Here is my interview with Charlotte Byrd

Name  Charlotte Byrd

Age    31

Where are you from    I’m originally from Pennsylvania. But I moved to Los Angeles to attend University of Southern California and have been here ever since. I lived in LA for close to 12 years, and I now live in a small desert town near Joshua Tree National Park. My husband and I came to visit the area and fell in love with the beautiful star-studded night sky and the gorgeous nature. We especially love sitting on our porch at sunset and listening to the howling of coyotes.

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

 I met my husband, Kevin, at University of Southern California and we have been together for 11 years. We also have a crazy and rumbustious dog, Charlie.

I have way too many graduate degrees: MA equivalency in Applied Math, MA in English and Writing and a PhD in Education. But writing fiction has always been my passion and I am thankful that I can now do it full-time.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

The first book in my 3-book new adult, contemporary romance series just came out August 31. It’s called Desire: Big Bear Outlaw MC Romance Book 1. Crave (Book 2) and Lust (Book 3) are coming out over the next two weeks. They are all short reads (less than an hour).
Here’s the blurb.

 

He shouldn’t have been an outlaw, I shouldn’t have fallen for him…

 

EMMA

Jack Hart was all wrong for me. He was in the Big Bear Outlaw Motorcycle Club. I was studying pre-med. He was a criminal, and I’ve never even jaywalked.

 

After my mom had left, the last thing I wanted was a relationship.But then I started falling for Jack. Why did he have to have a girlfriend? Why did I have to go out with his brother?

 

JACK

My family ran the MC, but there was so much more to me than the MC. I was a writer and I didn’t belong. The only person who saw this was Emma.

 

Why did I have to have a girlfriend? Why did she have to go out with my brother?

 

Heat Level: Sensual and Hot!

 

Desire, Crave and Lust are three installments of the Big Bear Outlaw MC Romance series. They are all short reads (under an hour). All three installments will come out a week apart. You won’t have to wait long to read the rest of the story!

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

 I have been writing since I was little, and I have known that I wanted to be a writer since I was in high school. But I was always afraid that I would not be able to make a living as a writer. So in college I got sidetracked and decided to major in Mathematics. I then got my Master’s degree in Math and taught in a community college. Throughout that process and throughout my PhD, I continued to write fiction. Many short stories, essays and poetry. I’ve had some success with publication. But then I started to focus on writing romance and things have really taken off. I found an audience and an excited fan base and I couldn’t be happier.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

A few years ago when I finally got the courage to start referring to myself as a writer. Now, all I do is write.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

 I was inspired to write the first book in this series by the show Sons of Anarchy. I binge-watched the show on Netflix and I started the story as a fan-fiction. It quickly evolved into an original series.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? 

I love writing in first-person and I love to write in a stream of consciousness style. I make some notes and an overall outline, but then I let the words just flow. I used to obsess about each individual sentence and paragraph, but I find this way to be much more organic.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

 I wanted to include MC Romance in the title to demarcate the story as such. I named the motorcycle club Big Bear because it’s set in Southern California and Big Bear is a popular resort area around here.

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

 It’s a fun romance read with a lot sensuality and a Happily Ever After ending. The characters in the story, especially Jack, feels boxed in by his MC family and is struggling to follow his dream of getting out of the lifestyle. The message that I want the readers to grasp is that it’s important to follow your dreams.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

 The book is fiction. All the characters are invented, but their problems and struggles are realistic in that many people around the world are going through similar issues. They are trying to find love, and trying to live out their dreams.

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

 No, not at all. It’s all fiction.

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

 This past summer, I attended the Writers’ League of Texas conference in Austin where I had the privilege of attending Deanna Roy’s workshops. She is a USA Times bestselling author and she’s an indie author. She was the one who has really introduced  me to the world of indie romance and has been a huge inspiration.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

 I am focusing on writing romance and my reading list is basically made up of romance books right now. I’m currently reading all the books by my mentor and inspiration, Deanna Roy including her Forever Loved series and her Annie Winters and J.J. Knight books. I’m also reading the The Hotel series by Lola Darling and the Forever Black series by Sandi Lynn.

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

Deanna Roy, Whitney Garcia, Lola Darling and Sandi Lynn

Fiona: What are your current projects? 

I am currently working on a my next series called Wild World: Rise of the Billionaire. The first book, Wild World Book 1, will be released as part of a multi-author box set called What to Read after Fifty Shades of Grey: Brazen Billionaires. It will be released October 13.

Here’s the blurb:

A love story between an Alpha CEO, soon-to-be billionaire, and a good girl.

Sex, Power, Money, and Yosemite.

Just when Annabelle thinks things can’t get any worse, they do. When her mother dies and she can’t find a job, she goes on a week-long camping trip to Yosemite to escape her crappy life. Deep in the woods, she meets a hot stranger and has a one-night stand.

Back at home, Annabelle’s life is filled with sending out resumes and waiting for a response. Her bills are piling up. It’s only a matter of months until her roommate gets sick of her not pulling her weight and kicks her out on the street.

Then one day, she gets a call from Wild International asking her to come in for an interview. Annabelle didn’t apply there, but is desperate for a job and can’t afford to pass up the opportunity.

Her job is simple: she’s a personal assistant for the CEO. But then Annabelle discovers the true identity of her new boss. He’s Gatsby Wild, a sexy, arrogant soon-to-be billionaire who has way many secrets. And he’s also her one and only one-night stand.

Genre: New Adult Romance

Heat Rating: Hot and Sensual!

This story unfolds over multiple volumes of about 125 pages each.

 

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

 I found a lot of support on the Writer’s Cafe of kboards.com and, of course, on facebook. Romance authors are very supportive!

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes, now that I’m focusing on romance, I definitely see writing as a career. I am no longer working as an academic editor and am focusing on this full-time.

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

Yes, I actually just changed the cover image again. This is my first book and I’m still learning about the various approaches to promotion. I changed the cover image multiple times, adding things like quotes from reviews and proper formatting and sizing.

This first series is not particularly long mainly because it’s my tester series. I wanted to use it as a trainee book on which to test all of my promotions. If it receives a good reception, then I’m definitely open to writing additional books about Emma and Jack’s relationship.

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

I’ve always  been interested in telling stories. I loved reading as kid and read all kinds of books. I always made up alternative endings and often continued the stories long after they ended. I think all of that are indications that I have been a writer for a long time, even before I started to actually call myself a writer.

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

I often find it challenging to think of twists and turns. Plot is quite difficult for me. I almost want to stay in each scene forever and describe every detail. But I am slowly learning to develop plot points and ways to keep the story moving further.

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

No, but I love to travel!! I will take any opportunity to go visit a new city and I’m planning on attending many more conferences in the near future. One that I have lined up already is Hot Mojave Nights in Las Vegas in the beginning of Oct (2015).

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I design my own covers. I was planning on hiring a designer, but I wasn’t sure what I really wanted so I decided to just play around with the software myself. I learned a bit of Photoshop and I’m getting a bit better. I do, however, use Fiverr to turn my covers in 3D images.

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

The hardest part would have to be the plot. I come up with initial conflict quite easily, but then I have a hard time developing all the intricacies of the secrets and lies that the characters keep from one another. Luckily, my husband and Facebook friends help with that!

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

I learned a lot. Mainly, I learned (and am still learning) how to write fast. Speed is very important to a successful romance writing career and I’m still learning. Rachel Aaron describes a lot of useful techniques in her book, 2k to 10k: Writing Faster, Writing Better and Writing More of What You Love. She lays out exactly how to plot your book and use a timer to write in small increments. I follow her method religiously. I know what time of day I’m most efficient (afternoons) and I keep track of how many words by timing myself (usually, I write in 20 or 30 minute increments). I also make notes before each writing session so that I know what I want to cover during that session.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

My advice is to really lay out your goals and work in that direction. Also, attend conferences. I did not read much Romance until earlier this summer and after I attended that conference in Texas, my eyes were really opened to this whole other world in which writers actually had fans and actually made money off writing fiction. I found that really inspiring and after reading a lot of indie romance, I discovered that the writing is actually very good and professional.

My advice would be to really attend conferences and connect with people in the real-world, not just in the online world. I’ve read about self-publishing success stories before I went to the conference, but frankly I didn’t think it actually applied to me until I met all of these writers in real life. Plus, conferences are very educational and inspirational. They are definitely worth the money.

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

Please contact me. I love hearing from my readers. You can find me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Goodreads or just write me direct: charlotte@charlottebyrdauthor.com.

I love connecting with readers and I want to hear what you think. If you like a particular series, please let me know and I will most likely continue writing it!

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

 The first book I remember enjoying is The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. I loved his personality and I loved his relationship with Becky Thatcher. It was such a fun and exciting book. I remember it blew me away when I first read it when I was about 5 or 6 years old.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

 Any videos or pictures about animals. The funny ones make me laugh and the sad ones make me cry. I’m a huge animal lover and a vegetarian and my love for animals creeps into my writing. (For all of his faults, Gatsby Wild from the Wild World series is a vegetarian and an animal lover, as well). I love sharing funny videos of cats and other animals doing crazy things on Facebook!

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

It would have to be Mark Twain. He has been such an inspiration. I’ve loved his work since I was a kid.

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

 “Gone Camping..”

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I love camping and spending time in nature. I also love adrenaline sports like sky diving, white water rafting, and zip lining. I love visiting National Parks and traveling. Last summer, I spent 2 months living in Belize – one of the best experiences of my life.

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

I love a lot of romantic films like The Notebook as well as Quentin Tarantino films. Some of my favorite TV shows right now are The Mindy Project and Empire. True Blood is another favorite.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

 I love sushi and all types of Asian food especially Thai and Indian. I love colors purple and yellow (even though, I’m not much of a Lakers fan, to the dismay of my husband).

I like all types of music, but I especially like folk music and Southern Gothic. I love the Southern Gothic and Essential Folk playlists on Spotify. I also a big fan of Taylor Swift, Milky Chance, and Meghan Trainor.

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

I would probably still be an academic editor. This was what I did before I started writing romance. If I couldn’t do that then I would be an English instructor/ professor. I just have to be around fiction and novels.

 

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

My website is www.charlottebyrdauthor.net

Sign up for my  mailing list and get an EXCLUSIVE SNEAK PEAK to my new series and updates of all upcoming books!

http://eepurl.com/btLdbT

 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/charlottebyrdauthor

Twitter: www.twitter.com/byrdauthor

Instagram: www.instagram.com/charlottebyrdauthor

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14181696.Charlotte_Byrd

Amazon Authord page http://www.amazon.com/Charlotte-Byrd/e/B013MN45Q6/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

 

Link to the book: http://amzn.to/1N5GUmw

 

Here is my interview with Kimberly Readnour

Name  Kimberly Readnour

Age 45

Where are you from Illinois

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

I consider myself lucky. I’ve been married for twenty-two years to my high school sweetheart. We have two wonderful children, a daughter and son. I worked as a Registered Nurse for fifteen years, and then quit to pursue different avenues.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

My third and final installment, Vanished, is available now for pre-order. The release date is September 24^th. I will be participating in a Facebook author book launch with two other talented authors on September 22^nd from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. CST.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

 When my daughter was a teenager, I would read the books she brought home. I have always enjoyed reading young adult books and shared the same interest as my daughter. One particular book, she never finished because she did not like the content. Curious, I started reading it and was shocked at the content myself. I remember telling my daughter that I would write her better stories. I had no idea I would develop this passion for writing.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Hmm… I still have a hard time considering myself a writer. I love creating stories and want to share them. Perhaps hitting the publish button a few more times, it will slowly sink in.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

My daughter. The first couple of novellas I wrote for her were pretty cheesy, so when I tried coming up with a storyline neither one of us had read, I really put some thought into it. Then I went to bed one night and told myself to relax, it will come to you. The next day the story line for Visions was in my mind. What started as a single story quickly developed into a trilogy.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I like reading books in first person. I can tolerate third person, but I just don’t enjoy the story as much. In first person, you can get inside the character’s mind, which I love. That is the main reason why I write in first person while trying to maintain a deep point of view.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The titles were extremely easy for me. The first book in the trilogy, Visions, was simply because the protagonist, Heather, is clairvoyant. The second book, Deceptions, Heather has to make hard choices which leads to her deceptive behavior. The third book, Vanished, Heather’s ability is called upon again to help find a missing girl. But not just any missing girl, this girl is connected to Heather.

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

Acceptance in yourself. In order to reach any goals, you have to accept yourself.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

It depends on what you believe. If you believe in clairvoyant people, then almost all the book could be realistic. If you believe in ghost and spirits, then all the book could be realistic. lol

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

Although these stories are totally fictional, there are little hints laced throughout the manuscript for my daughter. Nobody will be able to understand or pick them out except us.

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

In truth? The Bible. Then cookbooks.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

 I am beta-reading a book, then I am going to start Dark Shadows by T.D. Shields.

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

 Yes! Patrick Hodges novel Joshua’s Island. The book’s theme is about bullying. I believe it is a must read for any teenager/ middle grade student, or a parent. The message is very good. But have a box of Kleenexes.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I starting a book titled Imperfect Love. I was inspired by a vacation our family took almost two years ago. I had to complete the trilogy first before I allowed myself to write it. It’s quite different than my current works, as it will fall in the new adult genre.

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

My high school friend Staci. When my daughter kept telling me to publish my works, I had Staci read over the manuscript. Her encouraging words propelled me forward. I’m not sure had it not been for my daughter’s four year persistence or Staci’s words, I would have published.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I would love to be able to say writing is my career. There are so many stories brewing in my mind, I simply do not have the time to write them all.

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

 I would not change the content, but sometimes I wished I had waited to publish until I had the series completed. But then again, I have learned so much and it may have been because of the publishing. I’m not a dweller in the past kind of person. I don’t want to live in regret, so I just push forward and do what I can.

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

I have always wanted to write. Whenever I would finish a book, that desire to write my own story always lingered. I just never took the time to do it. Now, I cannot imagine not writing.

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

 The prologue for Vanished:

Secrets have plagued my entire life. Only recently, I no longer had to hide my clairvoyant abilities, but one concealed truth still remained. One secret buried deep inside, never to be shared—until now.

My fingers clenched against my chest while I squeezed my eyes shut. What did I just hear? I tried slowing my erratic breathing to maintain some type of calmness, but the blood pulsating through my veins succeeded in raising, not lowering, my anxiety. Was it a dream? I shook my head. I didn’t think so, it seemed too real.

Dominated by fear, I was too afraid to open my eyes. I feared whoever voiced those words would be standing in front of me. What if she was? I winced. This could not be happening again.

A few moments passed and I remained completely still, anticipating what would come. The eerie quietness that surrounded me amplified the light hum of the aquarium air pump. I welcomed the sound and visualized the curtain of air bubbles rising to the top. The endless imagination of bursting air helped soothe my nerves as my breathing evened.

I slowly opened my eyes and let out a huff of air. The scant amount of moonlight filtered through the top arched window, highlighting the lead singer’s eyes from the pop band poster hung on the wall. He stared at me with his smoldering dark eyes; a reminder this wasn’t my bedroom.

But I’m safe. It was a dream.

My gaze scanned the entire space until it landed back on poster-boy. “Yeah, yeah, yeah,” I said to the hunky singer. “I know, I’m going crazy.”

My shoulders dropped and my arms relaxed as I smoothed out the blanket lying across me. I lay back and closed my eyes in a worthless attempt to sleep.

“Heather,” the same raspy voice whispered against my ear.

My eyes opened to the urgency of my name being called. The shakiness in the tone sounded desperate—a cry for help. That was no dream.

I quickly rose and scooted out of bed, but nobody was there. The room was still dark, and poster-boy still stared. I hurried toward the window and scanned the outside area, only to be faced with more frustration. Heavy fog made visibility impossible.

“Who are you?” I whispered.

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

 Just time. I have to work full-time so my evenings are pretty much spent writing. I love to write early morning, but only have about thirty minutes before work.

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

 Colleen Hoover is my favorite. I just find her stories interesting and I like her style of writing.

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

I did travel. My stories are placed in a different state than where I live, but I sort-of cheated. I have family there and visited them during that research.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

 Right now, I just have pre-made covers. I am actually having my covers redesigned by Sherry Soule.

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

I do not want to give away spoilers, but in Vanished I had a friend pass away while I was writing the ending. I thought of her the entire time and almost scrapped what I had planned, but I plowed through it, crying the entire time.

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

 I learned that I LOVE to write. After doing numerous hobbies, I finally found the one thing I absolutely love to do. It’s hard to explain, but I love sitting in front of my computer and getting lost in a story. It’s peaceful.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

I suppose it would depend on their question. Ha. There are several books that help improve the craft, but there is one book in particular I recommend to everyone. Take Your Pants Off by Libby Hawker. This is a great book on outlining and her technique makes it so simple. By reading that book, I was able to keep my schedule for Vanished! I actually finished earlier than expected.

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

A huge Thank You for reading my work! I love to hear from people, which is why my email and Facebook links are found in the back of my books.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

 No, I am too old. Ha ha. I remember liking Little Bear when I was younger. But during my teens years (and this will date me) I loved the Sweet Valley High books.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

 Everything! If something is sentimental or sweet, like someone doing a good deed for someone else, I will tear up. And of course if anything is sad, you better have a box of tissues handy. My cousin officially dubbed me the crier of the family. (In my defense, their wedding was really beautiful. The love between them really showed on their faces.)

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

I would love to meet John Cusack. He is actually who I pictured as the detective in my trilogy. My crush began when I watched Sixteen Candles. His role was not major, but he was so cute. Plus he is a Cub fan!

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

 A loving mother and wife.  Because family means the most to me over everything else besides God.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I love to bake. I have always wanted to own a bakery/café. I also like to sew, scrapbook, knit, cook… goodness I have many interest.

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

I do not watch television too much anymore, but I do enjoy the Walking Dead, Gotham, and Suits. My all time favorite show is Friends. There has never been another show quite like it. As movies go, I like chick flick’s. Ha ha. Sixteen Candles and Ever After are my top favs. But I also love Harlem Nights and Coming to America.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music I

love sweets! Bring me coffee and chocolate and I would be your friend forever. I love Italian food the best. I like to eat, which fuels my desire to cook.  My favorite colors are pink and purple. Sometimes I am such a girl. Music… I love a variety of music. Some hip-hop to rock. My favorite band is a tossup between Bon Jovi and Matchbox Twenty. They both sound awesome live. Sigh

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

Sing. But I cannot hold a tune, unfortunately.

 

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

 

Buying links

http://www.amazon.com/Visions-Mystical-Encounter-Book-1-ebook/dp/B00PY6UEMY/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1441037795&sr=1-3

 

 

http://www.amazon.com/Deceptions-Mystical-Encounter-Book-2-ebook/dp/B00U01IARO/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1441037795&sr=1-2

 

 

http://www.amazon.com/Vanished-Mystical-Encounter-Book-3-ebook/dp/B010F3QIK2/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1441037795&sr=1-1

 

 

Here is my interview with Rory Mackay

Name Rory Mackay

Age 36

Where are you from I was born in Glasgow, Scotland and have lived in the North East for most of my life.

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

 I have qualifications in Fine Art and a degree in Social Science, which makes for an interesting combination. I think my artistic, creative side mixed with a background in psychology, sociology and other disciplines has lent my work a unique angle. I tend to be a bit of a hermit sometimes, although I can be outgoing at times. As well as having to deal with some health challenges the past decade or so, I have devoted myself to my study of Eastern philosophy and spirituality, as well as creating a series of books that I have been working on since my school days.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

My second novel is just about to be published! Although my first novel, Eladria, was published in 2013, this new book, The Key of Alanar is one I have been working on for around two decades now! I first started working on the basis of this project when I was still in school. It’s grown and evolved continually over the years. So to finally be able to share it with the world is really exciting. It is released on 14th September 2015.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I’ve always been creative, even from a young age. As a kid I used to write, draw and compile my own comic books. As I grew up, I turned my attention to fiction and began work on a series of books called The Alanar Ascendant. It’s taken many years of work and several false starts, but I’m finally getting my work out there. I’ve always loved fantasy and science fiction. The ability to create whole new worlds is, simply, the coolest thing imaginable. To be able to share what I’ve created with other people, through stories (and in time also art and music, as well), is immense fun. To be a writer is to be almost godlike in a way! In my first two novels I’ve created and destroyed entire worlds and opened up the entire universe in a pretty fun and mind-boggling way. I also love the ability of fiction to convey ideas—to explore life, the human condition and the very nature of reality. The best stories are metaphors; metaphors for helping us make sense of life, deal with the challenges we face along our way, and to help us become all that we can be. I see stories as very powerful. I love what Ursula Le Guin had to say on this: “The story is one of the basic tools invented by the human mind for the purpose of understanding. There have been great societies that did not use the wheel, but there have been no societies that did not tell stories.”

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Probably when I started to make headway with my first novel; as in actually committing to writing every day. Prior to that I spent several years just playing around with ideas and trying to work things out (which was also time well spent though). A writer is someone who writes. It’s that simple, really.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I can’t pinpoint anything in particular. I think it’s just in my nature to be creative. It’s as natural to me as breathing. I spent a lot of time playing by myself as a kid, creating what were essentially movies in my head, all kinds of different worlds and adventures. And I always had a great compulsion to share these worlds with others.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I think my style is quite fluid and easy to read, yet I try to add a little literary depth to my work. I try to get right to the heart of characters and to really find out what makes them tick. I incorporate themes and love to use stories to explore ideas and issues; to provoke, explore, challenge and inspire. I’ve been told my writing is wonderfully descriptive, which is good to hear as it can be a challenge to build up scenes and create immersive worlds without going overboard on the description and losing the reader’s patience. So I think I’ve found a happy medium!

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Quite simply, the Key of Alanar is an object that is the central focus of the novel, so it was an easy choice of title.

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

Generally I want the reader to figure that for themselves. Some people are open to the more philosophical aspects of my books, and others are simply there for a page-turning adventure. My books work on both levels, I think. If there is a message, in simple terms, it would be this: you are much more than you take yourself to be. Life is difficult and at times we can go through all kinds of painful experiences, but there’s a part of us which transcends all that; the source of our strength, untouched and untouchable. Most people have a very limited ego identity; an identity that constricts and causes immense suffering. But we really are so much more than the sum of our parts. We are beautiful—and life is beautiful.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Because I’m writing about whole different worlds and some fantastical events ‘realism’ becomes a debatable point! But I do endeavour to create immersive, logical and internally consistent worlds. The realism for me is in creating what are hopefully vivid, three dimensional characters and going for an authentic emotional resonance. My books are very much human stories, about dealing with issues we all must face in life; overcoming loss and adversity and finding that which is highest and best within us.

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

Not in terms of plot. I don’t have any direct experience with ancient civilisations or alien invasions, thankfully! But the characters’ journeys, particularly the protagonist David, are based on my own experiences in terms of things I’ve had to deal with in life and adversities I’ve had to overcome. All stories are essentially human stories and the human condition is something that is universal and timeless. That’s why stories work and why we can relate to characters even if their circumstances and challenges are greatly different to our own. The human experience is a shared experience.

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

Too many to mention really, but I’ve always especially loved writers who make me think, whose work generally stays with me long afterward—and also authors whose imagination really engages and inspires me. The work of JRR Tolkien and CS Lewis influenced me when I was younger and later, writers such as Herman Hesse, Aldous Huxley and Paulo Coelho.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I actually find it very difficult to read fiction while I am writing fiction. I like to stay immersed in my own worlds, I guess. I do read nonfiction though when I have the time. At the moment I am reading a massive multi-volume commentary on the ancient Indian text The Bhagavad Gita by Swami Dayananda.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I am about to set to work on my next novel, the follow-up to The Key of Alanar. The second and third books in the trilogy are planned and ready to begin.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Definitely, and it’s one of the coolest careers there is.

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

No, I don’t think so. I spent years changing, adjusting and tinkering with things and now I’m happy and content that it is finally complete.

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

As a child, I just loved the ability of books and other mediums such as film and TV, to transport you to other worlds, to experience adventure, excitement and magic. I had a very deep desire to be able to create and share my own worlds like that.

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

The Key of Alanar is an epic book spanning ten thousand years, beginning with the catastrophic collapse of an ancient civilization, amid which the angelic overseers of the mortal realm offer a promise of hope for the future. This hope rests with a teenage boy born millennia later with the power to either save or destroy his world. He must embark on a journey that will determine the future of an entire realm—and evade capture by the brutal enemy that destroyed his home and killed his loved ones. It’s a difficult path, for aside from the external perils that lie ahead, David must struggle with his inner demons and deal with an extremely dangerous, powerful enemy that may have already invaded his psyche. In many ways this book is a battle between good and evil; a battle that to a great extent takes place in the lead character’s mind. Will David follow through and embrace the path of his destiny, or will he give into his grief, despair and fear and be overcome by the darkness? It’s a battle I think each of us must face at some point in our lives.

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

The hardest part about writing these days is not the writing itself. That’s just done one word at a time. The hard part is finding a way to make your work stand out from the thousands of other books that are being published each and every day. It’s an extremely crowded market and some statistics reveal that general readership is falling. More books and less people reading—that’s really the greatest challenge facing any writer!

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

I have many authors I love, for wildly different reasons. What strikes me is imagination, a genuine emotional resonance and a book that really adds something worthwhile to the world. I love authors who write from their heart.

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

Not really. In the 21st century you can write, publish and promote a book all from the comfort of your own home!

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

My first book cover was designed by the publisher’s in house designer, and my second by a company named Damoza. I especially love the cover for The Key of Alanar; it’s beautiful, intriguing and really suits the book perfectly.

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

Wrestling with self doubt, and continuing to believe in myself.

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

I learned the power of perseverance, of committing to a project and seeing it through—and also of not rushing things. I wanted to take the time to ensure that I did it right. My books will outlive me, so I want to make sure they are as good as they can possibly be.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Take time to learn how to write; how to structure stories, create characters and character arcs and how to blend the two. It helps to learn a bit about mythology and the roots of storytelling; specifically why humankind has an innate need to tell stories and the function these stories have. I believe writers need to learn their craft before jumping straight in. To do so gives books much greater depth and resonance I think.

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

I am so appreciative to my readers and to the support they have given me. I genuinely appreciate every copy sold of my books, and find it the most wonderful thing in the world to be able to share my creative visions with other people. It’s amazing and the most wonderful feeling in the world.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Quirky and fun things and people make me laugh! Human cruelty makes me cry—and the way we often treat ourselves, animals and the planet.

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

I’d love to have met Leonardo da Vinci. One of the most creative and fascinating minds. I’ve always been fascinated by the Renaissance men.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I don’t have time for it right now, but I do draw, paint and make digital art. I love photography and post regularly on Instagram. I meditate, cook and like reading and studying.

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

I don’t watch much television. Weeks can go by without watching a thing. I’d rather spend my time creatively or reading. I do like a good film, but again don’t watch many right now. I enjoy comedies, drama and intelligent sci-fi.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

You know what, I love cake. I don’t know why I’m still quite thin! I love the colour blue. And I am a huge music addict. I love ambient and alternative music, my two favourite bands being Cocteau Twins and Sigur Rós.

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

Maybe a tree surgeon. I love trees!

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

I do! My website is www.dreamlight-fugitive.co.uk  and my writing blog is https://dreamlightfugitive.wordpress.com/

Amazon Authors page USA http://www.amazon.com/Rory-B.-Mackay/e/B00BU8PR0Y/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1

UK http://www.amazon.co.uk/Rory-B-Mackay/e/B00BU8PR0Y/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1

Here is my interview with S. Courtney Killian

Name S.Courtney Killian

Age 20

Where are you from

Fort Worth, Texas

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

I’m currently a college freshman planning on getting a degree in special education, and work part time as a caregiver for a special needs child. I currently live with my parents and have one sister that is married and out of the house with three little kids. I’ve always lived a simple life in the country. It’s so peaceful out in the country and I can’t possibly imagine living anywhere else.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I guess the biggest news is that I will be having my first book come out very soon! There’s no set date yet, but everything is happening fast, so I have no doubt that it will be out before 2015 is over.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I’ve always written short stories growing up, but only just over a year ago did I start writing seriously. I started being serious about it because one night I got an idea for a book and it wouldn’t let go. Once I did, I started getting more and more ideas. Now I have no choice if I want to keep my sanity!

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I guess it was when I first got the idea to write Days of the Kill. It was the first manuscript that I was ever determined to see completed.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

It came clear out of the blue. I woke up one time in the middle of the night and thought, “What if I wrote a murder mystery through the murderer’s eyes?” That feeling came on so strong that I just had to get up and write for the rest of the night!

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Not really. I just write how the book comes to me.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I had a hard time with this title, strangely enough. There’s a murder on every single day of the week in the book, so I just started thinking about days. The title Days of the Kill came pretty quickly after that!

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

Mostly I just want readers to be entertained. Although, if I absolutely had to say there was a message, I would say it would be to watch your back. Not everybody is always how they seem.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

I would hope it’s not very realistic at all! Although I have seen in the news lately where teachers are being thrown in jail for various things, so unfortunately, some of it is realistic.

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

Not the experiences thankfully, but one of the characters is. There’s an ex-boyfriend that just doesn’t know when to let go in the book. There’s an ex-boyfriend that doesn’t know when to let go in my life!

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

Any books by Agatha Christie. I love her work! She has never failed to keep me guessing until the very end. She’s definitely my biggest inspiration.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Haunted Montana by Karen Stevens. It’s a book about all the ghostly activity in Montana. It’s so interesting and has me wanting to visit these places!

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

She’s not really new, but I recently discovered Karen Kingsbury. Anyone looking for an inspirational read should definitely go to her books.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

Oh, goodness, where do I begin? I’m currently working on The Path to Biological, a suspense book about three adopted girls searching for their biological family. That was just sent off to beta readers. There’s also two other suspense books – The Child of Fault and Bethany’s Corpse. Both are still in the early stages of writing. We’ll see where my imagination takes me with those.

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

Actually, family members have been the least supportive. I can’t just pick one person that has been supportive. All of my friends have been super supportive about my writing and will let me go on for hours about it if I feel like it.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Most definitely!

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

I can’t really think of anything, no. It’s not perfect, but no book ever is.

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

As I said earlier, I’ve always written short stories. I guess that really started way back in second grade. I got the award for being the best story teller. If only my teacher could see me now!

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

It’s still in the early stages, but Bethany’s Corpse is a murder mystery. The skeleton of the victim can still talk. She helps the detectives find out who killed her. I don’t know about you, but if I saw a skeleton talking, I think I would run the other way!

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

The editing! It’s all too easy to start a new project, but it can be a real struggle to make myself sit down and edit the said project.

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

I would have to say Agatha Christie. I love how she keeps me guessing until the very end. Just when I think I have it figured out, there’s a new twist.

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

Unfortunately, no. I wish I did, though, just so I could have an excuse to travel more!

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I actually don’t have a cover designed yet, but my publisher said that there’s a team of professionals that can do that, so I will definitely be using them.

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

Again, the editing. It was so painful to go through it and make major changes. I didn’t want to rip apart my baby!

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

I learned that I have to be able to take criticism in stride. I’ve always had a hard time accepting criticism, but I had to learn to get my pride out of the way to make my book the best it could be.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Make time to write. There are so many people that say they want to write, but claim to be too busy. I have school, work, and everything else going on. If I have time, why don’t you?

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

I really hope you enjoy the book. Any feedback you have, good or bad, would be greatly appreciated!

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

One of the first books I read was a Junie B. Jones book. I remember loving that series when I was in elementary school.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Oh, goodness, so many things! My best friend of 15 years never fails to make me laugh with pretty much anything she says. As for crying, if any of my friends are in pain, I would definitely be in tears. I even cry over heartbreaking things in any books that I read!

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

If I had to pick one, I would definitely want to meet Agatha Christie. I would definitely want to ask her how she got so many ideas for all of her books. I want to learn her ways.

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

“Hold on, just one more chapter!” I’m always having to finish the chapter before I go do something else. I read every chance I get.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

My biggest hobby would be reading. Everyone says that I’m reading a new book every time they turn around. I also enjoy listening to audiobooks and putting together latch hook rugs.

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

Oh, goodness. I like watching Bones, American Idol, Jeopardy, Survivor, and so many others. My favorite movies God’s Not Dead and Do You Believe.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

I can’t say that I have a favorite color, but my favorite foods are definitely Mexican and Italian. I think my favorite style of music would have to be country.

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

As I said earlier, I’m currently a caregiver for a special needs child. If I wasn’t writing, I would be more determined than ever to become a special needs teacher.

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

I actually have three. It’s insane, I know. One of them is for help with writing, one is more about my journey, and the last is an encouragement website.

What Not To Write And Writing Tips: http://whatnottowriteandwritingtips.com/

My Life According To Courtney: http://mylifeaccordingtocourtney.com/

Hope For The Hopeless:  https://hopeforthehopeless1.wordpress.com/

 

Here is my interview with Amanda McIntyre

 

Name Amanda McIntyre

Age: Age doesn’t matter unless you’re wine or cheese! J

Where are you from: Midwest, U.S.A.

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

I was born and raised in the Midwest United States. (Oklahoma, Missouri, & Iowa) I’ve always loved art, poetry and at one time felt painting or design would be my life’s work. As it turned out, I married my high school sweetheart, raised four great kids here in the Midwest, and found myself a champion, by way of a weekly newspaper column of the importance of Fine Arts in our educational system. An avid reader we’ve always encouraged reading in our house and I began to research new possibilities for my writing on the Internet. I took a few online classes, met some amazing mentors, and participated in online romance fiction writing groups. I began to read again and stepped into doing book reviews for small publications—learning the entire time, what interested me and what didn’t, how to be objective, how to determine an author’s “voice.” At one point, I realized that storytelling was much like painting a picture. And that’s when I began painting stories with words.

My first published novel was in 2001 and I today I call myself a multi-genre, hybrid author with books published by traditional and small press and most recently, I’ve started self-publishing and re-releasing my backlist books on my own.

My most cherished reactions to my work is when a reader says they “feel “ like they are in my stories, or that they could be friends with one of my characters.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Most recently I have received rights back to the first two books of my Kinnison Legacy trilogy and released them along with the third book in the set. It’s a contemporary western romance set–Rugged Hearts,(featuresWyatt) Rustler’s Heart(features Rein) and Renegade Hearts (features Dalton)—three unlikely brothers left to fulfill the Kinnison Legacy.

I am thrilled with how readers have taken to these brothers and the small town of End of the Line, Montana , where the stories take place. They’ve remained in the top ten best western romance at Amazon.com since they released and I am grateful and inspired by readers response. So much so that I am planning a spin off novella that I hope to have out by the Christmas holidays.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Good question, because I am still evolving as a writer—even over a decade later. I live by the old saying that “I am always learning.” Fern Michaels, a great author/storyteller said once she much preferred to be called a storyteller, rather than a writer or an author—I still find that my preference as well.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Oddly, it was a very heart-wrenching and difficult experience in my life that left me disillusioned on so many levels. It was cathartic for me to write, to dispel the demons, to find joy, faith and to believe in myself again. Truly, in retrospect, I felt that I had been like a caterpillar, cocooned from the outside world. I never really truly found who I was, how resilient I am, until I had to face and overcome the obstacles placed before me. That is now my passion, to write about ordinary people placed in extraordinary situations—how they rise above the difficulties and become the heroes and heroines of their own stories.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

As archaic as it may sounds, my writing flows so much easier and faster when I write, rather than type a story. So, my first drafts are almost always done in pen. (Black Bic classic, btw!) I create a visual inspiration board for each story-settings, buildings, towns, people–and often use music to inspire “scenes” in my book. I prefer large blocks of uninterrupted time—but that is rare, so I have to be very organized and a little selfish with my time on occasion. I think  maybe it’s an artist thing—instead of holding a brush, I’m holding a pen.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

In general, my titles may come from a song lyric, or a line in the story itself as its being written.

 

 

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

I would say if I had to pinpoint a common theme, it’s the idea of taking ordinary people and placing them in extraordinary situations. Finding your strength, just how resilient you are, that love will always find a way.

 

 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

My books are works of fiction and not only that, romantic fiction, so some of the emotions are the fantasies readers may dabble with—the emotional , mental escape from reality. That said—I probably make my characters suffer a bit more with what makes them tick. I’m twisted that way;) The more a hero or heroine must overcome, the greater the challenge and the more interesting the read. Now,. If you’re asking about the intimate scenes and whether those are “realistic”—I’d say for the most part they are. I’m of an age where I believe that real romance means better sex. (thanks to author, Mari Carr for borrowing her tag line) You won’t find a Fifty Shades mentality (though many love it) in my writing. Not my cuppa.

 

 

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

There may be elements woven in of real people, places in some of my stories. I also love to research history and find odd bits, then squish around the possibilities like play-dough and see what I come with. RUGGED HEARTS, Book I of the Kinnison Legacy was inspired by a short story I’d written one holiday for my newspaper article. It was called a “Cowboy’s Christmas.” I ended up using it within the book as part of the story Wyatt’s step-dad used to read the children at the holidays.

 

 

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

There are so many of both—early mentors, Lori Soard and the women I first met through From the Heart , an online romance writing chapter of the RWA (Romance Writers of America.) Since then, I’ve met so many readers, authors, graphic artists, and others in the writing/publishing industry that have influenced me—far too many to name individually, I’m afraid, but each has left their mark on my heart.

 

 
Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I just finished a Stef Ann Holm contemporary called, “Girls Night”. Just a great summer read! I’m as eclectic in my reading tastes as I am my music. I’m a “mood” reader–everything from Stephen King to Donna Kauffman, Johns Jakes to Barbara Freethy, and so many others.

 

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

Absolutely! Every day I am discovering new authors! I recently picked up a book by an author with whom I am honored to be in a boxed contemporary romance set with—her book, “Batter Up” by Robyn Neeley is just loaded with delightful characters! Beth Ciotta, Ciana Stone, Sahara Kelly, Becky McGraw, Katy Evans, Charity Piniero, Barbara Freethy, Sally Mackenzie, C.H. Admirand, and many others!

 

 
Fiona: What are your current projects?

I’m currently working on two projects, both related to the holidays. One is a new story featuring characters from my Kinnison Legacy set—it’s an End of the Line, Montana Christmas novella called, “It Must Have Been the Mistletoe” and the other is a new contemporary romance western, set at New Year’s Eve. My story (untitled at present) is about first love and second chances. Both have been delightful to write. After that, I’m slated to work on a historical spin-off of my historical thriller, The Dark Seduction of Miss Jane.

 

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

There are two, actually, the readers who write and inspire me by how my stories have touched them in some way and the many, many authors I’ve met on this journey and continue to meet. Their support, sharing stories, humor, and encouragement—is priceless.

 

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I do. I have a regimented office time, however, unless on deadline and I am most grateful and lucky to have a husband who cooks and a family who cheers me on.

 

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

Nope. And here’s why—the third book in the Kinnison Legacy was a difficult book to write because it was placed on the backburner as I was occupied entirely with my mother’s rapidly declining health. I was emotionally drained, unable to write, even after her passing, I wasn’t sure if this book would ever get written. But my readers had been waiting, my friends and family gently nudged me, and I was able to finish the book. I know that there was a lot of “me” spilling over the pages. I could feel it as I wrote the scenes—some scenes brought tears to my eyes. So no, tapping into all that emotion was what made this book special to me and it seems to have resonated with readers as well.

 

 

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

Sure. Here is a passage from RENEGADE HEARTS, BOOK III of the Kinnison Legacy. (*set-up: Dalton has gone to the family’s hunting cabin to escape the community BBQ hosted by his brothers at the new renovated ranch. Angelique seeks him out to try to resolve tensions between them.)

Dalton reminded himself that he did have peanut butter tucked away in the cabinet at the cabin. He’d spent the greater part of the day in a folding chair after digging a hole for his fishing rod in the dark, rich dirt. Between doxing and listening for woodland friends that might meander by, he found himself daydreaming of the recent kiss he’d shared with Angelique and the firestorm it raised inside him.

“Doesn’t look like the fish are being cooperative today.”

Jarred alert by the voice, his chair tipped sideways, his boot kicking the rod. At that moment, the line went taut. Sprawled on the ground, he army crawled, reaching for the pole as he watched the expensive rod skitter across the ground and disappear with his catch into the fast-moving river. With a sigh, he glanced over his shoulder, his eyes landing on a pair of slender legs encased in worn denim. A tease of tan skin peeked through a hole in one knee. He let his gaze travel upward and he saw a picnic basket. He caught a whiff of apple pie and his stomach growled plaintively. He’d not eaten lunch in anticipation of a healthy all-you-can-eat fish fry.

“Sorry about the rod. Didn’t mean to startle you.”

He pushed to his knees, righted his chair, with a definitive thud and, with another sigh, stood to face his current frustration—in more ways than one. “What are you doing here?” he muttered, not in the mood for company, least of all this woman.

“Saving you from starvation, it appears.”

Not favoring the jab with a response, he folded his chair, grabbed his cooler and tackle box, and started back to the cabin. “You came all this way to bring me supper?” He wasn’t being gracious. Wasn’t in the mood. She’d just cost him a brand new rod and reel, not to mention a week of sleepless nights. But he wasn’t about to let her know that. He swung around to face her, glad when she stopped in her tracks–those dark eyes waiting, watching him. She’d come from the BBQ, dressed in old jeans and a plaid snap-front plaid shirt. Her long, dark hair was pulled over one shoulder in a freeform braid. Her mouth-watering gaze held his in challenge and he battled between kissing her senseless or turning her over his knee for interrupting his solitude. Either way, he grew hard, adding to his frustration. He let the cooler hide his body’s reaction. Shaking his head, he turned on his heel, making a beeline for the cabin, hoping she’d climb back in her truck and leave before things got complicated. He heard the crunch of pine needles as she followed him, right up the steps of the front porch. Without preamble, he faced her and plucked the basket from her hands. “Tell Rebecca thank you, as I suspect she’s the one who put this together.”

“And me? I brought the damn thing to you.” She planted her fists on her hips.

He studied her. “Your thoughtfulness is appreciated. If you leave now, you’ll just about make it back to town before dark. That road gets dicey after the sun goes down.”

She didn’t budge. Dammit.

“I figured it was time we hash out this thing between us.”

“Thing? What thing?” He dropped the basket by the screen door and folded his arms over his chest in an attempt to look intimidating. Though he doubted it would work, at least it kept him from touching her.

One brow dropped as she eyed him. “You mean to stand there and tell me that you haven’t given one second of thought to what happened behind the barn?”

Oh, hell yeah, he’d given it plenty of thought, reliving it only about a million times, his brain (and other parts) taking the fantasy to the next step. “It was just a kiss. We’ve been down that road. And if memory serves, you made it clear that it wouldn’t happen again.”

She licked her lips and looked away. He should have, too, but his eyes were caught on her mouth. She angled him a look. “We need to find a way to diffuse the tension between us. It appears to be causing a ruckus at the ranch.” She rolled her eyes in disbelief. “My family feels it’s creating bad karma, and honestly, can you blame them with all that’s happened?”

He had a good idea of what would help ease tensions, but he was pretty sure she’d not agree to the suggestion. A deep roll of thunder caused him to look up in the dusky shadows of the afternoon, realizing that the storm threat grew nigh. “Looks like you’re cooking dinner, then.”

 

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

Finding uninterrupted “time.”

 

 

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

I’m asked that question a lot and I always answer the same way—there are many authors I read (very eclectic reading taste) but I have many authors who are my favorite—not because of their writing necessarily, but because of their character and integrity.

 

 

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

I have traveled in the name of researching a story, yes, but not for every book. The Internet can take you about anywhere, and history books, maps, guides, can take you to about any era in time. Tapping into the senses of taste, touch and smell gets a little trickier and that requires networking with people who live or work in a certain are or field to grasp a better understanding.

 

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Many of my covers have been done in collaboration with Sahara Kelly at P and N Graphics. I’ve also used Killion Publishing Group Inc. and OriginalSyn.com

 

 

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

Pushing everything else out of the way (mentally) and getting started.

 

 

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

I learn from each story. Whether it’s something about the characters that surprises or endears them to me, or the feedback from a reader and how a story touched them. Sometimes, I come away with a profound sense of realizing that writing is no easy task and to complete a book—One of my fav quotes, “Success is a finished book. A stack of pages each of which is filled with words. If you reach that point, you have won a victory over yourself no less impressive than sailing single-handed around the world.” (Tom Clancy 1947-2013)

 

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Do not write to think you will attain instant fame or riches. Write because you want to share a story, because you have something to say, because what you write means something to you. And paste the above Clancy quote where you can see it daily.

 

 

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

Thank you for reading my books—YOU are my inspiration.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I can remember the first romance book I read. It was called Five Smooth Stones by Ann Fairbairn.(originally published in 1966) I was in junior high, if memory serves and it had such a profound effect on me.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Good humor makes me laugh, ( I have an abiding love for good British humor) humor at the expense of others in a mean or hurtful way, I abhor. Injustice and how utterly senseless and evil humans can be to others at times makes me cry.

 

 

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

Not really. Probably seems odd, but I’d rather have the chance to speak to those I’ve known, who are no longer around, just to be able to speak with them again.

 

 

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

Hum, there’s one I haven’t spent a lot of time on, LOL. Devoted wife, mother, friend, and most excellent storyteller.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

While I don’t consider my writing a hobby, I do enjoy art, travel, gardening, reading, music, Broadway musicals, line-dancing, bonfires, lake retreats, sunsets, lighthouses, shipwreck history, trying new drinks and food, hanging out with close friends, watching good movies.

 

 

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

Current favs include, AMC’s HELL ON WHEELS, also binge-watched Battlestar Galactica recently. NCIS, and NCIS: New Orleans, Chicago Fire, BBC series, Copper, Ripper Street. Fav movies, too many to name, in the top ten; The Shining (Jack Nicholson version) Meet Me in St Louis, The Long, Hot Summer (Paul Newman) All the Sherlock Holms movies, Captain America, Super 8, Steel Magnolias, Practical Magic, Hocus Pocus, and Somewhere in Time are a few.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music:

Music—Broadway, Country, Classical piano, violin, cello, Seventies rock, Celtic Women, New Orleans Jazz/Blues, movie soundtracks, are a few. Colors: I am a 64-color box of crayon kind of girl. <g>

 

 

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

Interior design, Illustrator, photography, or canvas painting.

 

 

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

http://www.amandamcintyresbooks.com/

 

Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/amanda.mcintyre.author

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmandaMcIntyre1

Goodreads:  http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/519786.Amanda_McIntyre

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B002C1KH2Q

Bio:

Amanda McIntyre’s passion is telling character-driven stories with a penchant for placing ordinary people placed in extraordinary situations. A bestselling author, her work is published internationally in print, E-book, and audio. She writes sizzling contemporary and erotic historical romance and believes no matter what, love will find a way. Learn more at : http://www.amandamcintyresbooks.com and Amanda’s Amazon Author Page.

 

Current/upcoming books:

RUGGED HEARTS, BOOK I (Available in eBook /paperback)

http://www.amazon.com/Rugged-Hearts-Kinnison-Legacy-Book-ebook/dp/B010GPVRW8/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

 

RUSTLER’S HEART, BOOK II (Available in eBook/paperback)

http://www.amazon.com/Rustlers-Heart-Kinnison-Legacy-Book-ebook/dp/B010KXPO7U/ref=pd_sim_351_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=11B7615Q5AENMZ0XA076&dpSrc=sims&dpST=_UX300_PJku-sticker-v3%2CTopRight%2C0%2C-44_AC_UL320_SR214%2C320_

 

RENEGADE HEARTS, BOOK III (Available in eBook/paperback)

http://www.amazon.com/Renegade-Hearts-Kinnison-Legacy-Book-ebook/dp/B010KMTYFO/ref=pd_sim_351_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=1BJYYHF31T7XQZ7X6C7A&dpSrc=sims&dpST=_UX300_PJku-sticker-v3%2CTopRight%2C0%2C-44_AC_UL320_SR214%2C320_

 

Current Collection Links:

HOT WESTERN NIGHTS~collection of first-in-a series books (features Rugged Hearts, Book I)

http://www.amazon.com/Hot-Western-Nights-collection-first-ebook/dp/B01380XH9Y/ref=pd_sim_351_25?ie=UTF8&refRID=0ZZSYP68GDNMSZF24ZC9

 

A HOT HOMETOWN HUNKS collection~

http://www.amazon.com/Hot-Hometown-Hunks-Collection-ebook/dp/B014I9JY96/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1440971869&sr=1-1&keywords=hot+hometown+hunks+collection&pebp=1440971871458&perid=183E1YXDHVXCH6DCH713

 

Coming December 28/2015

RING IN A COWBOY~Ring in the New Year with Nine Sexy Cowboys from some of today’s Bestselling Authors!

 

Thank you so much for the lovely interview, Fiona! Blessings & cowboy dreams~

Amanda

Here is my interview with J.C. Russo

Name   J.C. Russo

Age

The age of security and confidence. 😀

Where are you from?

I’m originally from Pennsylvania, but I spent half my life living in North Carolina.

 

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

I went to the University of North Carolina at Charlotte where I majored in English and minored in psychology. I now live in New Jersey with my partner, my three daughters, my partner’s son, and our dog, Oatmeal (Otis for short). We have a full house. All of our children are musicians, and they are all awesome kids.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I am getting ready to publish my second novel. My first novel, Dancing with Ghosts, was recently published. It’s a lesbian coming of age novel, and it has received some really incredible reviews. The e-mails and messages I’ve received from my readers have also been amazing. My second novel, Little Yellow House, will be released very soon. It is a bit different in that it is a lesbian crime/mystery novel.

 

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I don’t ever remember a time in my life when I wasn’t writing. From the time I was a tiny child, I was always writing something. I used to be into poetry, but not anymore. Now it’s all about novels and short stories. When I was very young, my first story was called The Red Balloons. I don’t remember much about the story, but my sister was a character, and I do remember she was very upset with me.  So it probably wasn’t very good.

 

 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I’ve always considered myself a writer. Always. But only recently have I begun to consider myself an author.

 

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Various circumstances and situations in my life came together to inspire the story. However, the book is fiction. The characters are fiction. Despite this, the story is and will always be very, very close to my heart. No matter how many novels I write in the future, I will always consider Dancing with Ghosts my flagship novel.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I tend to write in first person. I like the deep connection I feel with my protagonist when I write in this style. I feel almost as if I fall in love with that character, and I love to get to know her on a personal level, living and breathing her until the book is published.

 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I came up with the title Dancing with Ghosts as I was writing a scene in which the protagonist is remembering her dad and how he would lift her on his shoulders to see the snow falling outside the windows. Trucks would drive down the road, the tires blowing up big puffs of snow that remind her of ghosts dancing in a mystical ballroom. The loneliness she feels growing up causes her to imagine dancing with these ghosts. The ghosts stay with her throughout her life, so she is never alone.

I came up with the title Little Yellow House because my protagonist loves her cozy little house. The house represents a dichotomy between the life she wants, cozy and happy (in the little house), and the life she gets (chaotic and stressful) in jail.

 

 

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

I am a writer of lesbian fiction, and a champion for lesbians to live true to themselves. Don’t let others decide what or who you should be. Be yourself.

The novels I write will always contain at least a bit of this philosophy. I want my writing to touch my readers, deep down in their souls, in a place they may have previously thought was untouchable. I want to equip them to hold their heads up high and be proud of who they are.

 

 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Both novels are realistic novels. They aren’t science fiction or fantasy. They are fiction, but they are very human and realistic. A reader posted a review on Goodreads that states that she felt like she was reading non-fiction. The reader stated that it “felt like reading a life lived rather than a story told.” I couldn’t say it better myself.

 

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

I have to stick with the disclaimer that “This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and events are either products of the author’s imagination or are being used fictitiously. Any resemblance to events, places, or actual persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.” 😀

 

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

The book “Sunshine” by Norma Klein. I’ve read this book numerous times over the years, and it’s always touched me in a very emotional way. I want my writing to touch others in the same way.

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I recently completed The Paying Guests by Sarah Waters. I love all of her works. I won’t start reading another book until Little Yellow House is published.

 

 

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

Not at this time, but I need to catch up. When I am writing a novel, it consumes me, leaving me little time for reading.

 

 

Fiona: What are your current projects?

After Little Yellow House is published, I have plans for a 7-book series. The plans are still in my head, safely locked away.

 

 

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

I had an English professor in college who thought very highly of my writing. Her opinion has always meant the world to me. She reignited my passion for writing at a time when I was feeling discouraged. I will never forget her.

 

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes, I definitely do. It’s my dream.

 

 

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

My beta readers are hard at work on the final proof. I’ll see what they come back with and then make the appropriate changes. At this time, I’m sure there are a couple typos at least, along with some character development.  They are a talented group of individuals, and I trust them completely.

 

 

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

No, I don’t. But I do know that every single time I’m writing, I feel sucked into it mind and soul. And I love that feeling. And as long as my hands can move and my eyes can see, I will never give it up.

 

 

 

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

I’m happy to share the back copy with you:

“What would you give up to escape a horrifying situation? Your home? Your kids? Your freedom? Would you murder someone as a means of escape? What if it was the only way? In Little Yellow House, a lesbian crime novel, Kelly Jansen has a decision to make.

 

Why every woman in the world isn’t a lesbian is beyond me. My name is Kelly. I was rather young when I realized I liked girls, and I never wavered. When I was 16, I had the best girlfriend in the world. Nicky was amazing in more ways than one. Life was good.

 

But then I made a series of bad decisions. The time Nicky and I got caught in bed together under my father’s roof marked the beginning of my downward spiral. And the end? That would be the time I went to jail for murdering my girlfriend.

 

I always dreamed of being a happy-go-lucky lesbian with a great girl and a carefree life. Instead, my husband was abusive, my children were missing, and I got caught up in a web of deception and murder.

 

I don’t know how things went so wrong so fast. All I know is that I desperately miss Nicky, and I want her back.

 

I want the life I dreamed about. But maybe it’s too late.”

 

 

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

The hardest thing for me is finding the time to write. I need more time. I wish I had more time. Someday, maybe. For now, I do the best I can.

 

 

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

I have two favorite authors, Sarah Waters and Nicholas Sparks. I love Sarah Waters’ lesbian fiction novels. She is an incredibly gifted writer. As for Nicholas Sparks, I especially love his early works. He writes tragic love stories, which are highly emotional; the surge of emotion I feel when I read his novels appeals to me greatly.

 

 

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

Not so far, but I have plans for a couple different projects in the future.

 

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I designed the covers for Dancing with Ghosts, utilizing Kindle’s and CreateSpace’s cover creators. But I am having a professional design the cover for Little Yellow House. It is in production as I type.

 

 

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

The hardest part of writing both novels, besides finding adequate uninterrupted time, was that both of my novels are very emotional. I get sucked in. I hope my readers do, too, because it’s a great feeling. The subject matter isn’t at all easy to write, but I think that is why my readers find it so dynamic to read.

 

 

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

I learned that I’m a tougher person than I ever gave myself credit for. It takes a lot of patience and stamina to write a novel. I’m very proud of myself.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Yes. Never stop writing. Write all the time. Write as much as you can, as often as you can. And let yourself get sucked in.

 

 

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

Keep the messages and e-mails coming!! I love your kind words and compliments, and I especially love hearing about how my story touched your heart and changed your life. Every time I open a new email or read a new review, I get tears in my eyes. My fans are the best.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I do remember. It was a Little Golden Book called The Poky Little Puppy. Wow. That was a great read. I read that book over and over again. Simply genius.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

I laugh a lot, and I love to make others laugh. People usually don’t know when to take me seriously. I just love happiness. However, lots of things make me cry, like those videos on Facebook when a parent comes home from the military and surprises their child. Or old sit coms. I’ve been known to cry during Full House or even Roseanne. Or the Little League World Series. I don’t even know those boys, but I’m so proud of them, I get all misty eyed. I’m a wreck.

 

 

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

I wouldn’t at all mind making Debra Messing’s acquaintance. 😉 She is absolutely beautiful, and she seems like she would have a very kind and nurturing personality. And she has a great smile.

 

 

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

“Here is a girl who was once too afraid to be herself, and then she wasn’t.” I feel so sad for all the years I wasted being afraid to say, “Here I am! Love me, or don’t! It’s your choice, and I don’t care which you choose!” But then the day came when I was finally able to throw off the shackles and learn how stop hiding and be myself, and I’ve never been happier.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

I love to read; I love photography; I love music; and I love to watch movies. But I love writing more than all of those added together.

 

 

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

I don’t watch a lot of TV, but I like Bates Motel and The Fosters. I loved the show Smash, and I wish it lasted longer than it did. I love football, so I watch that as much as I can during the season. I like the Carolina Panthers and the Philadelphia Eagles.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Foods:  Anything Italian or Mexican
Colors: Brown and red; or pretty much any earth tones

Music:  I love 80’s music. 😀

 

 

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

I used to be a professional photographer. I photographed weddings and special events. I enjoyed that tremendously. It was a great experience. I would do it again, if I weren’t so obsessed with writing.

 

 

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

Website: www.jcrussoauthor.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/jcrussoauthor

Amazon Author Central page:  www.amazon.com/author/jcrusso

Dancing with Ghosts: www.amazon.com/dp/B013GVCFSE

Here is my interview with Erica Ridley

Name  Erica Ridley

Where are you from?

I was born in Indiana, but now I live in Costa Rica!

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

Although I got my degree in Business Administration from the University of South Florida, I quickly decided the corporate world was not for me and decided to pursue my dream of making a living as a writer.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

It’s release week for fifth book in my Dukes of War series, The Brigadier’s Runaway Bride!

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I can’t remember a time when I didn’t want to be a writer. However, I did not begin to pursue a career as a professional author until 2005.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Hmm, on the one hand, I’ve always thought of myself as a writer. If you mean when did I think of myself as “making it” as a professional or career writer, that’s also tough to answer because the yardstick changes constantly. First I wanted to get a literary agent. Then I wanted to get a contract. Then I wanted to see my first book on the shelves. Then I wanted to make a living solely off of writing. Then I wanted to hit a bestseller list. And so on!

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

The first book I wrote as an adult was a Regency-set historical romance. I had actually never considered writing romance until I stumbled across a battered copy of Once a Princess, by Johanna Lindsey.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I like to think that I write very real themes without losing a story’s sense of humor. I hope readers agree!

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

For The Brigadier’s Runaway Bride—and, actually, all the titles in the Dukes of War series—I tried to ensure the titles gave a clue as to the hero and heroine of each story, and what their conflict might be.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

I do my best to research historical elements as thoroughly as possible. Since it is fiction, the events did not actually happen, but such a situation could have occurred.

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

I base the difficulties of returning to civilian life on the military veterans of our time. The wars are different, but many of the emotional struggles are universal. I have never been pregnant, so I had to research many of the elements related to motherhood.

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

Oof, this is a hard one. Every book I’ve ever read informs how I write. I read every writing book in my local library while I was still an unpublished author. And I owe virtually all of the industry knowledge I gleaned during that time to Romance Writers of America, which is wonderful organization for educating aspiring authors.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I am reading Closer Than You Think, by Karen Rose.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

The books I’m finishing now are The Pirate’s Tempting Stowaway and The Duke’s Accidental Wife.

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

Definitely Romance Writers of America. I can’t recommend it strongly enough!

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes, I do. It is my primary source of income.

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

I would change everything in every book, lol. I grow so much as a writer every time I write a new book, that I would never write the same book the same way again. The key is to keep writing new books!

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

Not really—I can’t remember a time when I couldn’t read or didn’t want to write.

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

March 1816

London, England

 

Most women would be delighted to find themselves mere moments away from becoming a duchess.

Miss Sarah Fairfax, as it happened, was not most women.

For one, she stood before a temporary altar in a private alcove of the Duke of Ravenwood’s London estate with her shoulders back, her chin up, and her belly swollen with child.

For two, Ravenwood—the handsome, eligible duke with whom she was about to wed—was not her unborn child’s father.

That had been Edmund Blackpool. The boy whose tousled golden brown locks and dreamy blue eyes had stolen her breath and her heart even when they were children. He was all she’d ever wanted… and would never have. He’d gone off to war three years ago, intending to make the world a better place. After two years of agonizing separation, last June, she had met him in Bruges, mere days before his company had been sent to Waterloo.

A sharp kick jabbed the wall of Sarah’s belly and she smiled to hide a wince of pain. Masking her emotions was all she’d done for the past eight months. Smiling was automatic now. No matter what happened.

Everything traced back to that fateful, impulsive night.

Edmund was no longer plain Mr. Blackpool, but a dashing brigadier with shiny epaulets and matching stars upon his uniform. He was beautiful and passionate and irresistible, and when he’d confessed his wish to marry her if only she’d wait for his return… She was in his arms before he had finished speaking.

He hadn’t made it off the battlefield alive.

Next had come the nausea, the dizziness, the desire to do nothing but sleep… and the realization that depression was not the sole cause. She was beyond ruined. She was pregnant. Her child would be born a bastard, and live the rest of his life in ostracized infamy, just like his mother.

Sarah faced the vicar and struggled to keep her breaths even, to not betray the weight of the endless pressure of everyone else’s expectations. Society. Her peers. Her parents. Herself. She was in this position because she’d expected to wed Edmund as soon as he returned from war.

Well, now she knew better than to count on expectations. She was in charge of her own fate now. No, make that two fates. Her knuckle traced the curve of her belly. Their future was up to her.

“Lawrence Pembroke, Duke of Ravenwood,” the vicar intoned. “Wilt thou have this woman to be thy wedded wife, to live together after God’s ordinance in the holy estate of matrimony? Wilt thou love her, comfort her, honor and keep her in sickness and in health, and forsaking all others, keep thee only unto her, so long as ye both shall live?”

Sarah’s throat convulsed. This was a nightmare. She touched her palm to her swollen midsection. Was she really going to go through with this? Would Ravenwood?

“I will,” the duke replied before Sarah could interrupt.

If she would have done so.

Her fingers stroked her belly, trying to calm the infant inside. Truth be told, they were moments away from a miracle. The child would be legitimate, not a bastard. Even once Society inevitably did the maths and realized the baby had been conceived long before the ducal wedding, the power of the Ravenwood name would protect them from all but a few whispers.

No one would dare cut them. The baby would be fine.

If the child was a boy, he would inherit a dukedom some day. If the child was a girl, she would be welcomed into Society with open arms. Perhaps marry a duke herself someday. What did it signify if her parents were not in love? If part of Sarah had died on that blood-soaked battlefield alongside her lost lover, did it matter, so long as her child was safe?

The vicar fixed his dark eyes on her. “Miss Sarah Fairfax.”

She swallowed. ’Twas a miracle and a nightmare, this union.

Sarah slid the duke a furtive glance. She’d never wished to be a duchess. She’d just wanted Edmund. And now the only way to save her baby’s future was to raise his baby as someone else’s child. Someone who wasn’t doing this for her—or for the baby.

Ravenwood was sacrificing himself at the altar for Edmund. Because for all their lives, they had been the best of friends.

Because Ravenwood hadn’t been there that day to save him.

The vicar stared at Sarah. “Wilt thou have this man to be thy wedded husband, to live together after God’s ordinance in the holy estate of matrimony? Wilt thou obey him, and serve him, love honor and keep him in sickness and in health, and forsaking all others, keep thee solely unto him, so long as ye both shall live?”

Love him? Forsaking all others? She froze, her lungs suddenly incapable of breath. Her gaze flicked over her shoulder, toward the few souls in attendance.

She hadn’t been the only one who had lost Edmund. His twin brother Bartholomew stood at the back of the alcove, his face unreadable. Her stomach twisted. Did he hate her for marrying Ravenwood? For depriving him of a niece or nephew he could claim as his own blood? For being a distraction to Edmund? She turned back to the vicar before her eyes could sting with tears. Crying wouldn’t change the past.

The future was her sole concern.

It didn’t matter what anyone thought. Not Bartholomew, not her parents, not even the vicar. All that mattered was the baby. She would be the best mother in the history of mothers. There was nothing she wouldn’t do to provide for her child. Marrying a man she did not love was the best option.

She set her jaw. As bad as things were, she and the baby were devilish fortunate. Despite so many tragedies—or, perhaps, because of them—her child would have a better future than Sarah would ever have dreamed. She would ensure her child never felt unloved or unwanted for a single moment.

Sarah lifted her gaze toward the vicar. “I will.”

The vicar nodded. “I require and charge you both, as ye will answer at the dreadful day of judgment when the secrets of all hearts shall be disclosed, that if either of you know any impediment why ye may not be lawfully joined together in matrimony, ye do now confess it.”

The alcove was still.

In the ensuing silence, Sarah was suddenly aware of a dozen tiny sounds. The vicar’s finger, smoothing a crinkled page. The slight change in Ravenwood’s breath, as if he, too, felt the weight of the future upon them. A shuffle in the rear of the alcove as Bartholomew shifted his prosthesis. Or perhaps that movement was the Earl of Carlisle, who had been stone still throughout the entire ceremony.

The earl hadn’t just lost a friend. He’d been with them on the battlefield when the twins had been injured. There had scarcely been time to save one of them.

He’d chosen Bartholomew.

Not Edmund. Not the father of her child, the love of her life. The earl had let her betrothed die.

Sarah fixed her gaze on the altar. She could not be angry at Oliver. Or at least, she would not let her bitterness show. He had been faced with a terrible decision, and he’d made the only choice that he could. Edmund had been mortally wounded. His twin was not. Bartholomew was alive because of the earl. Oliver deserved her respect and her sympathy.

He had saved a life. The war was not his fault. The earl had done his best to save everyone he could.

Just like Ravenwood was doing his best to rescue Sarah and her child.

This was her last hope. There was no going back.

The vicar’s clear voice echoed through the alcove. “Forasmuch as Lawrence Pembroke, Duke of Ravenwood, and Miss Sarah Fairfax have consented together in holy wedlock, and have witnessed the same before God and this company, and have declared the same by giving and receiving a Ring, and by joining Hands; I pronounce that they are—”

A crash filled the alcove as the well-oiled mahogany doors swung inward and slammed into the walls hard enough to knock the paintings askew.

“Stop!” bellowed a deep, familiar voice.

Sarah jerked around in shock and disbelief. The imbalance of her extra weight coupled with her sudden movement sent her careening into the Duke of Ravenwood, who caught her in his arms as a sun-worn gentleman with a scruffy beard and tattered clothing stalked up the aisle.

’Twas her ex-lover, Edmund Blackpool.

Back from the dead.

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

It is not a requirement per se, but I have traveled several times for research, particularly to period homes/locations in the UK and to visit Regency-Era paintings in various art museums.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

I have a whole section on my website dedicated to that very thing! Please feel free to visit to check out various articles and tools/files I’ve uploaded for aspiring authors.

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

I would love to meet Nikola Tesla. Everything about him fascinates me.

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

I actually plan to be cremated. My youngest brother will take my ashes somewhere I’ve never been and leave me there, so that I can have one final adventure.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I love the outdoors—hiking, camping, ziplining—and I adore traveling. I also enjoy scrapbooking.

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

I only have Netflix, and the catalog in Central America is much more limited, but I enjoy police procedurals, mystery shows, comedies, action movies, and comic book shows/movies. I’m currently bouncing between Arrow, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, Grimm, and Criminal Minds.

Fiona: Favorite foods

I am a vegetarian who loves every kind of food: Thai, Indian, Mexican, Italian, French, Spanish, the list goes on!

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

I was a web and software developer for many years before becoming a full time writer.

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

Yes! It is http://EricaRidley.com

NEW: THE BRIGADIER’S RUNAWAY BRIDE

 

Amazon: http://smarturl.it/tbrbamzpr

 

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Here is my interview with Jane Bwye

Name Jane Bwye

Age  74

Where are you from I lived 55 years in Kenya, and retired to Eastbourne, UK at the turn of the century.

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

  My website: http://janebwye.com/ will tell you the basics about me and my books.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

 I first considered myself a writer when I received payment for the first in a series of Letters From Oxford in the Kenya Weekly News in 1961. It was the princely sum of Kenya Shs. 50/-, which today amounts to about 33P!

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

 Nicholas Monserrat and his “Tribe” books inspired me to write Breath of Africa. Iwrote to him asking if he was considering writing a positive story about Africa for a change, and received a letter from his widow challenging me to do just that. Writing it also served as a catharsis when I came to live in the UK after 55 years in Kenya.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

And now I am half way through the first draft of the sequel. I have thoroughly enjoyed doing the research as it meant I had an excuse to revisit East Africa. I spent nearly two months there at the beginning of this year, enjoying being with family, and delivering talks about how my life experiences are reflected in my novel. I also visited a mining project on Kenya’s coast and a village in Uganda, to study different approaches to the question of investment and charity in Africa. I am exploring this theme in Grass Shoots, which follows the lives and loves of the younger characters in Breath of Africa, and solves the mystery of what happened to Charles. But I will say no more.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

My advice for other writers is – persevere. Don’t give up. Set yourself an objective to produce a definite number of words every week. If you fall short, you can always change the goal posts, but setting the objective is of primary importance.

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

 To my readers, I will say that Grass Shoots stands alone as a novel. However, you will benefit from a smooth transition and prior knowledge of the characters if you’ve read Breath of Africa first. And if you feel so inclined, a review posted on Amazon is the very best way of showing your appreciation to an author.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

The first book which made an impression on me was Black Beauty. My love of horses is still alive and strong, and in the evening of my days I enjoy going to some wonderful country estates in the South of England to judge dressage at Equestrian events.

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

Beloved mother and Grandmother ….. ?and great grandmother(!).  Because my family is my all.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I enjoy classical music and belong to a choral society. Exercise includes playing geriatric tennis and walking every month with friends from church. I keep my brain active by playing duplicate bridge in a friendly club which also indulges in partying and travels abroad. And whenever I go to a new place I buy a bird book. My bird lists reside in the pages of these books, and perhaps one day I will get round to putting them in a database.

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

Blog: http://jbwye.com/

Website: http://janebwye.com/

Books:

Breath of Africa: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Breath-Africa-J-L-Bwye/dp/1908910798/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1371194186&sr=8-1&keywords=breath+of+africa

I Lift Up My Eyes: http://www.amazon.co.uk/I-Lift-Up-My-Eyes-ebook/dp/B00O4FFU5C/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

 

 

Here is my interview with Satima Flavell

 Name  Satima Flavell

 

Age Old enough for the pension

 

Where are you from?

Born Manchester, England

 

A little about yourself ie your education Family life etc  

We came to live in Australia when I was eight years old, and I haven’t stopped traveling since. At last count, I had lived at over seventy different addresses in five different countries.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news

Book two of The Talismans Trilogy, The Cloak of Challiver, is in preparation. I’m hoping to launch it at Swancon, Perth’s annual SF convention, next year.

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I started to write when I was about five, and my first published work, a poem, appeared on the Manchester Guardian’s kids’ page when I was seven. Here it is:

Go to sleep my little one, go into dreamland

Elves and gnomes and fairies too

Will all be there to welcome you

So go to sleep my little one, go into dreamland.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

 

As soon as that poem was published!

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I was working in a boring but physically exhausting housekeeping job in Devon, UK, in 1985. Every night after work I would veg out in front of the TV, watching Coronation Street and East Enders, until suddenly one night, just as I was about to turn the TV on, a sentence popped into my head. It ran ‘Being left a widow at the age of twenty-one may sound like a tragedy, but to be honest, I felt relieved at Reyel’s death’. I knew at once that it was the start of an SF novel – not one I’d read, but a new one. My very own book! I grabbed pen and paper and started to write, and I soon realized it was the story of a woman who travelled around the world – her world, not this one – meeting many different races and having all kinds of adventures, just as I was doing at the time! The next day I went out and bought a nice new exercise book and every night thereafter I wrote a bit more of the story. It was very episodic and far short of publication standard, but eventually I did finish it, learning a lot about the craft of writing in the process.

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Apart from that one first person effort, I try to write the style I love to read – a tight third person POV. I’m not as good at it as, say, Margo Lanagan or Joe Abercrombie, but every time I start something new I can see that I’m getting better at it!

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The titles of the current trilogy became obvious as soon as I’d written the first chapter of book one, The Dagger of Dresnia. In that chapter, a queen makes talismans (a dagger, a cloak and a staff) for her triplet sons, so the series is called The Talismans and each individual title refers to one of the three.

 

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

‘Message’ might be a bit too preachy for my intent. There are themes, certainly, which I didn’t deliberately put there, but they stand out quite clearly now book one is finished. Other writers tell me it’s normal not to know your themes until the book is finished, and I think I agree! Now book one is complete and book two is shaping up, I can see lots of themes: the nature of love in its many forms; the development of intimacy in different kinds of relationships; the singularising nature of an unusual talent; dealing with the consequences of the decisions we make; internal conflict; family conflict; problem teenagers; racial conflict – and the potentially healing power of family ties.

 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Replace the magic in the story with another kind of talent, such as music or engineering, and the book is as realistic as most family sagas. (See ‘themes’ above!) I believe good speculative fiction uses imaginary worlds to show us the human condition we experience in this one.

 

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

It’s inevitable that our own life stories and those of our friends, families, favourite books, movies and TV shows will affect the stories we write, but there is no direct borrowing from any of the above. It’s amazing how our unconscious minds can twist and reorder things we and others say, do and experience!

 

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

Crikey, I’m dredging the memory here, right back to the stories my older sisters read to me when I was tiny! I guess Enid Blyton was a big influence – I read almost everything of hers in my primary and junior secondary years. After that I graduated to Elizabeth Goudge and Mary Stewart, among others, and like most people I studied writers of earlier generations in school. Shakespeare, with his unerring understanding of the human condition, has been both an inspiration and an influence. He is by far my favourite writer.

I have been extremely fortunate in having a wonderful resource right here in Perth. At the Katharine Susannah Prichard Writers Centre (http://kspf.iinet.net.au/) I’ve been lucky enough to study under some fabulous writers, including Juliet Marillier and Glenda Larke and Dave Luckett, three of the best fantasists around.

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I like to have a fiction and a non-fiction opus on the go at any given time. Right now the non-fiction is The Middle Ages Unlocked by Gillian Polack and Katrin Kania and the fiction is Joe Abercrombie’s Half a War.

 

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

Not new, but new to me, is the historical novelist Paul Fraser Collard, who follows in the footsteps of another favourite, Bernard Cornwell.

 

 
Fiona: What are your current projects?

Preparing The Cloak of Challiver for publication and getting started on book three, The Seer of Syland.

 

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

To pick one out of the many, many people who have inspired, educated and informed my writing would be impossible! But I will point out my writing buddies Carol Ryles, Helen Venn, Joanna Faye and Sarah Lee Parker as having been towers of strength on my writing journey.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

No. Apart from the occasional editing gig, I am all but retired now. I’d just like to get this trilogy finished before I fall off the perch!

 

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

A word here and there, maybe. Overall, I think The Dagger of Dresnia is as good as I could make it.

 

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

Reading and being read to. Even as a pre-schooler, I used to tell people that I was going to be a children’s authoress like Enid Blyton when I grew up! However, my work so far is definitely not for children!

 

 

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

The Cloak of Challiver can almost be split into two novellas, each one telling a love story. Here’s an early scene from the tale of Princess Milana of Syland, who has just learnt that a new suitor has arrived by ship and is on his way to her father’s castle:

Her mother was waiting impatiently for her. She already had Milana’s best dark red velvet overgown, trimmed with ermine, lying on the bed. Appearances were important, at first meetings especially.

‘Hurry up, Milana’, said her mother. ‘We only got word of Prince Morifer’s arrival an hour ago. Here, let me unlace your robe.’

The lacings loosened, Milana stepped out of the robe and pulled her shirt over her head. Her mother handed her a new cream silk shirt that had been imported from Aristand only the week before. Then came the heavy overgown with its draped sleeves, and an embroidered surcoat that felt as heavy as one of the soup pots that hung over the kitchen fire.

Milana looked at herself critically in the bronze mirror that hung over her clothes chest. Her long fair plaits resembled foxes’ tails. She loosed her tresses and tugged a comb through the tangles.

Her mother shook her head in despair. ‘Here, sit down, child! You can’t go down looking like a goatherd’s daughter.’ She dragged the comb through Milana’s tresses again and again, jerking Milana’s head forward and back.

‘Mother, you’re hurting me!’

‘All right, all right, that will have to do! Come on, we’d better go down. He’ll be here any minute!’

Pushing stray strands of hair back as best she could with one hand, Milana gathered her skirts in the other and headed for the door. A page approached as they closed the door.

‘His majesty has asked that you come down as soon as possible, Madam. The Falrouvian delegation is on its way up the hill.’

‘Oh, by the Lady’s tears, Milana, make haste! It will look terrible if we’re not on the steps when Prince Morifer arrives!’ Her mother seized her hand and dragged her toward the staircase.

They hurried downstairs and through the Great Hall to the steps of the keep. Milana’s jewelled belt came undone as they reached the front door. She loosed herself from her mother’s grasp and tied the belt in place as the page on door duty let in the sunlight.

Breathless, mother and daughter joined their menfolk just as Prince Morifer and his retinue rode in. He was attended by several pages, a scribe or two, a brace of priests and a number of gentlemen-at-arms. It took Milana a few moments to work out why there were so many, and then she realised that they had come in the expectation of negotiating a marriage agreement, with arrangements for a dowry, trade partnerships and such.

‘Daddy, I thought we were only going to talk about it this time,’ she whispered. She was already starting to feel trapped.

‘So did I,’ replied her father, ‘but it looks as though Morifer’s already made up his mind!’

Prince Morifer was obviously into his thirties, but he was tall and well built, with regular features. Milana regarded him cautiously. His face was handsome enough, but his lanky fair hair and pale skin gave him a somewhat insipid air, and Milana was not especially impressed. With perfect manners, he greeted them one by one, and called forward several servants bearing gifts for each member of the family. Proudly, he presented Milana with a hound.

‘She comes from Falrouvia’s finest bloodlines,’ he boasted. ‘She’ll outrun a hare on level ground.’

Milana eyed the creature warily. It was a great brute of a bitch, standing as high as her hip. Milana beckoned a servant to come and take the leash from the prince’s hand. She smiled and thanked him, but inwardly she groaned. She detested hunting and only rarely went out with the parties her father occasionally organised. Even when she went, she took a book with her.

‘I don’t suppose I can expect Morifer to know my tastes and interests,’ she consoled herself, as she led the guests into the castle. ‘Maybe as we get to know each other, we’ll find some common ground.’ But in her heart, she knew she was clutching at a vain hope. Already, she knew Morifer was not the kind of man she wanted.

 

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

Being succinct without leaving out important information, and giving all the necessary info without boring the reader. It’s always a fine balance!

 

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

I’d hate to have to pick a single favourite! I love too many authors to do that. Try these for starters: Joe Abercrombie, Ben Aaronovitch, Bernard Cornwell, Ken Follett, Neil Gaiman, Robin Hobb, Guy Gavriel Kay, Glenda Larke, Dave Luckett, Juliet Marillier, George RR Martin, Karen Miller and Marianne de Pierres. Lucky thirteen!

 

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

Much as I would like to attend every conference and convention in the country, finance forbids! Every year, I try to get to Swancon (Perth’s local convention) the Perth Writers Festival, and the national SF convention, which is held in a different state every year.

 

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

The Dagger of Dresnia’s lovely cover is the work of the very talented Marieke Ormsby, and I’m hoping she will be available to create covers for the rest of the trilogy.

 

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

The constant revision. I joined Online Writers Workshop when the book was first finished, and some very knowledgeable critiquers gave me a great deal of help. But of course, when you have a lot of critiquers, there is the danger of too many cooks spoiling the broth! Being critiqued made me a better critic of my own work and that of other writers. The input of my Egoboo buddies and other local writers has been invaluable.

 

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

The first book – the one I started when working in the UK – was a practice run. While the first draft of The Dagger of Dresnia was not perfect, I’d at least been able to apply what I’d learnt from writing the earlier novel, so editing it was not such an onerous task.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Keep at it. I like to pass on an encouraging remark made by Tim Powers at a convention some years ago: If you’ve written a good enough novel, keep sending it out and eventually someone, somewhere, will publish it. (The difficulty, of course, lies in writing a ‘good enough’ novel!)

 

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

Carry on reading! Writers can only go on writing if readers go on reading!

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

The Adventures of Rupert. It was read to me over and over again until I knew it off by heart, so was able to use it to teach myself to read. I was three years old at the time.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Many things, the news being one. But the work of many other writers from Shakespeare onwards has given me cause to laugh and cry. When I need cheering up I turn to old favourites such as Three Men in a Boat.

 

 

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

Shakespeare, of course.

 

 

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

That’s up to others to decide. Writing one’s own epitaph seems a tad egotistical!

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

Yup – belly dancing. I trained originally in music and dance (I still teach one ballet class a week) and in my declining years belly dance has proved a godsend to keep me moving and shaking!

 

 

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

Anything that’s either funny or historical. And, of course, fantasy. I’m utterly hooked on Game of Thrones!

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Salad and cheese, and cake. One after the other, of course, not both at once! (Although being of Yorkshire stock, I do love cheese with fruit cake.)

 

 

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

Dancing (and teaching dance) has always been as important to me as writing, and I’ve been lucky enough to scrape by on these two sources of income, with a bit of help from occasional office work or housekeeping. It’s nice to have two things to love and to make a living from them.

 

 

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

www.satimaflavell.com.au – but there is something happening to the host server shortly than might make it temporarily unavailable. I believe my blog – www.satimaflavell.blogspot.com.au – should not be affected, however.

Here is my interview with Zeecé Lugo

Name  Zeecé Lugo 

Age: I’d be crazy to say!

Where are you from:

 I was born in Puerto Rico. I grew up in Brooklyn, lived in many different states and in Europe for a while, spent 24 years in South Florida, and finally retired in San Sebastian, Puerto Rico, five years ago. I am very confused as to where I’m from. 

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

I was an avid reader from an early age. My mother taught me to read and write before I started school, and by the time I was in the fourth grade, I was reading the high school books our neighbor’s daughters brought home. From my love of reading came my love of writing. I have a BA in English Lit, but I actually taught science in Florida for years. Most of family still lives in Miami.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I am at present working on the audio book versions of my novels. I am also working on my next two novels. My next novel is not in the Daniel’s Fork series. It will be a quirky, paranormal romance.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

 I began writing in 2013, two years ago. I began writing because it was time. I had allowed life and responsibilities to keep me from doing what I wanted to do long enough. I was finally in a position to please myself, and I did.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

 The minute I finished my first manuscript.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book? 

The beauty of my surroundings. I had just moved to my mountain home in Puerto Rico, and I knew it was the perfect place to write. The peace and tranquility were the ideal place to dream and create imaginary worlds and characters. I have a romantic soul.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

 Yes. Someone recently reviewed one of my books, and he said that my writing is  “tight, action-packed prose.” I aim for as much as 80-90 % dialogue. My descriptions are specific, vivid, and in key places. My language is more formal than everyday English, fewer contractions, but also more musical, rhythmic.     

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Titles are my nemesis. I agonize over them. I make lists and sit there night after night, trying to choose. Daniel’s Fork is the second title for that novel. I could not decide. Finally, I gave up and chose the name of the village in the novel as the title.

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

  My novels are meant to entertain, to take you from your everyday problems and the mundane, to a place you can escape for a few hours to the bliss of mystery, romance, and erotic images.  There are themes I touch on: the selfishness of people, the destructive effect our actions have on others, the narrow mindedness of our values.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

To my mind, it is all realistic. My characters are flawed characters who act emotionally and commit atrocious acts driven by love, hate, greed. You might say the setting is not realistic because you have future generations speaking like they are back 200 years in time. However, they lost all technology and have carried out a concerted effort to protect and purify their language. They have adopted ways of life that worked well once before, allowing humanity to develop and thrive. I think it is a very possible future and as such, realistic. Far more than a future full of zombies!  

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

No. Some of the characters have some traits that I see in friends and family. For example, Gabby eats at the table just like my daughter. She surrounds her food, elbows on the table, and she guards it. Watching my daughter eat gave me the image for Gabby.

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

 If I was to choose one work or author who touched me the most, it would have to be Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. I love the joy and simplicity of Sam’s words, “Elves, Sir! I would dearly love to see them.” As I get older and see how the world has changed, I can’t help but dwell on the sadness of the elves as they leave middle-Earth.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

 I am reading Bound to Survive by a fellow indie author, Sharon Gibbs.

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

Absolutely. Too many to name. I read and review constantly, and there are many wonderful authors. It is almost overwhelming.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

 Two novels: I am working simultaneously on a paranormal romance tentatively titled Vampire, Not Monster. This should be out in December 2015. I am also working on A Time for Lords, a novel in the Daniel’s Fork universe.

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

My Facebook groups!!!

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

No, I see it as a passion and an art.

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

I did! I have changed many things in all of them. That is the beauty of digital publishing. You can edit and edit.

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

 Yes. I wrote an essay for a contest when I was in the ninth grade, and I won first place and $250. That was a lot of money back then.

 

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

The sweet scent of blood called to him, sending the sharp sting of longing to his thirsty soul, prompting him to leap on the parapet and scan the dark below like a bird of prey from a lofty perch. Somewhere in the damp, cold, trash-ridden tenement alleys, blood was flowing, and it called to him with the beguiling siren song he could not resist.

The alley below was desolate. He sprang into the air and with the strength and grace of a born predator, easily spanned the distance to the next building, landing halfway across the roof. Another leap brought him to the far parapet where he leaned to scan the darkness below. There, behind a large metal dumpster, he spied the huddled figures, rabid animals feasting on easy, wounded prey.

But they weren’t vampire. They were human. The smell of unwashed bodies, old, dried, crusted body fluids, and bacteria-ridden mucus drifted up and corrupted the smell of the luscious blood. He jumped, landing silently, gracefully on his feet, the six-storey jump child’s play to him.

In the dark, he could see clearly. He turned his head to spy behind him. Facing the street was the lookout, the one who made sure anyone approaching the alley kept on going, leaving the beasts to enjoy themselves, undisturbed. Shielded by the metal dumpster, three men huddled over a prone figure, a woman. He knew it was a woman by the scent of the blood. It was her blood flowing, and there would be little left of it soon.

He was not concerned. It was the men who would provide.

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

 What everyone else will tell you: the editing! It takes me three times longer to edit than to write.

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

My favorite author is Anne Perry. I find her writing dark, exquisite, passionate, insightful and provocative. It is ironic that she writes a fantastic series about a police inspector in Victorian London, while she herself went to prison for murder!

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

 No, not yet. Maybe if my books become successful enough, that will change in the future.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

 Kerri Knutson at Alchemy Book Covers and Design, http://www.alchemybookcovers.com/

She is wonderful and reasonably price.

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

Getting the courage to put it out in public.

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

 That tomorrow I will be a better writer than I was yesterday. We grow with the doing!  

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

 I hear authors tell others not to use adverbs, never repeat a word in a page, don’t use semicolons, write every day, bla, bla, bla. Go grab the latest best seller and see if the author followed those rules. He or she probably didn’t. Our advice is colored by our opinions, and we always think those are right. We forget that writing is an art. My only advice: write. Do it your way, and you’ll end up with something unique. Then get an editor who understands your voice. If you want generic, cookie-cutter writing, then by all means, chuck the adverbs, semicolons, and sit at the computer everyday at 8 am.

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

If you love me, let me know. Write a review!

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

 It was a high-school book on Norse mythology. To this day, I still love Thor and Freya.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Music moves me sometimes to tears. The first time I heard “Nostalgia,” by Yanni,  the emotion brought tears to my eyes. I like stories that make me laugh. I recently located a copy of “The Ransom of Red Chief” and laughed till I cried.

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

Jackie Kennedy. I’d like to ask her questions and maybe write a heroine based on her.

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

No head stone. I want to be cremated and my ashes dusted over my land. I want my atoms to join the great cycle of life in the universe. If you take them and keep them prisoners in a coffin surrounded by concrete, how can I be reborn again?

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Gardening, reading, movies, music, computers.

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

Any Science fiction. Old favorites: Babylon 5, Firefly, Star Trek’s Deep Space Nine.  Detective shows: Midsummer Murders, Miss Fisher Mysteries, Hawaii Five 0

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

I love pizza, churrasco steak, Chinese food, sushi. My favorite color is purple. I love Yanni, Keiko Matsui, Rock, New Age.

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

 Helicopter pilot. I would love to fly! To be reborn as an eagle is my dream.

 

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

 Names Starting With “Z” at http:zeecelugo.com

 

 

Links to Books:

 

http://www.amazon.com/Stronghearts-Woman-Before-Daniels-Fork-ebook/dp/B00XYZQCQY/

 

http://www.amazon.com/Daniels-Fork-Zeec%C3%A9-Lugo-ebook/dp/B00F5GVA0I/

 

http://www.amazon.com/Time-Love-Daniels-Fork-Book-ebook/dp/B00QE4HY3W/

 

http://www.amazon.com/Edge-World-Daniels-Fork-Zeec%C3%A9-ebook/dp/B00QATV36A/

 

 

 

Bio

 

Zeecé Lugo was born in Puerto Rico, grew up in Brooklyn, and lived in many places. She spent seven years in the U.S. Air force, taught for many years in Miami, and even spent a year working for the IRS.

 

Her early love was reading. The worlds of Pern, Middle-earth, St. Mary Mead, and Shrewsbury Abbey had an incredible influence and hold on her imagination.

She wrote her first novel, Daniel’s Fork, in two months, spending long hours at her task. During that time, she ensconced herself in her bedroom with her computer, barely coming out to grab a cup of coffee or a snack. One day, her nearest neighbor came desperately knocking at her bedroom window, afraid that Zeecé might be dead; no one had seen her for days!

 

Daniel’s Fork was meant to be the first book in a romantic trilogy. Little did Zeecé know that stories have a way of going where they want to go. Daniel’s Fork turned out to be a journey to the future past! It is a sexy mystery set in the future, giving birth to a fictional universe: the Daniel’s Fork universe.