Here is my interview with John R. Lindermuth

Name: John R. Lindermuth. I write primarily as J. R., but am also known to family/friends as Jack.

Age: I’ll be 79 on my next birthday. Age is just another number. It’s experience that counts.

Where are you from: I grew up in the Pennsylvania coal region and have now gone full circle and returned there in retirement after a career as a newspaper writer/editor. I should amend that to say I’m not really retired as I continue to write, do a weekly history column for the local newspaper and serve as librarian for my county historical society.

I have a son, soon-to-be daughter-in-law; a daughter and son-in-law, and four grandsons. There are also three grand-dogs.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest new.

J.R.: My most recent novel is Shares The Darkness, seventh in my Sticks Hetrick Crime series. I’m currently finishing up the eighth in the series. Geronimo Must Die, a Western novel, is scheduled for release in March 2017.

 

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

J.R.: My paternal grandfather was a story teller and, if genes have anything to do with it, launched me on the same path. I was an early reader and developed a desire create stories of my own. I remember writing some stories before high school but that’s where it really got started. The draft (Vietnam era) interrupted college but the Army sent me to a military version of J-school and I worked on a variety of Army papers ending as editor of a division newspaper in Korea. Paraphrasing Melville I might say the Army was my Harvard and Korea my Yale. After the Army, I worked first as a reporter on a small weekly, then on to several dailies covering every conceivable beat and editing slot (except sports) and finally to the small daily where I retired in 2000.

 

 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

J.R.: I believe it’s necessary–if you’re going to accomplish any of your dreams–to believe in yourself. By this definition you must think of yourself as a writer from the start. It may solidify when you sell your first story or when others identify you as such, but it is important for you to have faith in your ability from the beginning.

 

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

J.R.: The desire to emulate stories of writers I admired and that sparked my imagination. I don’t mean to say I stole their ideas or wanted to write in their style. But when you first start you do tend to imitate writers you like and Robert Louis Stevenson (one of those I admire) says that isn’t a bad thing. It’s part of the learning process and first novels are seldom published.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

J.R.:  Since I write in more than one genre, style may vary from one book to another. Style is one of those things we recognize when we see it but can’t easily define.

 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

J.R.: Shares The Darkness is from a line in a poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay. I often turn to poetry for titles, a practice not uncommon to writers.

 

 

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

J.R.: I suppose all novels do have a message. You might say Shares The Darkness is about relationships and the judging of people. But, more to the point, it’s about a crime and its solution. Writing messages–political or otherwise–is not something I set out to do, though. I hope I write a story that will entertain the reader. If it teaches him/her something as well, that’s to the good.

 

 

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

J.R.: I strive to accurately portray police work and make my characters and their environs realistic. To a certain extent, all writers do mine their own experiences and those of people they know, though it’s all reworked via the imagination.

 

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

J.R.: I was early influenced by the writings of Emerson and Thoreau. A book I found inspiring as a young man was Gilbert Highet’s “Man’s Unconquerable Mind,” which is about potential and the joy of learning. Then I might add, every novel a writer reads is an influence to one degree or another.

I believe we have many mentors throughout life, though we don’t always recognize them as such at the time. They are the people who sometimes provide advice through the spoken word but more often show us examples via their own lives, as well as those who allow us to be ourselves and give us the freedom to find our own way.

 

 

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?

J.R.: I’m constantly finding new authors to admire. As to favorites, we all have those. Mentioning them all would take up too much space here. In the crime field I’d mention James Lee Burke, Ruth Rendell, Elmore Leonard, Kate Atkinson, Ian Rankin and Charles Willeford among my favorites. I’ve recently ‘discovered’ Ann Cleeves and have been enjoying her Vera Stanhope series.

 

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

J.R.: The public library. We didn’t have one in my town until I was in high school. Fortunately, my dad had a good collection of books and I was introduced to the joy of reading before then. I’ve been a member and supporter of libraries everywhere I’ve lived and they’ve succored me in return.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

J.R.: Definitely.

 

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

J.R.: Writers are always inclined to revise. But you reach a point where you’ve got to let it go and move on to the next project.

 

 

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

J.R.: Here’s a short excerpt:

 

Chapter 1.

“She didn’t come home last night.”

Flora Vastine hesitated. She knew Mrs. Kepler as the type of overly protective mother who wouldn’t take kindly to a suggestion her daughter might be sleeping around. “Maybe she stayed with a friend,” Flora said without specifying gender.

Mrs. Kepler shook her head. “She didn’t have an overnight bag or even a toothbrush. Besides, I’m sure Jan would have told me if she was going to do that.”

The woman had shown up just as Flora was preparing to leave for her shift. Mrs. Kepler had come down the street in her nightgown and robe, fuzzy slippers on her feet, sans makeup and without even having run a brush through her sleep-knotted gray hair. Obviously she was distraught and Flora had no choice but to invite her in. Besides, as a police officer she had a responsibility to those who sought her assistance–no matter how tenuous the situation might seem.

Flora’s father was still at the table, having a second cup of coffee. He looked up in surprise as the two women entered the kitchen. “Jan didn’t come home last night. Mrs. Kepler is worried,” Flora quickly explained.

“Oh,” her father said. “Of course you’re worried. What can we do to help? Have a seat. Would you like some coffee, Sylvia?”

“No. Thank you, but no,” Mrs. Kepler said, sliding onto a chair next to him. “My stomach is acidic enough. Coffee would definitely not help.”

Sneaking a quick glance at the clock, Flora saw she was going to be late. “Sorry,” she said, drawing out her mobile, “I’ve got to call in.”

“Oh, I don’t want you to be late.”

“It’s okay. I just have to let them know.” She made her call, told dispatch she was delayed and would explain on arrival.

Mrs. Kepler drew a hand across her face. “I hope I’m not getting you in trouble, Flora.”

Flora leaned on a chair on the opposite side of the table. “Not a problem. Do you know where Jan was going when she left the house yesterday?” Jan Kepler was a high school biology teacher who still lived with her widowed mother. When not working, she helped her friend Peg Peabody conduct birding tours spring and fall. As far as Flora knew, neither woman had a boyfriend.

“She had her binoculars and her bag. She didn’t say, but it was obvious she was going birding.”

“With Miss Peabody?”

“No. I called Peg last night. She said she hadn’t seen Jan since Tuesday.”

“Does she often go by herself?” Bill Vastine asked.

“Oh, yes. When she isn’t helping Peg she loves to go out alone. She says it’s better that way. No crowds of people making noise and scaring off the birds before you can find them.”

“Dangerous, isn’t it? What if she fell or something?”

“I’ve said the same thing myself. That’s why I got so worried when she didn’t come home.”

Some other dangers came to mind for Flora, but she didn’t mention them.  The woman was agitated enough. “Did she have her phone?”

“Yes. At least I didn’t see it at the house.”

“Did she give any idea where she was going?”

“No. But probably out to the Preserve. That’s one of her favorite places.”

“Did you say anything to Fred?” Officer Fred Drumheiser was Mrs. Kepler’s next door neighbor and also her brother. While Flora had been a police officer for several years now and proven herself on numerous occasions some members of the Swatara Creek squad—most notably Fred Drumheiser—still considered her a rookie.

“No. I thought of you first, dear, since you and Jan have always been friends.”

Though they’d lived on the same street all their lives and gone through school together, Flora had never considered Jan Kepler and herself as friends. Acquaintances. But never friends.

 

 

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

J.R.: Every book is a fresh challenge and learning experience. I’ve learned from every one of them.

 

 

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

J.R.: I’ve traveled and been inspired by it, but it hasn’t been necessary for most of my writing.

 

 

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

J.R.: A talented artist named Kelly Martin did the cover for Shares The Darkness.

 

 

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

J.R.: Unlike the eighth in the series, which has given me some problems, Shares The Darkness flowed easily from the start to finish.

 

 

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

J.R.: Books and film are two vastly different mediums. I would be pleased to have one of my novels made into a film (particularly for the money and recognition it might offer), but I’ve never written with that particular goal in mind. I’d leave the casting up to the director and team. I don’t write with any actors in mind when I think of Sticks Hetrick or Flora Vastine.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

J.R.: The best advice has been offered by many–read a lot and write a lot. That’s the only way to learn.

 

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

J.R.: I appreciate/value every one of them. If they enjoy my work I hope they will recommend it to others.

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

J.R.: Currently reading Davis Grubb’s The Night of the Hunter, C. Hope Clark’s Lowcountry Bribe and Christopher Stevens’ Written In Stone.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

J.R.: Probably Poe’s Tales of Mystery and Imagination or Conan Doyle’s A Study in Scarlet.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

J.R.: I laugh at good times with family, children at play, the beauty of nature and good comedy. I cry over man’s inhumanity to man.

 

 

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

J.R.: There are numerous historic persons, artists and writers I’d love to meet. But I’d probably be too much in awe and tongue-tied to ask the questions I’d like to ask.

 

 

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

J.R.: “A man who did the best he could.”

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

J.R.: Obviously, I like to read. I also like to spend time with family, draw, walk (especially in the woods), explore book and antique shops, do genealogy, cook, listen to music and watch films.

 

 

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

J.R.: My TV watching is mainly restricted to crime shows, films, documentaries, Bizarre Foods and the like. Films–mysteries, Westerns, good drama and comedy.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

J.R.: I love seafood and Italian cuisine, though I’ll try most anything once. Color–green and yellow. Music–classical, folk and blues.

 

 

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

J.R.: Either an artist or archaeologist.

 

 

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

J.R.: Links:

Webpage: http://www.jrlindermuth.net

Amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/author/jrlindermuth

Blog: http://jrlindermuth.blogspot.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/john.lindermuth

FB author page: https://www.facebook.com/John-Lindermuth-175253187537/?fref=ts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jrlindermuth

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1005496.J_R_Lindermuth

In addition to Torrid http://torridbooks.com/  and Amazon, my books are also available from:

http://www.simonandschuster.com/search/books/_/N-/Ntt-lindermuth

Barnes & Noble and from other fine bookstores.

 

 

 

Here is my interview with Fahmi Abassi

 

 

Name: Fahmi Abassi

Age :34

Where are you from:

Algeria

A little about yourself `ie your education Family life etc  

I opened my eyes in a family where I found myself the latest child. My father was deeply influenced by the new trends of thought and poetical dictions. He, alongside with his colleagues, were making many conversational sessions at home to discuss topics about language, literature, criticism, theater, thought and philosophy, and the latest tendencies of poetry, I was listening to all these as a child and thus a desire of being one of them has grown with me.

For some personal issues, I refused to go to the university. At that time, I needed to know who Iam, not where I stand on the ground but where my place is in this world. I lived in almost total loneliness during four years asking questions and seeking answers, till 2007 when I felt myself ready to meet life and people I entered the university and studied Law. After a graduation with special mention, I directly joined the High School of Magistracy after which I worked as a prosecutor, and I kept writing my novel since then notwithstanding the pressure of work till I had the first book entirely completed the right way.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I just finished the first book in my Trilogy of which the title is: Ascent Of Azariel-Book one: The Isthmian Rift. This book is written in Arabic, and I’m thinking now of making an English literary translation for it.

 

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I grew up in a house where I found myself surrounded with my father’s books. He was fond of reading all kinds of thought especially the new trends in Europe and America whether they are philosophical, literary or poetical.

For my father’s ophthalmic defect I was used to read books to him as he was listening deeply before falling asleep. He was always encouraging me to write anything when I was still a child, and I wrote my first diary when Iam eight, but what would a careless child write more than just disrupted feelings and scattered thoughts? I learnt little by little how to write a good text with a fluent language attracts the taste of an emotional reader. After years of primitive trials in writing, I could come to understand my nature; that I don’t write to reach the apex of rhetorical flourish, but only because this is what I find myself able to give to the world more than anything else, and that writing is the real cure for a wounded soul, and the true kind of freedom I was from the beginning looking for.   

 

 

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

On 2011, when I decided to write this Trilogy: Ascent Of Azariel, I started writing it as if I wrote thousands of books. It may be my first work, but it came after years of writing many kinds of literature. But when the idea of this Trilogy has completed in my thought the need then arose for coming out with what I have concluded from my life experience.

 

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

What inspired me most to write this Trilogy is a message that was coming over me in the dream. A powerful message that repeated many times with almost the same details: that there are three dark times to come, and there will be a sad fate, and that the price of true knowledge must be paid…and these three words repeat: Helas! Helas! Helas!…and Credo Quia Absurdum…a very sad and dark dream repeats again and again, so in this Trilogy I put everything I understood from these meaningful and profound dreams.

 

 

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Yes, I use religious symbolism because I believe that the spiritual experience cannot be expressed but by the symbol. I found myself more capable of writing Epic Novels, this is why my first book is a large volume of which the number of pages exceeds 300. It is only a long story which may contain complicated spiritual conclusions.                                     

 

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The hero whose name is Azariel reflects Man in some way or other, and his ascent or ascension is in fact the way he takes up towards retrieving the true knowledge, this is why “Ascent Of Azariel” means symbolically the ascension of Man towards the true knowledge.

 

 

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

Of course there is: That among the distorted mirrors there is only one mirror reflects truth and that the criterion of distinction between ‘the true’ and ‘the false’ lies within us. So, I talk in my book about these things:

-The role of error and false knowledge in human life.

-The criteria of distinction between the true knowledge and the false one.

-The steps of Self-knowledge as the only key towards truth.

-The role of evil and contradiction.

– What Fate decides and what Man can decide.

-The true meaning of freedom and independence.

-The price of true knowledge and the meaning of true responsibility…and many other ideas that appeared to me essential for better understanding of life and the world.             

 

 

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

All the book from the beginning to the end is based upon realistic experiences of which the general feature is spiritual, this is why the book takes the shape of a myth or legend. Events happened left deep traces and scars, and moved me to live years seeking to understand the system of my life, as by understanding it I can understand people, because no matter how different we are our depths remain always common.                                  

 

 

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

There was a time in my life I was everyday reading the essays of Ralph Waldo Emerson however, before then, I was reading about self-knowledge, and books about the philosophy of religions, then I read all the holy scriptures, the Quran and as many sacred books as I could because I was looking for understanding more that term called “truth” and the form that it may take: monistic or dualistic or pluralistic.                                 

 

 

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

I don’t think that I will like an author more than Mr. John Logan, writer and creator of the series: Penny Dreadful. Though the huge distances and differences between my cultural background and his, I found out that we almost share many concepts, many sentiments many convictions, contradictions, and conclusions, I share with this author all these, this is why I watched the series countless times.  John Logan is an amazing legend in our today world, and I really wish I will meet him someday just to enjoy for one moment the company of such great and rare personality. 

 

 

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

After my brother Nadjib comes my friend Toumi Larbi and his wife who were both my colleagues in the High School Of Magistracy. They supported me emotionally and stood by me in the worst moments. They took the first manuscript and made me feel that what I did is something worth reading. My friend’s sister also took a copy and encouraged me a lot by showing her complete readiness for any kind of support. This friend is a PhD in Law, and he reads a lot about religions and philosophy, and he gave me great support after scrutinizing what I wrote, so I owe this guy a lot indeed.                

 

 

                            
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

To a certain extent yes, however, here in the country where I live it cannot be. Moreover, I think that a writer should work many things and should see life from different angles to be able to express it from a close view, and give deep ideas with deep understanding to the world.   

 

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

No. What I put in the book is a precise partial conclusion that will be completed in the next two books, so I can’t change something I know well why it must be written this way.

 

 

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

In the first years of early childhood when Iam eight I wrote my first diary, this was after the death of my second cat, and the cruel decision I took of not having pets again as long as there is death in this world, now, I remember the profound solace I found in writing things I feel and think of. My father told to write only those things that made me sad or happy: ‘not everything should be written if we want a diary worth reading’ he said.

 

 

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

I hope I can, but the first book is still in the publishing house and will appear next month according to what they told me when I recently called them. It is a real pleasure that I share my work with you, and I request that your kind suggestion will be possible after my book is fully published.                   

 

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

Yes. What I do is a kind of writing almost unknown in the Arabic world. We don’t have philosophical or epic novels so what I wrote appears to be something freakish for local classical readers, and this made many famous publishing houses refuse to publish my book for commercial reasons, also the Ministry of culture refused to help. I fortunately found someone whose publishing house is new who accepted to publish the book. I also thought of translating this work into English language but the cost was something out of reach currently because of the huge volume. So, though this book appears to be something of great importance, however, because of being found in the wrong place, it will remain unknown for a long time if not forever.

 

 

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

Yes. I go here and there and contact many people to ask for help and advice in order to be able to make this work appear the way it should be. It is an effort that I see indispensable if someone is willing to make their dreams come true, but not every effort ends fruitfully this we must bear in mind, yet we have to  keep trying to the last breath.                          

 

 

  Fiona: Who designed the covers?

My brother Nadjib is a gifted man, he encouraged me to write this book and made a unique design for it. He understands every idea I give to him and incarnates it on the grounds of fact the way I want it to be. I will always be thankful to him.

 

 

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

The hardest part for my brother was the design of the cover and the map and the images inside the chapters which took much time. For me, finding suitable names for the characters and the places was not an easy task , I had months in search to finally find what serves the idea.

 

 

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

I learnt how to track the true knowledge when I ,in confusion,  think that I lost direction.  I learnt to keep balance and walk over darkness and chaos and in full certainty in time of fear and doubt. I learnt to be responsible for my decision and for the personal torture that comes as a result from it. I learnt how to rule myself and how to conquer darkness in the deepest areas in my inner world. I learnt that complaining from the world does not help in understanding its problems and complications. I learnt that I have no enemies in this life and that the world is the place where I have come to retrieve the forgotten knowledge within me…thousands of things I learnt from my first book, and thousands of things I will learn from the rest of the Trilogy, this is what I have brought with me to the world, and this is what I look forward to share with the smart readers.

 

 

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

Choosing a suitable character to play the lead isn’t an easy task, this is why I prefer to leave such difficult mission to a great and talented fantasy movie director like Sir Peter Robert Jackson.                     

 

                                               
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Write deep things about life and Man. Help us know who we are, and what we should live for. A writer is someone who knows the depths of life because they experienced sinking, so a novel or a story is what left on the surface after a life of drowning. It is not enough to have an elegant language, a writer must live the worst life that no one has lived before if they want to write something remarkable.                                

 

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

What’s found in the river may not be found in the sea. What you can find in a book written by someone far away in their poor country may not be found in your great one. Wisdom and knowledge have no borders, and they have no specific land to grow on.

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

The Wise Man’s Fear by Patrick Ruthfuss.

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

It was a text that made me see the rigid tears of my father more than once every time I was reading it to him, that text had this title: Death of The Canary, by May Ziade.

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

I have the bad habit of criticizing things and behaviors, and when they appear in my mind in their caricatural images this makes me laugh, actually for a long while sometimes. What makes me cry are sad scenes like the funeral of Vanissa Ives in Penny Dreadful or the singular sacrifice of Jack in Titanic, such heroism makes me live in mourning for  long weeks.

 

 

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

I would like to meet Mr. John Logan, writer and creator of the series Penny Dreadful .      I want  to see him talking in front of my eyes to know to which deep areas in Self this great man has reached. I hope this wish will someday be fulfilled.

From the world of the dead I would like to meet William Wordsworth and Ralph Waldo Emerson for their uniqueness in their times, and the powerful imagination they had, and the matchless musicality in their language.

 

 

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

(What you look for is in you) I want this phrase to be written on my headstone because these are the words which a mysterious man in my dreams once told me, and when I woke up they were still resounding in my ears, after then, I decided to write the first book in my Trilogy depending on these words that represent the key to the right direction we all should take towards the true salvation from sadness, confusion, and pain.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I like swimming, and I like looking from the heights to the angry sea, these are things that I really love and do. Sometimes I write some verse forms for amusement.

 

 

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

I watch all the shows about magic, witchcraft, religious symbolism, historical fantasy religious history of civilizations, and fiction. I like all the movies that talk about things old, sacred, and mysterious.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

I like traditional food, the deep blue color, and the instrumental music, and I listen to epic songs when writing. I spend long hours listening to Enya, my favorite voice.

 

 

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

A professor of philosophy.

 

 

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

Not yet. I’m found only in Facebook for the moment. Thank you very much.

 

 

Here is my interview with Paul S Huggins

Name Paul S Huggins

Age 47

Where are you from

Originally I hail from a small village in Cambridgeshire called Warboys. The village is famous for a particularly controversial case of witchcraft which concluded with the execution of three of the last witches in England. The rich history fueled my love of all things ethereal.

From there I moved to Cambridge, then relocated to Suffolk. Having a love of town life, I now live in a busy area of Ipswich. Rich again but in diversity and multiculturalism. All good fuel for inspiration.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I have recently finished a short novel that I have tentatively entitled ‘Rabid Dawn’. Its intended to be the first of a trilogy. Normally I self-publish my work but this time I have taken the leap and submitted it to an Indie publisher.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I used to write short stories in the late nineties, back then it was a hard slog as the internet was still in its infancy for publishing, I submitted to a few magazines but was never accepted. Fast forward to about 2010 and I got into the writings of David Moody, he showed me the way so to speak.

I self-published my first novel ‘Beyond Isaiah’ back in 2012, it was a fantastic learning experience. I have since published a further 5 short story collections and a short run of a supernatural magazine.

My personal friend, Darren Barker, also approached me for help and I have been doing a lot of his technical work as well.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

At some point after the first book was out, and after my first convention, ‘Autumn: Horror in the East’. I rubbed shoulders with many other writers and realized I did finally fit in to something, it’s a tight community, particularly in the independent genre circle.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I wanted to tell my story, still do, who would have known it would be a zombie book!

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I like to tell the story, all my stories are UK based as I use a great deal of what I know, my applied knowledge, makes it easier on the research and can concentrate on painting the picture.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Homage and Fandom really, George A Romeros ‘Dawn of the Dead’ was a big inspiration, not for the latest story, so I want the trilogy to have ‘Dawn’, ‘Day’ and ‘Night’ in the title. And ‘Rabid’ for the obvious viral subject.

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

No they are just stories to entertain…hopefully!

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

All of it to a certain extent, I draw from places I know and experiences I have had, theres also inspiration from movies and tv from the early eighties.

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

Fireweed by Jill Paton Waslsh, as a teen it peaked my interest in the post apocalyptic. More recently The Day of the Triffids by John Wymdham and Autumn by David Moody. As for mentors I have been lucky that early on I had good relationships with Iain McKinnon and David Moody, I also became good friends with Joseph Freeman who helped me hone the craft.

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

I don’t really have a firm favourite, someone I met some years ago has gone on to great things, Rich Hawkins, we met at the first ‘Autumn: Horror in the East’ His books are really enjoyable. My Bookshelf holds mostly recent authors. Many of note include all the aforementioned friends and mentors. Others include Sean Page, Adam Millard and Darren Barker. I have friends across the pond too, Matt Darst, Richard M Cochran and Dee Christensen, and man who I have met and struck up a great relationship with, his poetry is superb.

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

I’m a bit of a solitary person, the ‘Autumn: Horror in the East’ Convention in Lowestoft has probably been the most supportive arena.
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I would love to, I would like to have more time to fully immerse myself in my stories.
Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

Finish it sooner! As any writer knows it is very hard to say ‘Its done’, they never feel completed.

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

I can be good with words, and found to keep my memories turning them into a story helped, I can look back at a story and it reminds me what was going on at the time of its writing. I feel memory is a finite resource.

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

In a small Easy Anglian village, during a storm of the century, a virus is unleashed. Its carriers could be on your street, in your garden, even in your living room.

The best way to undermine any society is from the inside. This was the cold war ethos, one that went on to remanufacture a virus previously wiped out of the UK. Its aim was to infect the animal life of the enemy, so turning it on its own masters. A strain of Rabies with 100% infection rate and 100% mortality. Mothballed for decades the deadly secret has finally emerged with speed and virulence.

One man is able to tackle the virus head on. A man whose fitness, knowledge and previous military experience would be tested to the full.

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

Trying not to repeat myself, and finding names. One draft I did had a family of three, John, Jo and Justin, I have a habit of picking ‘J’ names initially, God bless ‘Remove and Replace’

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

Sadly no, because I work from memories its mostly where I have travelled. I would like to because all experiences add to inspiration.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Early on I did it myself with the use of photoshop and createspace designed ones, later books were designed by a talented artist called Dave Mickolas of Universal Book Covers, he did a great job.

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

Finding the time, always.

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

Always learning and honing.

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

An English Clint Eastwood would be great for the latest work. A middle aged gamekeeper, with previous military experience.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Just write! Simple as that, people ask me how do you start, take it to basics and just write.

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

I hope they enjoy my stories, I appreciate each and every person that purchases and reads one of my books.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Jamaica Inn by Du Maurier, I like to try other styles.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I think it was Robin Hood and his merry men, the original copy from turn of the century, it’s a fantastic story that is really an epic that follows his entire life as opposed to the exciting parts they use in the movies.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Loneliness makes me cry, bit ironic as I write better alone. Now you all have this image of me bawling while I type. My daughter staying over is always my happiest time, a time when I am most likely to laugh.

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

John Wymdham, love to spend hours sitting in a quintessensual English garden discussing his inspiration for books such as day of the triffids and the midwych cuckoos.

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

Full name, all dates, all children. Just to make it easier in the future when my ascendants are researching their family tree!!!

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Back to the previous question, my family tree which is always growing with some streams back to the 1500’s. I still watch lots of movies, love the countryside.

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

Horror, always Horror, I also like 80s sit coms.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

When it comes to music I’m eclectic depending on my mood, lots of rock, anarco punk, punk, so many. Green is my colour of the moment but it changes. As for food I love a good old fully loaded English fry up.

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

Librarian, I love books.

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

I’m terrible at keeping it up to date, http://paulshuggins.weebly.com/

Amazon Authors Page https://www.amazon.co.uk/Paul-S.-Huggins/e/B0079MRWFI/?tag=smarturl-gb-21

Here is my interview with Kia Carrington-Russell

Name Kia Carrington-Russell

Age 23

Where are you from Brisbane, Australia

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

‘Kia is a Token, no, she is THE Token of Vampire & Paranormal books.’ ~ 5 STAR Reviewer.
Prepare to join a completely different style of writing and worlds. The international Australian author has a unique style of writing- creating an emotional roller coaster and fast paced action. Her writing and presence in the literary world has been described as ‘the new up and coming author to watch out for’ and ‘hauntingly beautiful’.
Kia’s writing ranges from young adult, paranormal, romance, erotica, fantasy and dystopian; starting with her Best Selling series, which has made it into the top 20 in Dystopian on Amazon.com.au and #26 in the top 50 Books To Read in 2015 by ReadFree.
Her first series, The Three Immortal Blades has captivated both young readers and old, with her rich blend of fast paced action, romance and adventure and has won numerous awards already, including; ‘Best Fantasy Series of 2014’, ‘Best Book bad Guy of 2014’, and ‘Best Cliffhanger of 2014’.
She has won numerous awards on her contemporary romance series, My Escort and erotica/ humour series, Aroused: Taming Himself Series. The series and unique storylines have captivated hearts globally and created a few book boyfriends along the way with Damon’s charm and Hayden’s cockiness.
Kia grew up in the Darling Downs Region in Queensland, Australia. Graduating High School, she pursued a career in freelance journalism. In 2014, having always had a passion for writing fiction, she decided to follow her dream of becoming an accomplished author.
Kia intends to make her books globally known and is already creating a name for herself amongst social media, fans, readers and spectators.
During the weekdays Kia works at her Monday to Friday job in Logistics and Transport. She leaves her book worlds to the night and weekends, being well described as a driven young woman.
Kia has attended numerous guest speaking, convention signings, and signings including at Dymocks bookstores and Angus and Robinson. She is an animal lover and organises different events each mid year to donate towards the RSCPA in Australia.
Kia is extremely supported by her amazing Street Team and PA, Julia Summers, to whom she owes much too for their support. At first, she struggled with believing in herself and the confidence to promote her own books. Now understanding the touch that she has and the passion of writing, Kia is more confident in her ability to take readers into a different world. She intends to write more than fifty books so far including new genres such as horror, thrillers, sci-fi and children’s books.
Kia enjoys dancing, cooking, reading, painting, photography and spending time with her family and friends.
Now living in Brisbane, Australia, Kia has a can do attitude, a strong will and the touch of kindness that makes it hard not to fall in love with her. Announced ‘The Best New Author of 2015’ by AusRomToday, she has no intentions of stopping. Kia Carrington-Russell is definitely the new author to be looking out for.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Currently I am releasing my twelfth book, Taste, book two in the Taming Himself Series. I am currently writing book three in my best selling series, Token Huntress and working on promotion and campaigns for further exposure to new readers in the new year.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing as it was a sense of freedom and escaping ‘reality’. As a teen I found that this helped me and then eventually led into a passion then a form of escapism. I started writing at fifteen and didn’t take my manuscripts seriously until I was about nineteen. Between that time I studied for and thought I wanted to become a journalist.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Only in recent years. It’s odd. I’ve always written, but considering myself a professional in the field didn’t come naturally to me. It was only until I became confident in myself and books that I considered myself as an official ‘writer’.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

When I was fifteen I read a lot of Young Adult/ Fantasy books. I’ve always had an imagination and it was when I was reading ‘The City of Bones’ that I decided to start writing. I think I was so influenced in the ‘new’ and ‘different world’ that I wanted to challenge myself and see if I could do the same.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

If I had to describe it I would say it’s a classical/ poetical form of writing. I use proper words instead of a lot of abbreviations which some readers aren’t used to and think its not fitting for setting/ current age of how people speak, but its just how I write. I hope that every word and sentence are beautiful, deep and meaningful, and so my writing displays that.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Some of my titles come very naturally. Others not so much. I might have written most of the book before I know the title, but I wait until it comes to me and it is fitting for the entirety of the books. With series, I try to keep the names in theme.

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

Absolutely. It’s very simple. To stay open minded. Anything could be possible. I want people to question ‘what if’s’. I have a lot of messages in my books for different reasons, but that is the one that I want every reader to question while reading and afterwards.

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

Most of it, I think it would be difficult to write a certain expression or emotion if I hadn’t experienced or witnessed it myself. As for the events in my books most of those are created to fit the book.

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

Kirsten Cashore and Sarah J. Mass are a huge influence and impact on me. I love their writing and twists. The seemingly happy, yet not happy ending. Angie Hudson is a huge mentor/ friend to me. She is phenomenal and has taught me so much. I really value our friendship and all that she has taught me. She is honestly one of the most amazing people I have ever met and the kindest as well. I would hope that most authors act as she does, and simply helps new authors where the can. She is a real inspiration.

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?

Kirsten Cashore and Sarah J. Mass are a huge influence and impact on me. I love their writing and twists. The seemingly happy, yet not happy ending. Their writing is unique and their main heroines are strong, witty and not innocent and sweet. I like that, it’s real, it’s challenging and it can be to some readers, controversial. I love it because it means that it is striking up a real issue or message.

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

My girls from America. I have a small team of women including my PA, Julia, who have helped me so much in this journey. There is no way I could’ve managed and believed in myself to this extent without them. They are utter gems. My reads also have had a huge impact, I don’t think they will ever realise how much it blows my mind that I am connecting with readers all over the world, who appreciate my books and extend that kindness and support to me. Its breathtaking, I am really grateful.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Absolutely. If you work hard enough and put in the same amount of hours as a full time job then why shouldn’t it be? If it’s your passion it’s an added bonus. I think if anyone thinks differently than they are obviously not a lover of the arts or understand the hardship one has in the industry. To support authors they first have to be taken seriously and their work be treated as the product it is.

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

No. My books flow and create themselves. Sometimes I just feel like the puppet that’s writing them.

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

From reading Young Adult books as a teenager.

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

I currently work 50-60 hours a week as Transport Manager for my state, Queensland in Australia. I manage a fleet of drivers and converse with sales, customer service, drivers and warehouse daily. It’s a circus act most days juggling all the tasks at hand, but it definitely suits my pace, much like how I work in the book world. I have a reputation for being a workaholic or ‘Superwoman’ is a title some have given me. I’m constantly on the go and can certainly say that every hour in my day is catered for. Before and after my long days at work, I am working on my books or writing. Somewhere I try to balance a healthy lifestyle and exercise. I remind myself that I am my own brand and representative and if my body doesn’t look like it is being looked after then I am not looking after my brand properly. And plus it makes me feel better, healthier and more energized.

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

Sometimes just sitting down to write. I usually have writing marathons so when I sit down and write, I usually write 4,000 to 10,000 words. I think sometimes I get frustrated because I don’t think I am writing a book quick enough because there are so much ideas running through my head, that it’s a relief once I’ve typed it.

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

I travel often to signings, guest speaking and am trying to do an international tour every year from now on. 2016 was my first year and I travelled to USA. I absolutely loved it. I hope that I can live a wonderful life via my books and see the world.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

All my new covers were beautifully designed and created by author, Angie Hudson. They are stunning.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Just write. It is a simple as that. There is no magic trick. Just sit and write, because it is the first question most writers I mentor ask and it will always be the same answer. It’s some tough love, but don’t say you will do it, actually do it. The feeling of completing an entire manuscript cannot be explained, you will have to experience it yourself to truly appreciate it.

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

Thank you so much for all your support and love. I am really enjoying my journey and having you all a part of it. I am blessed that I have the opportunity to meet some of you, even if we are on separate parts of the world. I am grateful to those who I have become dearly indebted to and feel like a second family. Simply, thank you and I love you.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I love reading manga, so I am being a bit of a nerd and reading that as well as Nalini Singh’s Psy Chaneling Series.

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

I absolutely love animal videos of when they do silly things. I can’t help it, its my guilty pleasure. They’re so funny.

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

I think I would’ve enjoyed something challenging. I have an analytical mind so I think I would’ve been suited to psychology, I love figuring people out and motives. I think that’s why I love writing so much and getting into someone elses head and seeing how it works and why they justify their actions. Discovering who my characters are is rather interesting. I am very business minded so think I would’ve enjoyed a CEO position. I’m intrigued by marketing and the magazine industry. Last but not least, I love dancers and the hard work they put in. Maybe in another life J

 

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

I certainly do. www.kiacarrington-russell.com

Amazon Authors Page USA      https://www.amazon.com/Kia-Carrington-Russell/e/B00M6OBWA0/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_ebooks_1

 

Amazon Authors Page UK   https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kia-Carrington-Russell/e/B00M6OBWA0/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1482918612&sr=1-2-ent

 

Here is my interview with Victor Robert Charles Bennett

Name Victor Robert Charles Bennett

Age 74

Where are you from?

North London

I was born as Hitler’s planes dropped bombs on our town. A large family of 13 ensured peace and quiet was only for those who could afford it. Educated at a Secondary Modern [all boys] school where corporal punishment was accepted by those receiving it, and enjoyed by those delivering a cane, slipper or metal ruler.

I qualified for a Grammar school but the financial barrier was far too high for my parents to achieve. I left to work in a wages office at 15. Running with the London street gangs I saw my first brush with law and order at 17. Marching in protest marches to ban the bomb at 19. After several labouring jobs joined the local mill. A large metal refinery where I became their youngest union representative. Then into retail management and my own company, was enlisted as a free mason, rising to become Master Mason 3^rd degree. Finishing my working life looking after the rich and famous in 5- star hotel management. I left to retire on the East coast with a head full of memories and the urge to write.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

Just published ‘The Flight of the Unicorn’ which is in the book shops and online. Just eaten the last of the Turkey after a Christmas wrapped in family love. Wish I had not scoffed half a box of liqueurs.

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

By accident a woman at work had started a writing course. I agreed to write the first page of a book and she would write the second page. It looked good so we finished the book, both writing one half of a couple that eventually fall in love.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I have always considered myself to be a writer

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

When I found, others enjoyed my writing it gave me a buzz that is still nagging me to today.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I enjoy Science Fiction, Murder Mystery laced with romance and compulsory humor But I have written for newspapers, magazines and individuals, so a fair answer would be;

I write whatever I am asked to write and whatever I feel like writing

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Not an easy thing to do, the title and the cover are the ‘hook’ that temps the reader into the ‘blurb’ and needs to convince them that this book will make them happy to spend their money on a copy.The title must say as much as possible about the content using no more than four words

 

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

Yes, many of my books are based on a single true- fact which is then expanded inflated and twisted into a ‘what if’ possibility.

 

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

Probably 50% of what I have experienced and 50% of what I would love to have experienced

 

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

That’s easy Issac Asimov Charles Dickens and the chap that wrote the ‘Biggles’ stories

 

 

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?

Wilbur Smith as a new author and Charles Dickens who manages to weave indelible charismatic characters into every story.

 

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

My readers

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

No, I feel it makes an excellent walking stick but to advance that support to a crutch that would provide adequate income is, for me, in my opinion, unrealistic.

 

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

No before you let you ‘baby’ loose on the public it would have been ‘tweaked’ changed and ‘played with many times, so you should have no regrets

 

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

I have always been a storyteller, as a child I told stories to my young nephews at family gatherings. You would get a sound thrashing for ‘telling fibs’ as a child but as a grown up you can make up what you want and call yourself a writer.

 

 

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

The lone around the world female pilot found herself being ‘sucked’ down to the jungle floor and death. The camera in the bi-plane’s nose cone revealed a shock that had her racing back up the Amazon to face the truth and change its outcome

 

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

The beginning, like a sled on top of a hill once you begin the journey follows

 

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

No, but many of my character’s journeys have been made by myself.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Some are from online sellers, some a created by talented family and friends and some I construct myself, if I am not entirely content with all the above.

 

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

The plot and the ending

 

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

I learned to make notes of the character’s names and refer to it whilst writing. If the story runs over several decades to make sure that the timeline of those character’s ‘dovetails’ into the plot

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

Impossible for me to say. A book leaves the reader to decide how the fine detail of the character’s look like. A film takes that choice away and chooses the face for us. Harry Potter will always be set in our minds but he would not look the same to all if a film was not made. The selection of the face to match the character is

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Do not write to make money, write and hope you make money. When you no longer enjoy every moment when you are writing, stop!

 

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

Thank you

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I am writing, finding quiet moments to read and write is asking too much from my large loving family

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Biggles, when I was 11

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Every new grand child’s birth

 

 

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

Nelson Mandela. He showed dignity in his incarceration and humility when released.

 

 

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

T.O.M.A.S is what I wish those that knew me do when they remember me;

Think Of Me And Smile

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

D.I.Y. and talking

 

 

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

Doctor Who, Science Fiction, anything by the BBC drama dep.

Films that include the best actors

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Chinese Sunday Roast Purple all Music if it’s the best of its Genre

 

 

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

Get on-board a UFO

 

 

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

http://www.victorbennetttales.co.uk/

Here is my interview with Grein Murray

Name: Grein Murray

Age: 45

Where are you from: East Coast

 

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

I’m a single mom of 4. Before I was an author I was many things, such as librarian, office manager, secretary, florist and sports store sales person. I attended college to become a certified librarian.

 

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

In December I released the second book in my Dancer’s series. I only have a few more chapters to complete my third and final book in my His Fallen Angel Series. I also, almost have the third book in my Dancer’s series finished as well, which won’t be the last book for Skylar and Ryan, I’m not quite through with them.

 

 
Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I used to write in high school and was encouraged by one of my teachers to become a writer, but life happened and that dream faded over time. It wasn’t until I started talking to my friend, mentor and author, Brina Brady that she suggested I write this story that had been floating around in my head. That book sparked my Joshua series and I haven’t stopped writing since.

 

 
Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I think when I first held the paperback version of Loving Joshua in my hands. It just felt more real to me to hold that book and look at it, page through it and see my name on the cover.

 

 
Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I had Joshua’s character in my mind for a long time, the story kept growing and it was almost becoming maddening keeping it all in my head. Brina Brady inspired me to write it down and guided me through the self publishing process.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Descriptive is very much my style. I definitely love being able to have my readers feel what my characters are going through, to see what makes them tick. To have readers laughing and crying over my books touches me.

 

 
Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Some titles just come to me and others are a bit of a battle to come up with. Loving, Keeping and Forever Joshua were named that way because of how his relationship grew over the course of the series, so the titles fit the story well. I guess the same can be said for my His Fallen Angel and Dancer’s series as well.

 

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

That when you truly love someone that you will do whatever it takes to be with that person. There are challenges that my characters face, but their strong bond helps them to overcome those challenges. You do have to fight for that love, but if it’s worth it to you, don’t give up.

 

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

I think pretty much every book I’ve written has some little part of my life in them. My most recent one, Love & Strength has an event that happens to one of the characters that is very closely related to something I lived through. My character, Ryan is actually based off of a real life dancer that I met last year.

 

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

I’ve been an avid reader since I was a kid. I love getting lost in a good book, to escape reality and dive into characters lives is magic to me. The first book I ever got lost in was J. R. R. Tolkein’s The Hobbit.

 

 

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 are so many authors out there that I have the privilege of talking to on Facebook. There are probably too many to name and I’d hate to leave any out, but if you check out my FB page, I share links to my friends books often.

 

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

I know I said it earlier, but Brina Brady was the person who got me writing, I owe her so much. I never had much support from my parents so having her backing me meant so much.

 

 
Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I do think it’s a great career, but the industry changes and if you don’t change with it you can get left in the dust. I’m not sure how long I’ll write, but I am enjoying it so far.

 

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

Not my latest book, but I’d love to be able to go back and re-do some things in my earlier books. I think I could do a better job on them now, I’ve learned so much since I wrote those.

 

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

In high school with the encouragement from my teacher. She used to tell me that I was good and grabbing the reader and making a picture form in their minds of what I was seeing in my story.

 

 

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

The third book in my angel series will focus on Alexander getting into a bit of trouble and Roman, needs to get to him fast. It probably will be a bit darker than my other books in this series. After the holidays I am going to finish it up so my editor can get her talented hands on it and hopefully have it out early spring.

 

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

I have to make sure to stay true to my characters. I thought one of my stories should go one way, but it felt like something or rather one of my characters was fighting against me. I ended up throwing away about 6 chapters. Once I wrote what felt right, it went pretty smoothly.

 

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

I haven’t gone to any conventions yet as I still have some young children, but hopefully as they get older I can venture out. I’d love to meet other authors in person.

 

 
Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Kellie Dennis has done all of my covers, she is so talented. The cover for Love & Strength just floored me because I told her I would like to have 3 things all combined for the cover and I wasn’t sure how it would look, but she amazed me by doing it beautifully as always.

 

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

The conflict in this one was very hard to write. I hate when my characters are hurting, it actually affects me deeply. Me and my editor used many tissues while editing this one.  I tend to not be able to stop writing until I have cleared up a problem between my characters, which makes for some very late nights of writring, sometimes I’m up until 4 am.

 

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

I think I learn something from each book I write. I hope that for people who have read each of my books that they can see my growth as an author. I don’t think you can ever reach perfection, there is always room to improve and I hope each of my books is better than the last.

 

 

 

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

I’d love for Logan Lerman to play Skylar.

 

 
Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Just to never give up. Don’t listen to the nay sayers, as long as you are selling books and enjoying what you are doing, keep at it.

 

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

I would like to tell them, thank you for supporting me and for keeping me going through the past two years. At one point I had thought about not writing, but then I got a private message from a reader who loved one of my books. Their encouragement means so much. I love to hear when people tell me how much they love my characters or how they cried or laughed during the book.

 

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

None, When I’m in the writing process, I can’t read other books or it throws me off. Once I am done with the next two books I hopefully can take a break and catch up on some of my friend’s books.

 

 

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

My dad’s copy of the Hobbit, that’s where my love of reading started.

 

 

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Seeing the pain in the world we live in now really gets to me. I can’t even watch the  news any more. There are still lots of great people and good deeds done in the world, but it seems we just see the negative ones. I hate to see children suffering in any way.  What makes me happy is seeing the people around me happy and people I don’t even know. My youngest has a way of making me laugh every day, such a sassy child.

 

 

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

Alexander the Great, I’ve studied him for a good part of my life and would love to sit and talk to him about what drove him. I even did a presentation at a school about him.

 

 

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

Loving Mother and Author because those two things are what I’m proudest of.

 

 

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I play bass guitar, love legos, roller coasters and walking on the beach with my kids and dog, looking for shells.

 

 

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

I just finished watching an amazing anime called Yuri On Ice. I have no idea what I’m going to watch now that the season is over, but am looking forward to season 2. I really don’t watch much tv.

 

 

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music –

Crab legs are my favorite. Black and red are my favorite colors and I have diverse taste in music from Avenged Sevenfold to the Doors to The Backstreet Boys.

 

 

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

I love animals and would have enjoyed working as a rehabilitation vet or possibly studying animals in the wild to help them get their population up. I’ve even thought of teaching world history. I’m very intrigued with ancient civilizations.

 

 

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

I’m most active on Facebook, but do have a blog I update with important information.

My author page is https://www.facebook.com/GreinMurray/

My FB page I’m most active on is: https://www.facebook.com/GreinMurraypersonal and my blog is http://greinmurrayauthor.blogspot.com

All of my books are on Amazon exclusively. https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=Grein+Murray

My about me on Amazon link https://www.amazon.com/Grein-Murray/e/B0110SQWES/

Here is my interview with Karen and Kathy Sills

Name Karen and Kathy Sills

Age 50

Where are you from Harrisville, Mississippi

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

Karen and Kathy are identical twins. They have a passion for writing and cooking. They went to college for Child Development. Karen and Kathy currently work in a daycare. They live with their Mother and four-legged dog, Molly.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

We are waiting for our Wiggle Worm series to come out. Wiggle Worm’s Colorful Week, Monday Is Yellow Day

 

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

We began writing back in high school where we got a few things published in the school paper. We enjoy creating stories and sharing them with our audience.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When our very first book came out

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

We needed a story for our class at work. That is how Feelings, Feelings, Feelings was born.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

We mostly write recipes and children’s books.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

We came up with the title Feelings, Feelings, Feelings for a book on emotions. We came up with the title of Wiggle Worm’s Shape Adventure so that kids could learn shapes through the eyes of animals.

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

We have not written a novel, but that is one of our dreams to do

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

Our books written on experience due to the fact we work with kids and teach them daily

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

Our job influences us.

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?

Karen Kingsbury, her work is about every day life. Debbie Macomber, she has humor and fun in each book.

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

God has blessed us in our writing journey.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes

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

No, because PDMI Publishing did an awesome job.

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

From reading books.

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

Wiggle Worm’s Shape Adventure

Wiggle Worm wandered around his room. “I have to find some shapes for school tomorrow,”

he said in a soft whisper. He crawled over slowly to his leaf bed and laid his head on something soft and round. Wiggle Worm began to cry, “Boo hoo.”

“Why are you crying?” Black Crow asked, as he landed in the window sill.

Wiggle Worm wiped the tears from his eyes. He looked up at his feathered friend. “I can’t find any shapes for school tomorrow!” Wiggle Worm exclaimed.

“Oh,” said Black Crow. “What about that thing your head was laying on?” He asked, trying to help.

Wiggle Worm looked at Black Crow, then at his pillow. “It’s a circle!” he shouted, dancing around.

“Thanks,” Wiggle Worm said.

“Goodbye!” shouted Black Crow. “Happy to have helped you, friend!” He added as he flew away.

 

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

Editing

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

Mostly book signings.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

PDMI Publishing

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

There was nothing hard about it.

 

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

We learned it is a full filling job to see the expressions on each child’s face.

 

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

We would love to see Wiggle Worm’s Shape Adventure done into a cartoon, and Vince Gill do the voice of Wiggle Worm.

 

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

If any caregiver buys our books they can be assured that their child will receive a learning experience.

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

We are reading The Rose Trilogy by: Beverly Lewis

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

We have read too many books to remember the first one.

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Humorous books makes us laugh. Sad stories makes us cry.

 

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

Julia Childs because she is the best of both worlds, a writer and a cook.

 

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

We have not thought about it.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

Making up recipes, and cooking.

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

Cooking channel. Favorite movie: Julie and Julia.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

Favorite food, Hamburgers, Pizza, Fried Chicken, Tacos. Favorite color, Karen’s is Red, and Kathy’s is Yellow. Favorite music is Gospel.

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

 We would love to own our own bakery or food truck.

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

https://www.facebook.com/twinoneandtwintwo https://www.facebook.com/twoheadsinthekitchen

https://www.karenandkathywritesforever.wordpress.com

Here is my interview with Susan Buffum

Name   Susan Buffum

Age   58

Where are you from  Westfield, Massachusetts

Fiona: Tell us your latest news? 

I am almost finished editing and preparing my 2016 NaNo novel Black Knight, White Rook for self-publication. I also have two or three additional novels plus two story collections that I’m in the process of completing for 2017 publication.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I would say I began writing around the time I was in third grade. I was listening to the song The Lion Sleeps Tonight on the radio and wrote a story about a lion in the zoo dreaming about living in a jungle.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer? 

Not until last year, actually. Prior to that I was just indulging myself in a hobby with the purpose of entertaining family and friends.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

  My daughter inspired me and encouraged me to write a novel. I’d always just written short stories, novelettes or novellas. I didn’t think I had a whole novel in me, but it turned out that I did, and then some!

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

 Well, yes and no. I do not write any specific genre, but I have a writing style I’ve labeled full immersion writing. I create a place that readers will feel they’ve been to or could visit one day, and populate it with characters readers might feel they know, even though some characters can be a little offbeat. They all have their all too human flaws in place.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I have trouble with titles, so any title I do come up with is a bit of a miracle in the making. My Magical Life just popped into my head one morning after lugging the manuscript in its hot pink paper covers around with me for weeks while tinkering with it.

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

 Good triumphs over evil; love that’s meant to be will last forever.

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

 I had a black cat once, but that’s about the extent of it. Fantomas did not talk, but he was loaded with “cat”titude like Jazz is in the book.

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

 I have never had a mentor. I do have a muse that lives in my head and is indefatigable. Books that have most influenced my life have been Great Expectations, Raising Demons, The Collected Works of Edgar Allen Poe, Watership Down, Pride and Prejudice, The Count of Monte Cristo…basically my entire personal library. Every book I read has some sort of influence over 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?

 I’ll flip that around and answer who my favorite author is first- I have two favorites- Charles Dickens and Shirley Jackson. Charles Dickens I like best for his ability to put the reader right there into the story. Very atmospheric. Shirley Jackson I admire because she was always able to take the ordinary and give it a twist into the surreal. She was also very funny with her stories about home life and her kids. As for new writers, well, I admit to being a Darynda Jones fan. I have all ten books published so far in her Charley Davidson, grim reaper series. Number 11 is pre-ordered for January 2017 delivery. I also like Melissa Volker, Delilah of Sunhats and Swans.

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

Artworks Westfield, a fairly new group here in my home town  that has formed to support the culture and the arts- including musicians, authors, photographers, artists, etc. The group has been extremely supportive and encouraging.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Maybe one day. I work as a full time medical secretary which I enjoy. I write in my free time after work and on weekends as a hobby at present. I’m not financially prepared to just stay home and write at this point in my life.

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

No. I agonize over and tinker with my books until I’m satisfied with them before I publish them. I might go back and fix typos, grammar, and punctuation mistakes, but I’ve never gone back and changed anything in a book.

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

 In kindergarten my teacher wrote the word ‘look’ on the blackboard. Then she drew pupils in the ohs to make them look like eyes. That was the key that unlocked reading comprehension in my brain. I fell in love with words. They came alive for me. I’ve read a lot of books and that has fed my imagination. As mentioned before, I started writing little stories when I was in third grade and I’ve never stopped. Writing is magic performed with a pen. (Well, now I use a keyboard, but I used to handwrite everything!)

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

My current project is the sequel to Black King Takes White Queen, an urban fantasy with witches and warlocks involved in white magic and black magic. Black Knight, White Rook is set two years after the first book. The main characters have a toddler son now, and this time they have to deal with Ivy’s sister who has married a truly cruel and evil dark arts wizard who wants control of the magical treasure hoard Romney Sharpe is charged with protecting as King of practitioners in this country.

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

Commas. I really stink at putting them in the right place. The only other challenge is writing a sequel that I feel will satisfy the reader. I really don’t like sequels that fail.

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

No, I’m strictly local at present because I can’t be leaving my regular job every two minutes.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

 I designed them using CreateSpace. I’ve been using their standard images, but will be branching out into pictures from my own archives in the near future. I have one future novel that I actually hired the son of a friend to design for me. It’s pretty cool.

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

 Going back to My Magical Life, the most difficult part was writing the scene where the evil vampire eats the dead crow in front of Evangeline. No spoilers here, but that was a tough scene to write because of what it means in the story.

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

I discovered rather than learned confidence in my own ability to tell a story. The feedback on My Magical Life has been better than I expected.

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

Um, this one is kind of difficult for me because I don’t watch TV or see many movies unless I buy a DVD, so I’m really not familiar with actors and actresses these days. I would therefore have to say that I would prefer it be someone as of yet undiscovered, a fresh new face with the talent to play the character as written.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Just keep writing. I have grown in leaps and bounds as a writer through the years. I have material from when I was thirteen and on through high school, college, and up to the present day. I can track my growth as a writer by looking back at my earlier work (and sometimes cringing.) I can see the progress I’ve made. Therefore, my best advice to any writer- beginner or professional- is to just keep writing.

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

I write to entertain, to provide a diversion from ordinary life. Just enjoy my books as little escapes from the real world.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

The Thirteenth Moon by Melissa Volker. It’s YA but I promised her I’d read it and review it for her.

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Yes, I do. It was a little Scholastic book from one of those book flyers they’d give you in school to order books from. My Mom always let each of us pick two or three books from these flyers. It was called The Tooth Fairy. I believe I chose it from a flyer in first grade. I still have the book.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

The absurd and the ridiculous make me laugh. I cry a lot, so basically anything can set me off. I’m a sentimental sap like that. I get it from my Dad.

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

It would have to be Edgar Allen Poe because I’d really like to understand what made that man tick. A lot of people only know him for his horror stories, but he also wrote some wildly humorous stuff.

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

The End, because I never write it at the end of any of my books since I could always write a sequel. When my life is over it will really be the end- no sequel forthcoming.

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies ?

I collect antique and vintage buttons; primarily charmstrings which were a fad in the mid 1800’s to early 1900’s when young girls would collect beautiful buttons and string them. I have a large collection of them. I also collect camel figurines and mohair teddy bears. I like photography. I have a passion for old houses so I have a lot of books on architecture.

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

I generally don’t watch TV or go to see movies. I watch Murdoch Mysteries on DVD. The last movie I purchased to watch is Now You See Me 2.

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music?

 Cheesecake. Green. Multicultural, but especially Irish and Italian.

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

Architect or photographer 

Fiona: Do you have a blog/website? If so what is it?. http://susanbuffum.blogspot.co.uk/ I also write a blog on goodreads.

 

Amazon Authors Page https://www.amazon.com/Susan-Buffum/e/B01M99IMYU/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1

Here is my interview with J. Rose Allister

Name J. Rose Allister (my pen name for the spicier side of romance)

Age 53, which means that sometimes I wake up feeling 30, while other times I feel 70.

Where are you from

I hail from Southern California, born and raised in the San FernandoValley but currently residing halfway between L.A. and Palm Springs. It’s an interesting locale, where palm trees, citrus, and tumbleweeds vie for real estate against the San Bernardino mountains.

This is where I have raised my family, comprised now of seven kids and seven grandkids (with number 8 on the way). Along with my #1 job of being a mom, I’ve been a speaker repair technician, an ice cream shop manager, an insurance draft clerk, a childbirth educator, and a web designer. I wound up getting a publishing contract for my first novel while sitting on the wait list for an RN program…and I chose that route instead. So now I’m an author with a day job as a hospital unit secretary, and when I’m not working or writing, I’m with my family. The youngest of the flock is still at home, often talking about wanting to write a novel someday.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I’ve got some fun stuff coming up that I’m quite excited about! First off, I’ve gotten myself hooked on giving freebies to fans. Being a lover of all things free myself, this seemed like a natural thing to do. I’m currently writing a free bonus story for my upcoming Sons of Herne box set, a collection of the urban fantasy/erotic romance novellas that I released throughout 2016. I’m also going to make available free stories for my two other series, the Lone Wolves of Shay Falls MMF/werewolf books, as well as the Immortal Paradise MF/urban fantasies.

The other thing I’m bursting at the seams over is that I’ll be launching a new pen name, Janell Michaels, for mainstream (non-erotic) romance. I’m starting off with the Going to the Altar series, a set of contemporary, wedding-themed books. I’ll also most likely be re-releasing some of my oldest books under this new pen name. A site is already up and running at http://janellmichaels.com.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I first gave myself permission to use the term “writer” around 17 years ago, when a then-web design client gave me some mentoring advice on getting started. She told me that a writer is someone who writes, period. A simple sentence that took a while to sink in, but when it did, a new world opened up. Then I bemoaned to her that I didn’t know how I could ever try and write a Whole.Entire.Book (!) while working and going to college (pursuing the aforementioned plan to become a nurse). Her stern, but smiling advice was to just DO it. It was a real Yoda moment for me: Do, or do not, there is no try. I did it. Soon after, I closed down my web design business to focus on my writing.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

My very first full-length novel was inspired by a dream I had. A movie star (who may or may not have resembled Johnny Depp, ahem) bumped into a stranger and suddenly developed her psychic abilities. The ensuing visions showed him some interesting dynamics between the two of them, along with images of danger. The dream was short, but it intrigued the heck out of me. I spent close to two years trying to write down what I saw in those few moments, and the result was Visions, first released in 2006. I plan to re-release it sometime in this coming year.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

A career, my passion, and a downright obsession. It is most definitely a career path, one I wish I could focus on solely. For now, I must divide my time between wearing the author cap and working a day job to support my family. Eighteen hour days aren’t uncommon while I juggle both. By treating my author business as much of a full-time job as my other work, I’m hoping to implement my five-year plan to be able to make writing the only gig in town.

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

My last finished book is Archipellus: God of Samhain, the final Sons of Herne novella. While I enjoyed writing the entire series, I’d have to say this one was my favorite. The tone was a little darker, but dotted with humor, and the stakes felt more immediate. It was the longest of the series, wrapping up the overall arc as well as the romance. That gave me a little more time to play with side characters, world development, etc., but I would have liked to do even more. If I could change anything, it would be to make the entire series into a set of full-length books. The novellas were complete stories in and of themselves, but more exploration of the immortal realms would have been fun.

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

That’s a great question, and yet I’m sitting here scratching my head because I can’t pinpoint quite what happened. I know that I was an obsessive reader from childhood, and sometimes, when I’d run out of books to read for the thirtieth time, I’d write my own stories. But then, life and adulting arrived, and I put aside stories for a time.

My interest in fiction writing popped up again in my thirties as a random itch that refused to be scratched. I’d been doing a lot of non-fiction articles for a health newsletter at work and some humor articles online. I recall thinking to myself one day, “What I really wish I could do is write stories.” I’d somehow lost touch with how to go about such a wild idea, so I read every book I could get my hands on about how to craft fiction. Some seventeen years, thirty-five books, and dozens of short stories later, I’m nowhere near done scratching that itch.

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

I’m infamous for having several irons in the fire at once, but since we’ve been talking about my Sons of Herne series (more info available at http://jroseallister.com), I’ll share a short, exclusive peek at the bonus story I’m writing for the box set.

In this snippet, Bethany is decorating a tree outside her house with ornaments for the holiday season she thought she’d never live to see. Not until handsome, powerful gods had come from another realm, cured her terminal illness, and rescued her from a supernatural kidnapping. Afterward, the immortal she’d been enamored with, Andero, had gone back to his realm and not returned, despite her hopes that something had sparked between them. Now, her cure is about to have unexpected consequences…

Excerpt:

 

Bethany stepped back to view her handiwork, blowing on her cold-cramped fingers while taking note of bare spots in need of ornaments. Plugging in the lights cheered her, and the extra glimmer reminded her of the year that the branches had been coated with just the thinnest sheen of ice. It hadn’t been enough to weigh down the limbs, but the tree had sparkled like diamonds in the sunlight. Wouldn’t that be pretty this time?

The next ornament she grabbed was a clear glass ball filled with artificial snow. She threaded another ribbon through the hanger and reached up to tie it to the tree, still thinking of the way the icicles had given off a crystalline glow. Somehow, she missed the branch. Her hand went right past it once, then twice. In fact, she was certain she was passing through it. When she pulled back, the branch froze over with a clear shimmer of ice, the way she’d just been remembering.

“What?” She blinked and backed away, staring. Just the one branch had frozen. “There’s no way I did that.”

Feeling foolish, she reached out to another branch, and her finger pushed against the solid bark. When she drew back, nothing happened. “See?” she told herself. “Nothing weird going on here.”

Except…wait. When it had happened, she’d been thinking of how the tree had looked before, all frosted over.

Swallowing, she pulled up that image in her mind and reached out. She went through the branch, gasped, and yanked back. It, too, froze.

Closing her eyes, she tried once more, forming an image of the rest. She stepped away, opened her eyes, and her mouth fell open. The tree was as she remembered, crystalline branches with icicles sparking in the morning light.

“How?” she whispered, her breath coming out in foggy puffs. “What’s happening to me?”

“What has happened to you is not of this earth, nor of the world beyond.”

She spun around to see a familiar face. “Andero?”

He stood leaning against another tree, his powerful forearms folded across his chest. As with the other gods she’d seen, his dark eyes glittered with the golden light of immortality. There was a hard set to his jaw, although the bare hint of a curve to his perfect, bowed lips softened his scrutiny of her. That face coupled with the way his snug-fitting tunic and leather leggings clung to his muscled body prompted a flutter in her stomach.

While his appearance was a welcome sight, the sword strapped to his back in true warrior fashion, the way he had when she’d first met him, gave her pause. But then, maybe he wore it everywhere he went, like a security blanket.

“I’m surprised to see you popping in for a visit,” she said, attempting to keep a level tone. “I figured I was never going to see you again.”

“This isn’t a social call, I’m afraid.” He pushed away from the tree and glanced at the glistening one behind her. “I’m here on business.”

She knew only a little about what Andero’s duties involved. While they’d passed time together sitting vigil over her wounded sister, he had mentioned that he monitored humans who blurred the lines between mortal and immortal. Those who showed certain…abilities.

Her eyes followed his. “So you’re here about my ice powers, I take it.”

His narrowed gaze snapped to her. “Ice powers?”

She nodded at the tree. “What I did just now.”

“That isn’t control over ice. I fear what you have acquired is far more powerful. Dangerous.”

Her eyes widened. “Dangerous?”

A shiver washed over her. He pushed away and stepped closer.

“I’m not dangerous,” she murmured, stiffening a little when he took her hands in his and rubbed warmth back into them. “It’s just me. Bethany.”

His dark lashes were long, sweeping his high cheekbones while he focused on her frozen fingers. Her comment prompted him to meet her eyes, and a butterfly migration rose in her belly.

“I was hoping I wouldn’t have to come here.” He frowned. “I was hoping not to see you like this.”

 

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

My biggest challenge is the two-edged sword of author time management. Finding time for writing and time for the business side is tough, and time spent on one means less for the other. But both are important, so I have to strike a balance. If I *had* to sacrifice one for the other, I’d write stories even if nobody read them. But since I do want to share my work, I get to go out and connect with fellow bookworms…and that also means taking on the many other tasks of the writer biz. I’d rather chat about my favorite reads or write the next scene than work on a sales spreadsheet or send out review requests. For years, I was lucky that my publisher handled that for me. But those days are gone, and I have a lot more work on my plate. So my calendars have calendars, and I try to schedule time in for everything. Including the fun stuff. :

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Every winter season, I get in the mood for fantasy. So after some Lord of the Rings and Song of Ice and Fire books, I’m currently re-reading Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.

My reading preferences are all over the map, by the way. Before the current fantasy hankering, I was all about sci-fi and thrillers. Dark Matter by Blake Crouch rocked my world. Before that, it went on a YA stint (loved An Ember in the Ashes), and earlier this year it was a lengthy round of erotic romances. (Mrs. Dumont was a favorite.)

 

 

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

We’re huge movie/TV buffs at our house, since these are stories, after all! Some of my favorite TV shows are Game of Thrones, The Walking Dead, Reign, and The Blacklist.

As for movies, I’ve got so many favorite picks it’s hard, and I mean downright challenging, to stop after just a few. Some that I watch time and again include Pride and Prejudice (the Kiera Knightly version—sorry fans of wet-shirt-Colin-Firth!), Runaway Bride, and the Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, and Star Wars sagas. Every summer, Jaws, ID4, and Blue Crush is mandatory viewing. For Halloween, it’s Practical Magic, and The Long Kiss Goodnight kicks off my holiday season.

See what I mean about how hard it is to cut myself off with just a few?

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

My favorite foods include chocolate, coffee, Tom Ka soup (a Thai coconut-milk-based bit of heaven), chocolate, the black-and-bleu burger from BJ’s Brewhouse…and did I mention chocolate?

My favorite color is purple. As a kid, my mom let me pick my own room colors when we moved to a new house. Picture the deep, dark purple shag carpet (it was the seventies), lavender curtains, and a white spread for my daybed with bright purple bolster-style cushions. Yeah, baby, it was the height of designer chic.

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

I do have a blog and a website! My site is at http://jroseallister.com, and the blog is accessible through there or by visiting http://jroseallister.blogspot.com.

 

Also, I love to connect to readers on social media! You can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/jroseallister, and on Facebook at http://facebook.com/JRoseAllisterBooks.

Here is my interview with Dana Marie Bell

Name: Dana Marie Bell

Age: Forties

Where are you from: Pennsylvania

I’m a mother of two boys and happily married. We are owned by some furbabies who run our lives. I’ve also got fibromyalgia and ankylosing spondylitis which make my life a lot of fun, let me tell you. To learn more, check out the links below.

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fibromyalgia/basics/definition/con-20019243

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ankylosing-spondylitis/home/ovc-20261048

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news?

I’ve just contracted the book Speak Thy Name, the third in the Nephilim series, with Samhain Publishing. I’m almost finished the next True Destiny book, Hide and Seek, and I’m about to start outlining the next Halle Shifters book, Hope in Darkness. And best of all, it looks like the Halle Shifters series will be going to audiobook!

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I was thirteen and I just got the urge to write down a story I had in my head. My grandmother gave me some paper and a pen, and off I went until I was done. I was terrified and exhilarated, and I knew I’d found my calling. I went to the High School for Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) in Philadelphia, but life sidetracked me for a while. It was my husband who got me to start writing again, and I’ve been going ever since.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I got into CAPA. I felt like I was home, and it was wonderful. My first request for a partial just told me that time might have passed but my teenage self  knew what she was doing.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

MaryJanice Davidson’s Bad Boys book of novellas let me know that I could let my freak flag fly and still get published. I wrote The Wallflower when my husband suggested I try e-book publishing, and the rest is history.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

I need to outline a book to keep the flow going, but I have to be flexible enough to change that outline as I go. I’m sort of a goalie rather than a plotter or a pantser: I just kick the characters back into play.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I think of the general plot and come up with one. It will change sometimes, like Speak Thy Name was originally called More Than Words, but that’s normal.

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

Life isn’t about hurting one another, or going it alone. I write families, whether they’re by blood or by choice. Sometimes there’s pain, sometimes pleasure, sometimes both, but being alone isn’t the answer.

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

Sometimes I pull snippets of conversation from real life and insert them into books, but I’m not a shifter or a mage or any other paranormal that I write. All of that is made up in my head from fantasies and mythology mixing with my own weird brain.

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

As I said earlier, MaryJanice Davidson had a hell of an influence on my writing style. And Monica Burns was a huge help when I was first starting out and had no clue what I was doing.

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?

Mary Calmes. I love her characters. They grab me like no one else’s.

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

Stephanie Burke! (I’m pretty sure she’d love being called an entity, lol!) She’s the one who smacks me upside the head when I feel like I’m not good enough.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Definitely.

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

I try not to look back too much. If I do, I’ll obsess and freeze up, then I won’t write at all.

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

Reading, reading, reading! I read scifi, fantasy, mythology, and classics (love Little Women).

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

This is an excerpt from Speak Thy Name. It’s not edited yet, so please be aware that it will change in edits:

“Man, we need some dogs around this place,” one of the men said. He had dark hair and bright blue eyes. He was a match for the size of the one on the floor. He looked like he’d broken his nose at some point in his life, and his arms and hands bore scars from what looked like a fire. The scars had to be old, because there was no new, bright skin. Instead they were a darker color than his skin, which was bronzed as if he spent a lot of time in the sun. “What do you think, Zeke?”

A man with platinum blond hair and blue-green eyes shrugged. “Who’d walk them?”

“I would!” The guy on the floor held up his hand, laughing when Precious lunged over him to lick it. “I love dogs.”

“You love everything,” Damien snorted, smiling.

“Vaffanculo, testa di cazzo.” The big guy sat up, rubbing the top of Precious’s head. Her tongue was hanging out the side of her mouth, a sure sign she was happy as a pig in mud.

“Do you kiss your mother with that mouth?” Damien reached down and scratched Precious’s ears, sending her to doggie heaven. “I know Mama Zucco doesn’t put up with that kind of talk.”

The guy flipped Damien off, making Zeke laugh. “Tell Dante. Mama Zucco will know in a nanosecond.”

Ah, the dark-haired, dark eyed guy must be Dante’s older brother, Giovanni, Gio for short.

Donny came up to Sam, his little whip tail going a mile a minute. Precious soon followed, causing Gio to call out, “Hey buddy, where you going?”

Gabriel held up his hand. “Children. I think our other guest is awake.”

Sam bent down and loved on her dogs hard. She picked up Donny and rubbed his ears the way he loved, hugging him tight before turning to Precious and giving her the big hug she loved. When she was done, she found herself surrounded by men. “Hi.”

Damien smirked. “Told you they’d be okay.”

She rolled her eyes before turning to Gabriel. “Thank you.” She hugged him again, surprised to hear the other men choking or laughing, or both. “What?”

“Nothing.” The man named Zeke mimed zipping his lips shut.

“Not saying a word,” Gio added, staring at the ceiling.

The dark haired guy with the blue eyes had his back to them, his shoulders shaking.

A deep bellow came from somewhere near the back of the house. “Food!”

The men practically trampled each other to get to breakfast…or maybe lunch. She had no idea what time it was, or what she’d be eating.

“Shall we?” Damien held out his arm, winking at her.

Gabriel cleared his throat. “I’ll, um, walk the dogs.” He whistled, and to her utter shock the dogs followed him, as docile as little lambs.

“Did I do something wrong?” Sam didn’t want to insult Gabriel. Maybe she’d been too forward in hugging him?

“Nope. Just keep being you. He’s not used to women around the place, that’s all.” Damien led her into a kitchen that would make any chef cream his or her jeans. There was a mix of marble and stainless steel countertops, a huge island with a marble counter, two sinks, enough cabinets to satisfy a hoarder and room for a huge round breakfast table that overlooked the backyard. One glance at the backyard told her it was a paradise all of its own, with a multi-tiered stone deck and what looked like an outdoor kitchen.

Behind the island, rinsing off some pans, was another man. This guy was smaller than Gio but bigger than Damien. He had dark hair pulled back in a queue and piercing jade green eyes. “Sit. Eat.” He put the pan in the dishwasher before washing his hands.

On the table were stacks of eggs, bacon, pancakes and waffles, along with orange juice in a pitcher, a coffee carafe and another pitcher with ice water. “You made all this?”

The man at the counter nodded brusquely.

“Thank you.” She smiled brightly, her stomach rumbling. “It looks delicious.”

The man looked at her, then looked at Damien’s hand on her hip. “Yours?”

Sam tilted her head. Huh?

“Yes,” Damien replied, tightening his hold.

“Good. I like this one.” He wiped his hands on a towel, then slung it over his shoulder as he walked around the counter. “Name’s Sasha.”

“Sam.” She held out her hand. “Nice to meet you.”

“Nice to meet you too.” He glanced around at the other men. “Any of you dicks introduce yourselves to the lady, or are you just going to eat?”

They froze like little kids reprimanded by their dad. “I’m Zeke,” the platinum blond said.

“Gio, Dante’s brother.” He waved a forkful of waffle. “Sit. Eat. You’re too skinny.”

“Now you really sound like your mother,” the other dark haired guy, the one with the scars, said. “I’m Micah.” He put his fork down and held out his hand. “We’re happy to meet you.”

“Yeah, Seth and Dante didn’t bring theirs around for approval first,” Sasha grumbled as he spooned eggs onto his plate. “Damien’s got better manners.”

Damien coughed and placed Sam in a seat. “Leave her alone, guys.”

“What?” Zeke blinked innocently. “We’re only saying how happy we are she’s here.”

“Yeah, Damien. What’s wrong with telling her we like her?” Gio grinned, and it was anything but innocent. “We like her dogs, too. How long are they staying?”

“As long as I am.” Sam turned to Damien. “How long am I staying?”

“Until we know for sure how much the Shem have on you and whether or not we need to create a new identity for you.” Damien was acting totally serious.

“Oh boy.” She half-heartedly put a spoonful of eggs on her plate. “What’s the alternative?”

“You have a lovely life in federal prison for whatever the fuck the Shem decide to pin you with,” Micah ticked off. “You die in a horrible accident engineered by the Shem. You’re eaten by a Shem, meaning your death will either be swift or a prolonged agony of suffering.”

“Oh.” She squirmed in her seat, thinking over the possibilities. “What if we just kill the ones that know about me?”

They were silent for a moment, then Sasha tilted his head back and let out a full belly laugh. “I like this one.”

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

A schedule. Because I have two chronic illnesses scheduling my time is challenging. Between doctor visits, medication side effects and the general fatigue of both of my illnesses staying on schedule can be difficult.

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

Nope. Thank goodness for Google Maps.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Very talented artists like Angela Waters, Kanaxa, Kendra Egert and Lyn Taylor.

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

Hands on keys, butt in chair, and thinking. Always thinking. The research I enjoy, but sometimes the scenes aren’t going the way I want or I get distracted by something shiny, like Facebook.

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

When outlining don’t forget to make notes on the previous books so you don’t have to constantly open them up during writing. Of course, I never remember that, and then I relearn it all over again with the next book.

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

If I did, I’d start with Bear Necessities (Halle Shifters book 1). I’d love Shemar Moore or maybe Christian Keyes to play Bunny (Alex Bunsun) and maybe Elizabeth Gillies for Tabitha.

Fiona: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Butt in chair, hands on keys, start writing even if it’s crap. Crap can be polished. Not writing equals nothing, nada, zip. Nothing to polish ever.

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

Enjoy yourself!

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I read so quickly that I’m through most books in a day, so asking that is difficult to answer.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

My mother bought me Little Women when I was six or seven, and I read it in a week. After that she got me a library card and I was hooked.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

My kids.

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

Hmm. That’s a difficult question. I attended a talk where Isaac Asimov spoke (he’s the one who inspired the whole “butt in chair, hands on keys” speech); I’ve gotten to email with Lori Foster on occasion. I’ve spoken to Lora Leigh. I think the only person I’m still eager to meet is maybe Jayne Ann Krentz. I truly enjoy her work, just as I do the others. Oh, and I’d like to meet MaryJanice as well, at least to say hi and thanks for inspiring me.

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

Well that’s macabre. “The rest is yet unwritten.” It’s one of my favorite quotes from the song I say is my “life soundtrack” song, Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFFBSSntZgs  (Watch the UK video of the song. I love that version much more than the US one.)

Fiona: Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

Video games and watching anime. I like RPG style video games where I’m the main character, games like The Witcher, Dragon Age and Mass Effect. And I enjoy romance anime as well as the occasional scifi, fantasy or sports anime. My current fave, which just ended its first season, is Yuri on Ice.

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

We’ve cut the cable cord, so mostly I watch Crunchyroll and Funimation (anime) or I watch YouTube videos. My favorite channels are Markiplier (videogames), Tati (makeup), Zabrena (makeup), Matthew Santoros (top tens), Rob Dyke (horror/top tens) and Cayleigh Elise (horror/top tens).

Fiona: Favorite foods / Colors/ Music

My favorite food is lasagna. My two favorite colors are purple and blue. My favorite music is whatever fits my mood.

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

History professor! I love ancient civilizations, anything up to the, say, Rennaisance. Anything past that and I start to lose interest. Just as I’ve always loved mythology I’ve always loved learning about ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt.

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

www.danamariebell.com

Amazon Authors Page    https://www.amazon.com/Dana-Marie-Bell/e/B002CLWVD4/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_10?qid=1482432200&sr=1-10