think it is, and sometimes we might not get our HEA or it has to be worked at. The first installment is due any day.

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

Readers! That simple. Yes, Authors should write for themselves, and we do but, to have that support from people you’ve never met before…AMAZING!

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I think it can be achieved. Okay, maybe in other careers you don’t find yourself at 3am, in your PJ’s, stuffing your face with crisps and coffee because your character has decided to give you an idea, but it’s still work at the end of the day.

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

There’s always something, but I’m still happy at the end result.

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

I enjoyed my English classes at school. I also had an over- active imagination.

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

My files are with my publisher and the second installment to the trilogy needs to be kept to myself as not to give away any spoilers for the first one waiting to be read.

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

Writers block. Oh my! You want to cry, you want scream, and you may even want to throw away your computer and never look at it again. You tell yourself you’re a bad writer, and that no-one understands you, not even your characters. The block does end though, and you laugh at how crazy you became.

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

Oh there’s too many. I will say that, Lisa De Jong and her book, ‘When it Rains,’ had me in floods of tears. She hit me with her words and the story. I’m not one to cry at a movie or a book, but this one GOT ME! I had to keep putting the book down to grab my composure.

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

Not at the moment, but next year and in 2017, I’ll be attending signing events.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I get all of my covers from I-Stock (Getty images). It’s like they get me, because as soon as I have an idea, I find the image straight away on their site.

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

Seeing and feeling my characters down days. Characters become real people in your mind, so like any real friend or family member, when they struggle you do too.

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

That I wished I’d never listened to that advice at school. If I hadn’t, I could have been enjoying this journey in early life.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Just keep doing what you’re doing. Don’t give up! Your stories, your words, they mean something to someone out there.

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

I love you all whole-heartedly. You will always be special to me.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Kes. It was an English assignment. The film didn’t give the book justice.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Oh my, I laugh at pretty much anything, but more of a giggler. I’m not one for crying unless, of course, it’s something that hits you with such emotion.

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

My Great Granda. He passed when my mam was eighteen, so I never got to meet him. He was a character and highly praised. He sounded like a great, lovable guy who would have enjoyed to see how far I’ve come.

Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone and why ?

She did it and never looked back. I hope it would make people nod in agreement.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I guess you could say, reading. I do enjoy going to see favorite bands when I can. I like my music, and always have my headphones plugged in. My band at the moment is: Lawson. LOVE them guys.

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

I love American TV shows. CSI, White collar, Revenge; those type of shows. I’m a sucker for Reality shows too. Films are more around the Rom-Com style. Of course all-time favorites are, Dirty Dancing, Pretty Woman etc.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music Food:

A British Sunday roast. Color: Purple. Music: Love songs/Pop songs.

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

Journalist. Again that comes from the writing enthusiasm.

 

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

I have an Author page on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-C-L-Bentham/617706081616123?ref=hl

Here you can be updated on most things. It’s ran by myself and my admin. We also have a laugh most days. But please be aware that my writing is for 18+ age bracket, so my page can sometimes represent that.

 Amazon Page http://www.amazon.co.uk/C-L.-Bentham/e/B00MHV81S8/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1433009611&sr=1-2-ent

Here is my interview with Ansa Shabir

Name Ansa Shabir

Age 22

Where are you from Birmingham

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

I am currently studying Accounting & Finance (part time) at university as I was studying other courses alongside and making time for my writing career.

I work for Birmingham city council in elections and teaching before that I was working in the health sector.

My mother is an ex textiles teacher and my father has his own business (self-employed). I have three sisters, one older than me and two younger than me. I also have two younger brothers. We are a perfect family of eight. My eldest sister is a psychologist and the younger two both work and are at university. My brothers are still in full time education.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I have recently been offered a position in teaching which is something I always wanted to do at a very young age but did not want this to be my permanent career. To be studying and teaching is a huge achievement for me as it is competitive and different to what I currently study.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing two years ago. I use to write but keep it on my laptop and never imagined of extending my writing skills to a stage of becoming an author.

I started writing because I thought of authors as heroes, people who created a way for me to escape into fantastic worlds that were exciting and so much more than my everyday life, and I wanted to be a hero to someone else. More than anything else, I think this is why I started writing. Hearing someone tell me that my work provided the incredible gift that other authors have given me is honestly the best reward I could ask for. Writing allows me to release my emotions. I find it easier and quicker for me to target a genre and express my emotions then show my emotions. But these days, I do it mostly because I love it. I enjoy lavishing time on creating characters and worlds. It’s where I’m comfortable, and it’s what I know I’m good at. It doesn’t require a boss or an office other than me and my own home. Writing is what keeps me going.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I considered myself as a writer the day I published my first book with Author Saima Shabir in 2014.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

My sisters, my best friend Mariam and my mum inspired me into writing. The challenges and struggles which I have hidden for a very long time enhanced me to further my writing skills.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I would like to write fiction books with Author Saima Shabir as our main genre but before I introduce the fiction side of my writing I want to introduce myself and Author Saima Shabir who is my younger sibling through quotes and a non-fiction memoir.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I came up with the title with Author Saima Shabir for our first book ‘One Quote A Day’ through media support. We knew what we wanted to write which were quotes but wanted our audience from Instagram and Facebook to have a part. People were sending in direct messages of thoughts and we coordinated it to the concept of the book.

The second book which should be published summer 2015 ‘What god sees fits’ is a title I came up with after I was diagnosed with epilepsy. Reading the memoir goes into a lot more detail of how and when and also gives more of an intense reason to the title itself.

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

‘I believe we all are different to create the different things on this planet. Be great and proud of yourself every time you contribute something good to your life and the life of others. Do not compare yourself because it brings complexity into your life. You are whole and complete, wherever you are in life, so create whatever you like.’

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

The second book is non-fiction so 80% of the book is nothing but experiences which I have converted into theory. The books after the memoir will be fiction and some of the aspects will be realistic and based on real life situations with small amounts of exaggeration.

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

Experiences in the book are based mainly on me and my mother. I am forever making notes on my phone no matter where I am it is never really made up on the spot.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most? a mentor?

‘Women who dare’ by Chris Noble.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I am currently finishing of reading ‘To hold the sun’ written by Chas Watkins. The author developed the book as a guide to help his children live their lives in a way that would allow them to enjoy the journey. Drawing on wildly diverse disciplines including stoicism, neuroscience, skepticism, behavioral economics, and spirituality; the reader is taken on a journey that exposes the author’s philosophy of life. He demonstrates that happiness is indeed a choice.

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

There is one interesting author who has got grasped my interest recently ‘Collette Sinclaire’ especially her book ‘Messages from heaven’. This book has accounts of the dead. The lives they lived may shock or surprise you. They may make you laugh or cry. Each of these 25 souls has something to offer you to help you in your own life, or to understand the lives of those around you.

Each chapter is the story of one soul’s life and death and each account brings to light an understanding of our world and why exactly we are here. They are all told in the spirit’s own voices and each brings with it something unique to share with us here in the world of the living. No matter how they had lived and died, you will learn from their lessons of living and loving, both successes and failures. There are heartwarming tales of redemption as well as heartbreaking tales of grief and lessons learned the hard way.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I am currently doing my best to get my memoir on the market as I have a lot of people messaging and emailing me and Author Saima Shabir about the publication date. I do advertise the blurb of the book a lot on my Instagram and facebook and it has come to a lot of attention. I have been asked to collaborate with quite a few organisation in regards to interviews and projects which I am looking into.

 

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

My university has helped me a lot. The student union funded me to carry out book stalls, hand out leaflets and have seminar talks with students who were interested in reading and maybe going into writing as a career.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I started my first publication in the USA at one of the biggest book stores called Barnes & Noble and after the amazing feedback me and author Saima Shabir got we may carry writing as our second career. I started writing with author Saima Shabir and will like to continue writing with her. I do intend of collaborating with other authors so we could share ideas and write together but that’s after my projects I currently hold.

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

There was never an end to my latest book, struggles will forever come. I don’t think I would go back and change anything but to look ahead and implement bigger and better things in terms of writing.

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

My mother has always wanted to write books but was not educated enough to write her own books. I wrote my memoir on behalf of my mother. I did not think it was possible for me to write so shared my ideas with my younger sister who said we should get advice and we did which got us to where we are today. Virtually nothing is impossible in this world if you just put your mind to it and maintain a positive attitude. I still remember my parents telling me ‘Faith is the first factor in a life devoted to service. Without it, nothing is possible. With it, nothing is impossible. Some things are just less likely than others.

 

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

To be a person of wisdom and success, you must not seek fame but, instead seek to be of service. Each and every one of us live to create something and not just to be creative from someone else’s ideas. By creating you discover a lot more then you thought you would, you discover yourself.Some things fade away in the darkest side of an individual’s life for the best so they are no longer to be seen.

Nothing you do once in a while will count. It is what you do consistent which people will look up to you for. Decisions and not conditions determine your destiny. I believe the more decisions you make the better you get at making decisions. By making more than one decision you start building an invisible limb which grows each time you make a decision.

A few girls I came across wore the badge of jealousy very proudly even in my childhood days when I had nothing but an amazing family.

In the past few years I have come to conclude people who are jealous of you are insecure individuals who lack at many things & suck at life. Talking behind my back does not cost me nothing but makes you more bitter then you were yesterday. I must be doing something write for anyone to SOS my name and write a CV about me without my consent. Just remember my reference is available on request.

We must commit to learn from our mistakes instead of agonizing over them because each and every one of us is destined to repeat errors in the future. I have started to ensure myself there is no such thing as failures in our life, it is all results.

You can only pray for people who talk about you hoping they do not fall too hard. They are dying to know your next move, your every move. They secretly live their lives through you. When they shop they think of the hot sh*t they saw you in & when they talk to their friends they use your phrases, they badly want a chance to breathe the same air you breathe and taste the same food you taste & date the same people you date. They just don’t get it. They do not know how you have the ability to be so hot, classy, talented & sustain personality for days so they make up rumours about you to help their ego & kill time until they find out your next move. They wonder if you even think of them at times. Can someone die of jealousy? Yes, hopefully they will die thinking of you.

For those who hate what I do, what I wear or even how I amend to carry myself I wish you the very best of luck to think your opinions would matter to me. Hypocrites would do anything to groom you. The more of their poison you absorb, the more you start to doubt yourself. You do not need anyone to tell you what you are and how exactly you have lived your life. Your life is your very OWN. Worrying about your own good nature is actually the first sign that everything is going to be just fine. The secret to achieving your goal is mental conditioning and if you stretch your mind to people talking about you behind you won’t have the capacity to indulge further. Don’t fear losing friends who have never understood you for who you were. They say pain can be your friend if you use it effectively. For most people their fear of loss is much greater than their desire for gain.

Book ‘What god sees fits’ (A womans beauty is her non fiction)

Author Ansa Shabir

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

Writing itself is challenging not everyone can express themselves as well as others can. I know individuals who are better at showing their feelings in action then writing them down like I did. Each and every one of us may find something easier which others find hard.

Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all. I live to Bette Davis quote ‘The key to life is accepting challenges. Once someone stops doing this, he’s dead.

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

My first book I ever paid attention to was one of Roald Dahl’s books and ever since he has been my favorite author of all times. To enjoy reading a book there must be something the author is doing right and that is exactly what Roald Dahl has been doing. Keeping his readers satisfied. The writer must have a genuine and powerful wish not only to entertain, but to teach people the habit of reading.

Roald Dahl remains one of the most iconic authors of all time, yet he began his career writing macabre short stories based upon his experience in the Royal Air Force during World War II.

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

I have not travelled far as from yet but have planned to go to the USA with author Saima Shabir to hold a book stall and sign books at Barnes & Noble.

I intend to expand but slow steps are taking me to bigger destinations and my patience is taking me a long way.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Author Saima Shabir designed the covers and anything which need changing I helped.

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

The hardest part was ensuring we were targeting the correct audience; we do not have a specific audience who we target. It is simply for those who love reading or will inhabit a challenge to read.

Ensuring grammar and punctuations were all-in-one was hard as we are self-published writers no one edits our work so it is twice as hard. We have publishers who put together the book and target the market of sales but they do not proof read our work.

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

Team work and coordination is what I essentially learnt more of. Working with someone who has different thoughts and challenges was a tactic I had to negotiate.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

As a writer, you should not judge, you should understand. Don’t target a specific audience when writing non-fiction because what you want to do is write something that can never be forgotten. Writing does not have to be right it has to be written. Write without pay until somebody offers to pay.

Start telling the stories that only you can tell, because there’ll always be better writers than you and there’ll always be smarter writers than you. There will always be people who are much better at doing this or doing that – but you are the only you.

There are better writers than me out there, there are smarter writers, there are people who can plot better – there are all those kinds of things, but there’s nobody who can write a memoir like I can because we all have unique challenges.

Let grammar, punctuation, and spelling into your life! Even the most energetic and wonderful mess has to be turned into sentences.

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

We all compare ourselves to other people, and I can assure you that the people who seem to have it all do not.

When you look at other people through a lens of compassion and understanding rather than judgment and jealousy, you are better able to see them for what they are—human beings. They are beautifully imperfect human beings going through the same universal challenges that we all go through.

One thing I’ve learned about making changes and reaching for the next rung on the ladder is that you cannot fully feel satisfied with where you’re going until you can accept, acknowledge, and appreciate where you are.

Embrace and make peace with where you are, and your journey toward something new will feel much more peaceful, rewarding, and satisfying.

Telling yourself what a failure you are won’t make you any more successful. Telling yourself you’re not living up to your full potential won’t help you reach a higher potential. Telling yourself you’re worthless and unlovable won’t make you feel any more worthy or lovable.

I know it sounds almost annoyingly simple, but the only way to achieve self-love is to love yourself—regardless of who you are and where you stand and even if you know you want to change.

You are enough just as you are. And self-love will be a little bit easier every time you remind yourself of that.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

The first book I read was Roald Dahl’s book ‘The BFG’.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

The only thing that can make one cry and laugh is LOVE.

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

I would love to meet Lilli Ghalichi from the USA. She is my role model. She is not just a beauty queen but a huge inspirational. I love her enthusiasm and the way her mind set is in terms of building an empire and achieving her ambitions.

Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone and why ?

‘A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all other virtues’

The reason I chose the above quote is simply because at times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us. I am thankful for what I have. If I concentrate on what I don’t have, I will never, ever have enough.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I love travelling. I love going to different cities with my sisters. My main circle consists of my family and my best friends who have always been there for me.

I definitely love reading and studying it has grown on me naturally after all the years of reading and studying.

I like partying occasionally with people I have grown up with. I am very bubbly and an easy person to get along with I do not mind what I do as long as it is with people I trust.

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

I do not watch TV as much. It sounds really weird for someone not to have a favourite programme but as my genre is horror I do go to the cinemas to watch horror. My favourite horror film has to be ‘Insidious’.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

My favourite colour is Royal Blue; it depends on what it is. In terms of clothes I avoid wearing black but if I was buying a car I would go for a black car.

My favourite food is anything but SPICY.

I like all kinds of music especially RnB, niche, abit of reggae and Bollywood.

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

If I was not an author I would have continued teaching and carried on chasing my ambition of becoming a chartered accountant (If God Wills).

 

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

Follow my instagram account @ianstaagram @saimashabir @worldwideauthors

Like my facebook page Author Ansa Shabir for updates.

A link to my first book is http://www.amazon.co.uk/One-Quote-Day-Mind-Trained/dp/1502509075/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1433005834&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=one+quote+a+day+mind+traied

All my books will be sold on amazon.com/.co.uk and limited copies are held at all book stores.

 

Here is my interview Edward L. Paris

Name? Edward L. Paris

Age? 26

Where are you from? Born in Saint Louis, Mo, raised in Desoto, Mo

A little about yourself, education, Family life etc?

Hello my name is Edward L. Paris. I am a writer who has launch his first book to a five part series novel on the date of  05/19/2015, which is now available over AMAZON. The title is called ONIVIUS XTERNAL INVASION and it’s a Fantasy/Science Fiction story with a mixture of Scripted style, Descriptive style and Narrative style of writing.

I am co-owner & mentor of a self publishing and distribution Co. called Day2wenty3rd. Our motto is let your imagination run wild and we keep true to that. I live here in Pacific, MO help building a foundation within our company as well preparing ourselves for the next schedule set books. I’m married with one child and attended Jefferson College as well as CCDC in Creative Writing. The most thing I’m passionate about is writing. Always have and always will be. I like to believe I was chosen to do such creative work, that writing is my way out of devastation.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Edward: The latest news, will be that our publishing company, Day2wenty3rd, has release its first novel ONIVIUS XTERNAL INVASION. Its available on AMAZON in paperback version and will be release in EBOOK version 11/19/15. We’ve decided to green light ONIVIUS RELINQUISH WARS for a release date of 01/19/2016 which is the next part of the ONIVIUS series. We are also releasing a Biography/Inspiring, Narrative style book on behalf of the owner of Day2wenty3rd for a release date of 12/19/15. It will be about her being an immigrant to converting to a American citizen. Her tribulations, tears, struggles, how she was capable to become successful as far as becoming owner of a self-publishing co and a self-publish author.
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

Edward: As far as I could remember the earliest I began writing was when I was sixteen of age. And the way it came about is actually funny. My parents grounded me for nearly four months, so If I wasn’t in school, I was in my room. Nothing but paper, pen and a bed. It’s not till the second month I realized that I wrote and created a series of short stories. I was intrigued with this, I was astonish with what I actually enjoyed. That I found something other than having to be per-pressured into sports.

I loved to write, so much love after my punishment was over I continued to exile myself into this room just writing and thinking of possibilities. My imagination struck me, instilling things that you see now today in my book ONIVIUS XTERNAL INVASION.
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Edward: Once a person feels like writing takes them to another happiness. I consider that main reason that a individual could be consider a writer. It’s not consider a hobby our a job to me its consider love, passion that when all fails, writing will always be within you. And for me that day was 06/12/2005. Sixteen of age, I felt like when I wrote, it could take me to another world, take me away from reality and put me in a place of joy.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Edward: Inspiration for ONIVIUS XTERNAL INVASION came when I actually seen the movie Avatar, directed and created by James Cameron. The way he could direct a story based on a race of beings that roam a fiction world. It really amazed me.
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Edward: The way my style of writing is most authors, reviewers will say it’s not professional writing. And what I mean by that is I write the way I want it to be read. In my beliefs I wanted my style to be different from most. If you read books most are set up in ways that suppose to be set up because that’s what your taught in school or told by reviewers is the proper way. With me it’s like I combined the style of scripted play, descriptive style and narrative style. As you read my books it as if your that character, not only by emotions, but by simply reading what’s been said by that character. Like your actually viewing a movie.
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Edward: Believe it or not I woke up out of a dream screaming ONIVIUS! It was disbelieving to me to when I was told by my wife I repeatedly was screaming that name. With that been said that’s what spark the plot of the ONIVIUS series. What direction I was going to go with it. I began repeating the name daily just to get the feeling of how it sounds. I would imagine if it was a movie releasing soon telling myself

“Onivius Xternal Invasion, rated PG13 in theaters May 19th”.

So it was a constant name that I took from a dream and instilled within me. Most people starts with a plot first. I didn’t, I actually started with the name first then work myself into a story web.
Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

Edward: The message is very simple, not only in our books but with Day2wenty3rd. We want people to understand that you can create anything if you put your mind to it. That you don’t have to create something the way that is told suppose to be. That you don’t have to follow the rules of sounding like everyone else. Being different is not only a blessing but a talent in our vision. Our message is let your imagination run wild. What we mean by that is, we don’t put restrictions on you, telling you how’s it going to go. You are the creator we are the supporters.
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Edward: This is a Fantasy/Science Fiction series, so very little of it is realistic. A lot of the characters are inspirations from friends and family members.
Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most? a mentor?

Edward: I will say the Lords of the Ring & Hobbit trilogy has the most influences on me as I go through the journey of writing. JK Rowling as well with her Harry Potter series. The Maze runner series by James Dashner. These people and their creation has really expanded my view of writing, has influence me to the point that writing is a most loved art form. By them being such influence on me I become my own mentor. By reading, studying, learning the craft as I become older and wiser, I begin to understand certain ways of the art form to not only writing but as well as advertising and promoting.
Fiona: What are your current projects?

Edward: My current projects as of today is beginning to write out ONIVIUS RELINQUISH WARS which is schedule for release 01/19/2016 on AMAZON. Writing out a second edition version to ONIVIUS XTERNAL INVASION. Preparing both of those book EBOOK available within a year from now. And aiding our Day2wenty3rd owner write out her biography/inspiring book which is schedule for release 12/19/2015.

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

Edward: The one individual who has stuck by my side from day one, will have to be the love of my life, my partner my wife. She was with me when it was a struggle in life, believing in ones dreams to beyond. If it wasn’t for her ONIVIUS series would not have been completed in the time I schedule it.
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Edward: Absolutely. Writing is more than just a career for me, it’s my home away from home. It’s my tunnel, that through writing it’s always a way out for me. With nearly nine books schedule for release in the next ten years of my life. I Absolutely believe this is my career.
Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

Edward: I wouldn’t say change or regret anything towards my books. I say that because if it needed to be, it would of been. I am very pleased with my creation and how it came about with the final cut.

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

Edward: The following is a paragraph from ONIVIUS XTERNAL INVASION.

“Thandel speed outrageously impeccable, sharp spikes penetrating men physique, blood squirting from the stab wounds her thirst for death was well overwhelming. Her chain was an art form and perilous to the enemy as she twists and yanks the bodies of Earthlings, decapitating heads and breaking hip bones. Her fighting style, her mentality, vitality mind zone, were all above gory. For as well as the others she did not care or show sympathetic feelings towards the shock soldiers”.
Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

Edward: I don’t believe challenge should be a word said towards something you care for, passionate about, something that you dedicate your life in. If you see it as something that inspires you and settles you, then it should not be challenging but relaxing.
Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?

Edward: Now that the book is release and expecting a child, I’m not at the moment. While promoting the novel two weeks before release date, we were traveling. From Kissimmee, Orlando, Daytona, Florida to Washington Dc, Virginia, Maryland areas. Now we have settle the traveling down to begin working on the next two books for release with Day2wenty3rd. We suspect most likely around the month of September we will be pushing forward with traveling again. A schedule will be posted on our Social Media accounts.
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Edward: I actually design my cover on a program that was install on my computer at the time. What you see was actually created three years ago at the time and was only meant for teaser posters for promoting. But I ended up liking the original design and used it for my book cover. 48HoursBook did a little trimming of the cover and it came out just as you see. I wanted all to know that without GOD this wouldn’t have been achieve and I point that out placing a cross on the side of the book replacing the letter S with a t.
Fiona: What was the hardest part of writing your book?

Edward: I wouldn’t say writing the story was a difficult task to do. I would say becoming a self-publisher was the hardest to do. Because everything you must do on your own. Advertising, promoting, set up signings, etc. It was difficult simultaneously joyful. To know at the end of the day that you did all this with your bare hands, that you built this with imagination and dedication to the art form of writing. It was worth the struggle worth the long nights, worth the sacrifices.

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

Edward: I learn a few things, not of writing but as far as self-publishing. How to go about certain things. Copyrights, ISBN, Advertising, Promoting, Formatting, Book Covers, these thing I knew not. So after the book was completed the next step was to learn how the world of self-publishing works.
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Edward: My advice to upcoming writers is simply follow your heart. Write what you are passionate about, interested in, what comes to mind. Don’t write what they want you to write or follow rules to certain writing styles that is said to follow. Create what you want to create. Let your imagination run wild.
Fiona: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

Edward: This is a new way of writing, it’s a new way of how a book is formatted, a new way of how a book is written. So when reading it do not be caught off guard because the way we were taught at a young age how a book suppose to be set up as, but give it a chance for that the light is at the end of the tunnel and at the end you will be most satisfied and most importantly interested.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Edward: Indeed and I believe most will agree on this. To kill a Mockingbird was the first book I’ve ever read. It was a class assignment and a book that was mandatory to read during that time in my school. And it was quit thrilling to me and very well written.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Edward: Because I’m such a goof ball it doesn’t take a lot for me to smile. I believe when satisfying a customer you should always keep a smile. That a customer or a buyer could sense that the first time they lay eyes on you. This is also a great beginning of sparking a conversation on behalf of your book. I see it as a good selling technique.

Now I have cried a few times and most of the time has been through the last six years on trying to get my novel available. Difficult times it took me going through two publishing companies that I realized doing it on my own was the best option. Not a lot of people are interested in your creation but interested in the funds. So when I help create Day2wenty3rd we made one rule, and that’s let the writer shine.

Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone and why ?

Edward: I get ask this a lot and the answer is simply “the man who left his family a legacy” and I say that because a wise man leaves his child children something to rely on. My wife and I have made it our mission to build a foundation for our grandchildren so they would never have to work for anyone. That they will own their own source of income. I want to be the grandfather who help provide that.

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

Edward: I have actually lately been into the origins of superman, Smallville. As far as movie goes, anything that requires a imagination. Such as Lords of the Ring trilogy, Marvel movies, Seventh Son, I’m actually really into the Divergent series as well.

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

Edward: I never want to think of the possibilities of not being a writer. I am a writer for a reason for a purpose in life. And that’s the way I want to keep it. Not to second guess myself or what God has provided me with, not to think what if, but to think what’s next?

 

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

Edward: We believe that websites are outdated, it’s really a waste of time. And I say that because the average person spends 80% of their time only on Social Media apps. Such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc. Social Media has dominated the internet. With a change of genre we must change the way we view advertising. And social media is just that.

Edward L. Paris. Onivius. Saga. Ed Paris

Ed Paris   Day2wenty3rd

Onivius Series@edwardparis24.   EDWARDPARIS_ONIVIUS.

To stay updated please LIKE,SHARE,FOLLOW us on these pages. Every day we post something, we are extremely active.

A

Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Onivius-Xternal-Invasion-Edward-Paris/dp/0578158795/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1433007660&sr=1-1&keywords=Edward+L.+Paris

 

Here is my interview with SJ Smith

Name  SJ Smith

Age  40

Where are you from  I live in a small town in North Wales

A little about your self `ie your education Family life etc  I’m happily married, we live in a nice house in a small town, with our greyhound.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

My first novel is being released at the end of June, which is a dream come true. To say I’m buzzing is an understatement.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I can’t remember a time when I didn’t write. I loved writing stories as a kid and as I got older it didn’t ever stop.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I’m still struggling with telling people I’m a writer – it’s a sort of secret hobby I always had that I didn’t really like talking about.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I always loved reading, so writing was the next logical step. I love getting lost in a story, be it someone else’s or one of my own. I’d knocked out two novels before I was twenty.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I try to keep it realistic and create characters who are plausible, and who have both positive and negative aspects to their personalities. There also tends to be quite a deep vein of sarcasm running through everything I write – I like injecting a little humor no matter how dark the subject matter.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I think I knew the title before I had any idea of what the story was going to be about. I wanted to write something seedy and voyeuristic, so ‘Peeper’ seemed logical.

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

Not really. I concentrated more on plot and character development than any kind of moralizing this time around.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Hopefully it is entirely realistic. That was one of the parameters I set for myself when I started – this book had to have one foot in the real world at all times, no matter how crazy the goings on got.

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

Good lord no. Everyone in the book is entirely a figment of my imagination.

 

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most? a mentor?

In my early life I read a lot of fantasy, largely for the escapism aspect. I went through the usual Tolkien fixation, then moved onto Clive Barker and Stephen King. As I got older I started to enjoy more realistic books and began reading a lot of crime and social commentary type stuff.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m ashamed to say I haven’t read anything in over a year – I’ve been too busy with other stuff. I have the new James Ellroy and Irvine Welsh novels sat on my shelf ready to begin, but have yet to pick them up.

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

As I say, I’ve not read anything for over a year. It’s a terrible thing to admit, but it’s true.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I’m one of those people who start lots of things but rarely seem to finish them. I’ve got two unfinished novels to work on, plus about a million other things. I’m on a bit of a creative high at the moment, so everything is a whirlwind of ideas, schemes and plans.

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

I’ve had some support and encouragement through the publishing process. One or two people have said some really nice things about my work, which inspires me to carry on and have a little confidence in what I’m doing.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I’m hoping it will become one.

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

There was a joke that got cut out after the first draft I wish I had left in.

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

I’m a creative person, so writing is one of several outlets. I’m also pretty reclusive and antisocial, so it fits in with my lifestyle pretty well.

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

I’m working on an epic odyssey about a perverted afterlife.

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

Disciplining myself to sit down and get on with finishing it. I enjoy the storytelling aspect, so the first draft is usually very easy. It’s the editing where I struggle as by the time the first draft is done I’ve had some other idea and want to move onto something else.

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

I love reading Hunter Thompson’s stuff, because it’s so insane and honest and funny.

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

No. I’m a stay at home kind of guy.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

The cover of Peeper was done by Creative Paramita. I have to say, they’ve done an incredible job.

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

Finishing it.

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

I learned that if I stay focused and keep going that I can actually finish a novel.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Keep at it and work hard. Don’t send your first draft of your first chapter off to a publisher thinking you’re a genius for writing five pages – the real work has barely started.

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

Thank you for buying my book.

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I remember having Watership Down read to me as a kid. I always loved that book.

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

I have a particularly absurd sense of humor. As for crying, it’s been a pretty grueling few years in the emotional stakes – lots of friends gone.

 

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

Not really. Every time I meet one of my heroes they seem to hate me on sight. I met a famous rugby player a couple of years back and he swore at me.

 

Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone and why ?

Maybe something obscene. I like to shock people.

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Anything creative. I play several instruments and enjoy painting and designing stuff.

 

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

I’ve recently gotten into Netflix, so I’ve stopped watching normal TV. I watched the Battlestar Galactica boxset, which I loved. I’m currently watching Heroes again.

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

I’m a total food snob and like cooking proper meals. I love Italian and Thai food. Favourite colour is red. I like all different types of music, but my favourite band of all time is Pink Floyd.

 

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

It would be nice to make money from playing the guitar.

 

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

http://sjsmithrants.blogspot.co.uk/

Amazon Page http://www.amazon.co.uk/SJ-Smith/e/B00MOOA7MQ/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1/277-8004896-9874101

Peeper is now due for release at the end of June. We will be having a launch party here on Facebook, to which you are all cordially invited.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1620148454892843/

Here is my interview with Elizabeth Coldwell

 

Name Elizabeth Coldwell

Age 50

Where are you from

Born in Rotherham, South Yorkshire. Now living in London

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

I was the editor of Forum magazine for the best part of twenty years. When I left there, I made the decision to devote myself to writing fiction (as well as being a minding service for our two cats, who like to help me out by strolling across my laptop keyboard from time to time).

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I’ve just had a novella accepted for Tirgearr’s City Nights series. It’s set in Brussels and features a mixture of suspense and hot romance.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I’ve always written, ever since I was small. My parents have the first book I ever wrote, when I was about ten, in a drawer at their home.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I was at university, I had a couple of pieces published by a Leicester-based magazine. I didn’t know then that I would definitely become a full-time writer, but it was my first taste of what it’s like to write to a deadline and meet a word count.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I reviewed a novel for Forum which I thought was truly terrible, and I was convinced I could come up with something better. I was on the train back to London, having been to the Isle of White to interview a couple who ran a specialist publishing house there, and I plotted out the book on the back of the timetable. That outline became Calendar Girl, which was published by the now defunct Headline Liaison imprint.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Not one that I’ve deliberately worked on, though it has been remarked on by reviewers. The best description of it was ‘elegantly debauched’.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

For One Night In Brussels, my contribution to the City Nights series, I was following the format, which is One Night In… plus the name of the city where the story’s set. But I like to have fun with my titles. I wrote a novella called Stranded In Paradise – the title popped into my head first, then I had to work out where Paradise was and who was stranded there.

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

I’m not really a ‘message’ author. If people read things into my books, that’s fine, but I’m not trying to preach to anyone or persuade them to think a certain way.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

The setting of One Night In Brussels, very much so. I wanted to showcase what an interesting city Brussels is. Everyone seems to have the impression that Belgium is a boring country, but actually a lot of quirky things happen there. As for a couple meeting, enjoying the hottest sex of their life and getting involved in a life-or-death situation all on the same night – well, obviously a lot of that is fantasy but it’s what the genre requires.

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

No, the hero and heroine are entirely fictional, though I’d like to think they appear like ordinary people so the readers can identify them.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

I don’t recall the name of the book, but it’s one an English teacher used to set our lessons when I was about 14. It dealt with things like use of the semi-colon in a fun way that allowed you to use your imagination, and it helped those principles of grammar to stick with me.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

A compilation of the Molesworth books, by Willans and Searle. Even though the English public school system of the 1950s is completely alien in this century, the concept of Molesworth never stops being funny.

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

I discovered a couple of new names when I was editing for Xcite, including Demelza Hart and Seren Ellis-Owen. I’d like to read more by both of them.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I’m writing the Lionhearts series of paranormal novels for Totally Bound, and at the moment I’m most of the way through the fifth book. This one’s about the relationship between a detective and a firefighter, and I’ve been doing research into topics including arson, so I’m expecting to be placed on some kind of government watchlist. *grins* And I have plans to finish a mainstream contemporary romance, but working on a series has meant that’s gone on the back burner.

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

My friend Gwenn. We have a shared sense of humour that baffles just about everyone else, and some of my better ideas have come from visiting various places with her.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Very much so.

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

No, I’m very happy with the way it turned out.

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

I’ve always enjoyed writing stories. I think everybody has one thing they love and are good at, and in my case I’m lucky enough to do it full time.

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

Keeping everything fresh. I never want to feel that I’m churning out words for the sake of them.

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

It’s hard to pin it down to one author, but I particularly enjoy the books of Donna Tartt. I like the way she can write in the first person as a male character and be so convincing.

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

I tend to write about places I’ve already been to, rather than ones I have to visit. Thanks to the Internet, you can do a lot of research about a city without actually having to travel there.

 

 

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

The hardest part hasn’t come yet – that’s usually the editing stage, when you have to go through the book again and either make changes or fight to keep a line the way it is.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Just keep at it, and don’t be put off by rejection – it happens to all of us.

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

Thank you, and I hope you enjoy what I’ve written.

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I can’t remember the title, but I remember reading it out loud on the way back from the library and my mother being convinced I’d read it before. (I hadn’t). I wasn’t quite three at the time, and it’s probably my earliest memory.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Nothing has ever made me laugh as much as Bill Shipton, who edited Splosh! magazine and was a fund of endlessly hilarious anecdotes. The fact he’s not around to share them any more makes me cry.

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

Delia Smith, so we could discuss cooking and football.

Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone and why ?

A line from the comedy show Absolutely: ‘Dead, dead, dead as you like. Thank you very much and goodnight’. I couldn’t put it any better

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I support Rotherham United, so in the football season most of my Saturdays are spent watching them play. I also do a lot of baking – I’m experimenting with different types of bread at the moment.

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

I love The Soup, which is the E! clip show that highlights all the absurdities of reality TV and home shopping channels, I like the quiz show Pointless, particularly when I come up with pointless answers while I’m watching and I’m currently getting into Wayward Pines. Other than that, you’ll mostly find me watching sport of some kind.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Food – cheese. I eat so much of it, my brother reckons I must be part mouse.

Colours – blue and green

Music – big, pompous rock music, like Asia and Muse

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

Possibly something involving food. But the great thing about being a writer is that you get to experience so many different careers via your characters. I’ve been everything from a rock star to the wife of a billionaire to the person who sorts the post in a large corporation.

 

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

It’s called The (Really) Naughty Corner, and it’s at http://elizabethcoldwell.wordpress.com

Details of the City Nights series are at http://tirgearrpublishing.com/authors/City_Nights/index.htm

 

Here is my interview with Deb Peters

Name: My Pen name is Deb Peters, but I have also been known as my given name Deborah Peters

Age: 49 soon to be 50 6/16

Where are you from:

I grew up mostly in Ohio and have lived here on and off for most my life.

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

I’m an award winning author that has had 20 years in the medical field and am a veteran mother of two grown kids. I have degrees in both the medical field and writing fields.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Being interviewed by Women of Distinction Magazine’s fall edition

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

1996, when I had a composition class and my instructor asked me why writing wasn’t my career choice. I decided to do it as a hobby.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

In 2000 I started writing passionately and never looked back

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Not what really who. My son Troy was only 6 when he supported my writing

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Not really. I can write all dialog, poetry, non-fiction and fiction, for all ages

 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I cam up with each of my book title’s in different ways. Most of the time, they just come to me. Some time’s I use what’s called a writer’s diagram. Usually the title has to do with something that happens in the book.

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

I actually want the reader to enjoy reading. I enjoy the fact when it inspires them to make their lives happy.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

I have lived a very full and action packed life. I’m not going to lie and say that I haven’t used my experiences to help with writing even my fiction books.

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

More then likely yes. I also have a very vivid imagination.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most? a mentor?

People influenced my life more. Mysteries and crime have been a motivation for me to write something with intrigue and wonder; with twists and turns and right from the beginning.

My son was more a mentor for me as he grew up. I had some instructors that I would like to say made me keep writing. One especially claimed that he would have to watch out for me when it comes to writing Historical Fiction. I thought I had no chance because I got low grades in history.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m not. I’m a mentor to new authors, so am reading books by new authors at this time.

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

D. L.Barnes, Carol Boshears, June Betts

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I usually work on three at a time. However right now, I am working on more then that to come out by August.
SKUNK AGE=Children’s picture book
TOPSY TURVY=Children’s picture book
CROW’S SONG=continuing the BARREL RACING series (kids short story)
BRINGING UP BEN=continuing the BLINDING SNOW series (YA short story)
STUDENT BODY=YA thriller novel
DEEP CORTEX=Adult combination thriller series-continuing
UNDER THE SURFACE
PIED PIPER=Adult Christmas thriller series
I do have other I am working on, but wish not to disclose the titles to until I am closer to finishing them.

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

I have a support team of friends, to name just one would not be fair to the many who have had and are still supporting me through my writing life.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I am a disabled veteran. I have been published since 2004. I have won awards for my professionalism in the writing field. When I have treated writing as my life choice and have actually published, I would say yes. If I have inspired at least one person with my stories or non-fiction material, then yes.  Am I getting paid to write? No. Am I thinking of getting paid? It is a possibility that I might offer other authors the chance for me to be their coach/mentor. I might also decide to teach writing, because I have a degree in it, but at this time-it is just very rewarding to me when I see I have helped someone through my words on a page.

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

I would like to add The last two years to the non-fiction book AGAINST ALL ODDS and I would like to add 50 pages to the book THE DISEASE AND ME
I would like to add some pages to the book THE END

 

 

 

Fiona: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
I had an English teacher in high school that wrote me a poem and I always wondered what it would be like to write. When I was confronted with composition classes in 1996, I had to write-it brought back those feelings and that is when I came up with my first 250 ideas.

 

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

Talking about myself when it comes to non-fiction

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

I’m totally on the edge of my seat with either Mary Higgins Clark and Tess Gerritsen. I didn’t imagine I could write what I dub Medical Thriller’s until I read Tess’s work. Adult crime suspense with twists became intriguing for me to try thanks to Mary’s work.

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

I would like to do book tours, but I do not travel outside of Ohio for my books at this time.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

My books with Authorhouse: I designed the covers from pictures I had or got from the publishers choice of pictures.

My books Adult and Young Adult on LuLu: I used a cover choice of the publishers pictures or made my own. 100 DAYS STRESS FREE I paid for the picture. Sannel Larson has been working on some book cover designs for my YA books as well.

My Children’s picture books: THE BIG’S series I drew myself. HOW HENRY FROG BECAME KING and SKUNK AGE were illustrated by Sannel Larson.

 

 

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

When I come up with other book ideas while I’m working on the one’s I have started. Not having writer’s block is my main problem. I can’t shut it off.

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

I’m proud of myself when I go back and read the books and think “I wrote that, wow that is good.” See, I lacked confidence in anything I did as I grew up.  I have also been called “One Smart Cookie.” I would say that each time I write a different style or smash my goals I learn something. That I am doing what makes me happy and inspiring others to try. Not to let even yourself stand in your way of making your dreams come true.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Write each day, even if it is one sentence. Be persistent and patient with others in the writing field. Expect to put a lot of time and energy into this field, if you want to become an author. Start with small press publishers-possibly look it up in the Literary Market Guide on-line or in libraries. Know your market and know how to write query letters and any other letters that have great hooks for the agent or publisher your sending to. If you want instant money with writing, look into freelance or other writing assignments through maybe magazines.

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

I’m the GO TO GAL of genres for a reason. I wish to offer reading enjoyment to as many people as possible who like different genres.

I hope you enjoy your journey wherever it may lead you. And if it leads you to my books, if you don’t see a genre you like; e-mail me your choice and I will see what I can do. I do have some genres I will never delve into, but would hope to please an maybe inspire you to enjoy reading more.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I’m almost 50, so I don’t. I do remember a book that stands out the most.
DANA: THE YEAR BEFORE THE MAST. I hope to pick up a copy as memory of how well I liked it.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

On TV or in MOVIES: comedies make me laugh and sad romances make me cry.

Very few people have made me laugh. Might make me smile, but laugh-is hard.
These days I cry at the drop of a hat-hormones. Normally it is something sad.
A few friends make me laugh, and when I do, I laugh so hard.
I have heard laughter is the best medicine, so am trying to find more things to laugh about. When I have, it has made my day better.

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

PAST: FDR; I have held him most of all presidents in my memory

NOW:

Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone and why ?

Since I plan to be cremated and no obit done, this does not fit me in reality.

Name rank and Serial number-lol 🙂

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Cross-stitch/Embroidery/Sewing, Singing, Drawing, Research for my books, Reading, Movies, and board games when it is with someone.

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

I have not had TV since August of lat year, but when I did=I watched comedies or mysteries. CSI, NCSI, MASH, FRIENDS, BODY OF PROOF, LIE TO ME
Movies: romances, action packed, comedies, very small amount of scarey
REIGN OF FIRE, GONE IN 60 SECONDS, WEDDING DATE, PRINCESS DIARIES, ED, SALT

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Italian or Chinese: Lasagna or Orange Beef Stirfy
My all time favorite meal: Prime Rib with Baked potato and Steamed veggies with carrot cake

My favorite color use to be blue-I have no idea why it changed over the years. I love oranges and reds-bright colors. I’m now liking pink as long as it is a darker color like my hat.

I like all kinds of soft rock and some country, but over the years I have acquired a mood for Jazz and Rhythm and Blues. I tend to want to sing it as well as listen to it.

 

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

I was in the medical field for 20 plus years. In high school I wanted to be a singer and I did that for awhile, so wouldn’t mind doing that again. Maybe a saxophone player or illustrator. Be in a relationship for more 40 plus years. My grandparents were married 60 plus years almost 70 before one or the other passed away: I would like to have that longevity.  

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

Www.facebook.com/yourjourneyawaits

www.lulu.com/spotlight/deblynn

I have a blog I just started up

www.yourjourneyawaits.blogspot.com

I had two websites and no one ever went to them, so took them down

I am on TWITTER and LINKED-IN.

I also have some books at AUTHORHOUSE, AMAZON, BARNESANDNOBLE, and other on-line book sites.

Some of my books can be ordered in any Barnes and Noble book store all over the USA. And you can actually ask your local book store if they can order one of my books for you.

 

Here is my interview with Penelope Douglas

 

Name: Penelope Douglas

Age: Forever Young

Where are you from: Dubuque, Iowa, USA

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

I grew up in the Midwest, the oldest of five children. I have two younger sisters, Lisa and Kiley, as well as two younger brothers, Doug and Scot. My childhood was pretty tumultuous, but I think it gave me a very good idea of what I didn’t want for myself or my own child.

At 21, I finally decided to go to college. I studied Public Administration (Political Science, basically) at the University of Northern Iowa and then realized I wanted to teach. I attended Loyola University after that and earned my Master’s degree in Education. I got a teaching job in Las Vegas, dragged my fiancé with me, and nearly nine years later we’re still here, only now married with a daughter.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Well, my latest WIP is done. Misconduct will release December 1^st. I am now working on a dark romance, Corrupt.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I was bored, basically. Teaching was rewarding, and I loved the kids, but I wasn’t getting ahead. I felt like I was stuck and had stopped moving forward. I had started reading to escape the day to day monotony and discovered New Adult. I loved it! I like young love stories, and after reading tons of books, I started dreaming up my own stories. I didn’t set out to write Bully. The idea just came to me, and after months of dreaming about Jared and Tate, I finally sat down to write it.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When Bully took off. Getting the validation from readers and bloggers made me feel like I had something good to offer in the book world.

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I don’t know. I think that’s more of a question for readers. I like to write first person, past tense. I also work very hard on character development and voice. I don’t stand on the outside and describe what the character’s feeling or doing. I’m in their head, telling you what I AM feeling and doing in that moment.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I thought it would catch readers’ attention. I almost called Bully, Fall Away Lane, but with the amount of books out there, I needed a cover and title that would get people to stop and click on it.

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

Oh, yes. In every book. The basic message of the entire Fall Away series is that we all have a story, even your worst enemies, and that life goes on despite mistakes and setbacks.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

I channeled real experiences or feelings and dreamed up situations to go with that. Did any specific scene actually happen to me in real life? No. But it may have happened to a lesser extent or in a different way. The emotions and thoughts were real.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most? a mentor?

Johanna Lindsey was my first experience into romance, but other than that, I look up to Colleen Hoover, Tijan, and Abbi Glines. Each of them has nurtured a love of romance.
Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Toxic by Kim Karr

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

Stylo Fantome. She takes chances and blows my mind. Love her stuff!

Fiona: What are your current projects?

Editing Misconduct and writing Corrupt.

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

My agent, Jane Dystel. She makes me feel important, even though she represents authors much bigger than me.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes. The story ideas keep coming!

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

I would change something in every book. I don’t think anything I write is perfect, and I can’t imagine any author does. We’re our biggest critics.

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

I always liked words, writing poems and such when I was young. And I’m not a good public speaker, so writing is easier.

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

It’s still being edited, so I’d rather not just yet.

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

Doubt. I’m constantly wondering if I this or that should be different. Did I make the right choices? What are people going to say?
Fiona: Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

I don’t have a favorite. My interests change a lot.

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

I don’t have to, but I do for signings. It’s fun to meet readers and see new places.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Kari and Cover to Cover Designs designed the original Bully and Until You with the red and blue letterings. Now, my publisher does it.

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

Writing it. LOL…Dreaming is fun. Going on Pinterest to visualize is addicting. But sitting down to write, knowing you have to dig deep and channel those feelings, it’s not easy. It’s far from easy.

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

I learned a lot. Most of all, your editor is your best friend. They are a good judge of how the public will see your work, so trust them and, for the most part, do what they say.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Everyone digests books differently. What one person hated, a hundred others will love. You will NEVER make everyone happy. Don’t take it too much to heart.

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

Thank you for reading and supporting me. Without you, I’d be sunk.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

No, but the first chapter book I read was a Sweet Valley High book, I think.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Ricky Gervais and George Carlin make me laugh. The movie Rudy makes me cry. Every damn time.

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

No, I’m shy.

Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone and why?

Since I’d prefer to be cremated, I guess not much, but I would love for someone to say “Because of her, my life is better.” at my funeral.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

I love hiking. Walking with my iPod is the great escape.

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

I love sports movies, like Rudy, Hoosiers, and Miracle. I also watch The Vikings, The 100, Game of Thrones, House of Cards, and Orange is the New Black.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Food is pizza, color is tangerine, music is rock. All day, every day!

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

I would still be teaching, or I’d like to be in politics.

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

Yes, www.penelopedouglasauthor.com

Amazon Page http://www.amazon.com/Penelope-Douglas/e/B00DH04U8I/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

Barnes and Noble Page http://www.barnesandnoble.com/c/penelope-douglas

Here is my interview with Katherine Dell

 

Name: Katherine Dell

Age: 36

Where are you from:

I was born and raised in Lethbridge, Alberta. I spend the first 21 years of my life there, before moving to Bragg Creek.

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

I received certifications in my early twenties for both English and western riding/coaching in Edmonton, Ab. My dream was to become horse trainer and professional riding coach, and for a while, I was. After too many riding accidents, that I’m sure will plague me in my later years, I moved to the big city Calgary, Ab. I spent a few years working my way up the ladder until I settled at a media company as an executive assistant.  A few years of that, I got married, had two beautiful boys, and discovered my love obsession for reading and writing.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I’m half way done editing my first YA novel! Fingers crossed I’ll have everything completed for a release date this fall.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I started writing this current book (Harmless) about 3 years ago. At times it was frustrating, having taken so long to complete it. But, now that I’m in the editing stages, I’m glad it did. My writing is that much richer for it.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When my friends started calling me one. Now I tell people that’s what I do.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I don’t know if there was any one specific thing that inspired me. I remember after having kids, the number of books I’d read went up dramatically. And I started to think… I can do this. I wanted to write my own stories. So, I read about how to write well, and took some courses.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

An Australia friend of mine once told me that my writing style sounds colloquial. I think my Canadian accent comes through in my writing… Eh!

But really… Most of what I read is YA fiction and it’s what I write as well. Despite being much closer to 40 than 30, I’m young at heart and thrive on all the ‘big feelings’ that come along with YA fiction.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I wanted a short title that would attract the attention of a YA fiction reader. The book title, Harmless, is a word taken from a line spoken by the main character, early on in the book.

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

Things aren’t always as they seem. Or maybe… the solution to your problems might be right in front of you.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Even though the book is fiction I spent a great deal of time researching the details. The town where the story is set is real. It’s in northern BC. I traveled there last summer, even hired a guide to show my graphic artist and I around the area. It was like my book came to life. It was an awesome trip.

Other details in the story, like the spirit bears (also know as Kermode bears) are real to. In fact the highest population of these bears can be found in the area where my story is set.

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

Nope. My book is a total work of fiction. Each character and their experience took me years to craft.

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most? a mentor?

I have a long list of authors I really like, each one contributing to my writing style. Here’s a few off the top of my head… John Green, Veronica Roth, Tahereh Mafi, Markus Zusak, Cassandra Clair…

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m reading Mosquitoland by David Arnold. So far… 5 stars!

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

Yes… Heather Demetrios. I’ve read her book I’ll Meet You There. It was awesome. I’ll definitely be reading more of her work.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

Finish the editing my YA novel, Harmless! I’m also working on graphic novel prequels to my novel. I feel in love with some of my minor characters… their story needs to be told.

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

There have been so many… Who’s gone above and beyond? My graphic artist Bri. She’s read my first draft in its entirety, twice. She’s traveled with me on airplanes to see the place where the story is set. She’s worked with me tirelessly to perfect my book cover and graphic novel images. I’m reeeaally picky.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I hope so. As I said, I’m working on prequels to Harmless, and I plan to write a sequel as well. I write because I love it but… it would be nice to make some money at it too.

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

Not that I can think of.

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

My oldest son, who at the time was around 18 months old, decided to ‘help’ me clean one day. He grabbed a spay bottle of water and soaked are only TV. Not having money at the time to replace it, we went quite a while without one. Which is when I started to devour a book or two a week. I also started thinking… I want to write stories like these!

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

I haven’t perfected my elevator pitch but, here goes…

My novel is about a seventeen-year-old girl, Rachel Barnes, in her last semester of high school. She’s trying to come to terms with her brother’s death, her parent’s divorce, and moving away from Vancouver, the only city she’s ever lived. Leaving the big city also means, no more regular visits to Rachel’s trusted therapist, the ‘Weather Lady’, who has been her rock in troubled times. This is a big blow for her, prompting her to look for other ways of dealing with her problems.

One night… through pure serendipitous chance, Rachel and her friends unwittingly release a spirit so old, the world has all but forgotten it existed. All this – from making wishes on spirit animal carvings no one thought were any more than just decretive trinkets. Wishes made… They were Harmless – right? But, everything comes with price.

The ancient spirit released that night, has taken up residence in… an unexpected friend. Rachel spend the rest of the story trying to ‘cure’ her new friend of this spirit, while dealing with her own problems of so much loss and hurt in her life.

There’s a twist at the end… I won’t spoil it for you. You’ll just have to read the book.

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

Writing in general is challenging. I find it difficult to keep to a consistent writing schedule. Usually, it’s life that gets in the way. Other times, I have loads of time to write, and can’t squeeze out a word.

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

I don’t have a true favorite, as there are so many good ones out there. One author does come to mind when you ask what strikes me about their work. Teherah Mafi. She wrote the Shatter Me Series. In the first book her main character is a shy girl, so unsure of herself, is constantly taking back the things she thinks. The author portrays this weakness by striking though sentences in the book. As a reader, you can still read what the character thought, but know that she changed her mind.

In the second book the occurrences of these strike through sentences decrease. In the third book they’ve pretty much disappeared. You can see how the character has changed and grown in to be a more sure and confident person. I really liked the strike-through sentence technique that Mafi used in theses books.

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

I hope to have my book out this fall and plan on doing some  out of town book signings. If the book is a real hit, I’d love to travel in regards to furthering my writing career.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Brianna Schretlen designed my cover. She is a graphic designer I worked with years ago. She is also doing all the artwork for my graphic novel prequels to Harmless. I would recommend her to anyone wanting a professional cover.

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

Finding the time to write! I have two young boys and a busy family life. BUT… I make time.

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

Writing a book, and successfully publishing a book, are two different things. I could write many blogs on the subject. (Which I have)

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Don’t be afraid to be bad at something, you’re not good at yet.

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

I love to hear your comments on my writings, especially the positive ones. Those one fuel me for days!

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Can I Get There by Candlelight. I’m not sure how old I was.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Sad movies make me cry. Laugh… I’m a very sarcastic person.  I find people with quick sarcastic whit very funny.

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

Rick Mercer. He’s just awesome.

Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone and why ?

Hmmm… See you on the other side… Because I believe theirs more than just this life to be lived.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

I love to garden. My yard looks like a perfectly manicured golf course. I also like to camp, but not in a tent! I require hard walls, running water and lights.

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

Favorite TV shows: Vikings, The Walking Dead, Orange is the New Black, Hell on Wheels, and Reign.

Favorite Movies: (There are so many) V for Vendetta, Lady in the Water, Mad Max (the new one), Guardians of the galaxy, and Dracula Untold (Mmmm Luke Evans).

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Favorite food: Cheese. Pretty much any cheese, except blue cheese.

Favorite color: Blue and grey

Favorite Song: (right now) I won’t give up – By Jason Mraz

 

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

So many things in this world interest me! Sometimes I think I may have missed my calling to be a psychologist.

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

Yep, it’s www.katherinedell.com. I post blogs twice a week. On Mondays, I have guest bloggers or I re-post fellow indie/small pub authors. On Fridays, I write a blog. It’s either a book review or my own musing about being an indie author. I’m also planning another blog on Wednesdays where I’ll interview authors… just like this.

The rest of my website has a bit about me, and the works that I’ve done or am working on.

I like to thank  Brianna Schretlen for doing my book cover . This is her Twitter handle https://twitter.com/Curly_Bri.