Here is my interview with Amy Lynn Spitzley

Name Amy Lynn Spitzley (though really I’m Amy. The Lynn is just to sound more professional!)

Age 44

Where are you from

From Holland, Michigan, USA, but have lived in Traverse City, Michigan, USA, for 19 years.

 

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

Let’s see…pretty average background! Shy, eldest of two kids—my brother’s two years younger—nice, happy home. I went to college at Northern Michigan University and graduated in 1995 with a Bachelor of Arts degree that included a Creative Writing major, an Art minor, and a Native American Studies minor.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Wow. I wish I had some! I’m trying to focus on a story that’s quite different than my first two, but it’s still a work in progress.

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I know I entered a story in the Young Authors competition in 6^th grade. That same year, when I was 12, we went out west for a vacation and I got a little notepad with blue flowers on it at Wall Drug Store and started writing. I kept track of the amount of animals I saw—several herds of buffalo, 20 prairie dogs, that sort of thing. That was really the beginning.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I guess a few years ago. I’ve been doing this for a while, but I didn’t call myself a REAL writer until maybe two years before I got published. I figured I’d paid my dues at that point, and even if I never made it to publication, I was still A WRITER.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

The first book I wrote was Viola Doyle, and that came from a writing group I used to attend. Someone brought jewelry one night and we had to pick a piece and write about it. I found a hatpin, and when I started writing, Viola just hopped out.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I tend to be informal often. I like strong women, but not so strong that I can’t identify with them, if that makes any sense. I like little bits of romance to be thrown in, too, but I don’t think I could write something where that was the entire plot.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Oh man, I suck at titles! Viola is just her name, and Scrapbook of my Revolution is seriously the only good title I’ve ever come up with. I just got lucky on that one!

 

 

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

Absolutely, in Scrapbook, but I didn’t write it with that in mind. I just wanted to tell a teenage story in a different way, but Amber and her friends are basically mutants, so it very quickly became about equality and a specific sort of racism. I’d like it if my book helped people become more tolerant, but that’s a tall order nowadays.

 

 
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic ?

For Viola, it’s meant to be a Victorian fantasy, so the basic setting is realistic. Same with Scrapbook, I guess—I take settings and people and give them that bit of a fantasy tweak.

 

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

No…though with Viola, she does maybe look a little like a better, younger version of me!

 

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

Ooh, I hate this question! There are so many good books out there. I never know where to start, and I’m afraid I’ll leave something out. I don’t have a mentor, so that’s easily answered, but the book thing…well, I’ve always loved The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley. I like a lot of YA fantasy. Tithe by Holly Black, too. I rarely read adult books, but a buddy got me hooked on Lamb by Christopher Moore this year. I’m agnostic with a strange sense of humor, so I loved that. Kept wanting a happy ending for poor Joshua, though!

 

 
Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Just finished reading Tamora Pierce’s Daine books again.

 

 

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

I don’t really know. I tend to go to the library and grab what looks good. I don’t really pay attention to whether an author is new or not.

 

 

Fiona: What are your current projects?

Revising a story called The Midnight Trees. It’s the edgiest thing I’ve ever done, about people in a society where the rich ones live high in the trees and the regular ones live on the ground. There’s a drug called Stem that’s distilled from the same trees, and it’s getting most of the society hooked. A few people are trying to figure out how to combat this, including a brothel-owner’s daughter named Angel.

I also would like to finish a funny idea I have for a picture book of sorts—more of a coffee-table book, I guess, for adults and kids alike. It would be a rock’n’roll ABC book, with little poems about each band and a short blurb describing their history, and it would be highly illustrated. A for Aerosmith, B for Bon Jovi, that sort of thing. I’ve never done anything like this, and I don’t really know quite how to proceed, but I still love the idea.

 

 

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

I’ve got pretty supportive friends and family! I hesitate to name just one person, because the minute I did, I’d think of someone else. Quite a few in the Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators have cheered me on over the years, and in my critique group, and on Facebook…you see what I mean.

 

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes! Now if only it would pay me. What I really need is a job, so I can afford to follow my career.

 

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

Yes, but I won’t get into specifics. I think that’s just a creative person thing. We’re never quite happy with our books or art or music or dances or whatever, are we?

 

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

Pretty much with the Wall Drug notebook thing, as I mentioned above.

 

 

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

How much would you like to see? Here’s a few paragraphs that I think introduce Angel fairly well… I love my home. This is a truth, a certainty, a fact.

I love my home, and yet every day that passes I know I cannot stay here.

I live in the city of Hierro, in the country of Castilla, in the house of my father whose name is whispered about the marketplace as though he is something evil, something soft and foul that sticks to the bottom of one’s sandal.

He is not. My father is a wonderful man, and I love him dearly, even as I love this city that does not return my feelings. My name, too, is whispered in dry gray tones, turning “Angel Alderete” colorless and uninteresting.

The few who truly know me do not find me uninteresting.

The whispering happens whenever I go to the marketplace, as I do now. Calypso needs lemons for the women of the Casa Mariquita, the house my father owns. She soaks sponges in lemon juice for them to use in their practices. It keeps the babies away, and if they come anyway she has teas to drink for that. I do the errands for her because it lets me stretch my legs, even if my mind still feels encumbered.

As I leave the kitchen I take my white headscarf off the hook where it hangs. The day is gentle, warm with a slight breeze, but in Hierro women often cover their hair. It is best if I comply with society when I can, despite what my father does for a living, and it amuses me to wear white when so many assume I am impure.

 

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

I’m better with characters than with plots! I repeat certain words a lot, though I think we all do that…but the really evil thing is writing a synopsis. Man, I HATE that.

 

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

You’ll probably think this is odd, but I really don’t have one! I love The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley, but I don’t like all of her stuff. I like old Mary Stewart books, but I’m not a fan of her Merlin novels, which she’s most famous for. It’s like that with most authors for me.

 

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

I’d love to travel for my books, but so far, no.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Artists were assigned by my publisher. The Scrapbook artist was Ricky Gunawan, and the Viola cover was done by Alexandra Thompson.

 

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

Seriously, the synopsis! And query letters aren’t really a walk in the park, either. You spend all this time and effort to write a novel, and then you have to go and explain it in one page. Not fun.

 

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

Well, more about plotting and pacing and the technical details, I guess. And how the entire business works—or sometimes doesn’t!—not just the writing end of it.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Just the standard “keep plugging away at it,” lines that most writers give. It’s such an individual thing. Some put aside time in their day and always write then, others go in doses and then have non-writing spells for a while. As soon as I give advice, someone else will likely contradict it. That being said, staying dedicated, joining an organization, and finding a good critique group do hold true no matter what.

 

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

Hi! Very glad you liked my stuff!

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Ohmigod, I don’t! Is that bad? I was always reading, and my parents both read to me, so books were there from pretty much day one.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

You know that site Damn You Autocorrect? That makes me almost fall off my chair laughing. My eyes water, the whole thing. No idea why.  Whose Line is it, Anyway? Does too, and The Big Bang Theory, but that autocorrect really gets me.

 

 

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

I admire people, but I don’t know if I’d like to meet them or not. I’m afraid they’d disappoint me, or vice versa. I’m still really bummed that Robin Williams is gone—I think he left a hole in the universe that nobody can ever replace—but I don’t know if that means I’d like to meet him or not. I just wish he was still HERE.

 

 

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

Headstones kinda creep me out, to be honest! I think I’ll go the cremation route.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Sure! I was an artist even before I was a writer and I’m trying to break into that more, but it’s not an easy path. I mostly do fantasy collages. I love to hike, too, and read, and hang out with my husband and kids. We watch Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D together and often The Big Bang Theory. Geeky, I know.

 

 

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

Oops! Just answered that. I’m seeing good things in Supergirl, too, and my husband and I are still miffed that Forever got cancelled.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Corn chowder. Homemade bread. Apples. Purple. Green. Brown. Blue. U2. Kongos. Oasis.

 

 

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

There’s the art thing, but if we’re talking total dream world, I’d really love to have had some physical talent. I’m smallish—5’2, 120 lbs—and I have double-curve scoliosis, so I don’t consider my body to be my strong suit. I’m shy too, but in my deepest daydreams I’d really have liked to be able to perform. A dancer, maybe.

 

 

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

If you go to www.tinyurl.com/amyspitz you can see my artwork. I’ve been really bad about keeping up with the writing/blogging thing. I think the books should speak for themselves, you know? Plus there are so many writers with blogs out there. I’m not really sure I’d add anything to that scene. Sounds like an excuse, doesn’t it? Yeah, I thought so too…

 

Amazon Authors Page http://www.amazon.com/Amy-Lynn-Spitzley/e/B00DI8UKTW/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

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Here is my interview with Fiona Quinn

Name  – Fiona Quinn

Age – 50

Where are you from – Ontario

A little about your self `ie your education Family life etc  – I have a philosophy. Actually, I have many philosophies and am glad to, with very little encouragement, wax poetic on any one of them. Subjects I know about, subjects I know nothing about -I’m an equal opportunity philosophizer.

One of my favorite philosophies is that education should be a life-long endeavor and should look like a toolbox.

You’d think this image was pretty funny if you knew me. I am awkward at best if you put a tool in my hand. That’s not to say that I wouldn’t give it a go. It’s just to say it might not be the most graceful display that you’ve ever seen.

Living life directed by the Toolbox Philosophy means  I’m acquiring new skills so that whatever life hands me, I have something at the ready to tackle the projects or emergencies that arise, and it explains a lot about my resume.

I’m world traveled; I’ve ridden camels across Egypt, an elephant in Prague, and eaten horse in Moscow (sure wish I had Google Translate back then!) I’ve danced the jig in an Irish castle, hula-ed in O’ahu, and did some weird techno thingy in East Berlin (when there was still a wall).

I have degrees out the yin-yang. I have B.A.s in History, Foreign Language, Psychology, (almost Art History), and an M.S. in Counseling from the Medical College of Virginia. I’m a Reiki Master/Teacher and Second Dan Tae Kwon Do Black Belt qualified. I am a certified archery instructor and shoot my Springfield 9mm in a very Zen fashion with much deep breathing and bulls-eye accuracy.

My paid jobs have been as far reaching as being a governess and model in France to bridal florist. Marketing for the symphony to suicide/homicide intervention for the court system (although those might be closer together than farther apart). I’ve even been paid to scream – but that’s a different story for another day.

 

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I just finished a manuscript called In Too Deep. I really like it.

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I’ve always written, but now I have the space to do it as a profession.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Always – even when I wasn’t writing, I knew that was who I was.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I “unschooled” my kids and I wondered how that would impact them as adults. So I wrote my first novel WEAKEST LYNX giving my protagonist Lexi Sobado the skillsets of my oldest daughter (except for the extra-sensory part) then I threw very bad things at her to see how she’d do. I was very proud.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I tend to write books that drive the eye forward and have solid research behind them.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

That was easy, my youngest daughter is in charge of naming my characters and my books.

 

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

Trust yourself; you know more than you think you do.

 

 
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

My book takes realism and pushes the envelope a little. But all of my works are based on facts.

 

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

A little from stories I know; a little from stories I’ve lived; a little imagination.

 

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

Ethan Frome taught me that intended results can often take wicked and horrible turns.

 

 
Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Grave of Hummingbirds by Jennifer Skutelsky.

 

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

I really like Stephen Templin, Allan Leverone, JT Sawyer, Eric Gates (spy books), Marliss Melton, Donna Glaser. . . so many!

 

 
Fiona: What are your current projects?

Once IN TOO DEEP finds its home, I’m starting on a novel YOURS a follow up to MINE from my Kate Hamilton mystery series.

 

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

The Kindle Scout program and the writers who have won through that program.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

It is my career.

 

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

I’m waiting for edits. I’m sure there’s a typo or two.

 

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

I’m Irish – we are story tellers by DNA. And I kissed the blarney Stone four times – that probably has some bearing.

 

 

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

My newest book IN TOO DEEP is my way of dealing with my husband’s sudden life threatening event. It was a total accident, but there was nothing that the doctors could do to save him – he would either die or live. The reason he almost died sits in the homes of thousands of people in the United States and few realize just how dangerous it is. To tell more would be a spoiler, but from a scientific perspective, it’s an interesting topic to write about.

 

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

It’s both a challenge and a joy to work through the puzzles of my books.

 

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

I love to read thrillers and suspense especially romantic suspense. I prefer to read books by professionals who have turned author, like JT Sawyer, that way I know I’m learning as well as being entertained.

 

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

I travel as much as possible. I read as much as possible. I go to classes and learn as much as possible – and it all shows up in my books. Maybe it’s just in a single sentence — a smell, taste, or sight. Having actually experienced something, I feel it gives my writing authenticity and truth.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Melody Simmons did a few, my publishers did others.

 

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

Making sure that all of the pieces fit. Also, explaining the technical information in an interesting and understandable way.

 

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

I always learn from writing my books because they are based in research. Much of my research I share on my blog ThrillWriting, which is a resource blog to help writers and readers have a better understanding of things outside their everyday knowledge as it pertains to mystery/suspense/thrillers.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Don’t take short cuts, know what you’re writing about. Be as truthful as you can be, even if it hurts to write those words. Sit down and write something every day. One step and then another.

 

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

Thank you so much for your warmth and support. I love to think of you swiping across your device as you gobble up a story – maybe I pulled you from a bad day; maybe I helped you pass the time; maybe you learned something from the piece. However I’ve touched you, I feel honored.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Heidi – I was 4 years old at Montessori.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Everything. Seriously, I usually cry at kindness.

 

 

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

I would like to meet Jada Pinkett Smith. When I’ve heard her interviews, I’ve been impressed with the depth, her candor, and her understanding.

 

 

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

I want to be sprinkled on the ground under an aurora borealis. Why? I think it’s magical and spiritual.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

Many. I love to read and travel (and eat). I take various classes as much as possible. I like to learn skills that show up in my writing like martial arts and weapons. I also belly dance.

 

 

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

I’m not a big TV/movie watcher.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

I love to eat cuisines from the areas I’m travelling. I like Lebanese/Moroccan kinds of foods. I love the colors of water. In music I like to match my mood with sound.

 

 

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

I’d love to do psych research especially for PTSD and other effects of first responders and our military.

 

 

 

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

http://thrillwriting.blogspot.co.uk/  with hundreds of articles, including 101 explanations of things writers need to understand for their scenes to work such as Duct Tape 101 and 102 and Bullets 101. I also conduct interviews with professionals where they explain what really happens and how – you get to “hear” their way of thinking and relating so it could help you to understand your characters better as well.

www.FionaQuinnBooks.com

http://www.amazon.com/Fiona-Quinn/e/B00OTQE926/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

http://thrillwriting.blogspot.co.uk/

twitter and Facebook – Fiona Quinn Books

WEAKEST LYNX http://www.amazon.com/Weakest-Lynx-Fiona-Quinn-ebook/dp/B00T9T6U98/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

Here is my interview with Karli Rush

Name:  Karli Rush

Age: I’m the same as Denise Richards, Jerad Leto, Christina Applegate, Justin Theroux and Winona Rider.

Where are you from:

I’m from a quaint little college town, in the heart of Cherokee Nation. I’ve lived here the majority of my life, but I have been lucky enough to enjoy living in beautiful Denver, Colorado, flashy Las Vegas, Nevada and scenic Cheyenne, Wyoming for a short period of time. Oklahoma has always been my home and it never mattered where I was, I always ventured myself back to my hometown.

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

I raised by my grandmother, went to Northeastern State University and studied psychology. But I never quite felt that was the career for me. So, I explored paramedic certifications, Hospice training and worked for a local newspaper company. Through it all it gave me the wonderful experience to discover the writer that was hidden inside me. I have three very loving sons, twenty-three, twenty-two and thirteen. Recently, I lost my best friend, my husband. Our youngest son, has Autism, which in turn established my need to become an advocate.  We never felt it was a curse, but a gift.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Well, I am currently writing my second novel in the series No Death for the Wicked, the second book is titled Midnight. The first book in this series is Daylight, you can find this title on Amazon, here’s the link – http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00C00IAVO?keywords=Daylight%20Karli%20rush&qid=1451437420&ref_=sr_1_1&sr=8-1

And here’s the blurb – A Paranormal Vampire Romance novel.

 

In a small spectrum of the world is a city full of vampires and a very rare serum. This serum allows a vampire to walk in the light of day. The formula has been guarded for thousands of years, and yet a young female vampire from the north claims to have lived on the serum as if it is common place… This can not be… This must be dealt with. Mattie desires two things, getting Daylight back and Him.

 

This paranormal vampire romance novel is intended for adults due to sexual scenes and adult language. Recommended for 18+

 

What people are saying about my first Paranormal Vampire Romance:

 

“It was a fun twist on the death and a vampire… It also takes it to a new vampire romance, but not in the way you would think. I enjoyed reading it.” Tiger Dragon

 

“No Glittering Vampires Here. If you are looking for a Twilight vampire story then you have come to the wrong place, you will not find a glittering vampire here. Please DON’T take that the wrong way because I absolutely love Twilight. This vampire story is completely different and is not written for a younger audience. This story follows a young female vampire named Mattie. Mattie is on a quest for a serum that allows vampires to walk in daylight. Her journey finds her in a relationship with Death. He goes by the name Graham. I am not even sure how to describe their relationship, other than need. They have this need for each other, this gravity and drawing force for one another. The book takes many twists and turns and leaves you completely hanging with Mattie and Graham having the recipe for Daylight, and a whole lot of other vampires wanting it. I can’t wait to pick up the second book.” mzvosec

 

“Wicked Amazing New Para Series. This book would be a great gift for any paranormal fans, or for anyone who wants to lose themselves in a wicked love story. I enjoyed Karli’s writing style; her story telling is so well constructed with just enough romance, adventure and mystery to keep the reader attached to the story. The characters were so captivating and interesting that I quickly became invested in the story, feeling like I was right there with them. I really loved reading about this new world Karli created! This was one fun and exciting read with a fresh take in the paranormal world.

 

The ending will make readers eager to check for the next installment!” Drita

 

Oh, Edward baby move over, Graham is in town!!!!!,

After I finished Twilight, or should I say after the rebirth of vampire mania, I probably devoured through over a hundred Vampire books and series. Everything from J.R. Ward, to Katie MacAlister, Lynsay Sands and Jeaniene Frost and many many more. After a while my craving for all things with fangs faded. Don’t get me wrong, Oh I still tore through the Paranormal Romance shelf, but the angles on the Vampire stories just kind of started blurring together and for me turned a little blah.

I didn’t read the description of this book before I started it, I just jumped into it. And I freaking loved Mattie from page one of the Prologue, her character jumps off the page with her middle finger in the air, and if you don’t like it, she don’t give a damn. As for Graham, oh hell. (Kimmie: *sigh*, * fans self*). Graham is, I’m sorry I have no other descriptive words at the moment, Graham is F%¡KING HOT! Alpha male all the way, he is mysterious, dominant, he is a damn wet dream is what he is!!! lol!

Chapter 1 of this story threw me for a loop because I just didn’t see it coming. And the rest of the story? AWESOME! In “Daylight” Karli Rush breathes a breath of fresh air into the Vampire world. Her new spin is PERFECT! I love the characters she created in this story and the world she paints for the reader with her words. I really did not want this story to end! It was a fast read and exciting as hell! Thank you” LipsXoXo “Kimmi”

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

About four years ago I started writing a story, it stemmed from a very vivid dream. I’m sure you’ve heard this from many authors, but it’s true. The characters from Crescent Bound, Marc, Alyssa, Lisa, David and of course, Megan stalked my thoughts during the day and haunted my nights. I just couldn’t shake the voices away, so… Crescent Bound evolved into a five book series. All of which are on Amazon as well, plus, the first book is free! Here’s the link –  http://www.amazon.com/Crescent-Bound-Paranormal-Witch-Romance-ebook/dp/B007E5OD2U/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Honestly, I wasn’t too sure in the beginning. I had taken a few English and writing courses in college, and I found it was my absolute favorite courses to take.  I always wrote something from my heart because I knew no other way. Eventually, I started receiving emails about when the next installment would come out for the Bound series and I suppose that’s when I started to truly realize this was something I was meant to do. Be a writer.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

The feel of ‘Crescent Bound’ began taking shape when a friend and I visited a haunted hotel, called the Crescent Hotel. It’s located in a very small town called Eureka Springs, Arkansas. While touring this hotel, I actually saw an apparition. It was my first touch with the paranormal first hand. I became interested and more aware of my world around me. The town took a hold of me. Everything in this small, picturesque little town is quite unique and diverse and filled with mysticism. Like the narrow obscure alleyways with only a sign hanging overhead, words scrawled out, Tarot Card Readings inside. Every nook and cranny has something to offer, whether it be handcrafted jewelry, natural crystal shops, or homemade soaps. And just like in ‘Crescent Bound,’ there is an existence of magic there waiting if you’re only willing to see it. I think this is what opened up a whole new perception of how I saw things and this is when the dreams started. These dreams weren’t like my typical dreams. They were more intense in color, not black and white and recurring. Each night I could re-enter a dream from the previous night and pick back up right where I had left off. It was as if Alyssa, Marc, Lisa, and Megan all had a story to tell and they were not going to simply fade away and this is how the birth of ‘Crescent Bound’ came to be.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I do, I generally write first person, present tense.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

For Crescent Bound is signifies the mark and meaning of the characters within the series. You’ll have to read the book to find out more.  I don’t want to spoil anything. And for Daylight, it’s the name of the serum my character, Mattie is desperately hunting for. It’s very rare and extremely useful for the vampires in the story.

 

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

Most of my novels are romance based, so, basically I’m hoping my readers grasp that love, true love can conquer all.

 

 
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

I mostly write fantasy, but there are some lifelike traits. The one book I have written, titled, Let Your Heart Drive, which is a contemporary romance – has a lot of truth to it. Not the entirety, but some, like Route 66 as an example or a relationship gone badly or growing up without a mother. That’s why I love writing paranormal so much, everything you can conjure from your own mind can spill onto the pages, freely carving and molding worlds, scenes and places to bizarre, unique characters.

 

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

A little of both I say.

 

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

All of Stephen King’s books, I devoured every book I could that he had written. He taught me the freedom of writing and the beauty of reading.

 

 
Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Well, sadly, I haven’t had the time to truly read a lot. But when I begin again, I have a list I’m going to break through. Lol. I do have a few that I thoroughly enjoyed reading this year, want to know?

A Different Blue by Amy Harmon

The Song of David by Amy Harmon (yes, again, absolutely love her work!)

Attraction by Penny Reid (I am currently collecting all of her books, she’s simply amazing.)

 

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

There’s always new and amazing authors that grasp my attention Just to name a few… Jennifer L Allen, Aly Martinez and Mariana Zapata.

 

 
Fiona: What are your current projects?

Current projects, Midnight (second book in the No Death for the Wicked series) should be out within the next month or so. Yay! Then my next tackle will be Citeron (book 2 in the Veil Realms series, Memoirs of a Super Hero, Mary Jane, Chasing the Madness and hopefully we’ll see Nine Lives on Amazon very soon.

 

 

 

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

Readers.

 

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Absolutely! It’s the most amazing thing to love what you do and state… I’m an author. And it’s something you can put you whole heart and soul into. Plus, you get to wear pajamas all day and drink coffee. Lol.

 

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

No, not really.

 

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

I believe it was my late husband, he was the only one in the beginning that cheered me on, stayed up with me through the nights and talked about storylines, plots, character developments and supported me through thick and thin. He inspired me and it was our love that inspired my love stories.

 

 

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

Sure… I would be happy to.

Please note: This is still a current work in progress.

Disclaimer – This book is intended for mature audiences only.

Chapter One

 

“A stake through the heart…” I flip another page and grumble, “Exposure to the sun.” Another page. “Decapitation.” And another. “Starvation.” I roam my eyes over to Graham, annoyed.

“Where’s the good stuff in this fossilized book?”

He directs a shimmer of a glance my way, but still keeps his blue eyes on the ill-lit road. The city of Solace is a distant memory, but one I will not soon forget. Graham found a set of wheels for us, more like a war machine. A Gothic black 1965 Buick Rivera, to travel the wastelands, the barren lifeless roads. Each mile means I’m that much farther away from the Elites. The elites are hunting us, and every pit stop we make, someone’s watching us. So, whether it’s a cashier at a gas station or a hitchhiker wandering the dusty roads, Graham makes sure they have no breath to reiterate what or who they just saw.

“There’s more in the book, Mattie,” Graham reveals, and magically flicks the pages backward with a simple gesture from his finger. His unworldly succulent eyes study me. “Bleed,” he says in a deep and throaty tone.

The only way I can read the book in my lap, the Voynich’s book, is for a drop of vampire blood to touch the page. I press my nail into my hand and squeeze the ruby red blood from my palm. The crimson fluid turns into ink and the encrypted symbols begin to form into words. Readable, fluent sentences appear, and I start to decipher what I’m seeing.

“Vampires have existed since the dawn of man, and since that time, the two races have been at war. Both fighting for their own instinctual survival. Mankind had daylight on their side, to them vampires were nothing more than a menace.

The vampires ruled the night, but were also reliant on the humans… for their blood. After centuries of bloody war the humans believed they had finally won, and fell into a state of complacency, but the vampires, concealed by shadows of night, discovered another race being hunted and persecuted by the humans… witches.

These two formed an alliance and began slowly developing a strategy to infiltrate and take over humanity, without mankind ever knowing. First, a serum was created, giving them the one thing the humans had advantage of, the sun. Now the nightwalkers walk the day, and soon all aspects of society will be within our grasp. In five hundred years, we shall rule the world.”

As soon as my last word expels from my lips the sentences fade, no words, no ancient scribbly handwriting, not even a hint that my blood had even spilled there.

“So all this time humans think that vampires are mere stories of myth and forgotten legends, but in fact they’re the ruling class of humanity. How ironic— wait a minute… how many cities are there like Solace?”

Graham hits the lights, deadening the path in front of us even more, and steers the car off the road. The town, Shadow Hills, caps the dry scenery in the distance. Graham slips out and scouts the area. He walks, no that’s not accurate, he glides toward the front of the car. His long trench coat whispers along the ground as he waits a breath before he answers me.

“There are more cities like Solace than you would like to know about, Mattie.”

“So, we’re fucked?” I quip getting out, my eyes roam around the dreary landscape. I set my hope for blood on a metaphorical shelf for now and stride toward the back of the car. I slam my fist hard against the dusty metal and watch as vials of daylight shine like the Holy Grail from the trunk. I slide one translucent bottle from its precious cushioned protection and inspect it. The entire trunk is filled with cases of daylight, and if I’m careful, it will last me a couple of years. But, if I am not, I may just end up being a flesh-skinning nightwalker and that’s not a go-to option for me.

Graham motions over at the horizon just as the sun breaks through the early morning light. I quickly slip the vial back in its snug, tight concealment and make sure the cases are securely closed before I slam the trunk shut. I might be able to go a few days without needing another dose, but a thousand or so vials of daylight won’t last me forever. In the book it mentions witches, an alliance between us and them. And how they conjured the serum, now, all I need is a witch.

“Your friend… she’s there,” Graham announces and shifts his provocative eyes toward me.

“How do you know? You have a thing for witches too?” I sass meeting his pace, his body meets mine. We’re close to touching but not. I swallow hard watching as he licks his full sinful lips. He’s been careful not to touch me since we hightailed it out of Solace, all of his energy and concentration has solely been on keeping us safe. But now, I can see his sexual frustration building, he wants to touch me, he needs to touch me.

Finally, his right hand ensnares around my waist, pressing our hips closer. His blue eyes scour over my face as if he’s deciding on how he wants to take me. “Witches? No… They couldn’t survive my ways, they’re not nearly wicked enough.”

 

 

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

No, not really. Once I get a scene or a voice in my head and a little music, I’m in. And the words start to flow.

 

 

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

I love Stephen King, but I do have others… like Alessandra Torre, Eva LeNoir, CD Reiss, Melanie Harlow, Tarryn Fisher, and Colleen Hoover. They all have a way of writing that brings their stories to life. Meaning after I read one of their amazing books I’m having major book hangovers, their characters linger with you for days on end and I love that!

 

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

No, I like to try and create things from my own imagination.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I do, it’s one of my favorite things to do.

 

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

Time.

 

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

I’ve learned quite a bit, one most important thing I have learned is your imagination has no limits. And letting a story sit for a month or two can be very eye-opening, because you can always go back to it and see a section or a line you want to rewrite or even remove entirely.  The goal for me is being truly happy with what I wrote and making it the best story possible.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

I do. Don’t be in a big rush, take your time. Writing is something like a marathon race. Pace yourself. And don’t get discouraged, we’ve all been through bouts with self-doubt, but never, ever let that or anyone else take what you believe in away. Write your story, your way, and know that if you’re doing something that you truly love, then you’re doing something right for you.

 

 

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

Thank you, I honestly don’t know where I would be without such phenomenal readers! I truly appreciate each of you for taking the time to pick up one of my books and reading it.  And just as a side note: Midnight is coming very soon, along with Citeron (book 2 in the Veil Realms series) my intent is sometime this year, I’ll post release dates as soon as I can.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Oh, that one is hard to say… I would have to say Stephen King, Pet Cemetery. I think.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Hearing my youngest son laugh, it’s kind of contagious.

 

 

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

Keanu Reeves, let’s just say I have a tiny little crush on him.

 

 

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

Oh, another tough one.  “The boundaries which divide Life and Death are at best shadowy and vague. Who shall say where one ends, and where the other begins?” –Edgar Allen Poe.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

Hiking, biking and cooking.

 

 

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

American Horror Show, Game of Thrones and Lost Girl.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music.

I love Chinese, cheese cake and homemade, loaded potato soup. Colors, now that depends. Purple, but if you were to look into my closest you would see my attire is mostly black. Music, I feel I have a very wide taste in music, I love anything like Evanescence, Meg Myers to Florence + the Machine. I also love discovering new (new to me anyway) bands such as The Hyve, Thousand Foot Krutch, ZZ Ward and Coasts.

 

 

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

Become a chef, I really love cooking and trying to make new recipes.

 

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a blog/website?

If so what is it? Yes, here’s my website: http://crescentbound.wix.com/karli-rush

 

My blog, and sometimes I’ll have free short stories posted, so keep a look out! http://rushboundblog.wordpress.com/

 

My Pinterest where I’ll add inspiration for my characters and whatnot: http://www.pinterest.com/rushbound/

 

My Author Amazon page: http://www.amazon.com/Karli-Rush/e/B007DJNOMW

I’ll list a few other social media sites as well for you here.

 

Facebook pages: https://www.facebook.com/karli.rush1

 

https://www.facebook.com/Author-Karli-Rush-456180034468576/?fref=nf

 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/KarliRush

Here is my interview with Ken Bruen

Name Ken Bruen

Age.    Really?

Where are you from.      Galway

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

I have a Ph. D in Metaphysics

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?  

Ten part series on French TV TITLED 100 code. Jack Taylor six movies on Netflix and today they began filming two more in Galway

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?  

From my teens, and did it because it felt right.

 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?  

After 35 books published, I still don’t call myself a writer.

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?  

Funerals and football

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?  

Yes, stripped to the very bone.

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?  

Title of what?

 

 

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

Yes, humour is the saving Grace and best revenge.

 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic ?

All is imagined.

 

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

Based on a wild imagination.

 

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

PeterDexter.

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?  

The Gilded Chalet by Padraig Roomey.

 

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

Travel writers.

 

 

Fiona: What are your current projects?  

New TV series and two new books to edit for publication next year, one with Jason Starr.

 

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

Craig Mc Donald.

 

 

 

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?  

No, but a blessing and a curse.

 

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

No.

 

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

No.

 

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

It’s about the power and destruction of revenge.

 

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing? Yes, the blank page every single day,

 

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

Pete Kaminsky, he writes like I think.

 

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

Yes

 

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?  

Grove Atlantic.

 

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

The last 100 Pages

 

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

Yes, I wish I had a real job.

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?  

Leave home.

 

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

Support the bookshops

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?  

Padraig O Conaire, M’ Asal Beag Dubh.

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?  

Owen Daglish.

 

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

Joan Rivers for her humour.

 

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

He got bad reviews.

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?  

Cycling, mountain climbing.

 

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

Netflix, Making a Murderer and Rectify.

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music   

Chili, blue and country amd Western, esp Tom Russell

 

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

Be a cop,

 

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

http://kenbruenauthor.com/

 

Amazon Authors Page http://www.amazon.com/Ken-Bruen/e/B000APP5EQ/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1

Here is my interview with Jettie Woodruff

Name Jettie Woodruff

Where are you from– Eastern Ohio

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

I’m going to take the credit for most of my education. I’ve never been one to learn something from someone else. I hated school, and there was no way I was ever going to pay money to do it again after high school. Before writing I spent most of my adult life in sales and marketing, and raising three kids. I will celebrate twenty six years with the same man in June and might keep him around for another year or two. We’ll see, lol.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Latest big news is my last release. Both books of my twin duo series made it into the Amazon top 100 YAY!!!!!

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

Hmmm, when I was just a little thing. Maybe like six or seven. I’ve always made up stories and wrote them down.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When Miss Lee told me I was. She was my third grade teacher. I played grandma in a Christmas play only I changed the words to make them sound better. Of course life got in the way and my acting and writing career was put on hold. Maybe I should try the acting thing again now, too.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I wrote my first book with a number two pencil and a spiral notebook. I wrote it again ten years later while at work. I was a store manager and had a lot of time on my hands. I did it because I always wanted to do it, and I just kept going. Now I can’t stop…

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I’m not sure that I do. People tell me that I do, but I don’t know how to describe it. I write what comes out my fingers.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

All of my titles come after I’ve started a book…usually.

 

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

Always, even in my darker books I try to put something positive in them, something that people can read and say, “hmmm, so true.” Life is too short for drama and boxes. Get out of your comfort zone and do something you’ve never done before, go somewhere you’ve never gone, and meet lots of friends.

 

 
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic ?

I try to make all of my books realistic, but original. I’m tired of reading the same old cliché books, I definitely don’t want to write them.

 

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

I mean, I always put bits and pieces of my life in my work. I also pay attention to whatever subject I am working on like little kids at the mall, or an older couple at a restaurant, things like that, but events, I would have to say no.

 

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

Hmmm that’s tough. I’ve always been a reader, starting with the boxcar kids. I think I read all those books by the time I was ten. VC Andrews had a big impact when I was a teenager. Flowers in the attic, and then still my favorite by her, The Casteel series. My first dark read.

 

 
Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m reading an ARC by my friend and very talented writer, Aleatha Romig. Yes, I have Cunning and it is amazing. I love Nox more than Tony.

 

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

I would love to say yes, but unfortunately I don’t have the time to read like I used to. I mostly read ARC’s from author friends, and that’s about it.

 

 
Fiona: What are your current projects?

Right now I am working on a standalone, spin-off. Brantley Jandt is a country music singer living in Nashville Tennessee. Not only is he the second grade teacher of Paxton and Gabriella’s oldest daughter, he will also be the neighbor. Brantley never wanted to be a teacher. He only used that to get to Nashville, a backup plan until he made it big. An eighteen-month-old little girl changes that.

 

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

I’m a firm believer in getting back what you put out. I’ve always known I would make it, and I’ve never let anyone or anything tell me otherwise. Hard work, determination, and believing in yourself is all you ever need.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes, I have been a full time writer for two years now, and I am very grateful that I can do that.

 

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

Hmmm, I don’t think so. I try not to doubt myself. It makes me too crazy.

 

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

Not really. My first book was about a girl who got bit by a spider and ended up with super powers. I might have been around nine or ten.

 

 

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

Brantley Jandt leaves his dream of becoming the next Garth Brooks to take care of his little girl for one year to let the mother of the child go to Kenya for her own dream. Not only does he get a little girl, he gets a job as a second grade teacher in a catholic school. He’s never been around babies or kids. This one is going to be a lot of angst, but not dark, and with this situation, there has to be some comedy in there.

 

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

Oh man, I don’t even know where to start. It’s all challenging, the storyline, plot holes, keeping a nice flow, wording, editing, all of it, but that is why I love it so much.

 

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

I don’t really have a favorite, but that could be because I don’t get to read as much as I used to. I love a lot of different authors.

 

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

Yes, every chance I get. I have four signing this year, and that’s plenty. I would like to get in a family vacation, too sometime this summer. I want to hike the Appalachian Trail for a few days, and I want to do Universal Studios. We’ll see.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I designed the last covers myself, and my friend Jenna helped with the logistics, the right sizing and all.

 

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

Hmmm, I’m not sure. I guess keeping the plot clean.

 

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

I learn something from every book I write. This one was to stop procrastinating.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Unfortunately, writing is the easy part. Learn to market your work. If you have the desire to be a successful writer, don’t let anything or anyone get in your way. Hard work, determination, and believing in yourself is all you need.

 

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

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I remember reading lots of books. I was always the first in line on library day.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

My two little grand babies, Dallas Lynn, and Bristol Vaugn can make anyone bust a gut. My oldest son is in a bad place in his life right now, and I can’t fix him. That makes me sad.

 

 

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

I would love to party with Jennifer Lawrence, sit down and have a conversation with Oprah Winfrey, and hug Zig Ziglar.

 

 

 

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

Nothing, I don’t want one of those things. Just spread my ashes on a tropical beach. That would make me happy.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I love being outdoors, a hike through the woods, a bike trail surrounded by nature, or an ocean view. I also paint, and love to refurbish old furniture.

 

 

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

The big bang theory, The Royals, Tiny house, and most anything on the E channel.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Salad and fish, red because it signifies power, and pop, Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry, The Royals, Adam Lavine, Adel, Justin Bieber.

 

 

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

Hmmm, Open a restore shop with old furniture turned modern.

 

 

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

http://www.jettiewoodruffauthor.com/

 

Amazon Authors Page  http://www.amazon.com/Jettie-Woodruff/e/B00AYLK46K/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1422560279&sr=8-2-ent

Here is my interview with Andrew Jericho

Name:  Andrew Jericho

 

Age:  42

 

Where are you from:  I was born in Oklahoma, but have lived in Arkansas since the age of five.

 

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

I’m a gay transgender man. My professional life is that of a ManLove erotic romance author for Siren-BookStrand Publishing, LGBTQ rights activist, humanitarian, and freelance journalist/photographer.  In my family life, I’ve been committed to my partner, John, for over two decades.  John and I have two teenage children, 18 and 15.  I enjoy spending time with my family, photography, eclectic tastes in music and the arts, and browsing the local library and art galleries.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I recently wrote a guest contributor post for Romance University titled, “Romance, Passion, and Eroticism:  Creating More Than Sex Between Male Lovers In Literature.”  The post can be read at:    http://romanceuniversity.org/2015/12/21/romance-passion-and-eroticism-creating-more-than-sex-between-male-lovers-in-literature/.

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I don’t believe in a ‘one true path’ to becoming an author.  I never had an epiphany that writing was my calling.  I began my career as a freelance journalist and photographer, and became a ManLove erotic romance author in November, 2012 upon the publication of my first book, Ripped, with Siren-BookStrand Publishing.  I’ve always been a writer in one form or another.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I wrote my first short story in high school.

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

My partner, John.  He’s my muse.  In my recent guest contributor post for Romance University I wrote the following about John:

“Before I put thought to text, I turn to my muse. A muse is anything which inspires. For over two decades, my greatest inspiration has been my partner, John. I credit the real-life intimacy I share with him as my writing sustenance. Looking into his eyes I’m able to see a past, present, and future where time moves forward, yet stands still. Intimacy is not only what we’ve discovered between the sheets, but those moments treading life through all its intricacies.”

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I like routines, but am also fond of spontaneity.  I’ve written under different circumstances and surroundings.  I’m a panster.   My titles explore gay men in real situations of life and love.  I blend romance, passion, and eroticism into all of my characters.

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The title, Hard Times (Prison Masters 1), was inspired by a photo I made during a walk-through of the county detention center in my hometown.  The picture depicted the graffiti ‘Hard Times’written on the ceiling above a top bunk.  The image was included in a journalist article I wrote, documenting overcrowding and the deteriorating architectural structure of the facility.

 

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

Love is possible in any situation.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

In addition to the inspiration I received from the walk-through of the country detention center, the book is also loosely based on Tucker Unit, a maximum security prison in Arkansas.

The white scrubs for inmates, and the lines on the floor prisoners walk behind, are realistic.  As of 2009, they are at least 100 inmates who live in a dormitory cell block.  These are prison workers.  Rather than actually addressing that in the book, I’ve alluded to it.

I gave my prison setting a new name, Tuckerville Unit.  Also, Arkansas doesn’t have conjugal visits.  My book does.  😉

 

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

I infuse my characters and story lines with small bits and pieces of myself, John and parts of our life. Still yet, both are original creations.

 

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

Too many books to mention.  As far as a mentor?  I’ve learned many important things from my partner, John.

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Too many books, and too little time!  I have an obscene amount of titles on my TBR list.  I’m always between several pieces of literature.

 

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

I have eclectic tastes in literature, as well as music and the arts.  Again, there are too many to mention.

 

Fiona: What are your current projects?

My WIPs include Rock Stars 4, Drag Show 2, and Prison Masters 2.  In addition, I’m active with the writing groups ManLove Fantasies, Book Escape, and Writers Promoting Writers.

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

A retired university professor, which I studied under, teaches institutional marks hold little value in the true knowledge an individual holds.  He believes an educated person is one who, ten years from now, is be able to meet him at a sidewalk Paris bistro, sit down for a cup of espresso, and have an intelligent conversation about life.

His classes weren’t the usual stylized lectures, but interactive experiences between teacher and student, where ideas and theories were discussed as a group. Formal exams were not given. He preferred to assign grades based on student opinions and interpretations of material.  As a result, this professor taught others to think outside of the box, nothing is as it seems, and to quote him, “the woes of tortured academic matters.”

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes, a rewarding career!

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

No.  Never look back, only forward.

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

As mentioned, I wrote my first short story in high school.  From there, I became a freelance journalist and photographer.  Then, in 2012, I was published with Siren-BookStrand.  My journey as a writer is ongoing.  I’m always learning.

 

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

Information about my books can be found on my Website:  http://andrewjericho.com/books/.

 

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

The most challenging part of writing is weaving romance, passion, and eroticism into a realistic story.  I strive to capture gay men in real situations of life and love.

 

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

Too many to list.

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

No.  To date, all of my books have been set in Arkansas, my home state.  The individual towns are either places I’ve lived, or visited.  This has helped in terms of setting descriptions.  As far as character occupations, I’ve spent some time in research.  However, ninety-percent of any story I create focuses on the romance between the characters.   I try to make setting and occupational descriptions secondary aspects.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Christine Kirchoff designed my first two covers.  All subsequent ones, were created by Harris Channing.

 

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

The hardest part of being an author is managing time constraints. My family is an important priority in my life, and I‘m always seeking a balance between the two.

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

A writer shouldn’t just desire to create characters, and the worlds in which they live.  A writer should desire, too, the craft of literature.

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

The first step is getting published.  The next?  Promote, promote, promote!  Also when writing, don’t be afraid to share your thoughts.  There will be people who respect you, not only for your ideas, but for your honesty.

Be kind to readers and other authors.  Give shout-outs to fellow writers.  However, promo shouldn’t be the only thing you post on social media.  Readers want to feel connected to their favorite writers.  Post about other interests besides writing.

 

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

I enjoy hearing from all of my readers, and look forward to their e-mails and kind thoughts.  Remember love is love…period!  Not only are they readers, but friends.  I want readers to walk away from my writing with a true sense of romance.

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Probably something by Dr. Seuss, at a young age.

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Family makes me laugh and cry with joy.  My children are the best part of me—my greatest accomplishment.  They are the purest and sweetest evidence of the love I share with John.

 

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

My Dad who passed away on September 7, 2012.  I wrote a Veteran’s Day post on my blog which explains why I’d like to talk with him.  The post can be read at:   http://andrewjericho.com/veterans-day-2015-my-father-a-wounded-warrior-and-my-mothers-military-service/

 

 

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

“My greatest accomplishments are my children, Jonah and Deven, and the love I created with my partner, John.”

Why do I want this written on my head stone?  Because, the greatest joys in life are faith, hope, and love.  Those ideals are not material.  They have to felt by the human heart.

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

Other than writing, I enjoy spending time with my family, photography, eclectic tastes in music and the arts, and browsing the local library and art galleries.

 

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

To name a few, I enjoy The Walking Dead, Fear the Walking Dead, American Horror Story, and Humans.  However, there are many others.

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Favorite Foods:  Italian and Mexican

Colors:  Black and Gray

Music:  Eclectic tastes

 

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

As a young man, I often had dreams of joining the ROTC in college and becoming a military officer.   I also wondered what being a law enforcement officer, or firefighter would be like.

 

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

My Website, including my blog, can be found at:  http://andrewjericho.com/.

 

 Buy Links:  BookStrand | Kindle | Nook | Kobo | Apple | Google

[Ménage and More ManLove: Erotic Alternative Consensual BDSM Ménage a Trois Romance, M/M/M, HEA]

Ace Freeman is the president of Prison Masters, a BDSM club for gay males.  He’s in love with cellmate Tyler Chase and guard Paul Ryder.  Ace is Dominant, desiring to take both men as pets.

As an experienced sub, Tyler wants to give submission to two Masters. He slips an explicit drawing into Ace’s notebook. Later, he blurts out his affections for Paul. Tyler hopes his actions will gain collars from both men.

Underneath Paul’s shy and soft-spoken exterior lies a man who lives the BDSM lifestyle. Paul is a switch. The guard desires a Master who can fulfill his need for no limits, and a pet to dominate. However, Paul knows his desires for Ace and Tyler have the potential to cost his job.

A good Master cares for his pets. Ace believes that principle. Once a triad begins to form, Ace needs to find a way to ensure their love will survive even in the hard times.

 

 

 

Bio:  

Andrew Jericho is a ManLove erotic romance author for Siren-BookStrand Publishing, LGBTQ rights activist, humanitarian, and freelance journalist/photographer.  His books explore gay men in real situations of life and love.  Andrew blends romance, passion, and eroticism into all of his characters.

He is a gay transgender man, who lives with his partner, John Jericho, and family.  He enjoys photography, eclectic tastes in music and the arts, and browsing the local library and art galleries.  All of Andrew’s work can be found at:  Andrew Jericho.

 

Here is my interview with Joe Klingler

Name: Joe Klingler

Where are you from?

The Great Black Swamp in Ohio. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Black_Swamp)

A little about yourself and your education Family life etc.

Well Fiona, I grew up in a large family and walked back and forth to a nearby school. I turned to visiting the local public library on my bicycle after going through reams of my older brother’s superhero comic books. Learned to play guitar a bit, and decided to study electrical engineering because I wanted to know about amplifiers, but learned about computers instead. The digital world carried me on a long curvy ride through medical imaging, then special effects for film and video, until I became interested in writing techno-thrillers and mysteries about the human race’s win/lose interaction with the technology it creates.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I just released my third novel, a mystery named Missing Mona, the first in a hopefully long line of Tommy Cuda Mysteries. It’s a big departure for me from the thriller genre, because it’s a straight mystery told in the first person about a guy who wakes up after his 29^th birthday party and realizes his life is half over. He’s unhappy with living a virtual life based on social media interactions, so sets out to change it using a gift from his late grandfather: a 1965 Plymouth Barracuda.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

In the 90s I had an idea for a book while commuting between San Francisco and Montreal on a too regular basis. The idea wouldn’t leave me alone, so I started filling notebooks by hand during the flights; the flight attendants never make you turn off a pencil. Instead of moving to my next nice, logical hi-tech job in a string of hi-tech jobs churning out software, I decided to write the book to see what would happen. I was drawn partially by the idea (dream, fantasy) that a writer could live anywhere in the world, and still go to work everyday. That was four books ago (that first book remains unpublished, but one of these days I’ll go back, it’s still calling me).

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Depends on your definition. A writer, to me, is someone who writes as regularly as other people show up at work, and cares about what they are producing. Making your novel available through sales channels and selling your first book will make you feel like you’ve arrived at something. As well it should, publishing is a big milestone. But it also scares you because now you realize, perhaps coldly and clearly for the very first time, someone is going to actually read what you wrote, and have an opinion about your work. Terrifying. You also then start to worry if anyone will buy what you wrote. This is a brand new worry that you didn’t have while writing your first book. But it’s those first reviews that show someone actually read your work, and perhaps didn’t care for it; those make you think, and make you feel like a writer because you’ve firmly closed the writer/reader loop with a stranger.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

The uneasy feeling that if we remain on our current trajectory, a computer will eventually take everyone’s job, because computers can do most anything more cheaply than a human can do it. Machines doing work for us is wonderful. But it’ll take careful thought to figure out how the humans are going to fit in. However, I haven’t publish that book (yet).

What inspired RATS, my debut novel, was an article I read about a little boy in Vietnam who found a piece of left over war ordnance. He wanted to see it explode, so he tossed it repeatedly at a board leaning against the side of the building. He was successful. Surgeons managed to save his life. That story got me thinking about the companies who manufacture war machines, and the damage those machines do long after the war is over to people who weren’t even alive while it was being fought.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

It’s difficult for me to analyze my own style, because I’m inside of it. I like action that moves, is visceral, and that lights up inside the reader’s mind as if they were taking part in it. Not watching it on the silver screen, but actually being there smelling smoke, eyes watering, heat from the fire pressing against their backs. I also prefer paragraphs that have the rhythm of a great drummer; the underlying pulse itself carrying the reader forward through the story while loads of little details dance on the surface.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

A redhead tells Tommy her name is Mona. Then she goes missing. I look for a key element in the story, and then think about the structure of the title. One hard noun (RATS), or something that paints action (Missing Mona). I like ambiguity and depth in a title. What kind of RATS? Oh, Washington, DC. You mean two legs, double-dealing low-life sneaking conniving RATS. But there is yet another RAT that plays a key role in the book, but no spoilers here.

Also consider, has Mona disappeared, and is therefore missing? Or is someone missing her in her absence…or perhaps both? Or even, is Mona missing something or someone?

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

Beyond the action and plot, my novels are a meditation on some aspect of social intercourse. In Missing Mona Tommy’s life is evolving, and as part of that evolution he examines his relationship to technology, or as he puts it in the book, he enters a “technology reallocation phase.” I simply hope readers meditate on the issues along with me, drawing their own conclusions about what aspects of the story may or may not apply to their own lives.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

I strive to write realism at all times, although I sometimes push what people might think technology can do, or an institution can do. I try to ensure the nerds (including myself) are comfortable that what I write is not only possible, but probably happening inside a startup or government lab already.

I also try to ensure that although a character’s reaction might initially surprise a reader, as the story evolves they become convinced that, yes, that is indeed how that character would have reacted under the circumstances. Of course, the more you learn about a character, the more they are capable of in your mind. You begin to understand their skills, motivations, strengths, and weaknesses.

 

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

Yes, all of the above. And extrapolations of anything I can imagine from people I’ve known, situations I’ve experienced, worlds I’ve imagined, adventures I’ve wished I could have. No character I write is a direct copy of a real person, never, not even close; though some of the character’s traits might have come from real people. I know many computer scientists, and musicians for example, and having known them I’m sure is blended into the characters I write.

It’s as if all of my life experience has been mixed into a huge huge pot. Then as a writer staring at a blank page I ask, okay, from this pot I need a guy who would get into his Grandfather’s car, alone, and point it west, on an impulse. Who is that guy, what motivates him, and what does he do when he meets Mona? Tommy Cuda is the result.

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

Early books that stand out: The God Machine by Martin Caidin created a future world that was both scary and exciting for a young boy in which computers were dangerous. Four Wheel Drift by Richard Hough (writing as Bruce Carter) featured a racer and an engineer that built the car. What could be better? Something awesome to do (race), and the blueprint on how to get there (learn).

On the writing front On Writing by Stephen King is amazing in its scope. And a book I had to locate used on Amazon, Lessons from a Lifetime of Writing by David Morrell (the creator of Rambo), is brilliant in its guidance on craft.

I also received sound advice in a one-on one-meeting with Tim Maleeny at the Mystery Writers Conference, and learned a great deal from reading Robert Crais, Michael Connelly, Don Winslow and a host of other great writers who took the time to speak at this conference.

At the end of the day, anything a writer sees, hears, smells, or reads can and will find its way into his or her writing. So be careful what you let into your head.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

The Last Good Kiss by James Crumley, written in 1978, is a masterclass in characterization, action, and the profound use of the surprising metaphor.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I’m working on the Kandy and Qigiq novel that chronologically follows Mash Up—the interaction between these two detectives has captured my attention. The book is moving along, and I hope to release it in 2016. But my predictions have been wrong before. (Please ask your interested readers to join Joe’s Readers on my website (joeklingler.com). It’s the one thing I always send out when a new book is released. Social networking is fine, but using it for communication is sketchy at best.)

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

The Mystery Writers Conference at the Book Passage in Corte Madera; I can’t recommend it highly enough. It’s a small conference where attendees dine together at catered meals right at the bookstore, you can purchase a one-on-one consultation with a published author for a modest fee, and every last person loves mysteries and is incredibly supportive of all of us crazies who try to write them. If you’re writing mysteries, and you feel like no one understands you, please go to this conference. You’ll even hear from forensic specialists, former FBI agents, and even gun experts who will tell you how to get your gun handling right. It’s an amazing conference. I’m getting excited about going next year just telling you about it.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I am in the fortunate position at the moment that I can write full time, so if that’s what you mean, then yes, writing is my second career (software engineering being the first). Since quite a bit of technology filters into my books, I feel I am building my second career on top of the first to a large extent (this is the write what you know advice that writers so often hear). But I write because I love the freedom (physical, emotional, intellectual) that crafting a novel provides. It can be a lonely existence some days, but it’s a wild ride.

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

I publish paperback books POD (Print on Demand), and eBooks. Truly, if I wanted to change something, I would just change it and upload new files. Shazam! it would be changed for the next reader. Books are no longer cast in concrete as they were in the days of offset printing by the thousands. Books are now essentially software. By all means, use this to your advantage to fix typos, correct factual errors etc.

How much can one change without changing the book? I don’t know. I’m not sure it’s even relevant. If you want to change your book, change it. It’s your book. If you change it a whole lot, maybe you should call it a second edition to reduce confusion in the marketplace.

In my latest book, Missing Mona, I’ve made all the changes I want. In the world of eBooks and POD, very little time passes between when I finish the last edit, and readers can buy the book on Amazon. Weeks at most. Certainly not the year long delay with the traditional printing process. That said, as readers read the book and I receive feedback, I might come up with a better idea and I’ll want to change something.  Then I have a decision to make: do I invest my time in my new book, or go back and tweak an existing one? So far, though occasionally tempted, I’ve chosen to focus on my next book and leave the current ones ride like a Las Vegas bet. They represent what I was thinking back then, and so are a snapshot of a certain view at a certain time. So I mostly leave them alone.

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

I read quite a lot, and realized one day that I enjoy books as much as computers. I really like writing software (it is such a blast because the computer gives objective, unrelenting, instant feedback as to how well you’re doing). So one day, with this idea for a book churning around in my head, I wondered what writing a novel would be like? Would it be like writing software (long hours in a chair are similar), or different (computers don’t get emotional and irrational on you, but characters do all the time). So I decided to try it. Cold. A novel. No short stories. No essays. No articles for magazines. That’s the book I haven’t published because it needs revising. But after finishing it I enjoyed the process so much that I immediately started on the next one, RATS, which has made finalist in a few indie awards, and motivated me to write Mash Up.

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

I make a point of not talking about a work in progress to anyone at anytime—not even the people who are closest to me. They can hear me typing (or pushing a fountain pen) but have no idea what I’m working on because if I talk about it, I start to get confused in trying to explain it to another person, and that somehow dilutes my creative energies. So I write first, talk later.

That said, let me share this. It’s Kandy and Qigiq. It’s a mystery/thriller a la Mash Up. There are musicians. There is a great deal of technology that is mostly hidden at first. A key social problem is meditated upon. At least one. It has absolutely nothing to do with Mash Up except it is their next case…the one that starts immediately after Mash Up ends in chronological time.

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

The same thing as I find challenging in life: Balance.

How do I make the novel long enough, but not too long? How much setting, action, plot twists? Am I inside the character’s head too much. Have I dwelled too long on one scene? Not long enough to be clear? Too many characters? Too few? A good editor can help with this, and I’ve been fortunate to do my first three books with a fantastic and sensitive professional editor named Robyn Russell. She asked a lot of hard questions, and I find in properly answering them in the manuscript, I found a better balance.

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

That’s worse than picking my favorite guitarist; I just can’t ever define a favorite. But here goes. I really like Isaac Asimov’s creative brilliance in seeing the future, Stephen King’s raw storytelling power, and guts to not reach closure with the Colorado Kid,  Michael Connelly’s deep knowledge of police procedures and character, Don Winslow’s nuclear grade screaming. I couldn’t ever pick just one, they all speak to me, in different ways at different times, in my own differing states of mind.

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

I try to write about places that I’ve experienced on more than one occasion, because it lets me get deeper into the setting. So I travel to locations some, and when I do, I take lots of pictures. I like to motorcycle tour, and have used going to a location as a good excuse for a motorbike ride. However, traveling isn’t always an option. In that case, I try to immerse myself in media from the area: are there magazines and DVDs about the place? And Google maps with street view is your friend.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I managed engineering teams that developed software for special effects for film and video for years, so I know a few people in that industry. My buddy Ansel does the covers; I provide input about what I think is most important in the story.

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

For me, the middle is the hardest, most delicate, part.

Dani Shapiro, in her book Still Writing: The Perils and Pleasures of a Creative Life talks about “the muddle of the middle.” And it can be a muddle for sure. The middle of the common three-act structure has to move from Setup to Confrontation. Of course you have to do the setup well. But in the middle, plots twist and turn, characters surprise you, new challenges emerge, and all must lead to the Resolution. A whole lot has to happen in the middle, but it must unfold like a roadmap, even while it feels fresh and exciting and not formulaic. The middle. It’s the middle where magic happens or things fall flat.

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

I learned that no matter how careful you are as a writer, fresh eyes will always provide new insight into your work. A fresh reader, or better yet professional editor, brings their unique perspective to a manuscript. When they read your work, their autobiography intersects with your vision. He or she will ask questions of things you thought were obvious, or point out things you never even noticed. This type of beta testing can really improve a manuscript. But it’s tough. You might think some of the feedback is foolish, or uniformed. That’s okay. Receive all of it with an open mind. Do not try immediately to explain why you are right and the reader is wrong. Just absorb everything. Sleep on it. Take a long walk, maybe a vacation. Soon, ideas will pop up. Oh yeah, I see now how to improve that scene, character, plot point. Then go do it.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

I was at the Squaw Valley Writers Conference attending a public lecture. A writer whose name I wish I could remember said, “Whatever else you do, write every day.” Wallace Stegner, the great writer and teacher, in his book On Teaching and Writing Fiction said, “Write every day. Or at least six days a week. Not three or four.” He also talked about the need to live simultaneously in two worlds, the one where your body resides, and the one you’re creating in your novel. So…

At the risk of sounding foolish, I suggest you Write! How are you a writer if you’re in a coffee shop on your cellphone talking about writing, and posting to Facebook about it? Write. Measure what you write. How many words did you write today (your word processor will tell you)? Don Winslow says he does five pages a day. How about this week? This month? Last year? Learn to let words flow out of you because you’ve trained yourself (and constructed your life) to bring them out. If the blank page freaks you out—just start typing words. Any words. But keep at it. If you can produce one decent page a day, in a year you’ll have a novel.

That said, I’m a big fan of listening to successful writers. I’ve mentioned a few books on writing (Stephen King, Dani Shapiro, David Morrell, Wallace Stegner), there are dozens of others. If you get stuck writing, pick up a book and read about writing. These people have hacked through the forest before you and have much good advice about the journey you are on. Some of it might resonate with your soul and help you.

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

Thank you. Thank you for taking a risk with my work, and thank you for telling everyone you can about it—because remaining obscure is the most likely outcome for any writer. And thank you for writing reviews, which help immensely with an author’s marketing efforts.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I remember reading Four Wheel Drift on the porch of the house where I grew up, while sitting in a folding lawn chair with my feet up on a black iron railing. I was enraptured with what the two young guys in the book were going through, and have loved engineering and racing ever since.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Someone who really deserves it getting his or her just desserts.

Gentle compassion helping lift the receiver from a place they may have never escaped on their own.

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

Beethoven. He left so many questions unanswered. Would love to hear him explain where he got his ideas, and what drove him to compose such intense music.

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

He showed up and gave it his best shot.

Because that’s the most I think you can ask of anyone. Asking them to be present, and try. Outcomes are ephemeral, and somewhat random. But effort comes from within.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Motorcycles (all kinds: racers, adventure bikes, cruisers, touring), electric guitars (love the blues), my grand piano (big fan of Philip Glass), and the practice of yoga as a deep and endless journey.

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

I have cut the cable, and rarely watch TV. I occasionally watch movies (though I prefer to read the book first). I like big sci-fi action flicks because I find it interesting to see what predictions the writers make. I also like documentaries that get into the guts of how complex things are done, such as the building of the atomic bomb, or the development of irrigation systems that cover half a continent, or how the cholera epidemic in London was finally beaten.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Cheeseburgers. Bluish-green. Electric guitar blues.

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

A composer/musician. The world of sound somehow, magically, carries so much emotion, from the lightest tweet of a piccolo, to the explosive blast of a tutti orchestra.

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

www.joeklingler.com .

Please visit. And please sign up for Joe’s Readers. Social networks make it clumsy and expensive to communicate, when we could be keeping in touch so simply with email. I still think email is the killer app of all time, extending as it does, the art of conversation over time and distance.

Authors Amazons Page http://www.amazon.in/Joe-Klingler/e/B00CBKPDGI

http://joeklingler.com/books/missing-mona/

http://joeklingler.com/books/mash-up/

http://joeklingler.com/books/rats/

Here is my interview with Cyndi Lord

Name  Cyndi Lord

Age

I’ll be sixty-years-old next month

Where are you from

I’m originally form southern California, but moved to Michigan with my husband in my early twenties. Ten years ago we moved to northeast Texas

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

I studied for a wide-spectrum career, and received my Master’s Degree in criminal justice. After working in a few areas of law, I chose private investigation. For twenty-eight years, I owned and operated an agency with eleven employees.

Our nine children are grown up with their own families. My husband and I enjoy gardening, and traveling in our motor home.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Earlier in the year, I accepted the position of Editor-in-Chief at E.C.M, a rapidly growing magazine for readers and writers

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I started writing in my early twenties. I had a number of journals detailing the rough patches in my teen years, and typed those out into story form. Within the pages, I found other stories, and captured those. The process hooked me on writing.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

During the period I previously told you about. I didn’t realize then how little I knew about writing. Later, when I took writing classes, then years afterward took advanced writing courses, I re-read what I had first written and cringed at the end of every sentence.

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

My first manuscript remains unpublished due to time elements. It needs extensive editing. I wrote the manuscript from the journals I mentioned, and it tells my personal story of troubled years. Later, I wrote They Call Me Murdered as a way to capture cases I’d handled over the years in a fictionalized book including exploration of the paranormal. This book was published traditionally, and set the course of the series, The Sandra Derringer Chronicles.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

In both of my published series, The Sandra Derringer Chronicles, and The Plain Series (Amish theme) my style has always been to keep it real. Life happens, and situations are seldom predicable. I am earning the title, Queen of Plot Twist, from creating natural, unexpected events in my books.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

For the two, Sandra Derringer Chronicles, books, They Call Me Murdered, is a line from the book, and the same applies to They Call Me Missing.  The to-be-released, next title, They Call Me Avenged, is based on the storyline.

For, The Plain Series, I planned the first three titles based of the on-going series’ story line. A Plain Wish, is the “wish” of the main character. A Plain Adventure, is from the story foundation. The next book to be released in this series, A Plain Love, is based on two mismatched characters’ love, and how they deal with the issues.

My children’s book, Nick The Owlet’s Adventure, is the title my ten-year-old granddaughter gave the book she wanted me to writer for her. She also told me what the book outline was, and I wrote the short manuscript from her idea.

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

Absolutely. They Call Me Murdered, has numerous messages about life and the most important aspects the living miss.
A Plain Wish, addresses the destruction of family life and the devastating effects it has on children through the eyes of a troubled teen girl.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

All of my books are realistic and capture life as it happens to most people. I’d have to say 98% is realistic.

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

Both. The combination of my experiences as a private investigator, child, mother, and grandmother are all utilized in my books.

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

Number one is the Bible. As for secular books, I can’t really say which has the most influence as I enjoy reading fiction, and have enjoyed everything from Laura Ingall’s Wilder, to Stephen King.
Two people have been my greatest writing mentors, my youngest daughter, DaVeena, and my publisher at White Bird Publications, Evelyn. They both believed in me, and helped me become the best author I could be in my stages of growth.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m enjoying another of my favorite author, Linda Castillo’s, Kate Bucholder series books, After the Storm.

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

Ica Lova writes fascinating books. I recommend her to everyone.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

Writing wise, I am writing book three in The Plain Series, A Plain Love, and editing an old manuscript.

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

Northeast Texas Writers Organization has been ideal for critiquing my work and brainstorming new pieces. The annual conference afforded me the opportunity to meet and network with influential people in the industry.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes, I do. I retired from my PI career due to medical reasons and to write and promote full time. Earlier in the year, I expanded to opening an editing service.

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

Probably the cover. It seemed like a good idea at the time. It has received mixed reviews.

 

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

Yes, I do. Last summer I went on a three month, five state book tour.

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Learn the craft of writing and get a good editor before you submit for publication or self-publish.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Yes! Charlotte’s Web. I was in second grade.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

I do. I love to paint in oil, watercolor, and acrylic. Gardening has been a joy to me for years. I love flowers, and I am a vegan – a vegetable garden is perfect for my lifestyle.

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

I like reality shows, true crime, and got hooked on Tyler Perry’s, If Loving You is Wrong, last year.

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

I’m heavily involved in animal rescue and a strong advocate against cruelty. I wish I had more time in the past to open a rescue and expand it to make a difference. I have three dogs, and two are rescues. A couple of months ago I rescued to tiny, abandoned, black kittens.   

Amazon Authors Page http://www.amazon.com/Cyndi-Lord/e/B00I1MPV1C/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1450990316&sr=8-1

Here is my interview with Heather Haven

Name  – Heather Haven

Age – You’re kidding, right? 45 – 37 – 15 Hut, hut, hut!

Where are you from – Born and raised in Florida, the Sunshine State. Live now in the Golden State. Life is good.

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

Went to Miami Dade Junior College and then the University of Miami. That was back in the Punic Wars. My mother was a single mom when it was really, really tough to be one. No social support networks at all. She did a good job, I think.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Am currently writing the 5^th Alvarez Family Murder Mysteries, The CEO Came DOA. Like all my novels, it’s like it is the first time. I thought writing was supposed to get easier!

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I’ve always penned words for as long as I can remember. Poems, lyrics to songs, stuff like that. I had my first paying job when I was 17. I wrote a column for the Miami Beach Sun. It was about the residence of a large condo on Miami Beach. The comings, goings, births, deaths, all sorts if interesting and not so interesting tidbits. The MB Sun is no longer shining, now being defunct. I made $25 a week! I was heady with success.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I always considered myself a writer. I made some money at it right away. Not enough to live on, but enough to think well of myself. If you want to make money doing a craft, writing does not top the list. I’d say take up plumbing.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I’d read dozens of murder mysteries, mainly cozies. Loved them. But one day I said, I can do that. Of course, the first novel took me over 2 years to write. They’re a lot tougher to do than they look!  But I wanted to write something about a quirky family, who do their darnedest to stay together, be supportive and loving, despite whatever gets thrown at them.  Also, and this is important to me, I love blended people. The Italian half of my family came to the States at a time when it was difficult to be Italian. But my family worked hard to integrate and become useful members of our society. I decided to write about new immigrants working hard and succeeding. The series revolves around a half-Latino, half Palo Alto blueblood family who has managed to capture the American dream through perseverance, hard work and familial love.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Yes, easy, breezy, clever (I hope), with humor. At least, that’s what I strive for. Shakespeare, I ain’t.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Not sure. Titles pop into my head but then so do laundry lists. Take the very first book of the Alvarez series, Murder is a Family Business. If I had it to do over again, I wouldn’t name it that. Sounds much more serious than the story warrants. Some men buy the book thinking it’s going to be about organized crime and then they find all the name brand shoes and a kitten. Sometimes I get killed in a review for that! And this last book I’m penning, The CEO Came DOA. The title came to me, I loved it, and I’ve been writing the story around the title. I mean, really Heather? Can you not make this any harder on yourself? Who does that? A challenge is a challenge, but that’s ridiculous. Yet…strangely…I’m having a great time.

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

Family is important. And it takes all kinds and setups to make a family. It’s not just a mother, father, and kids with a station wagon and a large dog. Families come in all shapes and sizes. It’s the love that binds. And being positive. There’s enough negativity in the world without any of us adding to it.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

I try to make all the facts I write about correct. I do a lot of research. But it is a work of fiction, after all, so I play with things.

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

Always. Truth is stranger than fiction every time. As for the stories, I read articles in the papers and then twist them to fit my writing needs. The 2^nd book of the Alvarez Family Mysteries, A Wedding To Die For, is based on an article I read in the New York Times. It was about a family in Egypt who pilfered the tomb of a lesser known king for 60 years! They would take one piece, sell it below the radar, and then the entire family – extended members as well – would benefit from the money. With several passing decades they became educated and some rose to positions of power. The legacy passed on from generation to generation. They only got found out because one of the family members, an assistant curator in a museum, got greedy and substituted real artifacts for phony ones. True story! I transferred the scenario from Egypt to Mexico and I was off and away!

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

P.G. Wodehouse is the one writer who has influenced me the most. He’s a British humorous writer of the 30s and 40s. I love him. He’s written over 90 novels; most notable is his Jeeves and Bertie Wooster series. He is the most hilarious writer I’ve ever read. He knew how to create visual pictures with words. He was a master at it. I am proud to say I copy his style whenever I can.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I am doing a moderator job for four authors for the AAUW on Feb 9^th. I always read each book the author is highlighting. I feel it gives me more questions to ask and a better understanding of the author. Plus I know the audiences like that approach. At this moment I am reading Black Beans and Venom, A Carol Sabala Mystery by Vinnie Hansen. Lucky me.

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

Let’s see: Terri Austin, Cindy Sample, Nancy Parra, Larissa Reinhart, but I don’t know how new they are. There are so many wonderful writers out there it’s hard to choose just a few!

Fiona: What are your current projects?

As I mentioned, The CEO Came DOA, is currently what is vexing me. And here I thought writing about Silicon Valley was going to be easy. Silly me.

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

Sisters in Crime – They are the best.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

It IS my career, Toots. Here I am.

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

No. My latest release is the 3^rd book of the Persephone Cole Vintage Series, The Chocolate Kiss-Off. I think it’s the best of the series to date. But then you always love your latest, don’t you? They’re all your kids and this is the one who did the latest recital.

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

Born to tell a tale.

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

Sure. Here goes:

The CEO Came DOA

Book Five of the

Alvarez Family Murder Mysteries

 

Chapter One

Life was good. I was happy. Let me count the ways. Any day now my sister-in-law’s water would break, and my first niece or nephew would get on with things. I was dubbed Investigator of the Year by the Professional Private Investigators Association of California. No one was more shocked than my mother. I lost five pounds. No one was more shocked than me. And I was getting married in three weeks to a man who thought I was just about as great as I knew he was.

Meanwhile, I was doing my favorite kind of job, which is not chasing bad guys over rooftops, often my sad lot in life, but rather by ferreting them out sitting on my duff in a client’s air-conditioned office. Working undercover, I was sifting through documents at a small start up called Read-Out, a dull but appropriate name, and looking for a saboteur.

This time I got to do my ferreting in jeans and a sweater, not the standard getup required by Lila Hamilton Alvarez, mother mine and chieftess of the family business. The family business is Discretionary Inquiries, better known as DI to everyone but Lila, she who balks at abbreviations, chewing gum, or crossing a lady’s legs anywhere except at the ankles. But despite her mandates, I would have looked even more out of place in a designer suit and heels than I already did, me being female and considered ancient at thirty-four years old.

Ninety-eight percent of the one hundred and forty employees at Read-Out were male, and aged somewhere between puberty and chin hairs. To try and fit in, I gathered my long, dark hair at the nape of my neck in a thick ponytail, donned horn-rimmed glasses, and gave the spinster aunt look a try. It didn’t work.

Recently one of the older techies – had to be twenty-two if a day – hit on me and told me he’d never seen violet-colored eyes as beautiful as mine, all the while staring at my chest. He then proceeded to ask me over to his apartment to play the newest version of Swords and Gremlins. I stopped wearing eye makeup immediately and took to very loose-fitting shirts. Just call me granny.

Read-Out was a bio-tech start-up company claiming to have developed a ground-breaking computer chip. The scuttlebutt was that when said chip was placed under the skin of a human or other mammal, it detected a multitude of conditions or diseases relative to that particular species. Additionally, the chip could predict potential problems for the next five-year period with eighty-nine percent accuracy. For a small fee, there would be monthly transfers of information to a medical data center or your doctor.

This last bit perked up my ears, because breast cancer had struck down many of the women in our family. I’ve lost both grandmothers to the disease. Consequently, there was a personal interest in my seeing Read-Out thrive. If only half of what they promised was true, this Old Bag Geek was committed to finding the saboteur of their upcoming IPO.

For those not familiar with the Mother’s Milk of Silicon Valley, an IPO or Initial Public Offering is the first sale of stock by a company to the public, mega millions in the making for investors and vested staff, none of which was me.

Other than that, life was good…a little too good. That’s probably why I shouldn’t have been surprised to see a dead man hanging from the center beam of the boardroom early Monday morning wearing nothing but his jockey shorts. And it wasn’t just any man, but the co-founder and CEO of Read-Out, D. H. Collier.

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

My husband, Norman, says I write like I’m being paid by the word. In other words, WORDY. But I believe you should put everything in, stream of consciousness style, and edit it later on. It’s always easier to take away than add, I think. Well, a little easier.

 

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

I think we covered that with P.G. Wodehouse. Of course, no one can touch Agatha Christie in the mystery field. She is the queen.

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

I travel a lot concerning my husband’s wishes. He likes to travel and I like him. We get to write a lot off in taxes and then many locations inspire another story. It’s a win-win.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

The cover style for The Alvarez Family Mysteries was designed by Jeff Monaghan, and he did the 3^rd cover for Death Runs in the Family. Then I either redid or execute the rest of the covers for the series in the same style. The Persephone Cole Vintage Mystery Series are both my designs and execution. Corliss and Other Award Winning Stories was designed by Suzannah Safi. Death of a Clown – and that’s a picture of my real mother on the cover when she was in Ringling Brother Circus – was designed by Dawn Dominique. I love them all.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

WRITE! YOU CAN’T BE A WRITER IF YOU DON’T WRITE. Yes, I am yelling that message. You’d be surprised how many people say they want to be a writer but don’t find the time to sit down and do it. Steal time. Commandeer it, borrow it, beg it, but take it and write. It doesn’t have to be a lot of time but it needs to be every day. Writing for only a ½ hour to an hour every day will give you a lot more than you think! When I was still working at a nine to five job, sometimes I would get up at four in the morning to get some writing done. I didn’t do it every day, but if I was on a roll and needed to write, that’s what I did. Also, take classes, get into writing groups, and listen to the critiques. Big, important caveat here: It should be from people you trust, who respect you and your work, but don’t blindly love it. Try to leave your family or close friends out of this. They often have a biased take on things. And unless they are a professional editor, you might not get the best feedback, anyway. Lastly, read good authors, who write what you want to write or are currently writing. Learn from the masters.

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

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my books. And for those of you that call yourselves my fans, bless you a thousand fold. I am so very grateful.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Uncle Remus. It was a huge book with lots of pictures. I loved it. Briar Rabbit and Briar Fox and Briar Bear. Childhood friends.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Life.

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

Shakespeare. And I would ask him this: You left your second best bed in your will to your wife. Who got the first best?

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

She was proud to love and be loved.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

Pa-leeeese! It’s all I can do in between my home, two cats, traveling, friends, and a terrific husband to get the laundry done. My hobby is having another cup of coffee.

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

I love the Miss Fisher Mysteries. But I love all mystery shows!

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

Behold my new website! http://heatherhavenstories.com/ I am so proud. Karma Bennett designed and executed it for me. Here are a few other sites:

Heather Haven, writer

San Jose, California 95135

http://www.heatherhavenstories.com/

https://www.facebook.com/HeatherHavenStories

Twitter@HeatherHaven

Heather’s author page at Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Heather-Haven/e/B004QL22UK/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1372537066&sr=1-2-ent

Email me at: Heather@HeatherHavenStories.com

Bio:

After studying drama at the University of Miami in Miami, Florida, Heather went to Manhattan to pursue a career. There she wrote short stories, novels, comedy acts, television treatments, ad copy, commercials, and two one-act plays, which were produced at Playwrights Horizon and well-received. Once she even ghostwrote a book on how to run an employment agency. She was unemployed at the time.

One of her first paying jobs was writing a love story for a book published by Bantam called Moments of Love. She had a deadline of one week but promptly came down with the flu. Heather wrote “The Sands of Time” with a raging temperature, and delivered some pretty hot stuff because of it. Her stint at New York City’s No Soap Radio – where she wrote comedic ad copy – help develop her long-time love affair with comedy.

Heather lives in the foothills of San Jose with her husband of 34-years and her two cats, Yulie and Ellie.

 

Here is my interview with Jeff Salter

Name

            JLS:  Jeff Salter [J.L. Salter]

 

Age

JLS:  Same as Jack Benny … 39.

 

Fiona: Where are you from?

JLS:  Born in Mississippi, raised mostly in Louisiana … though I’d also lived in IL, GA, and IA before I went to college.  Stationed in TX, NM, and CA … plus an overseas tour of duty at Thule AB in northwest Greenland (inside the Arctic Circle).  Retired from a 30-year library career in LA; currently living in KY.

 

Fiona: A little about yourself (i.e., your education, family life, etc)

JLS:  B.A. in English (with minors in history and speech) from SLU (Hammond LA); M.L.S. from LSU (Baton Rouge LA).  Worked in newspapers and librarianship; served in the U.S. Air Force (active duty) plus AF Reserve and U.S. Army National Guard.  I’m a husband, father, and grandfather.  At church, I help with the children’s programming.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

JLS:  One novel and two novellas released during 2015 — with three different royalty publishers.  Working on submissions for 2016 and hoping for three more contracts.

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

JLS:  I can’t recall a time when I was NOT writing.  Certainly as far back as grade school.  My writing became more serious during high school.  Never stopped and never wanted to.

 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

JLS:  As a senior in high school, I won a First Place in a division of a significant regional contest, the Deep South Writers and Artists Conference (held at USL in Lafayette LA) … and my winning entry (a poem) was published on the front page of my hometown newspaper.

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

JLS:  I’m co-author of two hardcover non-fiction monographs about aspects of librarianship which were published by one of the top three publishers of library resources at that time.  My inspiration was to try to help others in the library profession deal with the issues of problem patrons and literacy.

My inspiration for writing my first novel manuscript came out of the blue — I never imagined writing full-length fiction.  Poetry had always been my primary means of creative expression.

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

JLS:  Not certain you’d call this ‘style’ but I tend to reveal more thru dialog than through narrative.  I don’t decorate my stories with a lot of description, so it’s mainly dialog and action, I suppose.  I think I have a comedic touch with many of my manuscripts.

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the titles?

JLS:  Of my eight novels, four novellas, and one short story published so far, all the titles have gone through a transition process.  Looking at all my completed works (so far) sometimes the final title comes to me after I’ve already done considerable writing, but I’ve also had titles hit me before I began writing anything else. In a few cases, my manuscript will have perhaps half a dozen title possibilities up through the third or fourth complete draft.

 

Fiona: Is there a message in your novels / novellas that you want readers to grasp?

JLS:  Not really.  Other than:  “Enjoy my story and characters … and look for more stories from me.”

 

Fiona: How much of your books are realistic?

JLS:  Three of my published titles (and others not yet published) are set in the real-world city of Somerset KY, which is where I currently live.  In this real setting, I’ve tried to incorporate a considerable amount of actual historical and geographic detail.

However, at least eleven of my completed titles are set in a fictional town named Verdeville, which I’ve placed in fictional Greene County, which I placed just east of real-life Nashville TN.  On an actual map, it would be the approximate location of Lebanon TN.

One of my published titles – and at least one not yet complete – is set in the fictional town of Magnolia AL.  Several of the Clean Reads authors got together and “created” this town, each of us adding buildings, layout, characters, and “history”.

 

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

JLS:  I’ve incorporated several real-life experiences in my writing.  Some have happened to me or a member of my extended family.  Some I’ve been told about by the persons they happened to.

Most of what I write is a matter of what I refer to as “following my characters and taking notes.” But some of the things which happen to my characters are based on actual experiences. The two primary ‘cold case’ plot elements of Hid Wounded Reb are closely based on real-life events which directly involved my wife’s ancestors. The entire novel, Overnighter’s Secrets, was inspired by my examination of a small suitcase containing the belongings of a silent movie star.

 

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

JLS:  As a Christian, certainly the Bible.  As a college English major, many recognizable classics.  As a kid growing up, I read all the titles I could get my hands on in a huge series called “Childhood of Famous Americans” (Bobbs-Merrill).  Though somewhat fictionalized and at times romanticized, these books went back to the formative years of men and women who later became famous.  Those biographies made me understand that most individuals (who later made significant contributions) actually began life rather humbly and had the range of normal childhood experiences; reading them made me believe I had as good a chance of making a significant contribution as any one else.

 

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

JLS:  If he were still living, Walker Percy might be surprised to see his name here.  But he was an award-winning novelist with international acclaim when I was growing up in the same town with him.  He and his wife were friends of my parents.  Walker was initially in the local writers group which my dad was also a member of.  He was always very cordial and quite down to earth.

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

JLS:  Gosh … several.  I always have at least one book in progress that I read when I visit my mom. Here at my house, I’ll have at least one more and perhaps two going at all times. By the time this interview is posted, I’ll likely have some of these finished and others started.

 

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

JLS:  To begin listing authors would leave out many others who ought to be mentioned.  Let me just say that I was especially delighted at the entertaining novels of Duffy Brown.

 

Fiona: What are your current projects?

JLS:  I have over seven dozen ‘starts’ for new novels or novellas.  On some I have little more than a few notes … but others have several thousand words.  Most are a few handwritten pages or a couple thousand typed words.  Actively, I’m revising a novel I wrote in 2013 to get it ready to submit.  And then I’ll return to a completed novella for its third or fourth draft so I can submit that one. In the meantime, I’m also actively working – through weekly sprints – on a new title.

 

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

JLS:  Not sure you’d call this an ‘entity’ but I was very fortunate to have many wonderful teachers through most of my first 12 grades.  The ones who most directly supported my writing were Mrs. Theresa Fleming, Mrs. Rosalie Sherman, and Mrs. Erlene Howser.

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

JLS:  Definitely.  Having taken an early retirement from librarianship, writing – and networking with other authors and friends (and readers) – is my primary activity.

 

 

 

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

JLS:  [See a related question above — I don’t recall ever NOT writing.]  But if you’re asking what may have nudged me into writing as a form of creative expression, I can respond to that.  My father was a hobby writer and both my parents enthusiastically encouraged all my creative efforts, whether drawing, or sculpting, or writing.  My older brother wrote his first short novel while still in high school.

 

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

JLS:  Sometimes I have a pet scene or dialog block which I really like and want to keep, but I realize – whether because of word count or plot flow – that it really needs to GO.  It’s very difficult to cut them away.

First drafts tend to flow nicely, and the revisions / editing phases of third and fourth drafts are manageable.  But, in my writing M.O., the second drafts tend to be killers.  This is where I have to plug the plot holes, fix the narrative’s timeline, and nail down a lot of other things which I just let slide in the first draft (for the sake of expediency).  It can be agonizing, confusing, and tediously slow.

 

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

JLS:  To treat this question properly, I’d need to lay out several different categories of fiction.  Since this interview is already pretty long, let me just highlight two categories.  A new favorite writer of humor is Bill Bryson; a long time favorite of action/intrigue is Jack Higgins.  But I have many favorite authors of action/intrigue.

 

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

JLS:  Fortunately, no.  And I say “fortunately” because travel is difficult for me these days.  It used to not bother me – and I’ve done a lot of travel – but now it does.

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

JLS:  Six of my fiction covers were created by the marvelous Elaina Lee. Two others were by Amanda Matthews.  One is by Cora Graphics, one by Gunnar Grey, and one by Colbie Myles.

 

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

JLS:  For Called to Arms Again, hacking away some 50,000 words or more, because (at 165,000 words) my ms. was too long for my publisher. For Scratching the Seven Month Itch, my editor found some 29,000 words that the story didn’t need — I likened it to a bone marrow transplant.

 

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

JLS:  I’ve learned that (1) completing a novel is a lot harder than it sounds when people talk about writing… and it takes a whole lot longer than you’d ever imagined.  (2) Consistency and continuity issues can make you crazy.  (3) Your novels are NOT as perfect and wonderful as you think they are [they’re more like babies & toddlers … a lot more precious to you than to everybody else].

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

JLS:  So many other authors have said:  “keep writing”.  That’s good advice as far as it goes.  But I kinda like the advice that I got from my Dad right before I left for Basic Training in the U.S. Air Force.  He said (basically):  “Unless you take it seriously and do your best, you’re going to have a really rough time of it.  But if you DO take it seriously and do your best, then you’ll probably do just fine.”

Other than that, let me suggest:  “approach your writing with discipline and dedication … and a willingness to revise, revise, revise.”

 

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

JLS:  Buy my books!  Enjoy them … and (if you do), please tell others about them.  And please leave REVIEWS!

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

            JLS:  Not by title, but (in kindergarten) I read book about a large bird and a woman with a feather in her hat.  Or something like that.  Later, I remember an illustrated book by Robert Lawson and I read some of the early Curious George titles.

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

JLS:  Depends a lot on my mood at the time.  Sometimes, jokes that have everybody else in stitches just fall flat with me.  Other times, some seemingly inconsequential observation makes me LOL.  As I get older, it’s easier to find myself teary eyed about something that would not have phased me a few decades ago.

 

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

JLS:  Several historic figures (like Tom Jefferson, Abe Lincoln, Ben Franklin.  But closer to home, so to speak, would be my Grandfather Robinson… who died a few months before I was born.  He knew I was on the way but we never got a chance to meet.  I’ve always keenly felt that missed connection.

 

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

JLS:  “He was kind to other people and tried to make them feel better.”

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

JLS:  Used to enjoy golf, but haven’t been able to play for many years because of physical limitations.  I collect – and used to display – military memorabilia.

 

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

JLS:  I used to be addicted to TV and watched too much of it.  After I retired and started writing “full-time”, I decided to go cold turkey on TV watching.  For the past 9 years or so, I’ll typically watch maybe one or two shows per week — usually something on PBS.  Most of what I see on TV is while I’m exercising at the local ‘Y’ three times a week… and that’s often an old film on Turner Classic Movies.

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

JLS:  I love chocolate, especially M&M Peanuts.  I like various types of military camo… along with blues and grays and tans.  I’m a big fan of Golden Oldies — music from the late 1950s through early 1970s… especially the Beatles.

 

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

JLS:  I spent nearly 30 years in librarianship and enjoyed parts of that.  Worked as a newspaper photo-journalist and editor for several years and I enjoyed parts of that.  Both of those professions involved writing, publications, and reading … so full-time authorship was a logical step.

 

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

My FB Author page is:

https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJLSalter

My Amazon Author Page is:

https://www.amazon.com/author/jlsalter

My Twitter link is:

@AuthorJLSalter

I’m currently a ‘resident guest’ at a joint website:

http://taketwoonromance.weebly.com/index.html

And there I have my own blog Write By Salter:

http://taketwoonromance.weebly.com/jls-blog.html

Plus, I’m the Thursday Hound at Four Foxes One Hound (group blog):

http://fourfoxesonehound.wordpress.com/