Here is my interview with Sierra Michaels

Name: Sierra Michaels

Age:  46

Where are you from: 

Born in Cincinnati and raised in Northern Kentucky, I moved to Los Angeles as a young adult to follow my passion for culture, travel and education.  I quickly discovered Archaeology and received my Master’s Degree and a successful career in Southern California.

I travel widely, but now call Fort Lauderdale, Florida home.  Most of my writing takes place on a small island in the Bahamas called Bimini.  I reside with my husband, and a diva dog named Yoda.  I find sanity and peace in running, yoga and piloting a small plane.  I’m still passionate about Archaeology as evident in my novels.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I like to write and blog about different places I travel to and my personal experiences.  In a few days, I will be traveling to Cuba for the second time this year.  This is during the mourning period of Castro’s death, so I look forward to the experience and I’ll share this on my blog.  https://sierramichaels.wordpress.com/

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing while my husband was fishing in Bimini.  I had a story in mind and I just went with it, and from there it really came together.  I learned a considerate amount from writing and publishing my first novel, Intimate Encounters.  My experience from that helped when I decided to write my second novel, Breakfast In Bimini.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I considered myself someone who dabbled with writing, even after publishing my first book. I started thinking as myself as a writer when I published Breakfast In Bimini, this past summer.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I read a lot, and thought I could do this.  I like to create.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

My voice came naturally, and it’s a part of who I am.  I write fiction except for my blog.  But many things in my novels are based on my own experiences.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title? 

My title, Breakfast In Bimini, is actually explained in the novel.  It’s based on the name of a boat I own.

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

I want readers to have fun with the book.  Perhaps the message I want them to take away is that some things are stranger than initially believed or imagined.

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

Loosely based on my experiences when it comes to the places in the Bahamas I describe and the boating lifestyle.  Most of the rest is pure imagination.

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

Michael Crichton impressed me and Dan Brown with their gripping ability to craft a well written 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?

Same as above, but also Gillian Flynn can really keep me turning the page.

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

A few local writers I turned to with questions via facebook or email.  Most writing groups and other writers really are encouraging and helpful.  So if you’re a writer, reach out.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career? 

I know I’ll always write, but it’s not my main source of income.

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

Not in my latest book.

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

For me it wasn’t until college.  I enjoyed writing essays and research papers.

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

I blog monthly at:  https://sierramichaels.wordpress.com/  And Breakfast In Bimini is part one in a series.  I haven’t started writing book two as I’m focusing on marketing at the moment.

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

Editing.  I don’t have a problem coming up with ideas and getting them down on paper.  It’s editing a few times after I complete the first draft of my manuscript.

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

I travel quite a bit and it shows up in my writing.  I’m very passionate about traveling and experiencing different cultures, people and places.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I had a basic idea of what I wanted and I found a professional through my writing associations.  Her name is Elle J Rossi.

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

Again, the editing.

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

Yes, a great deal about the publishing industry.  It was frustrating for me, but in the end I came to understand the process.

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

I have a strong female character, so many actresses would fit that role.  I think Angelina Jolie comes to mind, but I think a lesser known actress would be better.  I just don’t know the names of that many.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Keep writing and reach out to other writers online or in your community.

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

Give my new novel, Breakfast In Bimini, a try.  I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

The woman in Cabin 10 by Imogen Church

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Lord of the Flies

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

My dog, she always amazes me.

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

I would have enjoyed hanging out with Hemmingway for a daiquiri or two in Cuba

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

She lived life to the fullest.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Running, yoga and flying.

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

TV:  Big Bang Theory, Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown, Shark Tank.

Films:  Most well-written comedy and Drama.  An excellent recent new release I just watched is Hell or High Water.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

A good thin crust pizza/ green/ modern country and jazz

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

 Journalist, archaeologist.

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

Website:  www.sierramichaels.com

 

Blog:  https://sierramichaels.wordpress.com/

 

Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/sierra.michaels/

https://twitter.com/sierra__michael

Buy the Book on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Breakfast-Bimini-Sierra-Michaels/dp/1533699062/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1480377677&sr=8-1&keywords=breakfast+in+bimini+by+sierra+michaels

 

Amazon Author Page:

https://www.amazon.com/Sierra-Michaels/e/B003H2P4WW/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_5?qid=1480377909&sr=8-5

 

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Here is my interview with Rachel Smets

Name  Rachel Smets

Age 41 summers

Where are you from

Born and raised in Belgium. Lived in many countries and currently in the Netherlands.

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

I’m a teacher, speaker, and author.
Single, no kids. (Any single men reading ? Hi…)

Speaking 6 languages, I enjoy teaching several languages to people all over the world. The experience to live and work abroad for the past 15 years, increased my people-and cultural knowledge, which I share during international business classes at the University.

This year, I self-published my bestseller ‘Awaken Your Confidence: 15 People Share Their Journey to Success.’

The corporate world…, I’ve been there, I climbed the ladder higher and higher until I burned out. This was only a confirmation that I don’t belong there,  because my energy only rises when I’m interacting with people!

 

I graduated from the University of Maryland (US) with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, and achieved my master’s degree in management from the University of St Andrews (UK).

 

Travelling abroad, as a single, has given me a great amount of confidence, experience and most of all inspiration. This confidence is my main topic I speak about in presentations to motivate and inspire others.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I’ve been invited to speak at a World Economic Conference (in January 2017), where I’ll talk about my Journey abroad and the Journey to Confidence.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

Nearing the age of 40, I started to choose more for myself instead of pleasing others. That’s when I realized what a journey my life has been and all the things I have learned. It became clear that I wanted to inspire and motivate others to take charge of their lives too, and what better way than through a book.
That’s when I took the path of a writer.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

 Only after I decided to write a book, but before it was published. Somewhere in the middle, I was determined that I would finish and publish. Then, I knew I was a writer. Then, I knew I was a writer. Only when I held the book in my hands, I wanted to shout out: I’m an AUTHOR!

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

As a shy little girl, my self-confidence was very low. Afraid to speak up and extremely silent. By traveling the world on my own, I lived and worked in  many countries. This experience gave me the confidence that I have now, and that’s what I want my readers to feel too after reading ‘ Awaken Your Confidence’
Self-confidence is useful in many areas in life, both private and professionally. With confidence, you can be the person you want to be. Many people feel stuck and frustrated, but there’s no need to, because the great thing is that you can learn and build confidence.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Not too serious, but using some humor, while keeping it real. No scientific research, but enough research to prove my point.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

By writing about 120 different titles and similar key words around Confidence. Then, narrowing down during the months I wrote. Then, the final 10, I sent out polls for people to vote on. That helped a lot, but the final decision was for me to make.

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

 Absolutely! Learn how to awaken your confidence and transform your life to get what you want. Life changes, and so can you.

You can Start Now!

Take charge of your own success. Use the power of confidence and you will transform your life.

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

 

My favorite books have been non-fiction, psychology related and self-help. Inspirational and life-changing books include: A Course in Miracles, Ask and it is Given, The Secret, The Power of Now, etc…

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes, but not for me. I will write more books and am busy doing so, but to make it a full-time career is not my goal at this moment. I prefer to get out there and SPEAK!

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

 Nope, it’s exactly as I want it. I put a lot of time and effort into all the interviews, research and writing. Invested a lot of sweat and tears, but I would do it all over again just the same!

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

Many many years ago as I was reading other books, I thought very often ‘’One day I will write my book too.’’ Funny enough, I hear many people say that, but I’m determined and I stick to what I say J

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

3 different book projects at the same time:

Book Project #1 is with a group of authors and nearly done, it’s an inspirational entrepreneurial book, called ‘’The Better Business Book’’, which will be launched soon.

Book Project # 2 will be a book about the challenges of an expat. A book for those who want to move abroad. Filled with important steps to take and things to think about. I have interviewed many expats over the years, so I incorporate real examples.

Book Project # 3: a book about cultural differences.  I’m co-writing with a professor, so it will be more theoretical.

Besides this, I am creating speaking material to inspire audiences and awaken the CONFIDENCE of many people out there, ready to take Action!

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

The research and brainstorming BEFORE the writing is for me the most challenging. Once it’s clear in my head, I LOVE the process of writing itself.

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

 No, but I use my travels as inspiration for the content. And, I WANT to travel more for speaking gigs about my book, and about confidence.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

An amazing lady I found on Upwork but she sadly stopped to be with her family. I’m looking for someone now.

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

The research beforehand as mentioned above.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers? 

For non-fiction writers, I would advise to research a lot in order to give as  much value as possible to your readers.

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

 Besides the message above, Take Action and live YOUR life.

And pay attention to the free Bonus, because every reader receives all 15 interviews on video & audio files added as a Bonus.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

 Books about writing and speaking, because I love learning from books

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read? No idea, but it’ll be my next question to my parents.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Great times and deep conversations with true friends can both make me laugh and cry!

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

 Just one symbol will do: ♥

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

 

When not writing or teaching, I am running, biking, and at the gym to relax my mind.

 

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

 I’m not a big TV fan, but a good thriller/mafia movie can please me (old time favorite Pulp Fiction), or a comic show to relax my mind.

Fiona: Favorite foods?

Chocolate! Belgian chocolate of course J In 2^nd place comes Stracciatella Italian icecream, and 3d Tiramisu.
Are you talking about a decent meal? Ok, then pasta with seafood!

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

Personal Fitness Trainer

Additional information: A little about your book:

Title: “Awaken Your Confidence: 15 People Share Their Journey to Success”.

Category: Non-fiction, Self-help, Business&Money.

Not Fiction, not a story, but FULL of inspiration!

Short Description:

The goal of Awaken Your Confidence is to give you the inspiration and tools to help you grow your confidence step by step.

In Part One, 15 successful people share their journey to personal happiness and career satisfaction.

Part Two has 11 confidence hacks that you can apply immediately to start building your self-confidence.

Some of the names I interviewed are SJ Scott, Stephen Shedletzky, Dr.Aziz, Jesse Krieger, Scott Ballard, Gina Hussar, and many more. Each of their stories in Part One reveal how they went from shy or introvert to very successful.

~~ “Never assume that you’re stuck forever and it’s impossible to get what you want. Life changes, and so can you.”   ~~

 

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

Website: http://www.rachelsmets.com/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/1.RachelSmets/

 

Confidence inspiration on You Tube Channel:  https://goo.gl/2hQq8q

 

“Awaken Your Confidence: 15 People Share Their Journey to Success”,  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KLZY1VM

 

Author’s Central page: https://www.amazon.com/Mrs-Rachel-Smets/e/B01KD31N54

 

 

 

 

Here is my interview with Sarah Curtis

Name Sarah: Curtis

Age: 47

Where are you from: Southern California

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

I’ve been married 30 years to my high-school sweetheart, have 2 children, and 2 grandchildren.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I have a holiday novella, Enchanting, releasing Dec. 1st.  It’s part of my Alluring series but can be read as a standalone.

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I’ve been writing my whole life but never had the courage to  do something about it.  I must have five or six half-finished manuscripts tucked away in my bedroom closet.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

In my dreams, I’ve always been a writer, but I considered myself an author when I published my first book two years ago.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I’ve always loved to read.  I think most writers start out as avid readers.  I dreamed of writing, but it was a life goal I never thought would happen.  Fast forward many, many, many years *wink*, hubby and I sold our business and the kids were grown.  What should I do?  With the industry making room for self published authors, it was the perfect time to try and live my dream. I had no idea if anyone would like what I wrote–I was scared to hit the publish button–but I was at a point in life where I was finally willing to take a chance.  I’m glad I did.  I love writing.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

If I do, I’m not aware of it.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Titles will usually just pop into my head like an “ah ha” moment at some point while I’m writing.

 

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

Love is out there, and everyone deserves a HEA (happily ever after).

 

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

There’s a tiny part of me in all my heroines and a little bit of my hubby in each of my heroes.  Other than that, my stories are daydreams, floating around in my head, waiting–sometimes impatiently–for me to write them.

 

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

I don’t think there are any books that have influenced my life in any way.  I read for enjoyment.  To escape reality for a while.  The same way another may get sucked into a movie.

 

 

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?  

There’s been a lot of new authors that have caught my reading eye the past couple of years, Brynne Asher, Layla Frost, ML Rodriguez, S Van Horne, and Mary B Moore just to name a few.  I could never single out just one favorite author, but a few that I love are Tijan, Georgia Le Carre, Lynda Chance, Lisa Kleypas, Alexa Riley, and older Kristen Ashley.  I can truly connect and get lost in their books.

 

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

All the fabulous “book community” (authors and readers) friends that I’ve met.  Everyone really supports one another, whether it’s answering questions or spreading the word for a new release.  They’re wonderful.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes, knock on wood, this is what I’ll do the rest of my life.

 

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

No.  I try not to second guess myself even after reading negative reviews.  I write for me, what I like and hope there are others that like what I write, too.  Don’t get me wrong, there is always room for improvement, but at some point you just have to say, “This is it.”

 

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

It stemmed from my love of reading, wanting to create my own stories, and sharing them with others.

 

 

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

Here’s a short excerpt from my current WIP, All-In.  This is not edited, so please excuse the typos and bad grammar.

River sat, completely still, her face devoid of all expression as she carefully scanned each of the men sitting at the table.  Her back was straight, her spine aligned perfectly with the center of her chair.  Her breathing was even, not too shallow, not too fast as her heart beat a mile a minute in her chest.  She was all-in, and everyone else had folded except the man sitting directly across from her.

Alec Throne.  AKA “The Prince of Poker.”

He was sizing her up, deciding whether or not to make the call.

She eyed his chips stacked before him mentally calculating how much money he had.  He had her beat by a good ten grand.  If he called her and won, she’d be out of the game.

She had pocket aces.  The best hand you can start with.  No, it didn’t always win–someone could river a flush or straight–but in tournaments, if you didn’t take risks when the opportunities arose and hope for some luck on your side, you’d never make it to the end.

He still studied her.  His face was expressionless but no less beautiful.  He was elegantly dressed in a suit.  Not the norm for the usual poker player.  Sitting long hours one tended to dress comfortably which was why so many players dressed casually.  Alec’s only nod to casual was his lack of tie and open suit jacket along with the top two buttons of his shirt being unbuttoned.  And yes, she noticed and took count.

His hair was still perfectly styled even after longs hours at the poker table, attesting to his rigid restraint not to run his fingers through it.  His eyes were hard and calculating but not a crinkle nor twitch gave away what he was thinking.  He was the epitome of poker-face.

The fingers of his right hand softly shuffled two small stacks of chips.  The slight tinkling sound they made, a lullaby to Rivers ears.  The repetitious action not a distraction but a soothing reminder of where she was.

Drawn to his hand, her eyes took in its strength.  The nails short and trimmed smooth but not manicured, and the tanned skin of his long fingers.  The digits dexterous as he flawlessly played with his chips.

Movement caught her eye.  His other hand reaching for and pushing forward a tall stack of chips.

“I call.”

He tossed his cards face up on the center of the table.  A pair of kings.  She needed this win badly.  Her brother was counting on her and, she couldn’t let him down.

“All-in called,” the dealer said, tapping the table before dealing three cards face up on the table.

 

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

Yes!  Showing rather than telling.  I really struggle with that.

 

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

Not yet.  I hope to get books in print soon, so that might change.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I designed the covers for my Alluring series, but Ashley Byland from Redbird Designs was my cover artist for Freight Trained and Rob Lang Images was the photographer.  I could drool over that cover, I love it so much.

 

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

The first chapter is always the hardest for me.  My characters are so new, I don’t know their personalities yet.  I usually go back and change things midway through the book.

 

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

I learned anything is possible if you have the courage and desire to see it through.

 

 

 

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

I can picture David Gandy playing Jackson Cole my hero from Alluring even though he’s not an actor.  I actually just like picturing David Gandy *smile*

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Write everyday even if it’s only a few sentences.

 

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

Thank you!

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I just finished Vines by Brynne Asher.  I’m not sure what I’m going to start next, but I have a loaded Kindle to choose from.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Ever?  Um… More than likely something by Judy Bloom.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

My son makes me laugh all the time.  Emotional books or movies make me cry.

 

 

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

I would have loved to have met Lucille Ball.  What a strong, wise, funny, and inspirational woman.

 

 

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

I want to be cremated.  The thought of my body rotting and bugs crawling all over me creeps me out.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Reading, obviously, but I also like to crochet.

 

 

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

I’m addicted to the Food Network even though I don’t cook.  One of my favorite movies is Hot Fuzz.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Favorite food: ice cream Favorite color: purple Favorite band: Three Days Grace

 

 

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

Nothing, I’m finally living my dream.

 

 

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

http://sarahcurtisauthor.wixsite.com/sarahcurtisauthor

 

Social Media Links…

 

FB

https://www.facebook.com/sarahcurtisauthor
GoodReads
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/12823436.Sarah_Curtis
Twitter
https://twitter.com/sarahcurtisathr
Pinterest
https://www.pinterest.com/sarahcurtisauth/
Website
http://sarahcurtisauthor.wix.com/sarahcurtisauthor

 

Book Links…

Alluring
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RWKMS1U

Engaging (Alluring Book 2)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00YES0H20

Pursuing (Alluring Book 3)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01AQ3NQ9C

Freight Trained

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IEFWRQM

 

Here is my interview with Avelyn Paige

Name: Avelyn Paige

Age: 30

Where are you from: Fairmount, Indiana

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

Starting off with the hard stuff, huh? I’m a lifelong Hoosier, but I’m a Boilermaker by choice (BOILER UP!). I grew up in James Dean’s home town and let me tell you, I am not a fan of his and have never seen a single one of his movies. I literally grew up in middle of nowhere farm country and I never want to leave. I graduated from Purdue University in 2008 with a degree in Biology and Forensic Sciences. From there, I started work as an oncology research scientist and have been with the same company over the last 7 years.

I married my wonderful husband, Thomas, on my birthday in 2010.  Our wedding was about as disastrous as you could imagine with the groom nearly dying in the hospital and a massive re-planning to get married a week later.  I tease him now after 6 years of marriage that if he didn’t want to marry me that badly he could have thought of better ways to get out of it than trying to die. One fun fact about me is that I am a pastor’s wife who loves to write dirty books and read even dirtier books.

While we currently don’t have any kids, we have two very feisty and ferocious cats named Jezebel and Cleo that hate our new very odd looking dog, Asa.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I am currently working on the next book in the Heaven’s Rejects series, Sins of the Father. The delicious Alfie Gordillo will reprise his role of Raze and will be featured again on the cover.
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

Before I answer this, I need to let readers and fans know that this is your warning for a sobbing, ugly crying mess of a story.  Kleenexes at the ready, ladies.

I started writing in March 2015 after spending the last six weeks caring for my father as he bravely lost his battle against cancer.  It was hard sitting in the hospital knowing that the disease I have spent the last seven years trying to cure was going to take one of my own.  Books were my escape as my father rested and after his passing, I couldn’t motivate myself to read or well, do much of anything really.

The very first day back to work after his funeral I was a crying mess in the car.  During that 45 minutes’ drive, an idea popped into my head.  That maybe my dad and my grandfather, who we lost the week before Dad was hospitalized for the first time, weren’t really gone.  You see, my dad was a police officer and would spend many nights away from home.  In my mind, Dad wasn’t gone at all, but he was out on some extended undercover operations.  From that alternative way of thinking, my first book Damaged was born.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Hell, I don’t really consider myself a writer even with two published books.  I’ll admit I’m not where near the level of author-dom as many popular authors, but for me writing isn’t a career. It’s an outlet for the days when I need to escape to someone else’s life and an imaginary world. It still blows my mind that I have fans. I fan girl just as hard that I have fans as they do because they love my books.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

As I mentioned before, my inspiration was my Dad and those who had left this earth after battling cancer.  Damaged went from my outlet for my grief to helping others facing the same situation.  Those feelings and emotions drove me to write a heartbreaking book called, Cassie’s Court, which takes a contemporary romance look at battling cancer.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Honestly, I write the way I talk. I could pick up a thesaurus and add in fancy, eloquent words, but I am a simple country girl.  I want readers to be able to feel a connection to my characters as if they were real people just walking on the street.  I don’t want my fans to have to pick up a dictionary every time I explain a situation nor a feeling. It’s just not the way I am.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Damaged was an easy title. I wanted something that would accurately explain how Evie felt when she was diagnosed with cancer. Heaven Sent on the other hand was a bit different of a story.  I knew that my MC Romance series would be a blend of bad boys doing good things and good girls learning how to be bad.  With my husband as a pastor, I wanted to play on the Heaven Vs. Hell aspect with the names of each book.  Ironically enough, Heaven Sent is the name of my husband and I’s song.

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

I think the underlying tones of my books are hope and strength.  Whether you are facing down a cancer diagnosis or are faced with insurmountable odds, I want my female readers to know that they have a support system. Supportive angels are all around you and waiting on you to ask for help. Take their hands and fight back the darkness together.  I also want my readers to take away that darkness surrounds even the brightest lights, but its who we are as people that keeps it at bay. Be strong, be hopeful, but, most importantly be the person you are destined to be.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic ?

Ah, there’s a fine line where fiction meets reality, isn’t there? Can any work of fiction be truly realistic?  Sure! My novels kind of toe the line of realism. While Damaged and have some real-world situations and emotions attached to it, I would classify it more as fictional fantasy.  Heaven Sent, Angels and Ashes, and Cassie’s Court are more realistic in terms of the story line and situations. 

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

In Damaged and Cassie’s Court, cancer is the main focus for each of the lead characters. Both Evie and Abby’s plights with the doctors and endless hospital stays are reminiscent of the 6 short weeks I watched by father bravely battle multiple myeloma.  The emotions and underlying tones of the beginning of their stories are completely based on my father’s care.  I don’t know how many times I had to step away from writing both of these stories because the emotions become too real.   The emotional turmoil really wreaked havoc on my psyche and I had to step away from writing for a bit to regain control of my emotions.

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

I think one of the first and most influential books I have ever read was Gone with The Wind by Margaret Mitchell.  I’ve always been an avid reader and Gone with the Wind was the very first lengthy novel that I ever picked up at the age of 10. I know some of you might be thinking that’s quite a grown-up book for a pre-teen, but I devoured it.  Scarlett O’Hara’s character really resonated with me with her tenacity and vivaciousness. She was determined that her family’s home would survive the war. Even as jaded as she was about her romantic love life, she did was felt was necessary to preserve her family’s memory.  Sure, she was a bit eccentric and her methodologies were a bit far-fetched, but she reached for the stars.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Right now, I am reading through an ARC of Temptation by Brie Paisley. Brie and I hit the author world just about the same time and I love reading her novels. I highly encourage indie author fans to check out her books!

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

Most definitely! Geri Glenn’s Kings of Korruption MC series is absolutely amazing as well as Cherry Shephard’s Blaze of Glory Books! They come highly recommended from me!

Fiona: What are your current projects?

Right now, I am in the beginning stages of writing a sequel novella to the Heaven’s Rejects MC series.  A beloved character was tragically killed off at the beginning of the series and the fans have lamented on never getting to know him.  I am giving my readers a tease of the past to see what Jagger was like before Darcy.

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

My blog girls! Nikki and Brandi has really helped me find the courage to write. I don’t know how to even measure the countless hours that they have spent working on reading my newest chapters or promoting my work. I owe everything to them! I do have to give additional shout-outs to Clayr, Robyn, and Nicole for all of the promoting they do for me!

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Oh, I wish I could, but sadly, I think writing will be more of a hobby for me. Don’t get me wrong, if Hatchette or Penguin came knocking at my door tomorrow asking to sign me, I would leave my lab in a blaze of glory, but even I know that the likelihood of that happening is slim to none.

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

I would change two things, re-work the dual POV dialogue overlap and to soften Hero’s heart a little bit. I’ve received some great feedback from readers and bloggers alike that I will definitely be taking into book #2.

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

It honestly hit me like a bolt of lightning and has been supercharging my need to write every since!

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

I don’t know…. Are you sure you can to sneak peek of Angels and Ashes?

Well. All right then!  Please keep in mind this is completely un-edited!

“I don’t give a shit about what you’ve convinced yourself is wrong with what’s going on between us.  I’m not Brent, Darcy, and I’ll never be him no matter how hard you try to want me to be.  He’s fucking dead because of this club and he’s never coming back.  He may have been your husband, but he was my brother.  It eats at me every fucking time you walking into a room and I have to fight myself from trying to touch you and make you mine because I feel like every nasty thought is a betrayal of his memory.  Well, I’m done with feeling guilty and I have news for you darlin’. I’m done feeling like the asshole stealing a cookie from his brother’s cookie jar. Either we decide to figure out what’s going on between or scratch this fucking itch once and for all. The ball is in your court, darlin’ because I’m too damn old to keep playing fucking mind games and competing with a ghost. The choice is yours.”

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

Honestly, finding the time to write. I wear so many different hats in my marriage and professional career that at times I have to shut myself off from the work to even get a few hundred words written.

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

I don’t think I could even come close to picking a favorite author! There are WAY too many!

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

I’ve mostly stayed locally for a few signing events, but in 2016 I will be expanding out my travel plans for Toledo, OH and Nashville, TN!

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

My first cover was designed partially by Justin from Ready, Set, Edit.  Heaven Sent’s cover was designed by the lovely Rebecca from The Final Wrap.

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

Writing the sex scenes. Do you have any idea about how much porn I had to sift through to find the inspiration behind the sex scenes in Heaven Sent? I don’t know how many conversations I had with friends about whether some positions were even possible. Hell, I could have made up a few with the stick figure position drawings I thought up!

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

I learned new things all the time! The biggest take home from Heaven Sent was dual POV conversations are a no-no.  If you aren’t adding to the story by telling the conversation from a different angle, just leave that sucker out of the story.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Keep on writing! Sure, you may never write a bestseller, but if you don’t put pen to paper or fingers to keyboard, you’ll never know will you.  Another big piece of advice is to find a good editor and stick with them. As you work through each new novel, having a consistent editor who knows and understands your writing style will help keep your books symmetrical.

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

Just a plain and simple thank you for taking a chance on an upstart author like myself. I never expected to sell one book let alone a thousand so from the bottom of my little devilish heart, thank you for believing in me!

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Little House of the Prairie in the first grade.  I was one of those kids that I think came out of the womb with a book in my head. I walked into my first grade class already being able to read basic books and by the time 1^st grade ended I was reading at the 4^th grade level.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Do you any of you have that one friend that finds stupid shit funny? Well, that’s me.  99.9999% of the time I have my phone in my head, I’m looking at some stupid meme and then forwarding it to all of my friends.  I look for the humor in every situation.

I don’t cry often, but when I do, it’s like an epic flash flood.  Sad movies, sadness in my real life, and soldier coming home stories are usually the culprits for the dam breaking.

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

Anyone? Like seriously anyone? Ohhhhh… hot damn.. Ummm…. Thomas More. I know, a patron catholic saint.  Strange choice right? Well, I am a huge history buff and have always love Henry the 8^th and his numerous wives (#TeamAnneBoleyn), but I recently did a historical look into my family tree.  Ironically enough, Saint Thomas More is my 14^th great grandfather. I would love to dive into his mind about the history of his day and age.

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

Oh a couple come to mind.

 

1. IU Still Sucks (For all you Purdue Football Fans out there and why? Because IU sucks.
2. Shouldn’t have buried me in a sweater. (Just because my husband is a pastor and he’d get a kick out of it.)
3. April Fools! Now let me Out!

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Reading of course! I love to bake and spend time with my family. 

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

Ah.. another one of my vices. I don’t know how many times my husband has yelled from the living room that I had to make a choice on which show to not record.  My favorites are Walking Dead, NCIS, Once Upon A Time, Game of Thrones, and the Big Bang Theory.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

My favorite color is definitely hot pink!  My wedding was even hot pink!  I love to eat steak and seafood!  My music tastes are a bit different. I listen to everything from death metal to zydeco. Right now, I have a continuous rotation of Jimmy Buffet’s Christmas Island running my lab. Ho ho ho and a bottle of run, everyone!

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

I think I would be doing the exact same thing that I am doing right now, working in the cancer research field.  It was my childhood dream to make a lasting impact on curing this horrendous disease.

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

Yes, I do! You can follow me at http://www.authoravelynpaige.com

 

Author Links

Avelyn Paige is a born and raised Indiana girl. While she may be a Hoosier by birth, she is a Boilermaker by choice. Boiler Up! She resides in a sleepy little town in Indiana with her husband and three crazy pets. Avelyn spends her days working as a cancer research scientist and her nights sipping moonshine while writing and book reviewing. Avelyn loves everything paranormal, Cajun culture, and wants to try tornado chasing as a hobby when she finally grows up. She just has to get over that pesky fear of thunderstorms first. Avelyn also enjoys collecting voodoo dolls from her trips to New Orleans.

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13914653.Avelyn_Paige
http://www.amazon.com/Avelyn-Paige/e/B00X3ZBJHC
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorAvelynPaige
https://twitter.com/AvelynPaige

Street Team: https://www.facebook.com/groups/356568577879636/

 

 

(¯`v´¯)

.`•.¸.•´ ★ Angels and Ashes

¸.•´.•´¨) ¸.•¨) Avelyn Paige

(¸.•´(¸.•´ (¸.•¨¯`* ღ

 

#BadassBikers #SecondChanceAtLove

#RideWithRaze #AvelynPaige #HeavensRejects

☆Blurb☆

Abandoned & Broken

Left alone to raise a family, widower Darcy Kyle’s life has spiraled out of control. When secrets about her husband’s past emerge, Darcy is forced to confront the fact her husband’s fatal accident may, in fact, have been deliberate. Forced to sell her soul to the Devil himself, Darcy must uncover the truth of her husband’s accident…before it’s too late.

 

Betrayed & Bitter

Cast into Hell, Raze has given his life as President of the Heaven’s Rejects MC, but what good is it when he can’t protect the people he cares about? His brother’s death, his wife’s betrayal… it’s too much for a mere mortal to handle. Luckily for Raze, he is the ruler of this Hell on Earth. But even the Devil has a weakness, and when Darcy Kyle sticks her nose in the club’s business he finds himself questioning his loyalty to his brother’s memory.

 

How can the Devil resist an angel bathed in the ashes of the fallen?

❥Buy Links❥

Amazon US: https://goo.gl/wCwUUx

Amazon UK: https://goo.gl/ClVUdJ

Amazon AU: https://goo.gl/XXRJ9i

Amazon CA: https://goo.gl/gIaa38

Barnes and Noble: http://goo.gl/oVt6QB

iBooks: https://goo.gl/Fdi1KN

Kobo:  https://goo.gl/Tdoy4I

 

Heaven Sent:

 

Bloody…broken…barely surviving…

Danae “Dani” Espinoza is on the run and desperate to escape the demons of her past. Plans to hide out in a sleepy Los Angeles suburb turn into a pipe dream as she is drawn into the secret filled world of the local motorcycle club. Dani soon learns that her secrets and lies are nothing compared to those kept behind the clubhouse doors. Trying to avoid the suspicious Vice President, she must keep a low profile in order to survive. The trouble is he has other ideas.

Bike…babes…and booze…

Tyler “Hero” Tobias has simple needs. Being the Heaven’s Rejects MC Vice President, he has all three at his disposal. But he has his own ghosts that keep him awake at night. When Dani arrives at the clubhouse, he knows he should stay away but there is something about her dark beauty and the mystery that surrounds her that makes him burn. There are secrets in her eyes and lies in her smile and he knows he should put his club first, but Hero’s heart and loyalty are about to be tested.

Can an angel with blood-covered wings and the devil himself resist temptation or will they risk bringing hellfire down on everything that they love?

❥Get Your Copy HERE ❥

Amazon US: http://amzn.com/B015JW8ZB4
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B015JW8ZB4
Amazon CA: http://www.amazon.ca/dp/B015JW8ZB4
Amazon AU: http://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B015JW8ZB4
Barnes & Noble: http://goo.gl/rtfv4Z

Here is my interview with Andrea Michelle Perno

Name: Andrea Michelle Perno

Age: 31

Where are you from: I was born in Pennsylvania and grew up in both Pennsylvania and Florida.

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

I am a new mom to a six month old baby boy. Right now I’m a stay at home mom/artist/author/illustrator. I was an Art Education teacher for 11 years prior to deciding to stay home with my son. I currently have no aspirations to go back to full time teaching in a school district. However, I do teach private lesson and the occasional sip and paint party.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

My latest news…well, I’m currently writing the final installment of The Last Drop trilogy. I anticipate being finished with that at the end of the summer depending on art commissions and mommy duties. One of my books is published through Paper Gold Publishing and is in a box set titled: Visions of The Fall

 

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing in 2013 because I had a story to tell. Characters appeared in my head like a bad dream and they had a story worth writing. I’ve been writing ever since.

 

 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I think I first considered myself a writer when my first book, The Last Drop, was published. I’ve always liked writing and I took a bunch of AP writing classes in high school and college, but it’s real when you get the acceptance letter from a publishing house.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I was inspired to write my first book during a particularly trying time in my teaching career. I was teaching fifth grade and it was the end of May. A particularly hot day in May. Our school building didn’t have air conditioning and we ran out of water. (At our school, water is served at cooling stations because the pipes in the building are all lead.) What ensued inside of an hour was pure mayhem. Middle school children particularly fifth graders are barely human on a good day let alone being stuffed in a classroom that was about 104 degrees. Add lack of water on top of that? Chaos. The characters in my book appeared in my head that evening. Thus, The Last Drop was born.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I’ve only written professionally in first person perspective. I love the gritty, personal view that books written from first person have.

 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The Last Drop focuses on war that rages over the scarcity of water. The Last Drop just seemed like an appropriate title. I will say it was harder to come up with the title for the second book in the trilogy. It’s hard to go from the last drop to the last last drop.

 

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

I want readers to grasp the gravity of what life without water can be. It will be our reality if we don’t get global warming and over consumption under control. Add in a new president that doesn’t believe in global warming? Scary times are coming. My book could very well be a reality.

 

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

The book is realistic in that events in the plot involving water scarcity could happen in our near future. However, the majority of the book revolves around the concept of traveling to another planet to survive. Space travel could happen, but on the scale portrayed in my novel, it would be a very distant reality.

I do pull a lot of my own life experiences into my novel though. People always say you write best what you know.

 

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

The books that have most influenced my career are, The Hunger Games, Where The Red Fern Grows, Enders Game, and Harry Potter.

 

 

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 the writing of Linda Watkins. I discovered her by chance doing a review exchange. I really like her spooky style of writing. My favorite author is Suzanne Collins. What strikes me most about her writing is the voice she uses for her characters. She also uses a first person perspective in most of her writing and I find that to be strikingly haunting.

 

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

Lots of people have helped me in my writing. I had the help of my students for one. They always thought it was great that I was writing a book. They even wound up reading the novel and critiquing it in a small book group after the book was published.

 

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes and no. I think to really make writing a career you have to be picked up by a large publishing house. Right now I see my writing as more of a hobby than a career. I liken it to students who have a minor in college. Teaching and artwork is my major/career and writing is my passion/minor that I hope will someday grow into a full-fledged career. I have to continue to seek out the big publishing houses and connections to those to make that happen.

 

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

Without giving too much information away I would have not killed off a fairly crucial character. As I write the last book in the trilogy I keep thinking, darn, I killed that guy off and he could have really helped my main character here. It’s a challenge, but I like it. I also think it might be worth it to have written the entire trilogy before putting any one book in the trilogy into publishing. I might have liked to tweak a few small details in the first book.

 

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

My interest in writing originated from my first grade teacher Mrs. Hess. I still have all the journals and short stories she made us write. I also attribute my interest in writing to my parents. We would take several yearly camping trips and my brothers and I would all be tasked with writing short stories to read around the campfire at night. It was a great tradition I hope to keep going with my own son. When he’s old enough to write.

 

 

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

My current work is the last book in The Last Drop trilogy. The series is going to come to a close in a dark and chilling way. That’s all I care to say about that. Any more and I would spoil the suspense and mystery.

 

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

TIME. There is never enough time. I really did think that I would have a little more time to write now that I’m a stay at home mom/artist/author. Fortunately I have been blessed with lots of artwork orders that eat up a huge chunk of my time per day and I have been doubly blessed with a son who does not know how to sleep. He likes to help mommy with…EVERYTHING…so we write during naps, however short they may be.

 

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

Most of my book travel right now is to and from local signings and small events.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

The amazingly talented, Elizabeth Mackey re-did the covers for The Last Drop and Change of Tides when I was picked up by Paper Gold Publishing. I designed the cover for Remotely Unplugged.

 

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

The hardest part is keeping all the characters straight and remembering what was written in the first two books so that the third book is accurate.

 

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

I learned a lot more about water and global warming and I wanted to. I also learned a lot about the bio-chemistry behind growing plants. It’s incredibly interesting and eye opening. I tried incorporating some facts in the books without brow beating world issues.

 

 

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

I’m all about seeking new talent for movies. Originally I pictured Josh Hutcherson for the role of Avery, but he will be a bit too old now.

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

My best advice would be to write every single day. Even if you write only a few words it’s still something. I would also tell other writers to keep READING. The best way to learn and grow as a writer is to stay current and read other people’s work.

 

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

I would say thank you to the readers. Without them I wouldn’t dream of having a writing career.

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Girl on A Train.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I don’t remember the first book I ever read, but the first ones I can remember that left a lasting impression were Hatchet and Where The Red Fern Grows.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Anything to do with children. Babies are innately hilarious but can also make you cry hysterically into your cup of tea while listening to them wail because they’ve decided to simply not sleep. Again. For the 50^th night in a row.

 

 

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

In the present I would love to meet Tom Hanks. I think he would just be an interesting person to talk to and get to know.

 

 

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

I don’t want a headstone. I want all my organs and body parts to be used by whomever or whatever can use them and then scatter what’s left of me in unique places all over the world.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I enjoy painting and horseback riding, hiking and shooting.

 

 

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

I’m a huge Code Black enthusiast right now. And I watch Big Bang, Modern Family, Scorpion, The Last Ship and Designated Survivor religiously.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Food: Pizza

Color: Orange

Music: Country

 

 

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

After researching for my book, horticulture and bio-chemistry seems right up my alley. I’d need a lot more math though…not my fav.

 

 

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

www.andreaperno.com

 

Here is my interview with Nicky Black

Name Nicky Black

Age 48

Where are you from

I’m from a market town called Alnwick in Northumberland, now living in Stirling in Scotland. I worked in Newcastle upon Tyne for twelve years, then London for fourteen years before taking the plunge and deciding to write full time – for a while anyway…

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

In March 2016 I was offered a redundancy package from my job in London and I grabbed the opportunity to do something different. Knowing that if I stayed in London to write full time, even for a year, my money would run dry very quickly, I decided to move north of the border to Scotland where I would be able to live a more affordable lifestyle. I worked my notice and left London in August. I’ve not regretted it thus far.

I’m now working on my second book, which is based on my friend Julie’s screenplay, ‘Heads.’ It’s working title is ‘Tommy Collins’, but that might change. It’s about a young man living on a poor estate who wants to be a music promoter in the 1980s. He gets the opportunity to organize a massive rave and make enough money to start a new life. But it’s a time when criminals are wanting a piece of the action, and the police are on a moral crusade to shut down all-night parties.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing as a hobby, and got involved in theatre writing in Newcastle about twenty years ago. I enjoyed it, but dialogue was never a strong point. I preferred writing prose, so when the opportunity came along to work with my friend Julie on the Prodigal, I jumped at the chance to turn her two-part TV script into a novel.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

That’s only been a recent thing. I told my optician I was an author recently when I had my eyes tested. That’s the first time I’ve ever said that officially. So once the day job was history, then I can start to think of myself as a ‘proper author.’

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Looking back now, I think it was sheer boredom. I was bored with the day job and really wanted to do something more creative. It was one of those ‘what if’ moments where I pretty much kept it to myself, didn’t shout about the fact that I was writing a book – I just did it. I’ve always loved Julie’s plays and scripts, she has a real eye for dialogue. The Prodigal was my favourite of hers and I just thought it would make a great book – it’s full of drama and tension.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I actually don’t know. I think readers would be better at answering that! It may be that, once I start writing my own stories, without Julie, then the voice may change a bit.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title

The original script for Tommy Collins had four main characters, and I wanted to focus on only one, and make him much more central, so I changed the characters name to Tommy and it’s just stuck. I thought it might be a bit of a ‘Billy Elliot’ type effect. But we’ll see. I know that ‘Heads’ is a bit meaningless, though, so that had to change.

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

That you can make it out of any situation if you use your nouse and you keep your loved ones close.

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

Tommy’s story is very loosely based on Julie’s experience of working with a bunch of lads who used to organize illegal rave parties in warehouses back in the 80s. I’ve never been to a rave, so I’ve had to research a lot of it. I do love the 80s though, so I’m in my element in terms of nostalgia. The story though is not about raves, that’s just the context, it’s about aspiring to a better life.

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

I love books that are dialogue driven. Roddy Doyle is brilliant at it. The Woman who Walked into Doors is my favourite book of all time, closely followed by a Star Called Henry. He seems to be able to write amazing prose, action and dialogue. He’s a special writer for me.

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 favourite author is above, though after reading the Goldfinch by Donna Tartt, he was almost pipped off the post. I’ve read so many new authors in the last year, I wouldn’t even be able to begin to choose one that’s grasped my interest. I tend to read more art-farty stuff to be honest, haha.

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

An author that I met last year called Louise Ross (LJ Ross of the DCI Ryan series). She’s a posh Geordie like me and she has shared an awful lot of knowledge with me. I am very grateful for that. I love her books too and she seems to like mine, so it’s a win-win.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes, you have to, otherwise you wouldn’t take it seriously.

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

I will edit The Prodigal and probably every book I write for ever. There are always things that I would change but I would only actually make those changes if it would seriously enhance the book, or if I’d made a humdinger error.  For instance I’m rewriting the Prodigal prologue for a second edition and creating a new cover. I’ve learnt a lot over the last year, but I won’t be changing anything about it again after that.

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

I think I’ve covered this one.

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

Yes, Tommy Collins is set in 1989 – the second ‘Summer of Love.’ It is the story of a young man with who feels stuck in the dregs of his own life on a run-down council estate (Valley Park, the same estate that features in The Prodigal). He spends his time claiming his dole, doing a fiddle job and organizing rave parties. It’s the latter that he loves doing and wants to be able to make it pay and get his wife and baby out of the life in which they’re trapped. When a local hard man offers him money to organize a huge rave party, he takes it. And then his problems really start. The criminals have high expectations, and if he doesn’t pull it off, the consequences are grim. But DCI Peach is also on his tail, and if he does pull it off and the police find out, the consequences are grim…

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

Dialogue. That’s all I’m saying.

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

No, not really. I travel to the odd event. Perhaps as my readership grows I’ll get to do more. I’m not one for living out of a suitcase. I like my home comforts.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Kit Foster designed the cover for the Prodigal, I haven’t decided on a cover yet for Tommy Collins, though I’ve got some ideas.

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

Dialogue!

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

Edit, edit, edit. I’m a bit of a ‘edit as I go along’ person. Which suits me, but I’ve got to be strict with myself once I’m over half way not to spend a whole week editing.

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

Thomas Brodie-Sangster would be my Tommy Collins if he could do a Geordie accent.

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

I guess most writers would say ‘just write.’ I can’t say fairer than that. But also, be professional. Get a copy and proof editor, a professional cover, and format the book so it looks like books you buy in Waterstones. Do not compromise on quality.

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

Only thank you! I’ve been overwhelmed by the positive response to The Prodigal. And sorry it’s taken so long to get book two out. It’s coming next year, I promise, and I do hope you all like it.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

A Little Life, Hanya Yanagihara on audio, and Safe With Me, K L Slater on Kindle.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

No I don’t, probably Peter and Jane at school

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Watching other people cry makes me cry. Ant and Dec make me laugh J

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

Roddy Doyle, because he’s my favourite author, though I’d be so scared I’d be disappointed and he’d be a bit of a snob…

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

Gosh I can’t think of that – I’m not dying any time soon!

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Yes, I love singing. The first thing I did when I moved to Scotland was join a choir. Singing makes me happy as a pig in poo.

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

I’m currently binge watching the Walking Dead. I’m on Season Five. I never fancied it before as when I first watched it years ago, I spent the whole first two episodes expecting Michael Jackson to jump out of a grave. Now I’m into it, I can see what all the fuss is about.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Chips

Black

80s music of any kind.

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

 I would like to have been a TV producer. I like getting stuff done and I love telly. I’m not sure I could live without my TV.

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

www.nickyblack.co.uk

 

Here is my interview with J’Anne Grenier

Name J’Anne Grenier

Age – I stopped at 35!

Where are you from – Chicago, IL

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

I grew up in the Suburbs of Chicago, but have also lived in Arizona, San Diego, Virginia and the last many years in the Tampa Bay, FL area.  I have a B.S. from NSU and an M.S. from FIT.  I make money as a VP for a large corporation, which includes helping teams increase revenue, training/development and writing many training/technical documents.  I have a wonderful family, including two cats and a dog.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Excited for the release of False Awakening, the second novel in the Dream Sequence Trilogy

 

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I guess I have always been a writer, poetry, research papers, and training/technical documents for work.  However, only wrote my first novel in 2013.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer? 

When I wrote an article about Gifted Children, which was published in a local newspaper.  It empowered me because the entire paper was issued without any edits.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book? 

I have a job that requires extensive travel, during which I spend most of my time reading.  A few years into the job, I just got the urge to write my book.  I think enjoying other authors and how a good book can take you to another place was my real inspiration.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? 

I have been told that I write with just enough detail to paint the visual and that the books are hard to put down.  Honestly, I just like to write whatever I am thinking in the moment.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The title False Awakening, is relevant to the protagonist in the novel.

 

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

Yes.  There are times we fight things because we are in a dark place.  But, sometimes, if we let them, friends can help us see the light.

 

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

Great question.  I think that everything I write relies on some form of my truth.

 

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

Influenced by so many amazing authors.  When I was young, my father read to us all the time.  I grew up listening to JRR Tolkien, Hans Christian Anderson, Norton Juster, Ray Bradbury and many others.  All of them most certainly developed my creativity and imagination.

 

 

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? 

Jim Butcher is one of my favorite “newer” authors.  His writing encompasses all the genres of books I enjoy.  Conversely, the Bronte sisters are also favorites.  I mean who can write novels in the 1800’s where the subject matter still applies today?

 

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

Since I am an independent writer, I have to thank Create Space and Amazon for giving me the platform to share my work.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career? 

Someday I would love to be able just to write what I love to write.  It is already a big part of my career.

 

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

No.  I think you have to write what you love.  What other people interpret is their perception, and it would be impossible to please everyone!

 

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

My Aunt was a journalist for the Chicago Sun-Times.  She wrote the Who’s Who Column and told many stories about the famous people she interviewed.  It was fascinating even at a very young age and influenced me tremendously.

 

 

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

I will be working on the 3^rd novel of the Dream Sequence Trilogy soon.  In the meantime, I’m writing a murder mystery that takes place in Colorado.

 

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

Easy – grammar and editing, I think both kill creativity!

 

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

Since I travel for my job, I am inspired by many of the locations I visit.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

 I design the covers, with a little help from my friends.

 

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

This might be a common answer, but I would have to say getting started.  It a pretty daunting task to just sit down and write a novel.  Once I wrote the first chapter or two, it became much easier.

 

 

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

I can do anything I put my mind to it!

 

 

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

I would like someone with untapped talent who just needs a break.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

I think this is easy to say when you are not a best seller and don’t have all the pressures of contracts.  However, the advice I would give is just be you.  Don’t fake it, write because you love to write and if nothing else at least you’re genuine.

 

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

Thank you for all of the feedback and wonderful reviews.  Recognition is a great motivator to do better!

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now? 

Just finished The Girl on a Train.  Loved it!

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read? 

The first book I remember that had an influence was Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury when I was 9 years old.  Probably why I still love Fantasy, Sci-Fi and Mystery today.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Real life

 

 

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

Sorry, too many people to count!

 

 

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

Haven’t really thought about that and probably won’t for a long while; doesn’t seem like good Karma.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies? 

Early in life, I wanted to be a fashion designer and learned how to sew.  Still love doing it today and make many things for my family and home.

 

 

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

Project Runway, Ink Master, and Antiques Roadshow are my favorite TV shows.  I love movies of all genres, particularly the movies that bring books to life.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Absolute favorite foods are ice cream and caramel apples.  Favorite colors are red, black and gray.  Music includes The Neighborhood, 30 Seconds to Mars, U2, Jason Mraz, Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Beatles, Otis Redding, Van Morrison, The Smiths, Justin Timberlake, and Sarah McLachlan.

 

 

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

Definitely a fashion designer!

 

 

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

Yes, J’Anne Grenier Blog  Although, I’m probably most active on Facebook J’Anne Grenier Facebook

Amazon Authors Page https://www.amazon.com/JAnne-Grenier/e/B00HFA38PC/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1

Here is my interview with S. Van Horne

Name S. Van Horne – S stands for Sonya

Age 37

Where are you from: I am from a small town in Missouri called Belton but have lived a lot of places because of my husband’s job.

 

 

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

I’m the oldest of 6 kids (yep big family) and I have some associates in business management. I’ve been married to the love of my life for 16 years and we have two amazing children together.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

No sure what the latest news is (laughing) I can say that I have a book coming out in Dec.

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I started writing in Feb of 2014. I have always said I wanted to write a book and I would publish one day. After some pushing from authors I highly admire I decided what the heck and jumped for it.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I still don’t consider myself a writer/author. I don’t know when it will happen but for right now I just like sharing my stories.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Like I said I always wanted to do it. So I decided to give it a go.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I wouldn’t say I do. I never really thought of it actually.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The More series is about being more and showing the person you love just how much they mean to you with a saying. The first title is based on a saying that my husband and I say to each other ❤

 

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

All my books have realistic experiences/events and are based on someone I know. I take them and then change them so they would be fictional :c)

 

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

KC Lynn and K Langston have been a huge influence and mentor in my life. Without them and their push to be better and write, I can honestly say I wouldn’t be writing right now.

Another huge influence was my OPG (Old Plain Grandma); she gave me the love of reading at a very young age.

 

 

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?

New Authors would be my bestie Mary B Moore. She is amazing and makes me laugh. Her work is awesome and we actually will be writing together soon :c) Another one is ML Rodriguez, she published a few years ago but she is simply amazing and writes about military romance. I adore her books ❤

Two authors are my favorite. KC Lynn and K Langston, they write such amazing love stories and heal a part of me that deals with situations from my past. I adore their books and their words.

 

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

God. I strongly believe God is holding my hand and supporting me in this.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Maybe one day it will become that. I love doing it and can see it being something I can do for the rest of my life.

 

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

Nope I honestly wouldn’t. I love the characters and the story line the way it is.

 

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

Reading books with my Grandma.

 

 

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

Here is Chapter One of my More Than Anything – More Series Book Two coming Dec. 26, 2016

SARA

I glance around Len’s backyard and smile at the happiness that fills the air. I’ve always wanted a family that could come together and celebrate the small joys that life brings. I almost had that at one point in my life, but it was ripped from my hands before I could even grasp it. A pain of sadness and fear flood my body, but I push it away not wanting it to take over this brief moment of happiness.

I peek out of the corner of my eye to the left and see Neil watching me. He’s the hottest guy I’ve ever laid eyes on. The moment I met him three years ago, I thought I would faint from just how damn good looking he was. He seemed like a stuck up asshole because he really wouldn’t say shit to me. All he did was glare at me like I took the prize out of his cereal box on Sunday morning while changing the channel from his favorite cartoons.

But it slowly started changing, and I realized that he just wasn’t interested in me and was just protective of his sister. I’m not one to open up and tell people my problems, as a matter of fact, nobody knows about my problems right now. I’m afraid of bringing it up and them finding out just how much trouble I can bring to their family.

I know I should be more open about it, but the detectives assured me that my file is closed tight, and that it couldn’t be tapered with. That’s the only thing saving me right now from Neil finding out about my past. At first, I was scared that he would find out when he did my background check for Seal Security. But nothing came up and that was a sigh of relief.

Then, there was that one night at the lake that I can’t get out of my mind. It was the best night of my life, and I want to reach out and grab what Neil was offering with both hands. But my past stops me from doing that. So, for now I live though my memories and try to keep him at arms length even though he’s doing everything in his power to change that.

The sound of laughter snaps me back into the present, and I see pink and blue balloons rising in the air. I’m confussed for a brief moment until I hear the word twins. A huge grin spreads across my face at that thought of Dante having three kids in diapers, one of which is a girl.

That man is an alpha to the max at times, so I know that little one is going to end up hating her daddy when she gets older due to his overprotectiveness.

The sound of a phone catches me off guard, and I realize it is mine. I reach in my purse and pull out my phone to see who could be calling me. Everyone that would call me is here so it has to be the call service for Seal Security. With me as the main admin for the front, all calls come to me when we aren’t in the office.

I glance at the screen and freeze once I see the name and number.

This can’t be happening.

He said he wouldn’t call unless it’s an emergency. I’m not sure if I want to answer it.

“Habibi, you ok?” Neil asks coming up to me.

“I need to take this,” I say and rush off to the side of the house to answer the phone in private.

“Hello,” my voice trembling softly afraid of what he might say.

“Sara?” a voice I know so well on the other end questions.

“Yes this is her.”

“They know, Sara. I need you to get here as soon as you can. We’ve got to get you to safety.” I close my eyes at the words; one of my biggest fears becoming reality.

After gathering enough strength, I make my way back and spot Neil and Dante. “I have to go. Please tell Len I will call her later.” I rush out before turning and running to the front of the house. Neil runs after me, shouting my name, but I quickly say something over my shoulder without stopping.

The life I know, the life I’ve come to build is no more. All I can do; all I must do is leave. They have found me, and in order to keep those I love safe, I must run without turning back.

 

NEIL

I glance, yet again, at the redheaded goddess that has been on my mind from the moment we met three years ago. That first meeting, I didn’t mean to glare at her the whole time, but I was trying to figure out why I wanted to pick her up, throw her over my shoulder, and never share her with the world. It bothered me that she had that much power over me.

Then, I realized that the only reason I would feel that with her was because she was my one. After that, I tried everything to get her to notice me, short of just announcing that I liked her and wanted her. Nothing was seemed to work, and right when I was about to just take that plunge, my sister came up missing, and that stopped everything.

It isn’t a secret that I’m a protective ass when it comes to my sister. So when she vanished the night of my company party, I felt like I failed her. After a few weeks of her missing, I knew then that after she was found, only then was I going after Sara. And, nothing was stopping me from having her.

That night at the lake was the most amazing night of my life. I had never felt perfection like I did when I made love to her for the first time or the times that followed that night. But the following morning, I woke to an empty bed; abandoned and furious. When I stormed downstairs, she acted like she didn’t even know me, and that made me even angrier. I’m not one to blow up in public, so I bit my lip and decided to wait until we had a second alone.

But, that second never came.

After Adams was killed, it took a while to get things back to normal, and by then I was over the anger. Now, I’m trying everything to get back to that one night we had. So far, I haven’t made much leeway.

The sound of Sara’s phone snaps me out of my thoughts. When she glances down to look at her screen, she turns pale, and I immediately rush over to her side.

“Habibi, you okay?”

“I need to take this,” she states her voice trembling with fear and rushes off to the side of the house. Before I can follow, Dante steps up besides me and stops me from intruding on her call.

As he holds me back, I see her listening intently to the person on the phone. Whatever they say has her turning even palier. I swear I can feel her fear radiating from her body. I don’t know who is on the other line, but I’m about to march over there and snatch the phone from her to find out who the fuck it is, when she hangs up and glances over at us. She quickly makes her way to us, her eyes show nothing but pure unadulterated fear.

“I have to go. Please tell Len I will call her later,” she states in a whisper and then turns and rushes to her car.

It takes me a moment to process her words before I’m hot on her tail, chasing her.

“Sara, wait a minute. What the fuck is going on,” I yell.

“I don’t have time explain, Neil. I have an emergency. I’ll call later,” she tosses over her shoulder, without stopping.

She reaches her car and has it started before I can reach her. Just as I get close enough, I see her glance towards me with tears streaming down her face. So much hurt coming through her beautiful eyes, that I stop in my tracks, something preventing me from opening her car door. Instead, my chest rising and falling fast, and my eyes silently begging her to come to me.

“I’m sorry, Neil. I never wanted you to know. Please, let me go,” she whispers out of her window that’s barely down.

“Never,” I growl out between clenched teeth. Before I can open her door, she flips the lock and shakes her head sadly.

“Goodbye, Neil. If you remember anything, remember this, you always made me feel as if I was so much more than what I thought I would ever be,” she states with a soft smile as the tears just keep streaming down. Then, she pulls out of the driveway without a backwards glance.

I stand there, shocked at the words she just spoke, watching as her car fades down the road. I vow in that moment that she isn’t getting away from me that easily.

Furious, hurt, and determined, I turn and storm back into the house to let the others know that I have to go. I have to find Sara and get to the bottom of this once and for all.

It’s time she sees the beast within me. The beast that will weather any storm her past can bring. Because nothing will stop me from showing her just how much more she really is to me.

 

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

Not repeating myself. I swear I will repeat a word or phrase a lot then it is a challenge to edit it so I don’t use it a lot.

 

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

Nope never have but I will be going to signings next year

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I did LOL I was a web and graphic designer for 4 years. I don’t trust people with my graphics.

 

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

Hitting publish. I really want to hide when I do that.

 

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

That love can change a lot of things if you open yourself up to it.

 

 

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

This is a hard one for me because I don’t watch TV so I don’t know who I would pick.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Just write, don’t try to make anyone but yourself happy. Don’t worry about reviews or readers… write what you want and what makes you happy because that is what matters most.

 

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

Thank you for giving me a chance and for being amazing to me.

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I will be reading an ARC of This I Promise You by ML Rodriguez

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Nope I really don’t LOL

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Laugh – my son and best friend they are amazingly funny

Cry – missing my husband and grandma

 

 

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

One day I would love to meet Luke Bryan. He is my celeb crush and I adore his music

 

 

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

Here lies a woman who loved with her whole heart.

I do love with my whole heart. Once I love it is hard for me to let go even if they are mean to me. It drives my husband nuts.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Reading lol

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

I don’t watch TV but I do adore movies that are action

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

TACOS! Navy Blue and Country

 

 

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

I was a stay at home mom/navy wife before this (and still am lol) so I would just continue doing that.

 

 

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

Http://authorsvanhorne.com

 

One more time:
http://books2read.com/OneMoreTime-SVanHorne

More than anything:

http://books2read.com/MoreThanAnything-SVanHorne

 

Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/S-Van-Horne/e/B01KSDODQ0/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_ebooks_1

 

Here is my interview with Rita Monette

Name  Rita Monette

Age Rita: Great grandma age.

Fiona: Where are you from?

Rita: I am originally from South Louisiana, but now live in the mountains of Tennessee.

 

 

Fiona: A little about your self, i.e., your education Family life etc.

Rita: I am a retired Administrative Assistant. I hold a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration. I am married with three grown children, eight grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren. Currently I have a household that consists of one ornery husband six spoiled dogs and two cantankerous cats.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Rita: Besides welcoming two new great grandchildren this year, I released the third book in my Nikki Landry Swamp Legend series through Mirror World Publishing.

 

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

Rita: I’d always written poems and essays, but never considered doing anything “seriously” until I retired. I had decided to jot down some things I still wanted to accomplish in my life. One of the things  was to write a children’s book, which surprised even me.  After taking a few classes at a local college in writing for children, then making a few attempts at picture books, I began writing about my childhood, growing up in the Louisiana bayous. At that point I discovered Nikki Landry, and I knew I wanted to write novels.

 

 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Rita: I supposes i finally took myself seriously when my first book was published.

 

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Rita: I wanted to share the lifestyle of the Cajun people of Louisiana, especially in the 1950s, when most of them were living off the land, fishing and trapping, back before the oil industry took over. I also wanted to share some of the stories (legends) my father was fond of telling.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Rita: I don’t know if I have a particular “style,” but I like to write for middle graders. They are the most curious and honest group of readers. They ask intelligent questions and give honest and straightforward  feedback.

 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Rita: The Legend of Ghost Dog Island came from a legend about something living on a swamp island near where I grew up. The name of the island is fictitious, while the unnamed island is real.

 

 

Fiona: How much of the book (series) is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life? Is there a message in your novels that you want readers to grasp?

Rita: I consider my books to be historical fiction, offering “true story” information mixed with fiction

There is an underlying message in each one of my novels. I also include authors notes that reveal some true facts in each book.

In The Legend of Ghost Dog Island, I tell something about the Cajun people, how they lived, their plights dealing with their language and lifestyle of constant relocations, following the seasons. The underlying message is about making and maintaining friendships.

My second novel, The Curse at Pirate’s Cove, deals with the notorious pirate, Jean Lafitte, and how he helped win the Battle of New Orleans. The message in this novel is that working for what you want is more profitable than wishing to find a pirate’s buried treasure.

In my third novel, The Secret in Mossy Swamp, I touch upon the “true” legend of a swamp monster, and a notorious Louisiana prison, with the underlying message about the good and bad of keeping secrets.

 

 

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

Rita: I loved the Nancy Drew series growing up. I love to read mysteries. I call my female protagonist, “Nancy Drew of the Bayou.”

 

 

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

Rita: I feel that, beside my family,  my author friends and my publisher are my biggest support network.

 

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Rita: I don’t think about it as a career. I love writing, and will continue to do so as long as I am able. My goal is to get my stories out to as many folks as possible.

 

 

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

Rita: No, I don’t think I’d change anything.

 

 

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

Rita: To me, writing a series is harder than just writing. I had originally began my first book as a stand alone. When I decided to make it a series, I found myself having to go back to book one to remind myself of pertinent information about my characters, both main and secondary. I want my books to be able to stand alone, as well as to follow the characters’ adventures throughout the series, without repeating chunks of background information.

 

 

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

Rita: I only travel once a year to my home town in Louisiana to promote my latest book in the series.

 

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Rita: Wicked Covers designed the first two in the series. Justine Dowsett, from Mirror World Publishing, designed the latest book.

 

 

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

Rita: I guess the hardest part in any mystery book is the pacing, making sure you keep the tension, which keeps your reader turning the page until the satisfying ending.

 

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

Rita: I learn something new with each book I write. My characters always teach me something. I also learn as I research for accuracy in some of my historical facts.

 

 

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

Rita: Well, since my character is perpetually only ten and eleven years old, I would have to decide that if/when the time comes.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Rita: Oh my, my usual advice is never to give up. So many writers give up after a few rejection letters. Read Stephen King’s “On Writing.” You will see that even the most famous writers have their share of rejections before they finally get published. Write, rewrite, learn your craft, then rewrite again.

 

 

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

Rita: Just that I hope you enjoy reading Nikki’s adventures, and I hope you love her as much as I do.

 

 

Fiona: What are you currently reading?

Rita: The Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Rita: I am also an artist. I do animal portraits when I have the time, and I also do face and body art at festivals.

 

 

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

Rita:  I’ve pretty much dabbled in everything I wanted to do. I have been an artist, a musician/vocalist in a band, and basically anything creative.

 

 

Fiona: Can you share a little of your latest book with us?

Rita: Here is an excerpt from the first chapter of The Secret in Mossy Swamp.

 

         SKREEEEEEE! The sound reminded me of a giant fingernail pulled across a blackboard. Then everything suddenly got extra quiet.

Living in a houseboat and all, I’d gotten pretty used to strange noises coming from the swamps. But this one—the one that could make the other critters shut up—gave me the willies. Papa says folks living along the bayous are apt to believe in legends. And anything weird they can’t explain is on account of some swamp creature, namely the rougarou. But my papa, being smarter than most folks, told me there’s always something logical behind legends. And I always believe my papa…well most of the time.

I rolled over under my quilt and wiggled to get more comfortable. Snooper, who had used my legs for his pillow, growled real low. He didn’t much like his sleep being disturbed. He was awful lazy for a beagle.

While I laid trying to go back to sleep, my skin got a prickly feeling—sorta like when someone is watching you. I opened one eye. The pale moon and the wind through the trees made creepy shadows that moved like long fingers across the tiny window. I could barely see the outline of my little brother, Jesse, on his cot nearby. I closed my eye hoping I’d soon doze back off. But in the dark, a sound like low deep breathing…real close to my bed…filled my head with images of blood red eyes and yellow fangs. The wooden floor creaked.

I remembered the ghostly pirates that had visited me in my dreams a few months ago. But this wasn’t a dream. I was pretty certain I was awake. I pinched my arm to be sure. I opened both eyes just a slit. A shadow moved near the foot of my bed. I tried to swallow, but my mouth felt dry as a bite of an unripe persimmon.

My covers moved ever so slightly. I tugged ’em up to my chin and pressed my eyes shut as hard as I could…and waited.

The bed jiggled.

Snooper growled.

“S-Snoop?” I whispered. Something cold like my dog’s nose touched my foot…then it grabbed my toes. Not Snooper.

“Eeeeeek!” I screamed and jumped to my feet. I stood on the bed and yelled as loud as I could manage, hoping my parents would hear me from their room.

“Rouwrrrrrr!” Something tackled my legs and pushed me down on the bed. “Yahahaha….”

I swung my arms in the dark, but it was on top of me. It’s wet mouth snarling in my ear. Was it…?

“What’s going on in here?” Papa rushed through the door holding a lantern. The room lit up with the pale glow of kerosene light.

“Hah, I got you good.” Jesse stood up over me.

 

 

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

Rita: My website is http://ritamonette.com

My blog is http://ritamonette.blogspot.com

Facebook

https://twitter.com@ritamonette

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

Buying link for The Secret in Mossy Swamp (Nikki Landry Swamp Legends)

https://www.amazon.com/Secret-Mossy-Swamp-Landry-Legends/dp/1987976169/ref=pd_rhf_ee_p_img_5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=030DB73STKFAG87AB6QW

Here is my interview with Jeremy Cleek

 

Name: Jeremy Cleek

Age: 22

Where are you from: Midlothian, IL

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

I’m a high school graduate. I never attended college. I’ve worked in multiple lines of fast food, and marketing and am now an assistant IT for a contractor. I’m working towards making a future and family. I’m a casual writer.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Well currently I’m trying to finish my fourth installment in the “Roads Of Destiny” fan fiction series I created, The Gidget Chronicles.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I first started writing at the age of nine. 13 years ago as of now actually. I started writing because I played a lot of make believe “fantasy games” with my friends outside of school.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I didn’t consider myself a writer till the 8th grade. After years of writing many absurd childish stories with repetitive lines, settings, etc, I started to branch out and strengthen my vocabulary and thoughts regarding scenes and emotions in my stories.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Inspiration? I was a kid when I started, the only inspiration was, “Star Wars! Dragonball Z! Fighting! Hero’s!” Those were the main thoughts I had in my head before I wrote. I wanted to recreate my own scenes with The Force, Super Sayains, etc.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

3rd Person Omniscient, Narratve.

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Which title? Lol sorry. Umm, the first serious title I came up with was Realms Unite. I came up with it after reading a lot of The Forgotten Realms story lines and watching the My Little Pony: Equestria Girls movie.

(Spoilers):

In the movie Twilight Sparkle, one of the “mane” ponies in the series, heads off into an alternate “realm/world” where there exists human counterparts of the people she knows. The human selves and the pony selves both exist at the same time and I thought, *What if the same goes for other fandoms?* Or as I thought  later down the lines by using the term “Realms” from the forgotten realms. I thought of the top fandoms I knew people, along with myself, enjoyed and narrowed it down to five fandoms and included my own original story ideas into the story as well.

Naruto
Star Wars
Dragonball Z/GT/S
Fairy Tail
My Little Pony

I wanted to add something original and never seen before. So I created what is known as “The Sentient Palace” and The Syraic/Zodiac.

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

Definitely. What I want the readers to grasp when reading my stories is kind of cheesy but the main thought is, “There is always something worth fighting for!”

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

The majority of the story is original in terms of plot and the ongoing continuation. I’ve based a lot of my original characters off of people I know. I’ve not revealed my whole list of Characters to world yet but I do have some that are out. I’ll give you an example:

Caster Alin, first appearance in the series: The Gidget Chronicles. I based Caster off of my best friend Tyree Richardson. The caring and jump right into the mess and solve the problem kind of friend, or relative.

 

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

Quite honestly Naruto. It’s not exactly a book, it’s a manga series. From what I understood from the story is that you never give up on your  dreams and keep moving forward.

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?

As of recently no recent authors have caught my grasp due to the fact of work and hardly having free time to read or write. My favorite author is R.A. Salvatore. What really strikes me about their work is the depth of emotion and detail Salvatore puts into his characters and stories. It’s wonderful.

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

It’s a mix. Between music, watching anime, reading manga, etc its hard to pick. All of it helps me through my rough writers blocks, my headaches and even my darkest feelings.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

No. I’m doing this merely for fun. I gave up trying to make this into a career. I can’t get myself out of the fan fiction base and don’t have any plans on doing so. Though if and when I’m permanently free, I will start working on my original stories all together.

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

No.

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

I started writing because I played a lot of make believe “story games” with my friends outside of school.

 

 

 

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

Sure. Currently I’m trying to resurrect one of my dead characters in Gidget Chronicles. I have 3 possibly 4 stories left to write. I will give titles:

Fragment Set 2: Steps Beyond Courage
Tales Beyond Matter
Realms Unite 3: Echoes of The Past
(Possibly) The Broken Road (Still debating)

Realms Unite 3 should be the final story for the sentients, and Nightshade, if I don’t decide to make The Broken Road. However, there will be future stories to come for other characters like Gidget, Alchelm, Ninyn, Silver, and possibly descendants of a lot of these characters.

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

Putting in the middle. The ending is the easiest part of the story to tell, it’s a matter of how the story reaches that exact point. I had the ending for Realms Unite 1 planned out word for word before I even started writing the beginning.

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

No. I wish I could travel though.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I photo shopped a lot of pictures to make Realms Unites cover. The others I just thought were cool and borrowed off google. Sorry I don’t have an artist or money to get that stuff yet XD

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

Getting to a point where I forgot what is was going to do and write something different that still matches the story then finally remember the idea later on and realize the new idea was better.

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

Grammar, punctuation, correction, and please yourself.

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

Well if Realms Unite became a film, first I’d like it to be animated. Second, I would honestly prefer to have Steven Brand (Menmon: Scorpion King) to play as Nightshade.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Be yourself, study what you love, and keep moving forward, have fun.

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

For those who have been reading, Thank You. For those just starting, You haven’t seen nothing yet!

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Waiting to get the book The Archmage- By: R.A. Salvatore.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I don’t remember.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Stupid humor makes me laugh. Emotional, love stories, good character deaths.

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

Ewan McGregor. He is Obi-Wan-Kenobi. My favorite character in the entire star wars universe!

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

“The Mighty Ninyn! Always and Forever! Even at the end and beyond!”

Because that’s just who I am.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

Listening to music, play video games (not too often), magic the gathering card game.

 

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

Naruto
Star Wars The Saga/The Clone Wars/ Rebels
Dragonball Z/GT/S
Fairy Tail
Supernatural
Arrow
Parks and Recreation
The Jurassic Park Saga
Lord Of The Rings/ The Hobbit
Youtube/ Youtubers: Markiplier, Chuggaconroy, Good Mythical Morning.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Food: Pizza, Biscuits and Gravy, Chicken

Favorite colors: Green, Black, Purple

Music: Anything I can get a beat to.

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

I honestly have not one clue.

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

I don’t have a website to call my own but I do have a page for my series and others who write fan fiction on facebook. The pages name is the same as my series, Roads of Destiny.  https://www.facebook.com/ZNRoadsOfDestiny13/?fref=ts