Here is my interview with Michelle Heynen

Name: Michelle Heynen

Age: 36

Where are you from: Goondiwindi

I am a new author, Government Administration Contractor and Part-time Project Manager I have a Diploma of Business and Tourism. I am a healer and supporter who loves people and empowering them to turn their light on to their purpose and meaning in life.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Michelle: I am about to officially launch my first book Reflections of Sandra, I have just finished writing a children’s book to help kids understand heaven and I am currently writing a book about inner power and being authentic.

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

Michelle: I began writing about 9 months ago

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Michelle: I considered myself a writer when someone who read my first draft said they were touched by my words and that I wrote beautifully. That they felt me in every word on the page.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Michelle: My mother inspired my first book. She was my hero and inspiration her entire life in the way she handled all of her challenges until she died. So I wanted to pay tribute and say thank you to her even though she is no longer here.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Michelle: I guess if I had one it would be inspirational and self-help maybe. I write from the heart and what comes out of it.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Michelle: I am my mother’s legacy and a reflection of her so I called it Reflections of Sandra came to mind.

 

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

Michelle: The message is that you can get through any dark times no matter how grim they seem. We all have greatness inside all of us we just need to learn how to switch the right button on.

 

 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

Michelle: The book is 100% realistic and authentic and is my life and my mother’s life.

 

 

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

Michelle: I love books that inspire and books about spirituality. Books that I can learn something from. One of my favorites is The Ultimate Gift by Jim Stovall. One of my mentors in life was Emily Gowor, John Demartini was someone whose work influenced me and my life.

 

 
Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest and who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

Yes Louise Ginglo and Megan Freeland up and coming new Authors who I know and love dearly

 

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

Inpublishing is my new publishing house and they are great

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes I do see it as a career for sure at least for me.

 

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

No I am proud of what I have written every single word

 

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

Michelle: Yes I do one night I had a deep urge to write my story and spread my message to everyone.

 

 

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

Michelle: I have just finished a children’s book explaining heaven to kids. I am also writing a book about being the true you and ways to get out of your head to lead a life of true purpose and meaning.

 

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

Michelle: I was challenged by how honest I was and how open I was.

 

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

Michelle: No not at that the moment but I want to travel and share my gifts with the world.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Michelle: I went through 99 designs for my cover of reflections of Sandra.

 

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

Michelle: looking back and going back into some of the hardest moments of my life but they were also some of the most beautiful as well.

 

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

Michelle: I learnt how strong I was and I saw what I was capable of. I learnt that despite the odds sometimes that I keep getting back up and fighting back. I learnt to truly love myself.

 

 

 

Fiona: If any of your books was made into a film who would you like to play the lead

Michelle: I could see Judy Dench play my mother for sure as she reminds me a lot of her.

 

 

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Michelle: Do not give up on what you want to write and what message you want to say as it is important

 

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Michelle: The History of Lego

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Michelle: Curious George

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Michelle: A good book a beautiful poem. A baby smiling I am a moment person.

 

 

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

Michelle: Mark Twain – His writing inspires me.

 

 

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

Michelle: Loved and remembered. Michelle Walked in Beauty and was an inspiration to all who is in Gods care now.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Michelle: Lego I love building Lego

 

 

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

Michelle: Fifty Shades of Grey films. Pitch Perfect Film and Big Bang Theory and Scorpion TV Shows.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Michelle: Blue, and Pink I love pasta and chicken and I listen o pretty much all forms of music.

 

 

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

Michelle: I would have done administration work

 

 

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

Michelle: Facebook Page Reflections of Sandra.
Website: www.reflectionsofsandra.com

 

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Here is my interview with Aria Peyton

Name Aria Peyton

Age 21 again!

Where are you from Originally from Adelaide, but lived in Victoria most of my life. Oh, country? AUSTRALIA!!!

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

Mum to 3 girls, I live in country Victoria. I have a Diploma in Prof. Writing and Editing which helps both facets of what I do most of. I’m a taxi for my kids, and I love helping out at their school in class 2 days a week.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Currently attempting to write 2 books and writing plots for them plus the other things that spring up in my head. Have some other news that I can’t reveal yet.

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I can’t remember exactly when I started, but consciously started about 16 years ago I guess. I enjoy it! I wrote articles for newsletters, created stage plays, and video scripts for Work for the Dole projects (back when they were pretty good) and went back to school and then went from there.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I was about halfway through Entrusted, I reckon.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

My first published book I’ll go on here (the first story I wrote was looooooong ago) 2am has funny muses and I wrote 2 pages of really smutty stuff. Sent it to a friend and she wanted more. It wasn’t actually for another 6 months I think that anything else actually came to me for that story. I have a stack in the files though inspired by anything from dreams and wishes, to dust bunnies under the bed.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

My own?! I just write what comes naturally.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Fluke mostly for Entrusted. I’d gone through about 5 working titles before I came up with the series title, then groaned because it was meant to be a standalone, and once I realized some characters my kids had helped me with would do for the rest of the books and the titles came at me like a freight train.

 

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

I didn’t write it with a message in mind, but given it has rape and subsequent recovery in it, I’d say that any message would be for any survivors (not victims) to seek help and don’t let any professional bully you. Vanessa struggles with finding someone who will listen to what troubles her, but each shrink keeps trying to talk about her parents’ death. That’s not what she needs to talk about. Finally, she finds one who actually listens and finds an alternative therapy to get her through it. My BFF was a model for this, as all of her therapists wanted to talk about her adoption, rather than allowing her to purge what she went through being gang raped.

 

 
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic?

Portions! The rest is imagination. The setting is real, Frankston is on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria. The legends of panthers down through Gippsland are real (and I’ve seen one too, so the legends are true!).

 

 

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

I drew on the experiences of others. Off the top of my head, there are three friends whose life/job/experiences I drew from. The therapist is based on a friend, the artwork in the waiting room belongs to another friend, as before, my BFF provided a background for Vanessa.

 

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

Not so much book influence that I can think of.
As far as mentors go, RE Butler was instrumental in kicking my butt to keep writing the things I started and to have faith in myself. She told me to just write and to finish what I wrote. Evie Harper has been a great friend to me as well. Both RE and Evie’s prodding and encouragement helped me immensely. I’m now paying that forward by helping out an emerging author who just submitted her first manuscript to a publisher!

 

 
Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Just finished Chloe’s Double Draw by Fiona Archer (finally got to read it!)

 

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

To be honest, I sometimes can’t tell who’s new and who’s not!  I’m helping my friend/emerging author to finish her multitude of started stories though! Becca L’Amour will be one to watch for.

 

 
Fiona: What are your current projects?

Currently working on Encumbered, which is book two of the Coal Creek Shifters series, and Enslaved, which is the Christmas special of the same series. I’ve made notes for about 4 other books to write recently, as well as attempting to plan collaborations with 2 other author friends in separate ventures.

 

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

My friends have been my only supporters. One good friend turned into a beta then critique partner—she’s great at telling me when things don’t work and hounds me to write more! I have a couple of author friends too who have been amazing with their support.

Most of my family don’t know what I do. But my mum and cousin say “I have potential”. Fingers crossed!

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

It’s a passion that could turn into a career if I’m fortunate. It would be nice, but I’ll never be mainstream in content, so that’s probably a pipe dream. Plus, I don’t seem to have a marketing bone in my body!

 

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

Probably! I wouldn’t skip detail to save word count. Some people add filler to make it longer, I think I skipped things to keep it shorter (and it’s still 98K!)

 

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

Nope. I’ve been writing stories since I was able to form words on paper.

 

 

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

Erm… Here’s the prologue I shared to my newsletter list. It’s just over 500 words long so I’m not sure if that’s too long for you. It’s the start of Encumbered, book 2 in the Coal Creek shifters series.

Prologue

He bunched a fistful of hair in his grip and held her firm.

“That’s it, bitch. Choke on it. You deserve it for what you did to my brother.” The woman with long, black hair before him looked at him through tear-filled eyes, begging without words to be set free.

But he’d never let her go. After all, he’d never let any of them go.

He grabbed her face with both hands, fingers holding cheeks and ears, his thumbs coming together to compress each nostril. Her eyes flared wide with panic as he shoved his cock deeper into her throat, cutting off all air supply.

His grin was evil as he held her struggling form in his grasp, thrusting into her mouth as hard as he could. The sensation of her gag reflex kicking in stimulated the head of his cock along with his driving rhythm, until he came down her convulsing throat. As his seed left his body and the struggling waned, he mused that the challenge wasn’t what it used to be now that he tied their hands behind their backs.

Something about them trying to scratch and claw their way free turned him on. Perhaps he’d allow the next one to use her hands on him.

The thrashing subsided and he looked down to watch the life drain from her eyes, blood vessels bursting as she haemorrhaged. He kept looking into the woman’s dead eyes as he slid his cock from her slack mouth, moving his hands so he could hold her up by her hair. He yanked her panties from his pocket and stuffed them in her mouth, shoving them in as far as they would go.

The woman’s body dropped to the packed earth when he let her go, freeing his hands to tuck his flaccid cock back in his jeans and zip them up, sliding the button home. She lay staring at him with lifeless orbs as he took the steps to reach the back of his ute. The foldable shovel in there was the perfect tool—usually packed away with camping gear and other such benign objects.

He scouted the area for his previous markers and found a place he hadn’t used yet. He sank the head of the shovel into the softer earth here and dug until the stars had moved considerably in the sky.

When it was deep enough, he dragged the woman by her hair over to the hole and dumped her in it. He hummed quietly to himself as he filled in the hole then swung the shovel to and fro as he wandered to a nearby creek. He washed his hands and the shovel, then stuck it in the bank of the creek, coating it in mud. Bending down, he carefully selected a rock from the creek bed, returning to the ute as he tossed the rock over and over in his hand.

He placed the rock on the freshly dug earth and smiled to himself before dusting off his clothes and climbing into his ute to drive off.

In the rear-view mirror, the moonbeams caught on fifteen creek rocks, the latest one shining the brightest.

 

 

 

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

Researching the situations I’ve mapped out for characters. I’ll probably end up on a government watch list for book 3 in the series. Giving myself a facepalm for thinking up plots that will take epic amounts of research to write! Latest one…plane crash. Yay me.

 

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

I don’t one favourite anymore, but if I really had to choose, I can’t go past Eve Langlais. I can always guarantee a laugh reading her work and a HEA. Happily go back to her books.

 

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

Signings are always soooo far away, but so much fun and worth every kilometre!

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I did! All my covers, promos, teasers, banners. All mine.

 

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

Other than finding the time? It took 18 months from start to publish. The breaks in between being able to sit and write and then finding major continuity flaws (which I fixed!). The downtime screws with the flow and voice I think.

 

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

Don’t try and rush!  I set myself a deadline to make sure I followed through and I got so busy with other things I had to rush parts of the process to get it published. Read it until you’re sick of it. Fix anything that needs it. Don’t publish until you’re happy with it.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Just do it! And ask other authors lots of questions. Most of them are more than happy to answer what you’re asking. Ask for feedback, ask for information, ask, ask, ask!

 

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

Enjoy the crazy stuff that springs from my brain!

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Memory doesn’t stretch back that far for a tangible memory, but I’ve been told I used to read The Spooky Old Tree to my dad when I was about 2 or 3. Winnie the Pooh would be one I remember reading myself, and the stories published by Serendipity Press.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

My kids make me do both.

 

 

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

Mental blank on this! There are probably a heap, and whittling it down to one may take a while

 

 

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

LOL! I’ve never thought about it! I know what song I want at my funeral, but I’d never considered a headstone. You’ve given me something to think about.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

It used to be scrapbooking, but I have so little time and space, it fell by the wayside. I really would love to do that again as it’s my favourite way to organize photos of my kids. Listening to music is essential and I miss having my stereo cranked high.

 

 

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

I don’t get to watch much TV. Haven’t sat down and watched anything significant in the last few years. I’ll get to see a movie occasionally, or sit with NetFlix on while sewing things for swag. I love the Fast and Furious movies and recently got to see the 7^th.  I am a big fan of Labyrinth, The Princess Bride and The Goonies. But really, my list of things to watch is as varied as the music I like!

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Cheesecake—passionfruit flavor.

Purple, Silver, and rainbows!

I love a wide range of music ranging through the last 5 decades. I have parents who were deeply into music and exposed me to a huge range of music from their generation, as well as discovering more on the radio once I discovered what the FM dial was!

 

 

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

I tried my hand at radio—did 5 years on community radio. I’ve always been a bit up in the air about what I want to do, but if it involves music and words, I’m happy.

 

 

 

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

www.ariapeytonauthor.weebly.com There’s a blog section too 😀

 

www.amazon.com/author/ariapeyton

https://plus.google.com/+AriaPeyton

www.facebook.com/ariapeyton

www.facebook.com/authorariapeyton

www.twitter.com/ariapeyton

www.instagram.com/authorariapeyton

Here is my interview with Trisha Leigh

Name Trisha Leigh (I also write as Lyla Payne)

Age: 37

Where are you from: Kansas City, MO

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

I have a wonderful family! They’re big and loud and we love to get together and eat and play cards, among other things. I have a bachelor’s degree in Film and Television Production from Texas Christian University, and part of a Master’s Degree in History from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. I would love to finish it some day!

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I’m not sure I have anything – oh, except my publisher did recently tell me that they’re going to produce an audiobook version of Return Once More, my time travel romance, so that’s fun!

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I always wrote, even as a small child, but I started writing with publication in mind around 2007. I published my first book in 2012.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I finished my first book and new, immediately, that I had ideas for more.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Pirates of the Caribbean, actually – my first book (which is terrible!) was a historical treasure hunt and romance.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I’m not sure? I write how the words come out of my head, but if readers find a style in it, I’m more than fine with that.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I love titles, and they come pretty easily to me. It depends on the book – with my first series, I knew there would be four books that corresponded with the seasons, and the titles took off from there.

 

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

If I have a pervasive message, it’s only that destiny will only take you so far. If you want something, if you believe in something, you have to go and get it.

 

 
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

The YA I write is science fiction, so it’s almost entirely made up. Sometimes I do borrow names or personality traits from family or friends, but the majority comes straight from my imagination!

 

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

A Wrinkle in Time and Harry Potter are probably my biggest two YA inspirations, although recently I have also loved the Shadow and Bone books by Leigh Bardugo.

 

 

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest and who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

This is hard! I’ve read a lot of JoJo Moyes lately (I loved Me Before You because of the perfection of that bittersweet ending, then went looking for her other books). Gillian Flynn, again for her ability to craft characters that exist in life’s gray areas. I adored the Graceling books by Kristin Cashore, the Dark Inside books by Jeyn Roberts, and everything by Melina Marchetta. Genius storytelling and worldbuilding, all of them.

 

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

The writer’s community on Twitter – other writers, editors, agents who took the time to blog, etc – all had a huge impact on my early development and my belief that this was an industry I would learn to navigate.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Definitely! It’s my full time job and I do it absolutely every day.

 

 

 

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

No. I would go crazy if I worried too much about things like that, so once they’re done and published, I let them go like little children into the great big world.

 

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

Reading! I was a voracious reader my entire life, and at some point my love for reading stories morphed into the belief that I could also write them.

 

 

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

I’m currently working on a YA Historical Fantasy for my agent. It’s set in 1810 New Orleans and follows three very different heroines – a French girl, the daughter of an American governor, and a girl from Haiti – as they forge a friendship strong enough to stop a dark threat falling over the city.

It’s complicated and challenging and I love it. Hopefully it will find its way into your hands one day.

 

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

Every book is different, so the specifics change, but of course! If it wasn’t challenging I wouldn’t love it so much, or feel so good when everything came out right.

 

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

I have, yes! I have books set in Ireland, England, Charleston, SC, New Orleans, LA, and a bunch of other places I’ve been lucky enough to visit. Here’s to many more!

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

My YA covers have all been designed by Nathalia Suellen. She’s a genius.

 

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

It’s different for every book, but typically, writing the endings is the hardest part for me.

 

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

I always learn things – I love to do research, especially about historical events. My boyfriend loves animals and nature, so I’ve picked up a lot of tidbits from him that I get to use occasionally too (so far about snakes, moonshine, and wild mushrooms).

 

 

Fiona: If any of your books was made into a film who would you like to play the lead.

I really like Sophie Turner right now, and of course, Zac Efron.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Write every day. Finish a book. Don’t give up. Don’t waste your time doing anything you don’t love, or that doesn’t love you back.

 

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

Thank you for reading. J Keep reading, even if it’s not my books. Your imaginations are what keeps us all going.

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m reading a book called Americanah. It’s a literary fiction about a woman who emigrates from Nigeria to the United States.

 

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I remember the first book I read on my own, that my mother bought me at a book store – it was Kristy’s Great Idea, the first in the Babysitter’s Club series.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

My dogs make me laugh, and so does smart comedy. Now that I’m older, pretty much anything makes me cry. I’m going to see the film version of Me Before You this weekend and expect to bawl like a baby.

 

 

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

Jean Lafitte. Joan of Arc, Marie Antoinette, Berenice Herod, Andrew Jackson, Albert Einstein, Anne Frank, gosh there are SO MANY, also Barack and Michelle Obama.

 

 

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

Maybe “She did what made her happy” or “She will be missed,” or “Her family loved her even though she was super weird.”

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

Reading, tennis (watching and playing), and hanging out with my friends’ kids.

 

 

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

Favorites all time are Felicity, Fringe, Gossip Girl, and Seinfeld. I have too many favorite movies to count, but It’s a Wonderful Life is my favorite favorite.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music:

I’m not a picky eater at ALL. I love all food, lol. Purple and turquoise are favorite colors, and I’m not that into music?

 

 

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

A history professor.

 

 

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

Amazon Authors Page

USA  http://www.amazon.com/Trisha-Leigh/e/B008NREXW8/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1464658881&sr=1-2-ent

UK http://www.amazon.co.uk/Trisha-Leigh/e/B008NREXW8/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1464659115&sr=1-2-ent

Here is my interview with Sloane Howell

Name Sloane Howell (pen name, as for the real one, LOL)

Age 35

Where are you from Oklahoma

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

I have an accounting degree and worked as a tax accountant for about 8 years before becoming a full-time author. I played baseball in college. I’m married with one actual child, he’s three, and three fur kids (2 dogs and 1 cat).

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I have a book, Cleat Catcher, co-authored with Celia Aaron coming out June 30th. It’s the follow up to our sports comedy romance Cleat Chaser!

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I started writing about 3 years ago. It was a weird process. I’d started a blog to drum up some business for my start up tax practice, and I wrote articles trying to make tax concepts less boring. People enjoyed them. Then I started writing a comedy blog with the help of my sister, which eventually led me to self-publishing some of the stories. After that I wrote some science fiction. My son became ill, and I decided I needed a way to earn some extra money. I decided to take it further than hobby status and analyzed the market. Romance and erotica was the clear cut answer after I did a bunch of mathing (I just made this a word). So I tried it out and loved it. So here we are…

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I made my first fan. Her name is Cecily Bonney and I still talk to her often.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Well, as answered previously it was an unorthodox road I took. But definitely a host of things: my favorite books, my love of making people laugh and entertaining people in general, the excitement of creating a world out of thin air. It’s a lot like playing God <steeples fingers>. Hah! Not really. (it totally is)

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Sure, my writing is fast-paced and action driven. I prefer to let readers fill in the scenery, but I certainly try to hit some senses and give them a canvas to fill in.

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

LOL, well my first short story in erotica that came out is called The Panty Whisperer. I needed a title that would stick out in a crowd, and it was a nickname we’d given a buddy in my college days, for obvious reasons. I still cringe a little when I see it sometimes. I never thought it’d even be semi-popular.

 

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

In my superhero romance The Matriarch there certainly is. It was sort of an homage to awesome mothers. Not just biological mothers, but the instincts of motherhood that all women possess. I’ve always envied and loved that trait, and I’ve been very fortunate to be surrounded by that my entire life, from my own mother and grandmother, to my wife who is the mother of my child. It’s so dear and special to me and I wanted to portray that as a theme in my first full-length novel. I hope I succeeded.

 

 
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

Not a lot to be honest, at least on the surface. I mean it’s fiction. It’s meant to entertain and stimulate a reader’s senses and emotions. Character traits are another thing. Any time I meet someone quirky or interesting, or observe those kinds of traits in someone I know, I try to log them in my memory. Those things make people interesting and that translates over into a story. People want normal characters they can relate to, but that are also interesting. So in essence, we put a magnifying glass on the little quirks and nuances that make someone unique, while making them seem like a normal every day person they could be friends with.

 

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

Books that have influenced me are probably 1984 and a lot of old sci fi classics, along with some romance books I read today. As far as mentor goes, it’s most definitely my writing partner Celia Aaron. I can’t say enough about how much better of a writer I am because of her. She makes me better in so many ways and her writing is just…she has that x factor, that so few authors have, where she can just capture a scene and make you feel like you are present in it. She has a way of looking at the world and understanding things from all points of view, and then being able to describe and evoke that experience through words. It’s incredible and I’m totally jealous of it.

 

 

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest and who  is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

A new author at the moment who has grasped my attention is LJ Shen. I don’t know that she’s new, but she’s new to me. I just started her book and it’s insanely awesome for her to have such few published works. My favorite book/author is 1984 by George Orwell. I just relate to the writing and I love the dystopian style stories that depict what can happen to society if people stop questioning things. It’s just a fun escape and I read it at least once per year.

 

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

Well, this comes back to Celia. I spent well over a year trying to create a fan base and sacrificed a lot of money and royalties in the process. I wasn’t trying to sell books. I was trying to make fans. I figuratively threw books at people. I gave away my book to anyone who would read it, because I knew once I had a fan base I would have a platform to launch books out into the world. Those die hard fans I’d do anything for would help me do that. Where Celia comes in, is that a year and half is a very long time. Authors have up and down days like everyone else. I couldn’t have done it alone. There were days I wanted to say, “Fuck this, I’m out.” She was always there to say, “You’re not quitting. I won’t let you. You’re a great writer.” Only she was much meaner about it, which worked for me. It’s one thing when your family tells you that you’re good. They don’t want to hurt your feelings. It’s another to hear it from a writer you look up to and admire. Especially one that you know would tell you straight up if you sucked.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Absolutely. It already is. I was able to quit my job a few months back. That doesn’t mean it can’t go away in a moment’s notice. So I use that fear as motivation to keep writing the best stories I can.

 

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

Oh yes. It’s hard for me to go back and read anything I’ve written without wanting to change things. I always believe a story can be better.

 

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

Just writing the tax blog. Five years ago I’d have laughed in your face if you told me I’d be a writer. My worse grades in school were in English and Literature. My grammar still sucks. Just read more of this interview if you don’t believe me. 🙂

 

 

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

Right now I’m working on Cleat Catcher with Celia. I’m not sure what you’d like me to share. It’s the story of the friends Braden and Nikki from the first book. It’s not polished enough to torture the world with any excerpts yet.

 

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

Daily. Writing descriptive prose is probably the most difficult for me. I write in a minimalist style with plot driven action and many times I have to go back and add in descriptions of the scenery. I often feel repetitive when I do this, like I’m saying the same things over and over. It’s a struggle for me.

 

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

Not yet, but I am about to start. I head to Edinburgh, Scotland for my first event in July. Next year I’ll be in Berlin, Louisville, and Memphis for certain, possibly more places. In 2018 I’ll be in Italy.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I designed some, Celia’s husband Mr. Aaron has done a few, and I paid a designer to do some as well.

 

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

Editing. I go over everything multiple times. Also rewrites. I hate rewrites, so I outline thoroughly to try and identify any plot holes before I start. But editing a novel is the hardest. If you change one thing it ripples through the whole story like the butterfly effect. I probably read The Matriarch 50 – 75 times before ever hitting publish.

 

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

That I could create something and put it out in the world was astonishing. In this day of technology it was that easy. I always imagined these huge barriers to entry for authors, so hitting publish was sort of anti-climactic for me. Like that’s all I have to do? But the most important thing I learned was that everyone needs a great editor and beta readers. They make you better. You won’t see things in your own writing that others will see.

 

 

Fiona: If any of your books was made into a film who would you like to play the lead.

Olivia Munn can play any of my heroines she wants and maybe even the heroes, as long as I get to meet her. Even the blond ones. I will rewrite them for her. 🙂

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

If you’re in it for the money, you’re in it for the wrong thing. You better love to write. Most authors will never make enough to support themselves. Write because it’s what you love to do, and it’ll never seem like you’re working.

 

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

I adore anyone who reads my books, so thank you! You’re the reason I get to do what I love every day and stay at home with my son. That is priceless to me and I never take it for granted.

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Stuck Up Suit by Penelope Ward and Vi Keeland and Sparrow by LJ Shen

 

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I honestly don’t. I imagine it was Dr. Seuss or something Jesus related.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Great witty humor and bad things happening to children.

 

 

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

Jimi Hendrix so he could play live for me. Natch.

 

 

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

Well, I don’t know that it matters much to me since I’ll never get to read it, but I would like for people to think of me as someone who laughed a lot, didn’t take life too seriously, was young at heart, and would do anything for those I cared about.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I love going to baseball games and traveling.

 

 

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

I love Silicon Valley and Gotham at the moment.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Steak/Green/all kinds, but I’m partial to Jack White, Led Zeppelin, and Eminem

 

 

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

Professional baseball player

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? If so what is it? I do, it’s www.sloanehowell.com

Amazom Authors Page USA http://www.amazon.com/Sloane-Howell/e/B011JGBI3G/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1464656669&sr=1-2-ent

UK http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sloane-Howell/e/B011JGBI3G/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1464656714&sr=1-2-ent

 

Here is my interview with Sharon K. Connell

Name Sharon K. Connell

Age Really??? hee hee hee Did you really ask that? 70 years old

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

I was born in Superior, Wisconsin but only lived there five days before my parents moved to Chicago, Illinois. Being an only child of parents quickly approaching middle age, I learned to use my imagination to entertain myself, and come up with some fantastic childish stories (much to my mother’s chagrin).

The majority of my education was acquired in Chicago, through junior college. During my younger years, we did live in St. Louis for a short time, as well as a couple of the Chicago suburbs, and one full year in Long Beach, California. As an adult, I have lived in Des Plaines, Illinois, Pensacola and Beulah, Florida, Cincinnati, Ohio and now am retired (except for my writing) in Houston, TX. However, I have travelled in every state of our country, except Rhode Island, Washington (state), Oregon, Idaho, Hawaii and Alaska. I’ve also been in Canada and Mexico. We have one beautiful country.

As far as my family goes. I like to keep that part of my life private. I chose to be an author; they didn’t.

My life here in Texas is a wonderful, peaceful one. When I’m not writing, I enjoy painting (oil and water color), gardening, cooking and singing.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Currently, I am going through the editing process of my fourth novel, His Perfect Love. It was finished last year, but when I started editing this year, I decided to change the style over to deep point of view. This requires many changes in the manuscript. However, it will be worth it, when completed.

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing right after Hurricane Ivan hit Pensacola, Florida while I was living there. My friend and fellow author, Alan J. O’Reilly had been after me about writing for some time prior to that. When I told him my experience through the storm, he said I really needed to write a story about it. I decided he was right. However, when the story was done, it was a romance. LOL There is a reference to the storm in the novel but it is definitely not a horror story.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

By the time I wrote “The End” on my first attempt at a novel, I felt like a writer. It was many years after that before I felt like an author. My first book was not published until early 2014.

 

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I’d say Alan O’Reilly and God inspired me to actually write the book.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

When I first started out, I knew nothing about writing. But Alan told me that my writing was as good as anything he had read in the romance genre. That first book and the two that followed where basically written in an old style; like that of the authors Jane Austen or Bronte (not comparing myself to their writing at all, but it was similar. And not the modern versions of their stories. I’m talking about the way people used to write a long time ago. Things have changed in writing since then). Since my first three novels, I’ve taken classes, studied online, and read a ton of books on writing. It wasn’t until this year that I decided to use Deep Point of View as my writing style. Eventually, my first three novels will be rewritten in this style.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

All of my titles were taken from Scripture: A Very Present Help, Paths of Righteousness, There Abideth Hope, and my work in progress, His Perfect Love. The first three you will find word for word from Scripture. The other two are based on Scripture.

 

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

Yes, God’s love, mercy, longsuffering, protection and grace. Each of these are brought out in my stories in different ways.
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

All the experiences in my stories are from real life. Some are things I’ve seen, heard, read about, or went through. I do research on everything else and ask the experts in that field if I have presented something correctly. I believe in making the story as realistic as possible. I want my readers to get lost in the tale.

 

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

The most influential book I’ve ever read is the Bible. It is God’s manual for our lives. Beyond that, I would have to say Shakespeare, J.R.R. Tolkien, Jane Austen and the Bronte sisters have been a great influence on my writing.

 

 

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest and who  is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

Julie Klassen and Jodie Bailey are two current authors I enjoy reading. My favorite author is J.R.R. Tolkien. If it hadn’t been for having to go to work each day, I would have spent my entire day reading his books. I never read The Hobbit or Lord of the Rings until I was an adult. I couldn’t put them down. I dove into his stories. The way he wrote made me feel like I was a part of Middle Earth. I was living alongside Bilbo and Frodo, living in that land. That’s the way I want to write.

 

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

I can’t name only one. I have felt that God has been supporting my efforts all along. Aside from Him, my best friend, and members of my church.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Most definitely, yes!

 

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

As I mentioned above, I do plan to change my last novel, as well as the other two published novels into better reads. Everyone who has read these books has enjoyed the stories, despite the errors. And I’ve had authors tell me to let them go as is, but I want to correct the errors, and the style, to make them more enjoyable.

 

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

I’ve answer that one above. Encouragement from Alan O’Reilly.

 

 

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

His Perfect Love is a little different from anything I’ve read (at least so far). It’s about a young woman who grew up getting anything and everything she ever wanted, especially from men. She’s been a selfish individual, only thinking or caring about herself. However, she got into trouble with her wants and desires. She’s now in fear for her life and hiding from a villain. Three men come into her life at this stage, and things get suspenseful, as well as interesting. The FBI is looking for her, the villain wants to eliminate her, someone wants to help her, someone wants her for himself, and she doesn’t know who to trust. She’s not even sure she can trust God.

 

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

To me, the most challenging part about writing is trying to be patient and take the time to make it right.

 

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

So far, I haven’t travelled at all. I’m a homebody. I’m not against travelling but haven’t seen the need to yet.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I designed the first 3 covers for my books. A very talented young artist named Miriam Rue (her parents and I went to school together) designed the cover for His Perfect Love (I am only showing the mock up design that I made for the artist in order for her to get an idea of what I wanted. The real thing will not be revealed until the book is ready to be published).

 

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

The patience needed to get the editing done is the worst part.

 

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

Every time I write, every time I edit, have the work critiqued, get it back from the proofreader, and/or read it back to myself, I learn something. Usually, it’s something that I need to correct.

 

 

Fiona: If any of your books was made into a film who would you like to play the lead

That’s a hard one. All my characters are unique. There are many good actors and actresses out there, so picking one would be difficult. For my second book, Paths of Righteousness, I think Colin Firth would make a very good Dr. Jacob McLeod and Liv Tyler (as a blond) would be perfect for Kathryn. I’d have to think about the rest.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Do not let anyone tell you how to write. It’s your story, your style, your book. Follow the general rules of grammar (even though we writers do like to break them on occasion. Learn when to break them), make your story jump off the pages, make your reader want to turn the next page, make your characters real. But before you do all that in the editing stage, get it down on paper, PC or recorder first. Don’t worry how the first draft sounds or looks, get it down. DO IT!

 

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

I love my readers. I appreciate every one of them. Without them, why would I write?

 

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

At the moment, I’m not reading anything (in the normal sense of the word). I am critiquing several stories while working on the editing of His Perfect Love. While critiquing I’m reading the work of others.

 

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

That was so long ago, I could hardly begin to tell you. LOL It was something in grammar school. I can tell you that the first book that impressed me and that I have read over and over again is The Hobbit, followed by Lord of the Rings.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Oh dear. There are so many things that make me laugh. A good humorous story, a joke, watching the dog in her antics, children laughing, animals being cute, the list goes on and on. What makes me truly cry is the state and morality of our world today. Animals and children being abused. People turning their backs on God.

 

 

 

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

If I had the privilege to meet any human being on earth that I wanted to, it would be Queen Elizabeth II. I admire her.

 

 

 

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

I think the one thing that I would love (not that I deserve it) would be: She pleased her Lord.

 

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I listed several above. One other hobby would be collecting castles.

 

 

 

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

Again, I have to say, The Hobbit and LOTR for movies, although there are several I like. I enjoy movies set in old England, Ireland or Scotland. My favorite TV show is NCIS. I like all of them but the original is my favorite.

 

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Too many foods to list, although ice cream comes to mind most, I guess. I enjoy Mexican, Oriental, Italian, and others as well as good old American. Colors: emerald green/royal purple/white. Gospel music (not modern), Classical and Bluegrass.

 

 

 

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

I would have loved to be an archeologist or an architect.

 

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

Website: https://sites.google.com/site/rosecastleplace

Blogging is done on: https://sharonkconnell.wordpress.com/

 

Here are my other sites to add for contact:

 

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharonkconnell   (PenandPaperWorld)

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/sharonk.connell?fref=ts

Author’s book page on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/averypresenthelpbook1

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SharonKConnell

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/author/sharonkconnell

Group Forum on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/writersandauthorsforum/

And for my book videos:

A Very Present Help by SharonKConnell

Paths of Righteousness by SharonKConnell

There Abideth Hope by SharonKConnell

Here is my interview with Livia York

Name Livia York

Age I am 73 years old

Where are you from

I was born in Rome, Italy on the 9th July 1942 1 now live on the Gold Coast of Australia.

A little about yourself ‘ie your education Family life etc

At the height of WWII on the 13th August 1943 1 was rescued from a bombed apartment by my nanny. I lived in privileged boarding schools with the nuns from the age of six. My education was interrupted at age thirteen when I was taken to live on a farm in Sardinia Italy with my relatives. I lived with them for two years before arriving in Australia in 1958 where my mother had migrated to in 1956. I have one surviving son from my first marriage. I have been married to my soul mate husband Glenn for 44 years. We are both still actively working as equal partners as Financial Risk Insurance Advisers

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I am in the process of writing three sequels to my book because the why and how I wrote ‘Rise, The Abused Child of the Phoenix’ in my view, will be more interesting than the first book. What I can say about myself is that I love my life, and I accept and deal with confidence anything that life sends my way.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

My writing began after my beloved fifty-one years old daughter Daniela passed away from cancer on the 21 October 2012. I was then seventy two years old. For ten months after her passing she would manifest herself into my dreams every night giving me instructions on things she wanted me to do. Following her instructions I started writing my Ancestors story in August 2013. Sitting up in bed, at night only with just the light from my laptop, I would write for six to eight hours. Every night, when I opened my laptop I would not need to read the last paragraph from the night before, I would automatically pick up from where I left off. For eleven months sleeping only through the day I typed 141,501 words one letter at the time. I have been told I was channeled by my mother and Daniela.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I didn’t consider myself a writer it was something I was compelled to do.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

As I said 1 was compelled to write about my ancestors my mother and myself by my departed daughter.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

My first book is in the narrative of the first person, me, because my book is my family true story. I follow the same style with the sequels.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Throughout the years my ancestors have struggled and overcame many challenges like most families I guess, but the title manly represents my mother and I overcoming , not only the horrors of war and the challenges of life, but of myself being trapped in a violent marriage following my raped at fifteen years of age.

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

Yes, want my readers to know that there can be life after tragedy. My book is of triumph over abuse.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic ?

100%

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

Yes, my ancestors, my mother and me, from 1889 to 1969.

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

I’ve not had a mentor. I love reading true life stories.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Kathy Lette: The boy who fell to Earth.

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

Yes, a local Author who has written about her autistic child.

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I am writing what I consider to be more important that my first book. The story of why and how I came to write my first book.

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

Lyn & David Hinds: my long standing friends of over thirty years. I had not seen them for two years, and unbeknown to me, they were recording an inspirational song at the same time as I was writing my manuscript. They called their song: Rise.

The song is now my book signature.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes, without interrupting my business carrier.

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

Definitely not.

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

From childhood my mother would constantly tell me of our ancestor’s stories, I in turn told my children about it. My departed daughter would often tell me to write the stories down because she was concerned that she may not be able to relate the stories to her children. After her passing she channeled me, she was the writer I was simply the instrument.

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

Three books in the making: 1) the why and how of book one. 2) The first three years. Of my life after escaping from a violent marriage. 3) The making of a Brady Bunch for the last forty-five years, warts and all.

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

No favorites, I like any kind of readings. I have not been influenced by any writer.

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

I self-published my book in October 2015 and I promote my book within my state of Queensland Australia.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

1 did, with the help of In-house Publishing, the business who printed my book.

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

To having to tell my son things from my past I had buried in my subconscious for over forty-five years, and of things he was not aware of about his father.

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

I learn what made me strong. That in order to do the right thing by others I have to first be true to myself.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

If you are self-published like me don’t expect your book to sell itself or for others to rush to buy your book, be prepared to promote your book all the way.

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

I am passionate about my book because has made me see that there are way too many women in the same situation as I was, caught in domestic violence. I wish to continue the conversation about it and not sweep it under the carpet. I believe it’sthe only way to educate the adults of the future to respect one another.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

It was Little Women. My mother gave me the book as a reward for successfully passing the exams in 1955.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Mother Nature has gifted me with a positive attitude I love laughing at anything apart from crude/rude/racist jokes. I love my life. I only cry at the loss Of a loved one, and only when I am on my own, manly when I am in the shower.

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

My mother and my daughter, both passed, together if I could, I would love to learn how they channeled me.

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

She was the forever optimist. She believed she would live ’till past 100.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I love drawing rugged looking faces with just a black pencil. I love music and with my soul mate I have been a semi-professional artist.

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

History, true stories, musicals like Chicago, and fantasies like Avatar.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Favorite food: Pasta, salads and crusty breads. Favorite colors: Blue, green, white and black in that order. Music: love ballads, light jazz, light country, music of the forties, the sixties, the seventy…any good music…not heavy rock.

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

My dream as a child was to be an archeologist and discover antiquity…l never want to stop discovering and learning.

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

Website: www.liviayork.com  working toward a blog.

Dear Fiona, I know it’s long time coming. I thank you for giving me the opportunity to be part of your wonderful project. For your interest visit my new website and see my Author’s interview and book trailer combined. Regards, Livia York

 

Buying link USA http://www.amazon.com/RISE-Abused-Child-Phoenix-Story/dp/1925388328/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1464502572&sr=1-2

UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/RISE-Abused-Child-Phoenix-Story/dp/1925388328/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1462227619&sr=8-2&keywords=livia+york+rise

 

Here is my interview with Nicholas Salaman

Name  Nicholas Salaman

Age   I am 69 and a bit.

Where are you from? A little about yourself ie your education Family life etc  

I was born ‘where Exmoor meets the sea’, in Minehead, West Somerset. My first 6 years were up in the hills around those parts (my first novel The Frights was all about them), and then we moved to a village near Oxford. I was educated at Radley, and went on to university at Trinity College, Oxford.

I read English, did cabaret with Dudley Moore, enjoyed myself too much, and suddenly found myself with the prospect of looking for a job. What do you do with an English degree? I went into advertising as a copywriter. Advertising was full of poets in those days. I worked for a while alongside Dylan Thomas’s son Llewellyn and Ted Hughes’ tragic second wife Assia who wrote copy at the time for All-Bran.

I have four daughters. I am married to Lyndsay, and I live near The Worlds End.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I launched my new historical novel The White Ship published by Accent Press in March. It went onto the W.H.Smith .

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I studied English Language and Literature at university. The Language side included philology which gives you special insight into the derivation and taste of words. I never really enjoy writing but I love having written. I wrote my first play, a 60 minute piece, while working for a big advertising agency – it was produced on ITV’s Armchair Theatre. I write poetry on occasion. I like Housman’s comment that poetry for him was a morbid secretion like the pearl in an oyster.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

After getting a TV play professionally performed. Besides, I was already a copywriter. I was working for Kodak, Rowntrees, Kellogg’s, Alcan, Gillette and the Sunday Express.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

When we were living in Somerset in rather wild unsupervised circumstances, my brother who was more than 3 years older than me used to exert a hold over me. I was 4, he was 7. He managed to do so by telling me that unless I did this or that, played whatever game he wanted to play, he would stop putting a drop of sleeping draught in my bedtime cocoa. I said I never noticed anything going into my cocoa.

‘Ah, but I do it, you see. It has to be secret. It must never be known or the worst could happen.’

‘.Why do you have to give me sleeping draught?’

‘So that you don’t wake up in the night. You see, if you’re asleep when the Frights come, they can take you away…’

I believed him for at least three months before he went away to boarding school. Years later, I thought it had to be a good idea for a novel.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I like to find humor where it is suitable, as in life, even in sadness. Somebody wise once said: ‘Life is a comedy for the man who thinks, and a tragedy for the man who feels.’ I would like to think that is my position if not my style.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

My novel The White Ship had to be called that because the sinking of the White Ship was such a famous disaster, a sort of 12^th century Titanic. I thought of twenty other titles but in the end The White Ship had grown on us like a barnacle. Each novel is different. Sometimes the title springs out and won’t let go. Other times you have to wrestle it out of darkness.

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

Life is a comedy for the man who thinks and a tragedy for the man who feels. These days we seem better at feeling than thinking.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

Characters in a novel are sometimes a complete portrait of someone you have observed, but sometimes they are a composite of traits. In my novel, the drunken and malevolent husband of the heroine is a bit of this and a dash of him and a coating of someone else. Sometimes, as in The Frights, actions and situations come out of  your own memory or out of something you have watched or read, or a conversation at dinner or in the pub. Or someone you have met in dreams.

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

The King James Bible, PG Wodehouse, Alice Through the Looking Glass, The Lion,The Witch and The Wardrobe, the Short Stories of Guy de Maupassant, George Brown’s Schooldays by Bruce Marshall.

If I had mentors they were my English Master at Radley, Peter Way, who has recently died aged 94. He was also a good poet, and mentor to Sir Andrew Motion.

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest and who  is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

Favorite modern authors are William Boyd and Ian McEwan. They are bright of eye. They tell a good story using good English and interesting words.

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

A glass of good wine at the end of the day is a great support. Van Gogh would have included a pipe but I don’t smoke. I would include music.

But if these two are not to be counted as entities, I would submit, as supportive entity, my first publisher, Barley Allison, at Secker & Warburg. She once said to me: ‘Nick, I would publish you if you wrote the London Telephone Directory’. You can’t say fairer than that.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes, but it was my day job too, as a copywriter – at least for many years

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

It is set in Normandy, and there are a few names that need to be given early on in the novel to set the scene. I wish they could have been English names to make it even easier, but they have to be Norman French!

I am always put off novels which have a Cast List at the front. It makes the story seem more complicated than it really is.

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

I loved a good story as a child. My grandmother was a writer, and my mother too. We lived in the country and there often was nothing to do except read. It kept me company. And now I am never bored if I have a book or a pen or computer to write with.

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

Publishers are always keen for you to write your last novel again, for good marketing reasons, but sometimes you just want to get away and move on.

I have a prequel to The White Ship planned out and have started to write it. I have also a thriller with a historical twist to it that I have had on the cards for some time, and is two-thirds written. When you have written so many words, they are not inclined to let you go.  I am in the process of finishing it.

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

The business of finding the plot is the hard bit. It is easy to forget that the act of writing inspires the imagination, and you sometimes despair at the start because you can’t see how it’s going to end.

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

Not as much as I should have. Had I had more time, I would have gone to Normandy and checked out some of the places I write about. However, my novel is set some 900 years ago. However much I could have checked out now, almost everything has changed. I wrote a historical novel called The Grimace about a real sculptor who lived in Vienna in Mozart’s and Dr Mesmer’s time. It was almost my favorite novel until The White Ship, and it was well reviewed and sold well. But I never went to Vienna for a proper recce, I just did a great deal .of reading

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

The brilliant lady who works with my publishers Accent Press.

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

Going over my editor’s proof corrections and comments on Track Changes! I was not brought up on computers. We did Latin and Greek.

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

I learnt a great deal about castles, medieval training for war, medieval food, the passing of the ‘new knowledge’ between Arab-influenced Spain to northern France, and the evolution of the Viking longboat into something resembling the typical medieval sailing ship. I learnt that in writing a historical novel, research can become a monster. You have to know when to say Stop. I learnt that in 900 or maybe 9000 years people don’t change much.

Fiona: If any of your books was made into a film who would you like to play the lead

I will come back to you on that! Maybe the tall girl who starred in The Night Manager –Elizabeth Debicki. She had pride, control, and presence.

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

‘Sir, a man may write at any time, so long as he sets himself doggedly to it.’ Dr Johnson

If you have a message, it must come through the story.

Don’t write for other writers, or for literary critics. Write for a friend you like but don’t know very well.

Also, if you must go and do a Course in Creative Writing, try and forget all about it when you write your novel, otherwise all novels are going to start looking the same. Some of the greatest novels are quite unorthodox and jagged. As William Blake said: ‘I must create a system or be enslaved by another man’s. I will not reason and compare. My business is to create.’

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

‘Hello, here’s something interesting that I think you’re going to enjoy.’

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Berlin Noir by Philip Kerr. The Short Stories of Algernon Blackwood.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Brown the Bear. It was on heavy paper, almost board, written by some Czech author. The bear prowled the neighborhood eating their food. So the villagers split a log in the forest and put some honey in it. The bear came and started to eat the honey and then the men pulled out the wedges and the bear’s nose was caught.  Ow! But he managed to escape…

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Someone sliding on a banana skin/ me sliding on a banana skin

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

The person who wrote under the name of William Shakespeare!

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

RETURNED TO SENDER

It might make a passer-by laugh.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I play the piano and the harpsichord. I have a good nose for Malt Whisky. I can pretty well tell where a malt comes from in a taste test. I worked for many years on the advertising for The Macallan..

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

Television is a cushion into which one sinks the buttocks of the mind. I enjoyed The Night Manager. How could one not? But, normally, I am a lazy and easygoing viewer. I will not watch East Enders or shows with stand-up comedians. There I draw the line.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Shepherds (Cottage) Pie and Treacle Pudding/ Blue/ Mozart, Handel, Orlando Gibbons, The Beatles

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

I should like to have been a musician

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

I have a website for my commercial writing (ads etc) company called Salamanimal Ltd. It desperately needs updating. But then so do I.

The hippo pic is my daughter’s and is meant to represent the author and his  publisher.

Amazon Authors Page http://www.amazon.co.uk/Nicholas-Salaman/e/B001HPN5WM/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1

Buying link https://www.amazon.co.uk/White-Ship-Nicholas-Salaman/dp/1910939587/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1464458744&sr=1-1&keywords=Nicholas+Salaman

 

http://www.accentpress.co.uk/the-white-ship

 

Here is my interview with Connie Cockrell

Name: Connie Cockrell

Age: 60

Where are you from: Originally from Gloversville, N.Y. just outside the Adirondacks of central N.Y. It’s a small town, really, and a wonderful place to grow up.

A little about your self `ie your education Family life etc : I’m the oldest of 6 children from a working class family. I decided when I was 9 that I was going to move away from home, go to college and have a wonderful, high paying career. Well, I did leave home at 18 but to join the US. Air Force. After that I did, after many years of part time classes, marrying, having a child, get my bachelor’s degree in business. After that, a Master’s in Information Systems Management just as I retired from the Air Force. After that was a 7 year stint in private industry then I “retired” at 48 to life my own dreams. It wasn’t until 2011 that I began writing.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I released my third book in my Brown Rain novelette series, Kindred Spirits in March 2016. They’re all supposed to be SciFi, Dystopian, YA novelettes but for some reason Kindred Spirits hit the novella range. Like every last book, I think it’s the best I’ve written.

 

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

My daughter told me about a friend of hers that was going to participate in something called National Novel Writing Month. This was the 2^nd week of October, 2011. She said she was going to try it too. I asked about the details and she leant me a book by Larry Brooks called Story Engineering. I sped read through the book and got enough of a clue to start plotting out my story. It turns out I finished the challenge and every November one since, and the result was my very first book, Bad Seed. Up on Amazon and other retailers. I think this is the “hobby” that I’ve been searching for for decades. I’ve been writing strong ever since.

 

 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

2012, when I finally put Bad Seed up on Amazon.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Aside from my daughter’s encouragement, the story had to do with the prevalence of genetically modified food in the current food distribution plan. I just wanted to explore the consequences of doing that.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

My style is spare. I have to go back and rewrite after the 1^st draft to add background, internal thoughts, scenery and other information that makes the story real to the reader.

 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

It seemed like a no brainer, the seed is bad.

 

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

Just that science has to be considered from all angles. I’m a big science geek and I’ll admit that I tend to want to just accept every scientific advancement but that’s not always a good thing.

 

 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic ?

I did quite a bit of research on it, and I kind of list it within the book in a subtle way. Or maybe not so subtle. We have to keep an eye on those giant conglomerates.

 

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

Not really. But, on the other hand, I have been diagnosed in my 40’s with Celiac. A niece was hit by juvenile diabetes at 12. One nephew is also now celiac. These are all auto immune diseases. Just the thing that genetically modified food could possibly cause.

 

 

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

Most influential books were Science Fiction. The genre is designed for looking at “what if” scenarios whether that’s genetic science, social integration or alien invasions.

 

 
Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m on Chuck Wendig’s book 2 of his Heartland Trilogy, Blightborn. I wanted to see how another author treated the same genetically modified food system I wrote about. I Love Love Love this series.

 

 

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

Chuck Wendig is one, of course. Kevin Hearne and his Iron Druid Series is a real winner.

 

 

Fiona: What are your current projects?

I’m right in the middle of rewriting and editing a new YA series, Zoe Ohale. It’s set on a far planet in the future. I’m exploring what it means when people say we shouldn’t support people who are criminals or “degenerates” (think drug users, etc.) or their families. It’s not a pretty sight.

 

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

My writing communities. I belong to several groups, two in person and several on-line. They’re great places to pick up tips, tricks, ideas and to just vent when things aren’t going my way.

 

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I do consider it a career. I spend hours a day on it.

 

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

LOL! I don’t know. It’s too new yet.

 

 

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

I’ve always been a writer. Little things, unfinished things. It was that National Novel Writing Month challenge that finally lit the fire.

 

 

 

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

Here’s a bit from Zoe Ohale.

Zoe Ohale locked the closet she called home and left the house. The landlady was okay, but Zoe didn’t trust anyone. She didn’t have enough things to let anyone steal them. What she did have she needed or had sentimental value. It was spring so she’d gently washed and dried and put away the crocheted hat her mother had made for her when she was eight. A pang of grief speared her in the heart. He mother had died six years ago, of a broken heart. That brought up the memory of the Lees at the door reporting that her father had died in prison, in a prisoner fight, when she was ten. Her mother had just collapsed and never recovered. First it was alcohol, then drugs. Zoe ground her teeth together. After that, she was on the street. The Government didn’t support kids who came from criminals and drug users.

She pushed the anger down, sniffed back the tears and held her head up. She wasn’t going to let those memories take away this beautiful spring day. The trees had filled out their leaves but they weren’t full grown yet. They were still that soft, new green that made everything seem fresh and new. Even in the poor part of town, pron-flower vines grew everywhere and made the neighborhood seem nicer than it was. The eight-petalled flowers were a blue the same color as the sky at the horizon, her mother had pointed out when Zoe was seven. To her, it seemed as though the sky had dripped down onto the earth. Many people planted white, yellow or even orange flowers with the pron. Daffodils, which came in all of those shades, and brought with the original colonists, were the most used. She loved that you could dig up the bulbs and plant them in a new spot and in a few years, have a large patch of flowers for nothing.

Zoe walked the mile and a half to the park enjoying the sunshine and the flowers. She sat on a particular bench and waited. Kids ran riotous across the lawns, playing tag, flying kites, nearly knocking over the old people walking in relative slow motion compared to the kids. Across the flower beds in front of her, she watched as a teen boy lightly bumped a well-to-do looking older man walking with someone that appeared to be his wife. He nodded an apology and strode off in the opposite direction. Zoe saw him stop at a trash can and check the man’s wallet, pocketing a few things and dumping the rest in the can. She grinned at the scene. Picking pockets wasn’t something she’d learned. Trading or selling goods was more her style.

“Something funny?”

She looked up to her right. “Officer Fletcher Gren, glad you could make it.”

He sat on the bench beside her. She was glad to see he’d come in civilian clothing. There was no way she wanted her gang of orphans to know she was working with the Lee’s. “I just watched a kid pick the pocket of some old guy and make off with a few things.”

“What?” He sat up and looked around the park.

“Keep your pants on. It’s all over and the kid is long gone.”

“But…,” Gren sighed and sat back. “I’m not here for that, am I?”

“Nope.”

Zoe watched his face. Conflicting emotions ran across it, a scowl, then a sigh, resignation, and acceptance.

“I’m glad you came. We have the younger orphans being assigned to foster homes. Good ones, not the horror stories you’ve heard about. Time for you to keep your side of the bargain.”

She nodded. Over the winter, she’d been caught selling goods without a license. Instead of jail, Gren had offered her a chance at a better life. She’d come across a kidnapping and in return for her telling him who was involved, she’d made him promise to help the younger orphans who were living on the street to find homes. She’d promised to think about becoming a Universal Law Enforcement officer or part of the military. Zoe was still thinking about it but in the meantime, she’d agreed to help him out with information on the criminal element in town.

 

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

Writing in the details. The nuances, internal conflicts, all of that. I really have to think about it.

 

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

Aside from Chuck Wendig and Kevin Hearne, my base favs are C.J. Cherryh, Robert Heinlein, Issac Asimov and so on. These are the authors I’ve read since I was 13 and they are how I see science fiction.

 

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

I haven’t so far. One travel was particularly interesting. I wrote a western short story and put my hero’s home town as Santa Rosa, New Mexico. I went to the web and looked up Santa Rosa. I never uncovered that the Santa Rosa river is about 2 feet wide or that there’s a natural spring called the Big Blue Hole (you can google that) in the town that pumps out thousands of gallons of water a minute. It doesn’t matter to the story so far but it’s funny what you can learn on site that you have a hard time finding on line.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Most of my covers I design myself. A few have been done by other people.

 

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

The hardest book to write was my cozy mystery, Mystery in the Woods. Dang, that took me months to write. Nothing seemed to click for me.

 

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

To keep pressing on. I’m stubborn. I want to finish every book I start.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Don’t give up. It’s not easy to think about every aspect of the world you’re building. If you can do it in a month, great. If it takes a year or more, take the time. You want this to be the best thing you can do at that time. Don’t however niggle it to death. Get it done and send it out into the world. Then work on the next one.

 

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

Thank you!!!!!!! I can’t say that enough. I’d write the stories anyway, they’re bubbling up out of me. But how awesome if someone else reads and enjoys them.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Not really. I’ve been a reader since they taught me in 1^st grade. Those were the Dick and Jane stories by the way.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

That depends. Sometimes weird stuff, the death of pets, babies who are puzzled by the great big wide world.

 

 

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

So many people. It’s hard to say. At the moment it might be Grace Hopper. How she got into computers and the Navy. What it was like for her.

 

 

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

Died writing.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I hike. I think it’s important to get out into the daylight and walk through nature. I get exercise, I get to explore the countryside around me, and I get to destress. How lovely.

 

 

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

I’m a drama lover. Walking Dead, Deadwood, all the dark stuff.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Food: Pasta though it has to be gluten free now. Colors: Green and Blue. Music: 70’s/80’s.

 

 

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

I come into writing late in life. What else? A traveller, writing about all of the wonderful places on earth.

 

 

 

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

I can be found at www.conniesrandomthoughts.com, Twitter at: @conniecockrell, Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/ConniesRandomThoughts

Author Biography

Connie Cockrell grew up in upstate NY, just outside of Gloversville, NY. She now lives in Payson, AZ with her husband: hiking, gardening, and playing bunko. Connie Cockrell began writing in response to a challenge from her daughter in October 2011 and has been hooked ever since. She writes about whatever comes into her head so her books could be in any genre. She’s published fourteen books so far, has been included in five different anthologies and been published on EveryDayStories.com. Connie’s always on the lookout for a good story idea. Beware, you may be the next one.

She can be found at www.conniesrandomthoughts.com or on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/ConniesRandomThoughts or on Twitter at: @ConnieCockrell

 

Here is my interview with R.E. Hargrave

Name R.E. Hargrave

Age Old enough to know better 😉

Where are you from

Born in Reno, Nevada, raised primarily between California and South Carolina, with a few other states tossed in, I’m now in Texas raising my own three children with the help of my high school sweetheart.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

The first book in my BDSM Erotica trilogy, To Serve is Divine, is now available in audio format. The next two in the series are in production, and a final boxset with a possible surprise is planned to wrap it all up.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When the first reader reached out to me and thanked me for my words.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

My first official book was Sugar & Spice. It’s a short story, about twenty thousand words, and it’s family friendly. Because it was going to be my first book, I wanted it to be something my kids could pick up and read, too. Obviously I wasn’t going to let that happen with the erotica, so I penned this sweet tale using my then nine-year-old as my inspiration for the little girl in the story. My daughter also got to be my first pre-reader on the story, so there’s a special memory there for us. She considers it her book. LOL.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Probably? LOL

For longer stories I tend to gravitate to writing in third person, while my short stories are more likely to be first. I am a slow writer as I’m particular with my word choices and have a hard time word-vomiting onto a piece of paper. I tend to edit myself as I write which puts an anchor on the process.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

To a submissive, “serving” is everything. It’s what we thrive on, live for… yearn for. In a word, it’s Divine.

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

The BDSM Lifestyle is a beautiful thing that is often misunderstood. There is a kink for everyone. While one thing might not be your cup of tea, it could be another’s, and that’s okay… as long as it’s consensual. Don’t judge. Be open to new things, learn to communicate with your partner(s), and have fun while being safe. #LongLiveKink

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic, and are experiences based on someone you know or events in your own life?

I tried to make the story very realistic, and eye-opening. Multiple facets of the BDSM lifestyle are incorporated, from objectification to pony play to the importance of aftercare, and are based on my own personal experiences and those of others in the lifestyle whom I’ve spoken too.

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

Stephen King

Laurell K. Hamilton

Anne Rice

 

These are the writing powerhouses (of the more mature variety) who won my heart with their stories and styles. So much detail. So much greatness.

Fiona: Are there any new authors who have grasped your interest? Who is your favorite author, and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

As an Indie author myself, I’m going to keep this answer to Indies. Lesser known authors to keep an eye on:

Lucy Lit (http://amzn.to/249zi6j) can weave a sensual Southern tale that will keep you turning the pages.

M B Feeney (http://amzn.to/1sRLPQH) is one of my favorite UK authors. Her ability to pull you in with witty dialogue is incredible. Not over the top sexy, but spicy enough to keep you interested. Oh, and she may have a thing for writing in US Southern boys.

Lorenz Font (http://amzn.to/1TGZKkQ) Oh, my gosh, this woman can write a tale! Dipping into one of her many novels is always an adventure that will be jam-packed with action, twists, and romance.

Not an easy call to make, but if I had to narrow down and choose only one Indie author who I would read regardless of the summary because I just KNOW she’s that good: Amber L. Johnson (http://amzn.to/20H0FUu)

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

Easy. My cover designer, an author herself, happens to also be my best friend. We found each other through Twilight fanfiction several years back and have continued to grow from there. She handles the graphics, I handle the editing. #Teamwork

J.C. Clarke is phenomenal if you are needing any kind of graphics done (including template design event banners, mugs, tees, etc.) at a price you can afford. Look her up if you’re so inclined: The Graphics Shed on etsy: http://ow.ly/ZgoM3

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I’m trying to. Somedays are a real struggle and I wonder if I’m spinning my wheels on a glorified hobby. You know these days. The ones where you get a less than nice review, or the little sale indicator on your kdp dashboard doesn’t blip up even once. However, you shake it off and keep going. My “day job” is as a freelance editor, so the writing comes wherever I can work it in, but whether I write new words or edit someone else’s, I try to give my business the attention it needs everyday through pimping and social media presence. Alas, the days of the reclusive author are coming to an end. If you want to make it in the Indie ocean, you have to jump in and swim. And keep swimming.

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

My latest release is actually my first foray into the horror genre. It’s a short story, clocking in at about 7500 words, but it’s detailed and gory. This is the second version of it, so I’d have to say I made the changes I wanted to do before I published it. As of right now, SLOTS is exclusive to The Edge of Madness boxset (only 99c! for 15 stories).

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

As far back as grade school I would play around with poems, and once I even did a co-authored story with a friend. However, it wasn’t until 2010 that I decided to pick up a pen and really try to create a full story from start to finish. What came of that was my former fanfiction known as To Serve is Divine. That story became book two of the Divine Trilogy, A Divine Life, while I recycled the fanfic title once the first book was written. In my overhaul for publication, it went from a story covering two days, to a full blown saga spanning about five years and topping out around 260,000 words.

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

I’ve got two short stories I’m trying to finish and polish for boxset publication this year, No Reservations and Austin Ink. Both fall into the erotic category and are going to be a little wild.

Here’s an unedited excerpt from No Reservations

I lifted the goblet up in cheers and then brought it to my lips, where I paused. No alcohol had been in my system for over a year—not since we’d started trying to conceive.

Dakota’s arm slipped around my waist while he leaned in and whispered in my ear, “Here’s to letting go.”

Turning my head, I raised my dark eyes up to his face, needing to be sure we were on the same page. “Daks?”

“It’s fine, Lena. One weekend, a few drinks. What could it hurt? I think we both need to shut off all concerns this weekend and enjoy ourselves.”

“Listen to your boy, beautiful, he knows what he’s talking about.” Trin hustled over and nudged her body between ours then wrapped her arms around our necks. “Here’s to enjoying ourselves.” She pulled the arm draped around my neck in toward her mouth to sip the rosy libation in her hand.

We all drank to her toast, and then she planted a kiss on my mouth—much to my surprise. Joey whistled and Dakota spluttered, sending the gulp of Riesling he’d just taken back into his glass and all over his hand. I gave a half-hearted laugh with an innocent shrug. Had to love Trinity and her spontaneity.

“Joey, baby, why don’t you take Daks out to the garage and show him your new bike? Let Selena and me get in some girl talk and have a chance to catch up,” Trinity urged.

“Sure thing, babe. Come on, D.” Joey tipped his wine glass up and drained it, Dakota following suit. “Got some beer out there, too. We’ll leave the fruit punch to the women.”

Dakota laughed and Trinity rolled her eyes. “Hardy-har-har.” Like the grown up she was Trinity stuck her tongue out at Joey then grabbed my hand and began dragging me to the living room.

We plopped down on the sleek, brown leather sofa and set to chatting. It wasn’t until I was on my third glass of wine that Trinity revealed her true intentions for the weekend and told me why they’d really left Ireland.

“So, we were at this little pub, and this smoking hot redhead came up and started dancing behind me at the bar. Joey noticed her first. He kept looking over my shoulder until I turned around to see what was distracting him. Jesus, Selena, the eyes on that chick were incredible, like Joey’s. You know I’ve got a thing for green eyes.”

I chuckled at her vibrant storytelling, and nibbled another wedge of a buttery cheese with a creamy texture.

“Anyways, I looked from her back to Joey, and holy shit the look in his gorgeous greens—”

“Are you about to tell me the two of you took this girl back to your hotel?” I butted in, and she laughed.

“No. Not that the thought didn’t cross my mind. We did settle our tab so we could get out of there. We ended up screwing down in an alley because we were both too turned on to make it back to the hotel.”

“Wow, Trin. Of course, you did always like playing with fire so I guess I can’t be too shocked,” I teased her while giggling. A hiccup escaped.

“Don’t you know it, beautiful?” She brought her bare foot up from the floor to rub it along my calf.

© 2016 R.E. Hargrave, No Reservations

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

 

Dialogue. I don’t talk much and am often more of an observer working things out in my head, and I guess that spills over into my writing. I have to push myself to make my characters more outgoing and less like me.

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

I’m just starting to branch out more this year. I’ve finally gotten enough sales under my belt to warrant getting out into the public eye for signings and such, but it’s baby steps for now. Where you can catch me in 2016:

Deliciously Dirty in Dallas August 27

For details, or to guarantee copies: http://ow.ly/cv1W300CyMi

 

Deliciously Dirty in Phoenix September 24

For details, or to guarantee copies: http://ow.ly/M4PO300CyVH

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

J.C. Clarke of The Graphics Shed has done all of my covers with the exception of some of the anthologies and boxsets I’ve been in, and I adore her work!

The Graphics Shed etsy: http://ow.ly/ZgoM3

The Graphics Shed FB: http://ow.ly/ZgoWA

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

Taking the time to make sure nothing I wrote would put a negative light on the BDSM community. My goal was to help enlighten, not add to the already wary perspective of kinksters.

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

You can’t please everybody.

On a sidenote, it’s been funny to see non-lifestylers call the book hardcore BDSM while those who live the lifestyle have called it a light romance. Goes to show you that it’s all in the eye of the beholder.

Fiona: If any of your books were made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

From the beginning, I’ve pictured Kate Winslet and Hugh Jackman filling the roles of Catherine O’Chancey and Jayden Masterson in my BDSM trilogy.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

GET AN EDITOR. Please Do Not skip this step. Even if you’re an editor yourself. If there is any aspect of self-publishing that you want to put your money into, it’s editing. A quality cover is right up there as well, but while a cover can be overlooked, bad writing cannot. Also, for the sake of your editor, know that a full and thorough edit of a manuscript will likely take at least three months but could take longer depending on several factors such as quality of writing, the genre, and the length. Yes, you read that right. Three months. I’ve been approached by authors wanting to start an edit and publish in two weeks, and that’s not realistic.

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

THANK YOU for all the years of continued support and amazing feedback you give through reviews or even just passing comments. Y’all make me want to keep doing this.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Unfortunately, none. I have Amber L. Johnson’s She Dims the Stars overdue in my queue, but when you’ve been editing all day long, reading at night isn’t exactly an unwind kind of thing. It’s difficult to turn off the editor and just enjoy the story, so I don’t tend to read unless I’m not actively editing a manuscript.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

No. According to my parents, I was reading before I started school, though.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Oh, I’m a kneejerk crier. It really doesn’t take much to set me off. Laughing… well, let’s say I can be kind of twisted and the oddest things will set me off.

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

I’m so socially awkward it really isn’t funny. Public things send me near to anxiety attacks, so consciously thinking about going out and pursing a meeting with a famous person… does not happen.

(Please remember this if you ever come meet me at a signing. Odds are, I’m way more nervous than you, so come over and say hi! Make me engage. I don’t bite… unless asked to.)

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

She did it her way, and made it work.

Fiona: Other than writing, do you have any hobbies?

I cook. A lot. Things like pasta and bread get done from scratch around here. Check out my Instagram for pics! https://www.instagram.com/rehargrave/

I’m also in a collaborative cookbook you might be interested in for a variety of recipes (from amateur to advanced) along with personal stories from the authors about various real life kitchen disasters they’ve had. It’s only 99c on Kindle.

Cooking with The Crazy Lady Authors http://amzn.to/1KPzkum

I also sew, though that has taken a back burner to the whole writing endeavor so it’s been a few years since I made a quilt.

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

We don’t have cable, just Netflix, so shows like The Walking Dead and Orange is the New Black are what we watch when it’s boob tube time.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Give me my good ‘ol down south comfort foods any day.

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

Office management and administration is what I’ve done in the past.

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

www.rehargrave.com

 

About the Author:

International Best Selling Author R.E. Hargrave lives on the outskirts of Dallas, TX where she prides herself on being a domestic engineer. Married to her high school sweetheart, together they are raising three children. She is an avid reader, a sometimes quilter, and now, a writer. Other hobbies include gardening and a love of music. A native ‘mutt,’ Hargrave has lived in New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Alabama, Texas, and California. She is fond of setting her stories—which range from the sweet to the paranormal to the erotic—on location in South Carolina and Texas, but it’s anybody’s guess as to what the genre will be!

 

 

 

Social Media Links

(I’ve hyperlinked each site name, but added the link in case the hyperlink doesn’t carry through):

Blog http://www.rehargrave.com/

Amazon Author Page

http://amzn.to/1UpLtfB

Facebook Author Page https://www.facebook.com/REHargrave

Twitter https://twitter.com/REHargrave

Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6579501.R_E_Hargrave

Tsu  https://www.tsu.co/rehargrave

Tumblr http://rehargrave.tumblr.com/

iAuthor http://www.iauthor.uk.com/profile/r-e-hargrave:7925

Wattpad http://www.wattpad.com/user/REHargrave

Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/rehargrave/

Specific to The Divine Trilogy:

Facebook Divine Trilogy Page  https://www.facebook.com/divinetrilogy

The Divine Trilogy blog http://rehargrave.wix.com/rehargrave

 

To buy SIGNED paperback copies from me directly: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1-ksYYtDCM3xvtY2k0lBA6e7VwV_MUZ_7wPzN4SwjcdQ/viewform

To join my reader’s lounge on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/REsReadersLounge/

 

Current titles:

Anthologies

Cooking With The Crazy Lady Authors

Sensual Diversions (Feb 14, 2016; 90 day release only)

The Edge of Madness (March 1, 2016)

Novellas

Sugar & Spice

• #Kindle http://amzn.to/1MeFALa
• #kobo http://ow.ly/X0kKZ
• #iBooks http://ow.ly/X0l61
• #nook http://ow.ly/X3uVr

Haunted Raine

• #kindle http://amzn.to/1TlnVGX

• Unchained Melody (ebook only)

• #kindle http://amzn.to/1VaKRLt
• #nook http://ow.ly/X0jyu
• #kobo http://ow.ly/X0jS0
• #iBooks http://ow.ly/X1soC

The Food Critic

• #kindle http://amzn.to/1jdIrdR
• #nook http://ow.ly/UriMW
• #iBooks http://ow.ly/Urj6O
• #kobo http://ow.ly/Urjfl

Fire Lust

• #kindle http://amzn.to/1cvATza
• #nook http://ow.ly/UrlXQ
• #iBooks http://ow.ly/UrmeM
• #kobo http://ow.ly/Urlxs

 

Slots (in The Edge of Madness)

• UNIVERSAL AMAZON: http://mybook.to/EDGEofMADNESS
• KOBO: http://ow.ly/WuLBH
• ✮GIFT W/KOBO PURCHASE Claim Form: http://ow.ly/We6Mq ✮
• B&N: http://ow.ly/WbJF3
• iBooks: http://ow.ly/WbJYD

Novels (also in audio production for assorted 2016 releases)

To Serve is Divine (Bk 1 of The Divine Trilogy)

• #Kindle http://amzn.to/20PtKPp
• #nook http://ow.ly/UNSS6
• #iBooks http://ow.ly/UHV63
• #kobo http://ow.ly/UIiFv

 

Catherine O’Chancey is a reserved, demure, and graceful submissive. All traits she trained hard to enhance when she discovered the world of Dominance and submission in college. In an attempt to start fresh after the unexpected death of her last Dom, Catherine moves to Dallas, TX to escape the shroud of darkness he left behind in her life. She has tried to fight the need that resides deep within her to submit, but finally has to admit she can’t for it is not a choice, but part of who she truly is. After months of mental preparation, she ventures back into the lifestyle by attending a coveted open-night event at Dungeons and Dreams, an exclusive BDSM club.

Is it fate or coincidence that Catherine garners the attention of one of the club’s board members who happens to be on the hunt for the perfect sub – a partner who enjoys receiving pain and pleasure as much as he enjoys doling it out?

Jayden Masterson is many things: a firm Dom, a shrewd businessman, and a gentleman. What he isn’t, is someone who partakes in relationships outside of contractual ones with his multiple, uncollared, regular submissives. While he likes rough sex, he is not an animal, and can find pleasure only if it is consensual. What his harem is missing is a pain slut; could there be one in his future?

Upon meeting Catherine, Jayden feels an instantaneous spark inside him that has him wanting to know not just her body, but her mind. He wants to unravel her mysteries and discover her secrets. Through pain can they find the pleasure they seek? Can part-time pain lovers find full-time fulfillment when it’s not in their contract?

***Trilogy contains explicit sexual content (including multiple partners and gender pairings) and mature situations which could be trigger-inducing for some readers. Not meant for underage readers. ***

 

A Divine Life (Bk 2 of The Divine Trilogy)

• #kindle http://amzn.to/1JwRO0v
• #nook http://ow.ly/XNZDs
• #kobo http://ow.ly/XNYUp
• #iBooks http://ow.ly/XNYzA

 

Over the past year of being Jayden Masterson’s collared submissive, Catherine O’Chancey has worked through the mental terrors left behind by her old Dom—she thinks. To celebrate their collaring anniversary, Jayden organizes a special day, during which her final limits and fantasies will be realized. Will it prove to be more than she can handle? Can she endure the erotic onslaught her mind and body will experience and survive unscathed?

While Catherine faces dark shadows and pleasurable highs, Jayden finds his own inner strength being tested. He has come to realize that, somewhere along the way, Catherine has taken possession of his heart, mind, and body. Now he faces his biggest challenge ever; he must let go of all his submissives but one: his jewel, Catherine. Can he leave his philandering ways behind? Has he made the ultimate mistake by putting his jewel into the hands of others?

Surreal (Bk 3 of The Divine Trilogy) — 2015 Golden Flogger Award Finalist

• #kindle http://amzn.to/1X5WnWF
• #nook http://ow.ly/XNZUg
• #kobo http://ow.ly/XNZcl
• #iBooks http://ow.ly/XNYJ0

 

***2015 FINALIST for BDSM Writers Con Golden Flogger Award for Best BDSM Novel of the Year***

Catherine O’Chancey is a young submissive who has found her happily ever after, with a man far better than she’d ever dreamed.

Or has she? Is life that easy?

Jayden Masterson first opened his playroom to Catherine—a provocative Irish beauty with a penchant for pain—and then his heart to her everyday persona, Erin. For him, life has never been more perfect . . . Or more confusing.

He’s comfortable as a Dominant, but still finding his way as a lover and equal partner. Jayden is also learning that he can’t protect his jewel from everything—nor should he. Some battles she must fight on her own.

The travesties of Erin’s past still haunt her, and as the couple move forward in their merging relationship, they must now cope with the physical damage left behind by her abuser.

Catherine and her Master have a lot to learn—about each other, and about themselves. If Jayden and his jewel can overcome the challenges they’ll face on the next leg of their journey, their ending just might be . . . Surreal.

The Complete Divine Trilogy — All 3 BDSM novels in 1

• #kindle http://mybook.to/TheCompleteDivineTrilogy
• #nook http://ow.ly/YIlEU
• #iBooks http://ow.ly/YIlO8
• #kobo https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/the-complete-divine-trilogy

 

An erotic read meant for adults, The Divine Trilogy is not your typical romance.
When you first meet Catherine and Jayden they aren’t looking for love at all. Catherine O’Chancey is a young submissive whose second Dom turned out to be an abusive fake. This is the story of her subsequent recovery and reentry into the BDSM lifestyle with the help of a new Dominant, Jayden Masterson. Come with me, and I’ll take you on the journey alongside Catherine and Jayden while their bond grows and deepens. It’ll be sexy and intense, but never fear, you get to be there to see the tender side of her new Dom as he helps her through her past tragedies.
The Divine Trilogy offers a different view of the BDSM world.
One that will enlighten readers and show them that those who live this Lifestyle often do so because it is a deep-seated need within their psyche, something that can’t be ignored. And that need is okay because, when practiced properly, BDSM is all about being Safe, Sane, and Consensual. Find within the pages a sampling of the different dynamics which can occur amongst kinksters. Everything from hardcore pain sluts to docile “littles” who want to be pampered and coddled, but the important thing to remember is that everyone has a place of acceptance, without judgement, in this Lifestyle.
Time and again reviewers have said they couldn’t put this book down . . . even when they don’t usually read this genre.

 

Here is my interview with Paul Levas

Name Paul Levas

Age 32

Where are you from Antioch IL

I graduated High School from Desert Vista in Ahwatukee Phoenix, Arizona in 2002. My family is from the Northern suburbs of Chicago IL. We moved to Phoenix in 1993. However, I have relocated to Tucson, Arizona

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Currently, I am thrilled to announce that I have a long story, The Circle I Tread, coming out on July 1st, 2016. It includes an excerpt of my debut novel 43. The Circle I Tread is a drama about a man who is shot in his self-help group, and lives to tell about it. 43 is a novel about an abused boy, Jason Dillinger, and befriend his newest neighbors. They give him this mysterious box with the number 43 engraved on it. This box shows him a new life, a life he has never seen. It breathes life into Jason , and Jason breathes his life. That will be out later this year or early 2017. I’ve also been invited to be a part of this Anthology for the International Animal Rescue donations. I have a short story included. Very proud of that. In addition, it was announced the other day, I have a collection of short stories coming soon.

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I started writing at an early age, my teens. However, I didn’t get serious about making a career until I was in my early twenties.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

From the beginning. We all start somewhere, right?

 

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Stephen King, Elmore Leonard, and Quinton Tarantino.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I really enjoy starting the action from the first sentence, instead of leading up to a specific situation. However, I use the ‘What if’ scenario a lot.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The Circle I Tread involves the traits, good and bad, we develop from past family members. It is a circle that everyone treads, walks. 43? That has been confusion to some friends of ‘Why?’ It involves a major plot point for the main character, John Dillinger.

 

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

Not one I meant to happen, but yes, there is a message in my upcoming novel and The Circle I Tread. 43? It is frustrating what abused kids go through. The Circle I Tread is basically, we are not perfect, but we’re all people that have mistakes, traits, good and bad.

 

 
Fiona: How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

I would say, I write what I know and see, but then my imagination takes over.

 

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

Stephen King has influenced me the most.

 

 

 

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest and who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

I really enjoy Michael Bray. His storytelling is solid and unique, and it grips me from the start.

 

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

My high school sweetheart. Sarah. She didn’t just encourage my writing, but things in my life that led up to my career.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Of Course!

 

 
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?  

This is funny. I was in school, and saw that a classmate had SCREAM the screenplay. I left school and bought the screenplay. I went home, read it, and wrote my own short script.

 

 

 

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

Sure, I’ll share a bit of a novel called The Vanishing Monkey.

SOLITARY

 

Porter sits at his desk in his tiny office, staring out the window at the stucco wall, and waits for inspiration. The stucco is the prison in which he’s captive: his house. In truth, his house isn’t the prison. The prison is the four-walls of his office where he goes to work every morning. The long bookshelf on his black wooden desk is where the stacked books on writing (How To Write A Novel! On Writing By Stephen King! Plot & Structure! How To Write Great Dialogue) rest beyond his IBM Word Pad. They are no service to him now like they were when he first sat at the same desk and, in five months, punched out his first published novel.

The chandelier gleams through the office, most days setting the mood perfectly, but not today. His daily ROCKSTAR energy drink rests on top the bookshelf beside his stuffed monkey. However, the inspiring taste offers him nothing. The furry-brown monkey isn’t offering him anything either.

Papers and trash litter the tile. He doesn’t care. His desk is what he cares about. His favorite author, Stephen King, stapled to the wall, offers him no guidance either. The bright yellow paper stapled above Stephen King is his own personal affirmation. I AM A WRITER. I AM PUBLISHED. MY NAME IS PORTER WILLIS! The yellow pad beside his IBM has a zero written in black ink. Above the zero, the words ‘Word count’ are written. Lucky Silver, a gift from Brenda, rests on the yellow pad, once his lucky pen, now terrorizes him with each glance.

By God I will write today. I will not again suffer this hell. Lucky Silver shall serve me, not torment me. I need that first sentence. One sentence. Then I shall control the day. It’s a new day (six weeks since that day in Night Owls) and he has to write great fiction. It means his life. What will he write? What if he puts something up for grabs? What will he decide? Right now, he only hopes the first sentence he writes today will bring the inspiration he needs.

The questions haunt him in composition hell. Every author, he figures, understands. You’d have to be a writer to understand the process of writing: creating great ideas and then working on the story until it is perfect, the courage and focus, the determination, the time. For some, it takes a few months, years for others, but no matter the time, writing takes a lot of work.

When he began writing, Porter didn’t understand the development of story, however, since purchasing and reading the books, his talent only grows.

“Then why can’t I do it now?” he asks the silent office. “Why can’t I get back into it? What is wrong with me?”

Pepper leaps to her feet and moves her muzzle under his right arm.

“How are you, girl?” he says brushing his palm over her back. Pepper licks his wrist, and gives him the droopy eyes a dog gives when their sad or begging. Porter can see her mind telling him “Here daddy, I’ll lick your wrist.” He smiles, strokes her back, and rubs her neck. Pepper’s bed has been beside his feet every day since he wrote his first novel. She’s his companion, his only companion after Brenda left, and she’s part of the inspiration. However, today Pepper’s just like the rest. No guidance. What is he going to do? He glances at the Stephen King picture. Stephen help me, I need this. I want this.

The response doesn’t come. He glances at the word count pad, as gooseflesh cover his arms and shivers terrify him. His smile fades and Pepper lies down in her bed. The blank screen of his word processor and the flashing cursor wait patiently, like always. I’m doing what I know. I’m writing what I

know, aren’t I? He doesn’t want to question himself, but six weeks of not writing a single word will do that to a writer. Plus, life without Brenda isn’t making things any better.

Porter’s thought breaks. His eyes open wide and he spins around toward Pepper. His heart thumps rapidly. YES! The image is as thick as when he wrote his first novel. Yes, he’s got an idea, a great, wonderful, spellbinding idea. In fact, it’ll blow his first book out of the water, which he needs badly.

Pepper’s eyes flutter and her body trembles. Just another dream about chasing that damn cat. He thinks, and shifts his eyes toward the blank screen and starts typing.

 

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

I can’t pin-point a certain thing, but I can tell you I earn something new everyday.

 

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

Not yet, but planning to soon.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

My friend, one of my favorite writers, Michael Bray

 

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

Getting information I received correct.

 

 

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

Patience

 

 

Fiona: If any of your books was made into a film who would you like to play the lead

Mark Whalberg.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Don’t give up! I met a couple the other day, and the lady told me I want to write a book, but have no time. I told her. “Write one sentence, write one paragrapha a day.”

 

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

I hope you enjoy my stories, and that you are entertained.

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

The second book in THE BILL HODGES SEREIES By Stephen King. Finders Keepers.

 

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Unfortunately, No.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Life.

 

 

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

My grandfather. Because I’ve heard so much about him, and was a great man.

 

 

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

I’m not sure.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing, do you have any hobbies?

Yes, I love playing video games, poker, traveling, and road-trips

 

 

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

Favorite movie is the Back to The Future trilogy

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

I love Italian and Mexican food. Blue is my color, and music. Love punk rock, blues, rap, funk. Social Distortion is my favorite band. Johnny Cash, and Elvis as well.

 

 

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

Be in the business of giving back to disabled, veterans, etc.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? If so, what is it? Yes. https://www.facebook.com/PAULLEVAS18/?fref=ts

http://paullevas14.wix.com/authorpaullevas

 

Authors Amazon page http://www.amazon.com/Paul-Levas/e/B00BGFTX7O/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1463620833&sr=8-1

 

Thank you.