Here is my interview with Amber Naralim

Name Amber Naralim

Age 36

Where are you from

Michigan mostly. I’ve spent a few years in Florida, a summer in California, bounced around from Grand Rapids to Muskegon, and Caledonia.

A little about yourself `ie your education Family life etc  

I have three beautiful munchkins who keep me more than just a little busy and a great husband who protects me from the world. Or you know, vice versa.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I am a few months away from releasing my third book, Playing with Fire on November 23^rd. This is the third Book in my Monsters series, which includes Walking with Monsters, and Into the Black.

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I started as a painter. My brushes were my first love and I still throw colors at the canvas whenever I get the chance. A car accident caused nerve damage in my neck, arm, and lower back. It left me with shaking hands and an inability to draw a straight line. Devastated and in dire need of a creative outlet, I turned to writing. It helped me heal. It gave me a new outlook on life.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I’ll be honest I still have days when I question it. My books are a record of me getting to play with my imaginary friends. I suppose I actually admitted to myself that I was a writer when my mother in law bought a copy and read my book.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

The song Demolition Lovers by My Chemical Romance. I had the characters rattling around in my head. Vincent would whisper to me every now and then, but the plot really came together after I listened to that song. It set the tone for the whole series.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I like to call it action romance. My style is very visual and fast paced. This series in particular deals with a lot of in your face car chases, and gun fights but at its core the story is about the love and strength these characters give one another. It’s about acceptance and looking for the light in a whole lot of darkness. Just because you’re a monster doesn’t necessarily make you a bad person.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

A line halfway through the book, “Ellie walked with monsters now. And for the first time she felt like she belonged.” I typed it and I just knew that was what it was all about.

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

Being a hero costs you something. Walking through hell changes you, and not always for the better. Whatever started you on your journey the people you meet, the things you do. The choices you make shape you. And just sometimes bad choices are all you get.

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

Beyond me watching a lot of action movies growing up, nothing. If I were truly honest I would say that Vincent has the most of me. He’s a painter. He can see beauty in everything but himself. But that’s pretty much where the similarities fall away.

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

I love anything by Laurell K Hamilton. I have always had a thing for monsters and outcasts but she really drove home the idea that they didn’t have to be the broody vampire trying to atone for existing. Sometimes people make wrong choices for the right reasons and sometimes they make them for their own reasons. Dean Koontz made me love atmosphere, and building tension. And Kurt Sutter! His stuff is television but good lord can that man write a character. Layered and nuanced, he taught me that heroes don’t need to be good guys.

 

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?

The Indi community is beautiful. I was lucky enough to discover Twitter when I was first looking into publishing. There were so many authors at that same level. We bounced ideas off one another, supported one another. I never expected to be embraced the way I have been. We all help one another by handing out little tips and tricks that work for each of us. That has allowed me to meet some great authors. Courtney Shockey writes beautifully tragic tales that grip you and make you feel something. Kim Blalock writes some wicked hot romance. I’ll be honest straight romance was never really enough for me until I began reading her stuff. Check her out, you won’t be disappointed. And finally James Reed, he weaves the mystical and fairy tale seamlessly with modern day thrillers that keep you on your toes.

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

My Chuckles, he was the one person who said “You got this” from day one. He read and re-read every draft. He believed. That’s one thing we all take for granted. When someone believes in you, it lets you believe in yourself. Chuck Anderson is the reason Walking with Monsters ever saw the light of day.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes! Even if no one read them I would still tap out a beautiful ribbon of words every day. It’s my passion. It’s my need. It’s the only thing I have ever really wanted.

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

No. The story I told is the story that needed to be told. I have alternate chapters and deleted scenes as I explored, but once I typed The End, there was no going back.

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

I’ve always told stories, some better than others. Any game I played as a child I made up the world, the characters. That turned to scribbling in journals as a teenager. And finally into the beautiful ribbon of words I’ve shared with the world. But the day it started to feel real was the day Chuckles looked at me and said, “I’d like to see what Amber can do.” I’ve taken that challenge and ran with it.

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

I have magic on the brain of late. I am working on two pieces currently, the seventh in the Monsters series deals With Ellie and Vincent playing with a group of powerful witches. And Blackbird’s curse is a paranormal romance, about a witch trying to put down a beast she called up out of desperation.

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

Everything seems impossible until it’s done. Each book presents you with challenges you have to hack through with a machete. I have days when pretty words flow like water and then days where I am beating my head against my keyboard mumbling, “wat ur werds?” Generally my biggest challenge when it comes to writing is grammar. I hate grammar, and I have yet to meet a writer that doesn’t struggle with it from time to time. It’s a constant struggle of form versus freedom.

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

Not yet. I am simultaneously dreading and looking forward to book signings and author events. Writers are a skittish bunch by nature. We hide in our caves lit only by the flickering of our monitors. I have gotten to meet a lot of great people through my website, Facebook, and Twitter. But I have yet to face them in person.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I did. Originally I painted them. I later changed them to fit in with a lot of other covers. I did however put the originals in the gallery on my website if anyone is curious.

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

Writing is the easy part for me. What gets difficult is the publishing process. Writers have to wear many hats during this time. Cover design, editing, and I shudder as I say marketing. Nowadays even traditionally published authors are tasked with marketing their own books. It is the thickest wall I have come across so far.

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

I learn rather a lot about myself as I write. It lets me see and appreciate my thought process. I also learned a bit about guns for this series.

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

Ellie would be played by Chloe Grace Moretz. She has the innocent look and the bad ass to pull her off. Vincent would be played by Ian Somerhalder. He has the gravity to give my Vincent his due. Let’s face it, he’s not hard to look at either. And Reese would be played by Christian Kane. My Reese has a good ol’ boy charm that only mister Kane could convey in my opinion. I have put many hours of thought into this.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Don’t let rules and conventions shape your story. It’s your world you can do anything you want.

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

Strap in. You’re in for a wild ride.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Jingo by Terry Pratchett I love this book.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Yes, I do. Bunnicula, the celery stalks at midnight, by James Howe. It’s a great series about a vampire bunny rabbit. I recommend this book to anyone kid or adult. All three of my kids have been put upon this path. Your kids will thank you.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Helena, by My Chemical Romance makes me sob like a little girl with a skinned knee. My mother passed away two years ago and this song really reminds me of her.

John Oliver makes me giggle. I enjoy anything that makes you think. I like the way he fights the injustice of the world in little ways. It just tickles my toes.

 

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

I suppose Gerard Way, the lead singer of My Chemical Romance. He has inspired so much for me. I’d like to get the chance to thank him. I enjoy the way he thinks. Though, I think Kevin Smith would be interesting to have a conversation with as well.

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

Good mom. She was occasionally witty. What can I say, I am easy to please.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Painting. I enjoy quilting, and making Halloween costumes. I also run a D&D game every other Saturday. And I am a huge Dragonage fan.

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

Penny Dreadful had great writing and stunning visuals. I love Psych, and Leverage. Sons of Anarchy was a great show. As for shows still on the air my inner fourteen-year-old digs the Vampire Diaries. Archer has hooked me. Pam rocks.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

I love Apples, the smell, the taste, the touch of them. My favorite color is green. And oh do I love music. I don’t really believe in genre. I don’t care for the politics of a singer. Whether people love or hate it. If a song tickles me, it gets added to one of my many playlists. However, if I had to play favorites, My Chemical Romance, Billie Holliday, Otis Redding, Noah Gundersen, Stevie Knicks, Slipknot, Nina Simone, Placebo to name a few. I could seriously go all day here.

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

Being a writer is all I’ve ever really wanted to be. Though, I toyed with teacher for a while.

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

I certainly do. You can find me at http://naralim3.wix.com/ambernaralim

 

 

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorAmberNaralim/
Twitter
@naralim33
Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/Amber-Naralim/e/B01GFAVUN4/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1467273830&sr=1-1

Walking with Monsters
https://www.amazon.com/Walking-Monsters-Book-1-ebook/dp/B01GHNIB68?ie=UTF8&ref_=asap_bc#navbar

Into the black
https://www.amazon.com/Into-Black-Monsters-Book-2-ebook/dp/B01GHPCMYI/ref=pd_sim_sbs_351_1?ie=UTF8&dpID=51eU8pMtPPL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_UX300_PJku-sticker-v3%2CTopRight%2C0%2C-44_OU01_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&psc=1&refRID=ZR4KF0925TCKDTHJ4QYP#navbar

 

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Here is my interview with Peter Shae Stuart

Name Peter Shae Stuart
Age I am no longer in single digits. I have run out of fingers and toes to count!

 

 
Where are you from
I am from Brisbane, Australia and have lived in Queensland all my life. I didn’t fit in that well at school, a bit of a misfit. Hairdressing was my first career of about 20 years which included running my own business. I travelled to the UK, married, and moved to a 30 acre property in the country north of Brisbane. After travelling to India twice with my wife, I started a new career in the disability sector of the Health Industry. I am now settled back in Brisbane.

 

 
Fiona: Tell us your latest news?
I have recently received 5 star reviews for my book, When Shepherds Dream! I am presently engaged in a novel on Judas Iscariot. Written in the first person by Judas, it is a quasi autobiography. I believe that history gives Judas a bad rap. We know little about Judas apart from what the Bible tells us. I paint him in a sympathetic, understanding light. Having so said, my Judas is no saint. He murders three people in my story, including two Roman soldiers and his own uncle. The story is written in such a way that we side with him and understand totally why he did the things he did. Though it is a work of fiction, there is a lot of research involved.

 

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?
I loved doing essays at school. I usually topped the class in this area, and English was my best subject. Writing was an innate talent that revealed itself early.

 

 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I think when I started writing poetry in my late teen years (double digits). I wouldn’t necessarily say I considered myself a writer then in the formal sense, but it was then that I developed the gift and got serious about it. I think most people consider a writer as one who is published. Certainly that is the case with an author. So now I am both.

 

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?
Spirituality is a common denominator in all my writing. When Shepherds Dream is my first published book. Surrender was the inspiration. I was a very difficult place in life where I had to surrender to my situation in order to advance. By way of therapy, I diarised my thoughts and feelings each day. I came to realise that what I was writing could become a book.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?
I dislike long chapters. WSD is 318 pages, and 55 chapters. I write to engage readers at the level of the heart.

 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?
I thought that to start the title with an adverb sounded more intriguing than a plain ‘the’, hence the ‘when’. I think that ‘When Shepherds Dream’ invites query; what are shepherds dreaming about? ‘When’ makes you wonder, “What happens when shepherds dream?” The suggestion is that it must be spectacular. And it is.

 

 

Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
No. As writers, we shoot arrows but we cannot determine where they fall. That is not up to us; I don’t want to force a message on the reader. I think that 20 different readers will grasp and interpret my story in 20 different ways, including ways that did not occur to me when I was writing it. Ever is it so with any book. One particular aspect may be very important to one reader, but mean little or nothing to another. If I engage the reader in a way that is relevant and revelant to them, then I am well content. To me that is the magic of good writing. If a story is written with depth and dimension, it will evoke a multitude of thoughts, messages and interpretations.

 

 

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?
Based on experiences and events – for me, very much so. I think you can only write about what you know about. My book is fiction, but I found that I had been drawing on my own subconscious – for the whole story, really. I was almost finished the book before I realized this. I can see significant parts of me in the characters, particularly the lead characters of Sandhu and Shonti; even the female characters of Sekeeta and Amrita.

 

 

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most? a mentor?
I think everything we read influences us, if only in some small way. Notably, ‘Initiation’ by Elisabeth Haich; Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte; the Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough are three that stand out. There are so many really. Mary Queen of Scots by Antonia Fraser is a favorite biography. Also Grandmama of Europe by Theo Aronson and Queen Mary by James Pope-Hennessy.
As far as a mentor goes, for me it does not have to necessarily be another human. We can learn from Nature, for instance. I am mindful of the fact that Robert the Bruce learned a very important lesson from a spider. For me, that is what made him a great man; he was a king and a great warrior, but not above learning from a mean creature such as a spider. He showed that he had humility in allowing a spider to mentor him. Following this encounter, he went on to win a great victory at the Battle of Bannockburn. We can learn so much from animals and children also.

 

 
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 for me is one that is new to me. I recently finished ‘Secret Sacrament’ by Sherryl Jordan, a New Zealand author. It was written a decade or so ago. I am drawn to novels about spirituality. Sherryl has written about a totally fictional time and place in this work. I think you have to be clever to pull that off, and I think that she did it very well.
‘Favorite’ for me is not fixed; it changes and develops along with me. A favorite author is one I am really engrossed in at the time.

 

 

Fiona: Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.
The local community, of which Libraries are an important part.

 

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?
I do not write full time and I don’t write to earn a living, so I do not see writing as a career in the conventional sense.

 

 

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
No, I would not. I am very happy with the finished result.

 

 
Fiona: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
I think it originated in my finding as a school student that I could write. It was one of the few things in my studies I could be excited and passionate about. In primary school we were given words for homework that we had to make into sentences to show we had a grasp of the meaning. It was something I was good at and my sentences were often read out to the class.

 

 
Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us?
“I have a secret,” the scene proclaims – but silently – for those with ears to hear and eyes to see.
When the hush descends and the silence weaves its spell, those aware and Present know that they are in sacred space. They recognize the sacred space as a ‘thin place’, a bubble where Time and Space compact to form a portal to other dimensions.
Is it magic? Many believe that it is. The Celts certainly think so, for myth and magic are woven into the fabric of their identity. The mists of Time that forge their identity are not only Past, but also Present, and alive to them. They recognise a thin place when they come upon it, for they are born fey and know how to wonder. They know how to tap a secret. They believe that the thin place silently draws us to itself. We don’t find thin places, they say; thin places find us.

 

 

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
Being concise. It is powerful to frame much into just a few words – like a haiku, for instance.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?
I travelled to India twice prior to writing the book where the story is set, but to date I have not travelled post publication.

 

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?
I did. I presented my chosen images to the graphic designers who worked with them until I was happy with the result.

 

 

Fiona: What was the hardest part of writing your book?
Condensing it down to its present form of about 93,000 words. I knew it needed to be tightened up. I did a big slash and burn before I presented it for edit. It is really hard to ditch work you have labored over, but it was well worth it.

 

 

Fiona: Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?
I learned a lot from research I needed to do. I also learned how to be consistent and not lose sight of the dream. Consequently, my book has now been published.

 

 
Fiona: If any of your books was made into a film who would you like to play the lead
I can see When Shepherds Dream as a movie. As it is set in India, it would probably be a Bollywood movie. I am not familiar with Bollywood actors.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?
Advice that was given to me was, ‘edit, edit, edit’. I followed that advice before I presented my work for a professional edit. It paid off, for my editor said that my work was ‘clean’, although she did have a few minor suggestions for change.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
It is my pleasure to pass my work on to you, my readers, and I hope you enjoy reading my work as much as I have enjoyed writing it.

 

 
Fiona: What book are you reading now?
‘The Great Magician’ by Christian Jacq; another favourite author. I have read most of his books.

 

 
Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?
The first I remember was ‘The Knights of the Round Table’ by M.F. Doolan. I was eight and still have that book. I am fascinated by Arthurian legend to this day.

 

 
Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?
Religious jokes and British comedy make me laugh. Beauty can make me cry; also suffering. I have cried in my grief and also at the grieving and plight of others. Breakthrough, be it mine or that of others can make me laugh and cry tears of happiness. It is a joy to see people breakthrough and win.

 

 
Fiona: Is there one person past or present you would meet and why?
There are many, but I would say Elizabeth 1. She was such a colorful and accomplished personality! A great survivor, she only escaped the block and made it to the throne because of her wits. She could hold her own against any man, (including those in the present, I believe). I think she truly loved her people as she claimed, but I don’t think the same could be said of some of today’s leaders.

 

 
Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone and why?
I do not want a headstone or a memorial of any kind. I don’t believe in taking up space on this Earth when we are gone from it. My writing will be a legacy that will speak louder than any plaque or headstone.

 

 
Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?
I am a champion creative stitcher. I like long walks. I also meditate, draw, read, and enjoy getting out into the garden.

 

 
Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?
I have watched the British TV series ‘Merlin’ starring Colin Morgan and Bradley James three times. I enjoy phychological thrillers, also period and historical drama.

 

 
Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music
Food: Eggs; scrambled or poached usually. Salads are a favourite and I enjoy my own yoghurt. I love apples.
Colours: Purple and violet.
Music: Classical.

 

 

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

The fact is that I am a writer, so I can only truly think from a point of where I am.

 

 

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

www.whenshepheredsdream.com

peterstuart3@bigpond.com

Amazon Authors Page http://www.amazon.com/Peter-Stuart/e/B01FWXXASS/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1

 

Here is my interview with Dana King

Name Dana King

Age 60

Where are you from Born Arnold PA USA

Raised Lower Burrell PA USA

Currently lives in Laurel MD USA

 

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

I grew up in a semi-rural area with a younger brother; my parents still live in the same house. I was a good but unspectacular student who played in every instrumental music ensemble our high school had and got a Bachelor’s in Music Education. Three years in an Army band got me ready for grad school at New England Conservatory, where I earned(?) a Master of Music in Trumpet. I played free-lance for a while then moved into “real” jobs: public school teacher, computer network administrator, software engineer, to my current job as a systems administrator and trainer.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

The latest latest news is that my book The Man in the Window got a Shamus Award nomination for Best Paperback Original. This came only a few weeks after I released the next book in that series, A Dangerous Lesson. It’s been a good few weeks.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I always liked to tell stories and took a creative writing class in high school. One day after my music career crapped out I got a bug to write a short story that included my trumpet playing buds as characters, and wrote it as a combination homage and satire on Mickey Spillane. That was supposed to be a one off but everyone liked it so much I wrote another for the job I had at the time, the one after that, then started thinking about writing for publication.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Some days, not even now. If I had to pick a day when I decided I was a writer as opposed to “someone who writes,” it was when Todd Robinson chose my story “Green Gables” for one of his Thuglit anthologies. I knew what kinds of writers made the cut at Thuglit and figured that even if I only reached that level once, it was something to feel good about.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Like a lot of writers, my “first” book was actually my third. The first attempt got me an agent but went nowhere. The second got me a different agent and almost landed a contract. I’m glad now it didn’t. Some of the premise was a little cute for how my taste and writing evolved.

 

The first book I wrote that actually saw the light of day came to me during the Jon Benet Ramsey investigation, when her parents were on every TV news show and everyone assumed they were lying. One night I had the idea, “What if they’re in a situation where they can’t tell the whole truth?” After that I stopped watching or reading anything to do with the case and started working on an outline with that premise. That book turned into A Small Sacrifice, which earned a Shamus nomination in 2014.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Yes, but I’m not sure how to describe it. Basically it’s hard-boiled, but I hate that term. Several reviewers and other writers see an Elmore Leonard element in the multi-POV stories. Some call me noir, and some of my stories are, though not many. My daughter was a French major in college and we were discussing it one day and come up with the term gris for my style. (French for “gray.”)

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Both The Man in the Window and A Dangerous Lesson had different titles right up until I published them. I wrote The Man in the Window under the title, “Mahler 2” because of the key role played by rehearsals and a performance of Mahler’s Second Symphony. The Beloved Spouse convinced me that was confusing and didn’t sound anything like a mystery.

 

A Dangerous Lesson began life as “Abyss,” after the Nietzsche quote I used for the epigraph. That also had no resonance. In the end I took phrases from the last chapter of each book and used them as the titles.

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

Yes, but they’re primarily meant to be entertaining. The Forte novels have an arc that shows how the violence he encounters wears on him and makes him far more prone to violence himself. My other series focuses on a small town in Western Pennsylvania where a thread of economic hardship is always there. Basically I want readers to be entertained, but have a different perspective on one thing or another when they’re finished.

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

A Dangerous Lesson is wholly fictional, with the exception of a few character loosely based on people I know. The Man in the Window draws a lot on my experience as a musician for the characters and settings, though the only morsel of plot that can said to be based on anything has to do with rumors Herbert von Karajan was a Nazi; Helmut Obersdorfer is based somewhat on that.

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

If I have to pick one book, it’s probably The Friends of Eddie Coyle, which I know doesn’t make me special. I’d read a lot of Elmore Leonard before Higgins, so I was already pretty heavily dialog oriented, but Higgins shows what can be done with dialog if you’re willing to take the chance.

 

I also have to give props to James Ellroy’s American Tabloid for showing what’s possible if you just don’t give a shit and write exactly whatever the hell you want. I don’t have Ellroy’s brass balls, but I am more adventurous than I used to be.

 

There are a couple of writers I think of as mentors in their own ways. My sole writing educational experience was a workshop conducted by John McNally in the spring of 2002 at George Washington University. John taught me how to read as critically as I listened to music, and how to see what the author was doing with an eye to how I could adapt some things to my own talents.

 

Pam Strickler was my agent for a while. We parted amicably when I decided I wanted to take Nick Forte in a different direction. She taught me to self-edit, which may be the single greatest skill any writer can have. There’s not a day goes by that I don’t do something Pam taught me. Thanks for making me think of her. I haven’t been in touch for a long time. I need to thank her personally.

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?

Too many to mention and risk leaving out someone deserving. I always thought that was a cop-out answer when I saw it in interviews, but now that I’m more closely integrated into the crime fiction community I see why so many do it.

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

There is no more supportive group of people anywhere than crime fiction writers. Sure, there are a few jerks, but on the whole crime writers are friendly, supportive, helpful, and any other word you can think of that makes things easier in such a solitary profession.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Nope.

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

There’s always something I’d change. The hardest part of writing a book is knowing when to quit. Even then I never “know” when to quit. I decide this will be the final draft, so make it count. Then I type THE END and walk away.

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

I’ve always appreciated good writing, and always admired people who told a good story, in writing or verbally. I didn’t think of it as such at the time, but when my musical career fell apart I had hours every day to fill because I no longer had to practice and just fell into writing as another way to express myself. The irony is I’m probably better at this than I ever was as a musician.

 

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

I’m returning to the Penns River series with a story about a mass shooting. A pair of stick-up men have started working in the area and decide to hang around, figuring the cops will be busy working on the shootings. The goal is to show how easy it can be for a small town police force that already has budget issues to be overwhelmed.

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

Middles. I get good ideas—big deal; all writers get good ideas—and endings come to me in close to final form fairly well. It’s how to join the two that breaks my balls.

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

Not really. My parents still live in the town I used as the model for Penns River, so I drive around some whenever I go to visit them. I also subscribe to the local paper over the Internet and get an idea or two for anecdotes in each book there. The Forte series is set in and around Chicago, where I lived for a few years, so I stick to what I know and use the Internet to look for specific locations.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I’m glad you asked that. The Beloved Spouse designed the covers for both The Man in the Window and A Dangerous Lesson. I’m delighted with both of them.

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

The first draft is always the heaviest lifting. Stravinsky once said a blank sheet of music paper was the most intimidating thing in the world. Anything can happen. Everything you add limits options. Writing is like that. The actual word selection part gets easier as I near the end—of course, I outline, so I know where I’m going—but the early parts of a first draft are a pain.

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

I like to think I learn from everything I write—I certainly try to—but it’s often hard to say what. I think what happens is that I spend so much time wrapped up in a book that by the time I’m done whatever I’ve learned has become so much a part of me it’s hard to remember I didn’t always know it.

 

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

My first choice to play Nick Forte would be Liev Schreiber. Jon Hamm would also be very good, though from a different angle.

 

Don Cheadle would be a great Goose.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Spend more time reading than you do actually writing, and spend more time with family, friends, and doing what brings you joy and takes you to your happy place than on either reading or writing. That doesn’t mean to only write when you feel like it, or that you shouldn’t take it seriously. It’s a discipline. It also needs to be tempered. Life is short. Enjoy it. Don’t become so focused on a single goal that your life is a disappointment if you don’t accomplish it. If you’re not 100% sure what I mean, see the movie Up.

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

Just that I appreciate it every time someone buys or reads one of my books. You’re giving me your two most precious and finite commodities: time and money. Of the two, I appreciate your time the most. Not only is it more finite—there are always opportunities to make more money, or shift it around—but we don’t know how much we’re going to get. Thank you.

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Bomb, by Les Edgerton.

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Unfortunately no, but that was a long time ago.

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Just about anything can make me laugh under the right circumstances. How appropriate others find that laughter is a matter for debate.

 

I’ll cry over fond memories of things that are no longer, or I know will not be for much longer. I also suspect I’ll shed a tear if the Pirates win the World Series again in my lifetime.

 

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

Physicist Richard Feynman. I’m not big on heroes, but he qualifies. Maybe the greatest genius this country ever produced, and from all accounts a caring and entertaining man.

 

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

I plan to be cremated and my ashes scattered, so no headstone for me. Where I’ll ask to be scattered is still under deliberation.

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I’m a serious seam head and subscribe to the Major League Baseball streaming service so I can watch well over 100 Pirates games a year. I also like to read baseball analysis books, though I have to admit some of it has gone beyond my interest.

 

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

I don’t watch much TV, at least not until the rest of the world has vetted shows for me, so I come to them late. The most current shows I’ve enjoyed are Jessica Jones, which surprised me, as I’m not into superhero stories. River was brilliant. It’s a six-week BBC series with Stellan Skaarsgard that Netflix is streaming and I can’t say enough good things about it.

 

The favorites I own and come back to are Deadwood, The Wire, The Sopranos, The Shield, Band of Brothers, Generation Kill. We got the complete set of Justified last week, so I expect to start back in there soon.

 

For movies, I’ll stick with the ones I liked enough to buy: L.A. Confidential, The French Connection, Get Shorty, The Big Lebowski, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, Blazing Saddles, The Usual Suspects, The Maltese Falcon, Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Foods: Meat. Beef, chicken, pork, turkey in all their combinations. Coming from Western Pennsylvania, PLA is also a staple of my diet. (Pig Lips and Assholes, a/k/a sausage. Brats, Italian sweet with peppers and onions, Italian hot for making poor boys.)

 

Colors: Blue, probably. Bright vivid colors.

 

Music: Classical (Mozart, Beethoven, Mahler, Strauss, Stravinsky), jazz (Buddy Rich, Stan Kenton, Maynard Ferguson, Don Ellis, Doc Severinsen), R&B (Tower of Power, James Brown, Delbert McClinton), country (Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson), and some one-offs (Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, A3, Dick Dale “King of the Surf Guitar,” Warren Zevon).

 

And, of course, Tom Waits.

 

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

Play trumpet in an orchestra. I’d do that now if someone offered me a job and a year to get my cops in shape.

 

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

The blog is called One Bite at a Time, a tribute to The Beloved Spouse, who used to watch me get wrapped around the axle over how much of a book I still had to write and taught me to “eat the elephant one bite at a time.” It’s at http://danaking.blogspot.com.

 

Here is my interview with Ray Mooney.

Name Ray Mooney.

 

Age Seventy-one.

 

Where are you from

Melbourne, Australia.

A little about yourself, i.e. your education Family life etc.

I still lecture in Screenwriting at Holmesglen Institute and The VCA Television and Film School. Wrote my first play, A Blue Freckle in 1974 before doing a three-year drama course in directing (Company 78) at the VCA , established two theatre companies, Governors Pleasure, mainly ex-prisoners and ZAP  Community Theatre comprising marginalised youth, wrote fourteen full-length plays, dozens of one-act plays, directed more than forty plays, written numerous screenplays, including Everynight Everynight, 1994, which won awards throughout the world, wrote my first novel, A Green Light in 1988, which became Penguin’s second best seller in Australian drama for that year, written numerous magazine and media articles and lately two non-fiction books, A Pack Of Bloody Animals, with crime writer John Kerr and The Ethics of Evil – Stories of H Division, an ebook about the infamous punishment division within Pentridge Prison. I’m probably best known as an ex-prisoner writer, having served nearly eight years for rape in 1968.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I’ve been working on a stageplay, Cerutty vs Stampfl, about two remarkable Australian athletic coaches who feuded for decades last century. Recently, I totally rewrote A Green Light into three stand-alone ebooks: A Green Light – The Kingdom of Children, A Green Light – The Kingdom of Men and A Green Light – The Kingdom. I’m in the process of writing the fourth book, A Green Light – The Writing on the Wall.

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I decided to become a writer in 1973, when I served four months in H Division, Pentridge, for acting as a spokesperson during a riot. As a result of the brutality I underwent, detailed in The Ethics of Evil, I decided the best way to ‘get back at them’ was to reveal what was really happening. Upon release from prison in 1975 I wrote my second stageplay, Everynight Everynight.

 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I wrote and directed my first play in 1974, A Blue Freckle, in Pentridge.

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

My first book, A Green Light was published in 1988. A close friend and ex-prisoner, Christopher Dale Flannery, disappeared in 1985. He had become Australia’s number one hitman and was suspected of being murdered by police. As Everynight Everynight was based on him, I was encouraged by Penguin to write a novel about his experiences and disappearance.

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

No, I design my style to suit the story. For example, A Green Light is written the way I talk, as is the non-fiction book, The Ethics of Evil. However, because The Ethics of Evil is also historical many sections are academic and the voice becomes factual rather than prose.

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Different reasons for different titles: A Blue Freckle refers to the mark left on a dead body by a small entry bullet wound, Everynight Everynight refers to prisoners dreaming everynight of revenge on warders; A Green Light is an Aussie term I invented in the seventies to describe police giving criminals permission to commit crimes. It’s become part of the Australian vernacular.

 

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

Hopefully I develop genuine and meaningful subtext. Most of my stories concern social injustice.

 

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

Everything in A Green Light happened in real life, though some of the characters are composites. For example, the main character, Johnny Morgan is a composite of Chris Flannery and myself.

 

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

During the sixties and seventies I read hundreds of popular novelists like Hemingway, Steinbeck, Faulkner, Harper Lee, Harrold Robbins. But the writers who most influenced me were black activists: James Baldwin, Angela Davis, Huey Newton, Bobby Seale, Alex Haley. I was mentored by the late Peter Oyston, an Australian theatre director who established the drama course at The Victorian College of the Arts in 1976.

 

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 encourage my students to read Suzanne Collins (The Hunger Games) to understand the art of keeping everything in dilemma, Gillian Flynn (Gone girl) to understand first person point of view and Stieg Larsson (The Millennium Books) for techniques of incorporating detail into suspense and drama. My favourite author is Alex Miller an Australian writer who has won two Miles Franklins, Australia’s highest literary award.

 

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

The Melbourne Writers’ Theatre of which I’ve been a member for more twenty-five years.

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Always have and always will, supplemented by teaching.

 

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

That’s a terrific question. When I wrote A Green Light in 1988, although it sold well and received high praise, I was still learning the craft of writing, and while I’ll forever be learning the craft of writing, I realised my earlier works could be improved. So I totally rewrote A Green Light because my attitude is, if you know something can be improved, improve it. Whenever I had a play performed I always rewrote at the end of the production not just to improve it but to develop the discipline of rewriting and pushing my creativity. While that can be frustrating for publishers who have ‘signed’ off, it’s a good attitude for personal development.

 

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

I mentioned earlier it resulted from being in H Division. But prior to being in H Division I was part of the prison drama group where we performed known plays for outside audiences and I was always encouraging the prisoners to write their own plays. Their response was that if I felt so strongly I should write a play myself, so I wrote A Blue Freckle which was about police verbal, i.e. police fabricating admissions by accused. At that time, prison authorities vetted plays we chose and performed so instead of calling my play, The Verbal, I called it, A Blue Freckle, and told authorities it referred to a genus of Antarctic penguin. By the time they realised the subject matter, it was too late to cancel. Peter Oyston saw it and asked me to audition for the first intake of the VCA Drama College. And the rest is history.

 

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

Cerutty vs Stampfl, is about two remarkable Australian athletic coaches who constantly feuded last century. Cerutty coached Herb Elliott, Olympic champion unbeaten over the 1,500 meters, and Stampfl orchestrated the first sub-four minute mile.

Recently I totally rewrote A Green Light into three stand alone ebooks: A Green Light – The Kingdom of Children, A Green Light – The Kingdom of Men and A Green Light – The Kingdom. I’m in the process of adding to the series by writing a fourth ebook: A Green Light – The Writing on the Wall.

 

 

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

I find most aspects of writing challenging though exciting. Genuine subtext is always difficult, as is empathy arising from believable character change. I would add, ensuring events don’t happen too conveniently.

 

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

Not really, except for when I wrote A Pack of Bloody Animals and The Ethics of Evil and needed to interview people face to face. I haven’t travelled overseas so all my stories are located in Australia.

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

My Son, Wilde Mooney, who is a computer wiz.

 

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

In A Green Light it was being truthful. The main character was based on Australia’s number one hit-man and because he and his family were close friends it was difficult truthfully revealing events.

 

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

I learned the discipline of hard work when writing A Green Light. I wrote eight hours a day for eighteen months. During that period I learned writers need to be ‘fit’ for writing.

 

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

Anyone who’s more than a competent actor and believable in appearance.

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

I’m always giving advice to my students, mainly, that good enough is never good enough, and don’t give anyone writing that you know can be improved. I would add that you must back yourself in to make it, and that the rest of your life needs to be a writers’ trip; no matter what, never, never give up. I’m seventy-one and intend ‘making it’ before I die. By ‘making it’ I mean achieving universal respect as an important writer. Commercial success is irrelevant, though I’m aware it’s often synonymous with ‘making it’.

 

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

There are events in A Green Light that might be difficult to believe really happen but apart from the way Morgan’s family acquired their hotel, everything happened as is written.

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Why Die by Graem Sims, a boigraphy of Percy Cerutty.

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Peyton Place.

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

My children.

I usually laugh when writers put diametrically opposed characteristics in the one character, such as needing to be liked but hating people, like Melvin Udall in As Good As it Gets, or diametrically opposed attitudes in a situation, such as Mash where you have the most undisciplined people working in an environment that demands discipline. I always ‘cry’ when stories have powerful arcs such as starting out with disrespect but ending with respect, for example, A Few Good Men, An Officer and a Gentleman, Top Gun.

 

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

Anne Frank. She started writing The Diary of Anne Frank when she was twelve and although it was heavily edited by her father, her empathy and understanding had a profound influence on me.

 

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

Died 2045: because it might mean I was still writing when I turned one hundred.

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

I compete in athletics – Master’s Athletics – and usually win my age group in Javelin, Shotput, Discus and Pentathlon.

 

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

Television: The Newsroom, True Detective, The Good Wife, Breaking Bad, The Americans, Homeland, Fargo, The Wire, The Sopranos, Prime Suspect, Borgen, The Bridge, The Killing.

Films: The Godfather series, One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest, Goodfellows, Silence of the Lambs, The Usual Suspects, Casablanca, Psycho, City Lights, Apocalyspe Now Redux, Amelie, Clockwork Orange.

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Roast chicken, protein smoothies: all colours: Leonard Cohen, Nick Cave, The Doors, Kris Kristofferson, Amy Winehouse, Buddy Holly, Petula Clark, Bob Dylan, Woody Guthrie, Eminem.

 

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

Become an inventor.

 

 

 

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

Had one but it’s being redesigned. www.raymooney.com

A Green Light – The Kingdom of Children

https://www.amazon.com.au/Green-Light-Book-progression-unstoppable-ebook/dp/B00IF9B9UI?ie=UTF8&*Version*=1&*entries*=0

 

A Green Light – The Kingdom of Men

https://www.amazon.com.au/Green-Light-Book-thriller-security-ebook/dp/B00IJCGD1Q/ref=pd_sim_351_3?ie=UTF8&refRID=KN42XK2PBSQ2ZRVCSSJ7

 

A Green Light – The Kingdom

https://www.amazon.com.au/Green-Light-Book-thriller-professional-ebook/dp/B014TBNNWM/ref=pd_sim_351_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=8N6C7H5BCSQGZP7E243E

 

The Ethics of Evil – Stories of H Division

https://www.amazon.com/Ethics-Evil-Stories-Division-ebook/dp/B01C7UWHDS?ie=UTF8&*Version*=1&*entries*=0

 

A Pack of Bloody Animals

https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_10?url=search-alias%3Ddigital-text&field-keywords=a+pack+of+bloody+animals&sprefix=A+pack+of+%2Cdigital-text%2C436

 

 

 

Here is my interview with Eric Kapitan

Name- Eric Kapitan

Age- 29 years old and counting

Where are you from

I live in a refrigerator box behind Wal Mart. In all seriousness, I’m from a small town in Vermont where I still currently live.

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

I have always loved to tell stories from a young age. In grade school we were given 30 minutes a day to write in our journals. It was always my favorite time of the day.

I fell in love with Horror the first time I watched the original Halloween. It scared the hell out of me and fascinated me at the same time. After that, I was hooked on horror and watched and read whatever I could get my hands on.

I have a degree in communication with a concentration in Mass media and a minor in Film Studies.  I work a full time job which makes it difficult to get writing down but I manage.

I enjoy being outside, going on hikes, camping etc. Playing video games (when I have the time) and spending time with friends and family.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

In October of 2015 I released my first book, Darkness Poems of Extreme Horror. It’s a collection of horror poetry that I had written over the years. Many of the poems deal with traditional horror elements as well as more extreme subject matter.

My latest book is titled As The Blade Cuts, another poetry collection with all new poems. I began writing it shortly after I released Darkness. As the Blade Cuts is more in line with my original intention I had for Darkness.  The poems are a lot more narrative focused and deal with a lot more taboo subjects.  It will be released September 13^th on Amazon in both paperback and kindle format.

The kindle version is available for pre order.  https://www.amazon.com/As-Blade-Cuts-Eric-Kapitan-ebook/dp/B01H2KDW3M?ie=UTF8&ref_=asap_bc

 

 

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing when I was 10 years old. It started out as just something to do but as I got older I began to get more serious about it. Now, it’s simply something I have to do, Its my release and escape. Without being able to tell a story I think I would be miserable.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I have always considered myself a writer, even before I released my first book. There is nothing to me that really defines who and who isn’t a writer.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

A few years after I got out of school I felt like I was having a nervous breakdown. I was in a job that I absolutely hated, I was struggling with severe depression (both from personal and creative reasons). One day I was looking through my computer when I stumbled upon a file with all the poetry I had written over the years.

it it inspired me to write more of it, at the time I was not quite sure what I was going to do with it (if anything). It was not until a month later that  I decided I would release them in a book.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

When I write I try to make the words come off as natural as possible. I never want anything to seem forced. I am also very big on description. From describing a basic setting to getting down to specific details such as, the way something smells or the specific pattern of a flicker of light.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The title for Darkness came from a conversation I was having with a friend of mine when discussing what the title of my first book should be. The word Darkness just seemed to fit with the subject matter.

As The Blade Cuts came from a poem included in the collection of the same name.

 

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

I don’t think I really have any specific message other then that I want to entertain, scare and disturb the reader.  If I offend/piss people off along the way then that is a major plus as well.

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

Well, it’s all make believe of course, pure fiction. I can say that in each poem I write there is a small piece of me in there in some form.

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

The Goosebumps book series by R.L Stine was a big influence on me. I had a huge collection of those books growing up.

The Hellbound Heart– By Clive Barker-for it’s style and imagination.

Exquisite Corpse-By Poppy Z Brite-A pure dark and gory romance that I love for its grit and characters.  It showed me that having deep and complex characters is very important.

The Bighead-By Edward Lee-Showed me that you can push the boundaries of good taste and still write a compelling story

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?

One name that comes to my mind is a author by the name of Taylor Grant. He has a very engaging style and can go from writing a graphic  story to writing a slow and brooding thriller.

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

I have met many great people from publishing my first book, One person that comes to mind is David Sharp. He was the first reviewer to give my book a chance and was very vocal in his support. He use to run a horror site called Horror underground he has since moved on to other things.

Melissa Ann (owner of Horrorgeeklife.com) has also been a big supporter of my writing. She has also become a pretty good friend.  (I named two when you asked for one. I suck)

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I see it more as a lifestyle. It is something I must do. I do not see it as something that is going to make me rich. If you want to write books to become rich well it ain’t gonna happen bucko!

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

When it comes to any art form I believe the artist is never 100 percent happy with their work. I am sure probably could keep rewriting over and over and never be happy.

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

Interestingly enough my series interest in writing started after I saw the original Halloween at the age of 10. I became so obsessed with it I ended up writing a series of short stories called the Killer. It was crudely written (being that I was 10 years old) but that is when my real interest in telling a story really sparked.

I wrote a lot of them in my 4^th grade class, I had a teacher who was very encouraging. Thinking about that now, in today’s world I  probably would have been labeled a troubled child.

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

Sure, I would love to! Here is a short poem titled My Darling. It’s one of the forty poems included in As The Blade Cuts.

My Darling

Order a drink, my darling—

something heavy and sweet.

Go to the bathroom, my darling.

Leave your drink in the open.

I’ll add my sweetness.

 

That’s right, my darling.

Finish every last drop.

You don’t taste the difference.

 

It’s OK, my darling.

You’re off balance and light-headed.

In my car you go.

Don’t worry, my darling.

You won’t remember a thing.

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

Writing it not a easy task, I would say the hardest part is sitting down and putting into words a idea I have developed in my head. The most difficult part for me is fully expressing the idea. Once it is out there though it’s a extremely rewarding experience

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

So far I have not done any traveling when It comes to my books.  (You don’t need to do much exploring when writing about vomit turning into a monster). I would not rule it out in the future though.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Adam Beckley, my best friend since I was five, designed both the cover for Darkness and As The Blade Cuts. He is a extremely talented artist and graphic designer.

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

The hardest part about writing a book surprisingly has nothing to do with actually writing the book. It’s the aftermath of writing the book, getting the word out there and finding people who actually give a crap.  As a new author you can not expect everyone and their mom to run out and want to read your book. It takes a lot of work and patience to get the word out.

For As The Blade Cuts I would say the most difficult part was the editing. I learned a lot from my first book and made sure that As The Blade Cuts was as polished and perfect as possible (Thank god I hired a editor).

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

I learned that I have one fucked up imagination. There were times when I would read something I just wrote and questioned my own sanity for writing it. My friend Melissa lovingly refers to me as “Sick Fuck”

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

Darkness: Poems of Extreme Horror– Mel Gibson, Danny Glover, Will Smith, Ryan Reynolds, and a naked Jennifer Aniston (just because)

As The Blade Cuts-The entire cast of Orange is the New Black

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Have a thick skin and keep writing. Don’t have a ego! Going around calling yourself the greatest writer since Stephen King is a huge turn off. Also, calling yourself a award winning author when you have not won any awards to begin with is complete dumb fuckery. Be humble and always be respectful. At the same time don’t sell yourself short, stand behind your work and be confident in it.

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

To all 3 of my readers out there-I love you guys so much! Thanks for taking the time to read my stuff! Kisses and hugs xoxo . I kid I kid!

Thank you to everyone who has shown your support and taken the time to read my stuff.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

The last book I read was The dark at the End of the Tunnel by Taylor Grant. I am currently re-reading The Girl Next Door by Jack Ketchum. I plan to start reading some Edward Lee again as well.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Dry humor, and overly sarcastic people.

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

Bruce Campbell, because well…. he’s Bruce “friggin Campbell!

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

Nothing, I am going to live forever! I have a deal with a certain guy downstairs

 

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I enjoy collecting things (Toys, comics, books, movies, the blood of the innocent)

Camping and being outside is something I really love to do. Sadly, I do not get to do it that much but when I do I find it very relaxing and freeing.

Photography and video/film production is something I am also very interested in. it use to be a very big part of who I was, The fire hasn’t gone out it has just faded slightly from the major ass kicking the world as given me over the years.

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

For TV, I like a lot of comedy such as King of the Hill, Seinfeld and Fraiser. Breaking Bad is my absolute favorite TV show. The writing and character development is amazing.

I could spend hours talking about my favorite movies but I will do my best to sum it up. I enjoy a lot of Horror films from the 70s, 80s and early to late 90s. My favorite horror film is the Phantasm series. Italian Horror films made by Dario Argento and Lucio fullic are also a complete blast.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Bacon, Chinese, Mexican and Italian food I adore. Blue is my favorite color with Black being my next go to favorite color. For music, it depends on my mood. When I write I find myself listening to film scores or really dark brooding metal

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

A chip and dales dancer  (in fact that dream could still come true). Bring your dollar bills ladies!

 

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

You can find me all over this wonderful world wide web!

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/eric.kapitan/

Twitter

https://twitter.com/

Goodreads

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14419418.Eric_Kapitan

Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTVHS4OQPbRpX1W-PObph0Q

Amazon

htp://www.amazon.com/-/e/B015QL3RDE

Books by Eric Kapitan

Darkness: Poems of Extreme Horror

Enter a world filled with serial killers, cannibalism, unnatural love, creatures hiding in the dark and so much more! Filled with blood, gore and unforgiving horror. This aint your mom’s poetry book! Once you start reading you may think you know what to expect. You will find that the further you go, the more the darkness spreads.

https://www.amazon.com/Darkness-extreme-horror-Eric-Kapitan/dp/1516824822/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

 

As The Blade Cuts

From the deranged mind of Eric Kapitan (Darkness: Poems of Extreme Horror) Comes another exorcise in depraved and gore filled poetry!
From Aliens that crave human flesh, to blood thirsty retail workers beheading soccer moms with a chainsaw! Each poem found in this collection will sure to please Horror fans and gore hounds alike!
Sex starved monsters and zombies, Perverted old men, Nazi’s and vomit that turns into a monster. Just a sample of the many things found in this collection of 40 blood and fluid soaked poems! Not for the faint of heart or easily offended! Enter this world of macabre at your own risk.

Words are like the tip of a blade. They dig deep..

https://www.amazon.com/As-Blade-Cuts-Eric-Kapitan-ebook/dp/B01H2KDW3M?ie=UTF8&ref_=asap_bc

Book Trailer- 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here is my interview with Seven Steps

Name:  Seven Steps

Age: 32

Where are you from: I am originally from Queens, New York. Ten (10) years ago, my friend and I went to a get-together in Manhattan. This was a major turning point in my life. You have to understand, I was a wallflower growing up. My nose was always in a book, and I was socially awkward and hung out with other socially awkward people. So, going to a party was a big leap forward for me, and I was really excited to step out of my book lined shell and meet some new people. About an hour into the party, this guy started teasing me about my glasses (booooo!) Talk about a bad first night. I was on the verge of sprinting back to my book fort when another guy, a fellow glasses wearer no less, stepped in and defended me. About seven months later, I married my spectacled knight. Two years later, we had a beautiful princess together.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

 I am very excited to announce two new books coming out this year. The Civil War, a sequel to my science fiction romance, The Slave Planet, is set to come out towards the end of the summer. In the early fall I am releasing The Last Rock King, a rock star contemporary romance. They will be two releases you don’t want to miss.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I was super awkward in school. Writing was my way to escape from that. It was my way to control and explain my own little world, no matter what was happening in the real one.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I released my book, The Slave Planet. I had released two books prior to that, but I was only nineteen and I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life. I had no access to any social media or networking tools at that time, so I felt kind of isolated. Now, with things like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other social media networks, it is much easier, in some ways, to make this a career than it was years ago.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

My first book was about a honeybee in search of a stolen pot of honey, or something like that. At that time, I was watching a lot of cartoons, and one of my favorites was Mya The Bee. It grew out of that. Oddly enough, my daughter, my first-born, is also named Mya and loves to write. The circle continues.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

 I try to keep to a good schedule. Stephen King said he writes six pages a day. I wanted to mimic that in my schedule. Recently, life has been getting in the way of my writing. I do work full-time at a demanding and often stressful job. But when I am on my game, I write from 430-830 every morning. I finish my first draft in about a month that way. It’s just editing after that. I love to outline my work before actually getting into the meat and potatoes of the story. Outlining is like GPS to me. It gives me a sense of direction, an end-point.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

 It’s pretty descriptive. The setting of the story is a planet where men are slaves. I tried to keep it pretty simple.

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

Yes! The message is that you don’t have to conform to what society wants you to be. You can be your own person. In the book, society has enslaved men and expects women to live a cold, calculating life. A life where their sole focus is to get as much money and prestige as they can before they die. Nadira chooses love over titles and fame. It gets her into a lot of trouble, but in the end she breaks free from all of the drama and becomes a better person. That’s what I want readers to come away with. You don’t have to be what other people want you to be. You can be what you choose to be. That will make you happy.

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

I think it’s more about the emotion of the story. We all have challenges. We all have naysayers. We just have to stick to our principals and make it through. Nadira stuck to what she believed in, and she made it through. I try to live my life that way as well.

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

I had a writing mentor growing up. I send him every book that I publish as my own special thank you to him. I read so much that it’s hard to say what it was that I read that made me say, I want to be like them.

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?

 Brittinay Cherry. Number 1 and forever. I discovered her a few months ago, so she’s new to me. But I enjoy a book that can emotionally devastate me and she is my number 1 source for them. I also love older books. Stuff by Orson Scott Card, Ken Follett, Octavia Butler, Shakespeare plays. I like classics like the original Wizard of Oz series and Doctor Dolittle. I like whimsical stories.

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

Are Facebook groups an answer? I found a lot of support in Facebook author groups.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I wish it would be. There are so many stories in my head, that if I could, I would write all day. Unfortunately, that is not possible right now. But I’m hopeful.

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

Better line editing, maybe. Other than that, nothing.

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

I loved to read. I think that my writing grew out of that. I remember me and my dad sitting in Waldenbooks and reading together for hours. Those are good memories. Reading formed the basis for my writing.

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

 

Sure. This is from chapter nine (9) of my new book, The Civil War. The scene is between the two main characters, Nadira and Kiln. They are on planet Zenith. Something terrible has happened to someone very close to Nadira, and Kiln is there to help her deal with this difficult time in her life:

He soaked up all of her fears, and her pain, without a word. As her heart shattered, restored, and shattered again, he simply held onto her so that not a piece was lost.

He kissed her hair.

She screamed her mother’s name.

He held her close.

She cursed the fact that Arees was ever born.

He whispered that she was not alone.

She knew she was not alone.

Finally, when her tears had nearly run out, she raised her head to look at him.

“What will we do?” She asked.

“Survive,” Kiln replied, gently kissing her temple. “It’s what we always do.”

“But without my mother? Without Venus?” Her eyes searched his. “We’re just as alien as those ambassadors out there. We’re wanderers without a home.”

“Then we’ll be each other’s home. You can take shelter in me, and I’ll take shelter in you.” He placed her hand over his heart. “As long as we have each other, we’ll always be home.”

His kindness was a light to her soul. She thanked the Mother Goddess Venus for him, even though she knew it was blasphemy. Running her fingers along his nearly smooth head, she traced the words, I love you, in a delicate pattern. She wondered how a man could both set her body on fire and be such a balm to her spirit.

He kept his sharp, blue eyes trained on her brown ones.

She didn’t know when his lips captured hers. It seemed as if his lips had always been there, searching, loving, gentle. His affections rained down on her, making peaceful flowers grow. That’s what she felt with Kiln. Peace.

She was his flower. His to protect, care for, and cherish.

He was making her grow.

 

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

 Editing. Especially when it comes to grammar. I should have paid better attention in English class.

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

Not yet, but I hope to start attending book conventions in the future.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

A very nice vendor on FIVERR. There are some really talented people on there if you really do your homework.

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

Editing. I always wonder if I’ve missed something or made some grammatical error. If I do, I hope the readers see past the errors, if they find any, and into the heart of the story.

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

 Always outline. Learn marketing. Make connections in the industry. Be kind, and help others.

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

Wow this is a hard question. I would love for Brock Lesner (yes the wrestler) to play Kiln. Either him or The Mountain from Game of Thrones. For Nadira I would love Sonequa Martin-Green (from the Walking Dead). For Eva, Gabrielle Union. They don’t physically resemble in the book, but I feel like Gabrielle has the sass and the attitude to pull her off. And for Lex I would want Zach Effron. Sure, he’d have to dye his goatee red, but he’ll do.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Make a writing schedule and stick to it. Try to write every day. Learn to market yourself.

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

 Please stick with me. I promise that I won’t let you down.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Graceful Hell by Tory Cameron.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

No clue. It was probably a board book though.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Everything these days. Commercials. My daughter. Pixar movies. I cry over everything and I laugh over everything.

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

 Kenneth Branagh because I love his interpretations of Shakespeare.

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

 She loved. She laughed. She lived.

I want to make sure that I do all three of those things every day. Love, laugh and live.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

I love reading, styling hair, doing jigsaw puzzles with my family and hanging out with friends. I like outdoor activities most of all.

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

 I love cartoons. Any cartoon made in the 1980’s or 90’s I enjoy watching. Gummy Bears, Talespin, Chip and Dale’s Rescue Rangers, DuckTales. We are huge cartoon geeks in my house.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music.

Favorite food is my mom’s baked macaroni and cheese. Favorite color is blue. Favorite music is 90’s rap and rock.

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

A contemporary dancer. Growing up, I took classes in ballet, contemporary, African, tap, jazz. You name it, i’ve probably danced in that style. Later on, I taught classes in several dance schools. I love the freedom that comes from dancing. The way that your body interprets the music is beautiful. I would have loved to have danced professionally.

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

www. Sevenstepsauthor.com

http://www.amazon.com/Seven-Steps/e/B002BLY7SM/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1

 

 

 

Here is my interview with Jamie White

Name Jamie White

Age 39

Where are you from Florida

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

I’m an author, blogger, and editor that moonlights as a pet servant. I’m also a music geek and love all things paranormal/metaphysical. 😀

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I’m releasing a new book (Rebuilding Me) in August. It’s the third book in my latest series about a Lightworker.

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I started writing in high school when I signed up for a Journalism class. I spent years writing blogs, articles, etc. but started writing fiction in 2010. My husband (CP Bialois) was already writing stories at the time, and he wanted to go to a writing group. I decided to join in and had a lot of fun writing my first story for it, so I kept going.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I first picked up the pen (or, more accurately, sat in front of the keyboard.)

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

My first book, The Life and Times of No One in Particular, was inspired by a Buffy RPG I was in years ago. A bunch of us were having trouble coming up with stories, so we started joking around about our evil muses. I then created an evil muse character that caused some trouble in there for a while. J When I sat down to write the first book, I thought about that character and how she came about. It made me wonder what a real muse would think of all the trash talk we did, and the story flowed from there.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I definitely have themes that show up in most of my stories.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I got the title for the first in my new series (Learning Me) from the National Novel Writing Month “Adopt a Title” topic in their forums. The rest of the titles are variations of that.

 

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

I don’t really try to get across any specific messages in my books, really. I do share a little bit about things I like through them (meditation, reincarnation, etc), but I think it’s more fun just to let a story flow and let a reader get what they will out of it.

 

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

This book, thankfully, is not very realistic. I do work in things I like, though, and I’ve been known to include different phrases I’ve heard people say into them. Actually, my husband has been demanding royalties ever since reading the first book in this new series. LOL

 

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

I think my biggest influence has been Christopher Pike. I’ve always loved the way he weaves mythology, history, religion, and metaphysical ideas into his work.

 

 

 

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 like several people’s work. Marni Mann is great, because she’s always putting some crazy twist into her work, and it’s so emotional. I like Dawn Sullivan’s work because her characters are so much fun.

 

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

My friend, Michelle Cornwell-Jordan has been a huge help in getting the word out about my work and keeping me going (even when she wants to yell at me for what I end up putting her favorite characters through. LOL). I’ve got some great readers I met through Vicki Rose’s Platinum Book Reviews events, as well.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Definitely.

 

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

No, I can’t think of anything I would change in it. Actually, that question is really funny because the ending of the previous book was totally different before I revised it, and that would have completely changed this book, so I’m glad it ended up the way it did.

 

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

With that Journalism class I mentioned, as well as that RPG and writing group. They all had a part in my becoming a fiction writer.

 

 

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

Sure 😀 Here is a little piece of the latest book I’ve released, Exploring Me:

Deciding she’d make the most of her free time, Courtney took a seat near the stage and retrieved her theatre book from her bag. If she was right, she’d have enough time to finish a good chunk of the assigned reading before anyone got there.

She leaned back in the seat. Delighting in the soft material that lined the seats, Courtney flipped open the book and started reading while keeping her attention partially on her surroundings. She wasn’t going to have anyone sneaking up and startling her again—especially when she was on such a big campus with tons of strange people. People whose history she knew nothing about. People who could be….

Stop it!

Forcing the thoughts from her mind, Courtney turned her attention back to the reading. She was halfway through the chapter when she heard the door open. Courtney turned around to see a strange guy walking down the aisle.

“Hi,” he said as he approached her seat. “Are we the only ones here, still?”

“Yeah,” Courtney answered. “Um… you are?”

“Steven,” he replied. “Didn’t I see you at the orientation a few months ago?”

“Maybe.” Discomfort built in her stomach. This was probably the longest conversation she’d had with someone not her roommate or Sam since she arrived. “I mean, there were so many people, I couldn’t keep all the faces straight.”

“No worries,” he said with a shrug. He took a seat next to her. “So, I hear you’re pretty good.”

“I’m sorry?”

“You know, as an actress? There’s been a little talk about you in the drama department.”

“Are you serious?” The idea was enough to make her head spin. How could she already have such a reputation without having even performed in front on anyone there yet? Most of their classes had so far consisted of a lot of history and theory.

“Yeah, they’re saying you’ll probably be one of the first freshmen to get a big role this year.”

Courtney’s eyes widened. “Wow. I didn’t know anyone really knew me at all. I—”

“Keep to yourself?” he interrupted.

“Well, there’s that.” Courtney hadn’t realized how much of a reputation she’d already built up. Of course, depending on one’s perspective, some of the talk about her didn’t exactly sound flattering. She couldn’t help it, though. Part of her wondered if she should go see the school therapist, but the idea almost made her burst out laughing.

What am I going to tell them? I’m a head case ‘cause I had to kill my evil cousin, who claimed she killed my parents because they had paranormal powers?

That would go over well, she was sure. If they didn’t decide to dope her up and put her in a hospital somewhere. No, she was just going to have to figure out how to deal with the situation on her own. Maybe this would be a good start. She was certainly having an easier time talking to this guy than she’d had talking to anyone else, that was for sure.

“So, how much of a head case does everyone think I am?”

“No one. It’s been decided you’re either a massive diva, or you are the shyest actress ever born.”

Courtney blinked. “Oh.”

He laughed. “Sorry, I guess I should have been a little more… tactful. Seriously, though, it’s called the ‘drama’ department for a reason. People love gossiping and usually make up all kinds of crazy shit. They’ll stop once you relax a little…. Or get over your ego. Whatever the case is.”

“I’m not a diva,” she defended herself. “I’m just, you know, going through an adjustment period.”

 

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

Sometimes, it’s just getting the chance to sit down and get something on the page.

 

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

No, but hopefully that will happen one day. 😀

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

The current covers were made by an awesome fellow author, Cheyanne Young. Now that it is a series instead of a trilogy, I am working on re-doing the whole thing. I also have covers by Angie Mroczka and RJ Keith.

 

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

I think the hardest part of the upcoming one was that it was so emotional. I ended up putting the main character through some really traumatic stuff that brought some of my own stuff to the surface.

 

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

Every book has taught me something. Each one is a goal reached, and obstacles I had to overcome to finish.

 

 

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

I’ve never really thought about that.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Write what you love, not what you think will sell. Also, it’s easy to get overloaded on all the advice out there about writing, so just trust yourself and disregard the advice that doesn’t feel right.

 

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

I’d have to say thanks for choosing to read my work. 😀 It means a lot to know that people are actually reading the stories, and enjoying them.

 

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Right now, I just started my first Stephen King book, Finders Keepers. Well, technically it’s my second book (On Writing is awesome), but it’s my first of his fiction.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Oh, wow. I’m thinking it was probably one of those fairytale books. But the first series I remember reading was The Babysitters Club.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Too many to mention. LOL

 

 

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

Hmm. I’ve always thought it would be interesting to chat with Sylvia Browne. Present? I would love to meet Christopher Pike in person.

 

 

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

Never even thought about it. The whole subject creeps me out too much.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I love meditating, practicing Reiki, chanting, listening to music, reading, and binging on Telenovelas. 😀

 

 

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

I’m not a huge movie person, but I love Doctor Who, Salem, and The Americans. I’m currently binging on a novella called Sin Senos No Hay Paraiso.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Foods: Anything organic, although I really love veggies. Color: Purple Music: Anything and everything. 😀

 

 

 

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

Singing. Definitely.

 

 

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

Yep! It’s http://www.JamieLWhite.com

Amazon page: www.amazon.com/Jamie-White/e/B00850MY88/.

Here is my interview with Michelle Trempe

Name  Michelle Trempe         (Author Isabella Michelle)

Age 31

Where are you from –Brampton, Ontario—(Toronto, Canada)

Fiona: Tell us your latest news? 

I am planning to hold a book signing throughout Alberta, and travel to Ontario to hold some there in August.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I was eleven and won a prize in the guardian for a poem I wrote.

Goodbye is not forever, you know you will see each other again.  Although goodbye is very hard to say, who knows they may pop by again one day.  When they cross your path, you might wonder was destiny meant to be?  Let your heart be your guide, and maybe love was meant to be.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I was fifteen and spent a lot of time writing.  Although I published my first book when I was 28, the original book was written when I was fifteen and was of a fantasy genre.  I decided to stop publishing my work in that series, because the style does not appeal to me.  When my contract is up with the publisher, I will pull my book and rework all eight books.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Erotica, and BDSM.  Anything sex, and tasteful is my style.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I like lace, my husband is French, and well rouge just seemed to fit the sorority.

 

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

Yes keep an open mind, and explore the art of sex.

 

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

Haha, people who know me can distinguish what is from experience and what is made up.  Lets just say, I leave a part of myself in every book I write.

 

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

None really.  I think all authors and books I have ever read played a big role in who I am today. There are far too many to single out just one author, or book alone.

 

 

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?

My favorite author is E.L James, her taste in writing and style really stick out to me.

 

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

My husband Jeremy is a great support.  He has been my biggest fan since the beginning of my published career.  He allows me to stay home, and write my heart away.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes

 

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

Nothing at all.

 

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

Growing up in Toronto, Ontario the city is very open about sex, and exploring different tastes.  Why not enjoy writing about them.

 

 

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

My current job description below:

With over 14 years of experience, Isabella uses gifts of clairvoyant, clairaudience, clairsentience using a psychometric approach to offer insight using technique of psychological measurement when dealing with your spiritual guides delivering messages using the knowledge, abilities, while expressing messages through real attitudes, personality and traits of crossed over loved ones. Providing readings worldwide, has sanctioned her clients with a straightforward and honest approach. She has worked with families of missing people, and who have lost loved ones in tragic manners (murder, homicide, suicide, and accidents) and has shed clarity and understanding her clients can relate too regarding the circumstances surrounding each individual case. By connecting to energies surrounding the information provided by loved ones, she can often give names of the people involved in each situation. For relationships, she can provide timeframes for any situation. Looking for quick guidance and outlook? She will refer to Angel cards, Tarot cards which segues into straight psychic insights she (sees) using the deck and each card image as a (photograph) related to her client. If you are ready to receive long awaited answers to questions you have been holding onto, you will like speaking with her!

 

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

Nothing at all, my imagination is great.

 

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

I have never travelled for any of my books.  However I do spend a great deal of time on tour for my psychic medium.  This also allows me to hold book signings in major cities I travel too.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

For my book Laced in Rouge Madame Vanity, my publisher assigns a cover artist from Melange Books LLC.

 

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

Writing erotica, or BDSM is not hard for me at all.  Writing another genre style would prove to be difficult.

 

 

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

Hmmm… that is a good question.  I would definitely play the role of Little Ms. Twisted, from my Twist of Complicated Events Trilogy.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

When publishers turn you down, just keep going.  When the stress of your daily life affects you, start writing.  Writing is my way of coping with anxiety, and a great release for depression.

 

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Funny you should ask, I am reading a book I self-published called Thirsty for Fixin.  I am thinking about submitting a newer version to my publisher.

 

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Catcher in the Rye.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Being a writer, goes a long great with being a psychic medium.  When I am typing my characters really come alive to me.  It feels as though I am living through them.

 

 

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

I would love to meet Stephanie Meyer, author of the Twilight Saga.  I enjoy reading her books, and I find she has a gifted imagination.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I enjoy photography, ad abstract art in my spare time aside from being an author, and psychic medium.

 

 

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

Game of Thrones is my favorite TV series.  My favorite movie is anything with blood, and a good scream.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Favorite food would be anything Greek, or Italian.   I love Greek Salad, and I could not go a week without eating pasta.  My favorite color is lime green, and my favorite music is Michelle Branch.

 

 

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

To be honest, I would be doing the same thing I am today.  I am a Psychic Medium based out of Fort McMurray, Alberta Canada.  I have been doing this my whole life, since I was 4years old, and my parents realized that my gift with spirit was surreal.  I am very well known for dealing with families who have lost loved ones to homicide, or tragic manner.  I have also dealt with families of missing peoples as well.

 

 

 

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

https://www.facebook.com/Northern-Healing-Medium-658018437556678/?fref=ts

http://www.amazon.com/Isabella-Michelle/e/B00JDY1BY8/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

 

https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Complicated-Love-Lust-1/dp/0615755690?ie=UTF8&ref_=asap_bc

https://www.amazon.com/Laced-Madame-Vanity-Academy-Carnal-ebook/dp/B01HDRUKNY?ie=UTF8&ref_=asap_bc

 

Here is my interview with Kathryn Ferguson

Name: Kathryn Ferguson

Age: Still here after a lot of living.

Where are you from:

I am from the Arizona/Sonora desert, an exquisite mix of cultures, flora and fauna near the US/Mexico border. Tucson, Arizona is home.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I just learned that The Haunting of the Mexican Border was awarded by the International Latino Book Awards. The award celebrates books in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Awardees are from across the USA and 17 countries outside the USA. I am very honored to receive this. But I also wonder about the idea of awards. I know so many great writers that never receive an award. How do we judge the arts – music, dance, painting, writing? Judgment is a mysterious process.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I was about 8 years old and wrote in invisible ink. It was fresh lemon juice. When it dried on paper, it was invisible. I carried the tome to a friend. When she held it over a flame, the lemon juice turned brown and she could read it. It was all 15^th century intrigue. Then at the university I wrote. Later, I wrote for documentary films I made. I never expected to be a writer.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

“Writer” is an honorable title. Since I’m working on my third book, I might call myself a writer. But I have friends who can write circles around me and have not been published. So I don’t think that being published makes you a writer. That’s a hard question.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

People, politics, deaths.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I am not sure how to describe it. In a book review for “The Haunting of the Mexican Border,” the reviewer from the Santa Fe New Mexican Pasatiempo said, “Ferguson was a dance performer. She brings the same theatricality to her narrative style, and her prose is marked by a deep kinetic awareness of how her physical presence as an American, a woman, and a traveler affects people during her filming expeditions.” Another reviewer from the Santa Fe Reporter said, “Ferguson’s prose is transcendent, effortless, lifting off the page with the eye of a smart filmmaker who finds just enough detail to tell the imagination where to go but leaves off before layering on so much as to drown out that self-steered vision.”

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

While I was writing the book, I called it Phantom because I thought it was about culturally invisible people. The publisher, University of New Mexico Press, didn’t think the title fit the book. So I came up with The Haunting of the Mexican Border which in my mind is about phantoms at the US/Mexico border, the haunting of the arroyos where people hide, and the haunting of our national conscience which will never rest because of our conflicting notions of immigration and control of the “other.”

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most?

I read everything and am always influenced. Two books that often I reread are West with the Night by Beryl Markham, and Tracks by Robyn Davidson. Both are nonfiction, and the authors are fallible women who do courageous things, and by accident, write beautifully. I love Cormac McCarthy’s trilogy with All the Pretty Horses. Another influence is J.P.S. Brown’s Forests of the Night about a man in Mexico’s Sierra Madre. I was mesmerized by poet Sherwin’s Bitsui’s Shapeshift. In these books, the language is unpredictable and jumps off the page. The authors are highly original. These people write from their most interior self.

Fiona: Who was a mentor?

The most influential person in my life has been my Dad who taught me how to laugh, and John Fife, a brilliant speaker and pastor of Southside Presbyterian Church (a hard-hitting social justice church in Tucson, Arizona) who taught me how to look outward. Like a good hunter, he taught me how to be still and listen to what surrounds me. Just what I need when I am hunting a book, a notion, or a word.

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 don’t have a favorite author but my attention was definitely grabbed by a young spoken word artist, G Yamazawa. His work about mixed cultures is original, sensitive and powerful. I am so struck by it that I listen to his spoken word presentation, and write it down word for word. He is clear, humble, and a bridge across personal, political, and imagined cultural differences. I also loved the book, “H is for Hawk” by Helen Macdonald, a memoir on grief and falconry. I couldn’t put the book down. I am not crazy to read books about grief but the surprises in her writing, and her relationship with a hawk, is something I cannot forget. I loved the originality of concept. As I read her book, I felt so connected to her that I thought she was me.

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

Red wine.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes, if I combine those skinny author paychecks with other skinny paychecks from my dance career.

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

From my new book (nonfiction):

“Bones from the graveyard float in front of the gate. The woman from town says the wolves have come in. They walk the streets. Their frozen path, the hard ground they have always walked on, is now water. The Tundra is melting. There are wolves at the door. And the woman is scared. Grab the garlic and throw it around your neck, she says. It is the year 2014.”

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

Pretty much all of it. I have to force myself to write a beginning because it is never really the beginning. Organization changes several times before a book is finished.

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

Yes. I am working on another book that requires international travel. I love going out into the world and I love getting home. For both dance and writing, I have been in many countries including Mexico, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Turkey, Egypt, Malta, and Morocco. I wish I were Anthony Bourdain and would get paid to be in dozens of countries. And get paid to eat.

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

That I need another pair of eyes to read what I wrote, and tell me if it works or not. That EVERYTHING will need to be rewritten many times.

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

If they made The Haunting of the Mexican Border into a film, it would require a Rarámuri Indian actor and I don’t know which actors they have.. And it would require two Latino actors and one Anglo female. So maybe Demién Bichir and Damian Alcázar from Mexico, and maybe Mia Wasikowska.

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

Thank you, thank you to the readers! And please buy books from local booksellers. If you buy from other outlets, please purchase new, not used, books. It is hard for writers to put food on the table. But most of all, it is an honor to have strangers and friends take time to read what I write.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I read several books at once. Isabella – The Warrior Queen by Kirstin Downey, Silence on the Mountain by Daniel Wilkinson, Otero Mesa by Gregory McNamee, and a mystery for bedtime reading, The Devil’s Cave by Martin Walker.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Yes, it was about a nopal cactus that kept flopping over and couldn’t stand upright because there was no rain on the desert. Finally, the sacred rain arrived and it stood tall. Mostly I remember the great paintings in the book. It probably had few words because it was a children’s book. There were people in the book with black hair tied in buns and leather shoes wrapped up the thigh and long skirts. I don’t remember the name of the book or the author, but every time I look at cacti in my yard, I think of the book.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Kathryn: Pretty much everything.

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

I’m crazy about movies! White Material by Claire Denis, Wim Wender’s Der Himmel Uber Berlin (Enlish title is Wings of Desire), The Wild Bunch by Sam Pekinpah, The Conformist by Bertolucci, Blade Runner by Ridley Scott, Dead Man by Jim Jarmusch, Ground Hog Day by Harold Ramis, Moonrise Kingdom by Wes Anderson, The Hurt Locker by Kathryn Bigelow, Last Tango in Paris, and nowadays, anything with comedian Melissa McCarthy.

 

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

It is more like what would I want to be. I would like to be something other than a human. Probably everyone wants to be a jaguar, but frankly, I would like be a horned toad, Phrynosoma platyrhinos, and live in a spot of cool shade. Enough of being human.

 

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

www.thehauntingofthemexicanborder.com

https://www.amazon.com/Haunting-Mexican-Border-Womans-Journey/dp/082634058X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1466707497&sr=1-1

 

Here is my interview with Sunita Paul

Name :-Sunita Paul
Pen Name:-Nitasu Laup

Age:-42(12/02/74)

Where are you from:-
India

A little about your self `ie your education Family life etc  –
Convent educated,Graduated in 1995 with English Honours.
Ex teacher of a reputed concern,presently a homemaker.
Family with a loving husband and two adult sons.
Writing, reading,travelling, cooking and music are my hobbies.
Writing poetry is my passion
I do love to write short stories too.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?
My latest news is that I have my two books published, all thanks to Deborah Brookes Langford, my soul sister, mentor, guide.
Stars of lightning is a book of mine and Deborah Brookes Langford.
Women of Passion is a book of poems of authors from India and Middle East.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?
I started writing in my teenage.I won many essay and poetry competition.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I always used to write,but unprofessional.
Its in Facebook, I found that I can be a professional writer too.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?
Deborah Brookes Langford, it’s only she who inspired me to write a book.
My poetry is also based on my life,experiences and incidents.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?
I do have an unique style with a rhythmic pattern.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?
It was under the mutual consent of Deborah Brookes Langford and me.We wanted lightning in our starry poetry.

Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
Its only to spread love,light,peace and joy.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?
Its mainly fantasy, fictional characters. But some are real life experiences too

Fiona: What books have most influenced your life most? a mentor?
My mentor is Deborah Brookes Langford, a renowned author, poet.
I love Rabindranath Tagore,William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens,William Wordsworth.
Sidney,Sheldon,Harold Robbins,Chetan Bhagat,Sudeep Nagarkar,Ravinder Singh.These authors are also my favourite.

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?
Chetan Bhagat ,Indian Author, I love his works recently.His novels are interesting.
My favourite author is Sidney Sheldon.

Fiona: Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members
My soul sister Deborah Brookes Langford..

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?
Yes I do.

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
Nothing as such

Fiona: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
I loved reading,and wanted to see my writings in published works.That’s how my interest in writing originated.

Fiona: Can you share a little of your current work with us?
Stars of lightning has some beautiful poetry.
Also does women of passion.
But here I share with You my latest poem, which I write now.

Butterfly and Bee
~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Float like a butterfly,
Don’t ever feel shy,
But sting like a bee,
So that people might see,
The power in your beauty….
Which is your duty,
To show your inner strength,
That you can cross at any length.
Never let anyone overshadow you,
Always shine like the morning dew.
Sparkle and share your love and light,
Make other’s dull lives bright.
Let the beautiful butterfly float on its own
With a piercing sting like a bee in its bone………

©®Nitasu

Fiona: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
I write my heart out. I have an unique style of rhythmic pattern.

Fiona: Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?
No,not much yet.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?
Author Barry Mowles.

Fiona: What was the hardest part of writing your book?
Selection of the best poetry as my first step to being an author.

Fiona: Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?
I learnt a lot about simple errors, reader’s delight read,advertising, promotion, event management.

Fiona: If any of your books was made into a film who would you like to play the lead?
Kate Winslet and Leonadro De Caprio
They have that evergreen,timeless romancing couple look in them.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?
Only one thing,that write not with your brain,but only your heart out.

Fiona: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers? 
I would love to thank my readers for supporting me,trusting me and my work,for their kind consideration and boosting up reviews.
I appreciate all of these humbly.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?
Sachin Garg,an Indian author’s book,Never let me go.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?
I remember the fairy tales,the holy books I read in my childhood,also some cartoon stories.
First complete book I read was Charles Dicken’s David Copperfield.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?
The beautiful nature,flowers,birds,change of seasons all make me smile.Anything incredibly hilarious, or a kids innocence (smile or funny attitude),a funny joke,or a comical read,a comedy on television, all these make me laugh out loud.Also if a person is really silly but puts on an intelligent mask,it makes me laugh.

My family’s any sorrow,any grief makes me cry.The poverty, people dying,anyone sick or miserable, wars,terrorist attacks,children and women abused,destruction of our earth,all these make me cry out much.

Fiona: Is there one person pass or present you would meet and why?
My late Mother,I want to meet her to get back my childhood memories alive. To get all the incomplete love and pampers.
Also now I want to meet Deborah Brookes Langford, who has changed my life.

Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone and why ?
Resting in peace with love and care.Thank you God for all you have given me.
Because I have got enough love and care from my loved ones.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Reading, Cooking, Traveling, Music
Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?
Television I’m not so fond of TV .I watch news,some general knowledge shows,history channel,National geographic channel.Also I love Friends.
Indian some television shows I watch sometimes.
Films in India I watch only Shahrukh Khan’s movies.
International whatever good comes up.
Fan of Tom Cruise, Johny Depp,George Clooney,Richard Here,Leonadro De Caprio,and Brad Pitt.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music 
Food-Biriyani(Mughol Dish),Ice cream,Chocolate
Colour-Red,Black,Yellow and Blue

Fiona: If you were not a writer what else would you like to have done?
Teaching was my profession.Maybe some kind of education counsellor.

Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? If so what is it?
I have a Facebook page,Nitasu inks-Sunita Paul
I also own a poetry group, My World.

https://www.amazon.com/Women-Passion-Love-Poetry/dp/1533611491/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1466675271&sr=1-1&keywords=Nitasu+Laup

https://www.amazon.com/Stars-Lightning-Deborah-Brooks-Langford/dp/1533286124/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1466675271&sr=1-2&keywords=Nitasu+Laup

Thank you,
Regards,Sunita Paul(Nitasu Laup).