Here is my interview with Nicola Cameron

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

 

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age?

 My name is Nicola Cameron, and I’m 51. Yes, I’m old.

 

Fiona: Where are you from?

 I was born and raised in Chicago, with a brief interlude in Northwest Indiana.

 

Fiona: A little about your self (ie,  your education, family life, etc.).

 I’m married to a lovely Englishman and we have five cats our vet calls the J Crew (JJ, Jessica, Jeremy, Jemma, and Jasmine. It’s a long story…). I live in the clavicle of Texas, and I spend my days writing saucy science fiction, fantasy, and paranormal romances and my nights herding cats and making Stuff™ (mainly jewelry, although I branch out into the occasional knit hat or scarf).

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

 The third book in my Two Thrones series, Lady of Thorns, will be available on October 3^rd. I’ve been describing it as, “Lady Mary Crawley from Downton Abbey goes head to head with Alan Shore from Boston Legal – and hijinks ensue!” I’ve also just finishing putting a new cover on my SF cyborg romance Degree of Resistance, and it looks great!

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

 I’ve been writing since, gosh, third grade? My father and sister are superb verbal storytellers, and I didn’t get the verbal skill but I did get the drive to spin a good yarn. The funny thing is, my original career goal as a kid was to become a neurosurgeon. But that fell by the wayside in college when I couldn’t pass Organic Chem. I changed my major to English, and after years of working as a technical writer I sold my first short story in 1995. Haven’t looked back since.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

 I think I’ve always considered myself a writer. I actually started putting it down on my taxes in 1995, however.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

 My first published book (there are earlier books that will never see the light of day, thank God) was Storm Season (Olympic Cove 1), and the impetus for it came from my love of Greek mythology and my interest in ecology and climate change. Why, yes, I write fantasy romances with Greek Gods, hot mermen, ecological themes, nanotech, bioengineering, and Alan Turing.

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

 The story is about a widower who comes down to stay in his family’s Florida cottage for the summer and gets swept up in a divine plot to save the planet from an insane goddess. The concept of summer in Florida prompted the idea of a storm season, hence the title.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging?

 I would call my writing style whimsical and engaging. I like writing nuanced stories with solid worldbuilding and good plotting (and, of course, amazing romance and hot love scenes). The only drawback about this is that I always wind up in a research hole because I’m a stickler for accuracy.

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

 Since I write SF, fantasy, and paranormal romance, I would have to say that, yeah, the books aren’t really that realistic. I do occasionally sprinkle real-life events and people I know into the stories, however.

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?

 Not necessarily – Google Earth is a lifesaver for giving you a good idea of what a place looks like. Actually traveling to a place, of course, is even better because then you get a much better sensual feel – what does it smell like, sound like, what are the local foods, how do local people dress, act, talk, etc.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

 My Evernight covers were designed by Sour Cherry Designs, and the cover for Empress of Storms was designed by the magnificent Jay Aheer. I’ve done the covers for the rest of my self-pubbed titles myself (it helps that I’m also a graphic artist).

 

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

 Respect the planet, don’t be an asshole, be excellent to each other, and if it’s not hurting someone have fun with whatever you’re doing.

 

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

 One of my favorite romance writers is Tiffany Reisz because her plots are amazing and her descriptive sense really puts you in the scene (quite literally at times). Kage Baker, Terry Pratchett, and Charlaine Harris are some of my other favorites.

 

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author.

 My writing group, Future Classics. They’re nominally a speculative fiction group, but they’ve been stellar about supporting my shift to SF/F/PN romance.

 

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

 Well, that’s certainly what I put on my taxes.

 

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

 That would be Shifter Woods: Roar, and no. I’m pretty happy with the way it turned out.

 

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

 I’m researching irrigation methods and the economics of agriculture. And people think I’m just sitting here day after day eating bon-bons and writing about sex.

 

Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

 I always mentally cast my books (it makes it easier to write them if I can “see” the action in my head, so if we’re talking Degree of Resistance I’d like Jude Law as Ben and Jessica Alba as Evie. For Lady of Thorns, I’d be happy with Aidan Gillen as Alain LaPorte and Gemma Arterton as Amelie de Clerq.

 

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

 Whatever it takes to get words on the page, do it. There are a million different ways to write – find the way that works for you, and if someone tells you you’re doing it wrong tell them to get knotted.

 

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

 In addition to Lady of Thorns I’ll be bringing out a new Olympic Cove book and a new Pacifica Rising book this year, whee!

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

 Mendoza in Hollywood by Kage Baker.

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

 Not really, but I remember reading Slaughterhouse-5 in second grade and horrifying my teacher when she caught me reading it at lunch.

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

 Laugh: British humor. Cry: where do I even begin…

 

Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

 Lewis Carroll, because he was a wonderful writer and a fascinating man.

 

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

 I have a running joke that I am Jo-Ann’s bitch. Knitting, crocheting, miniatures, jewelry making, plush dolls, quilting – I have SO many hobbies it’s ridiculous.

 

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

 Westworld (a big shout out here to Louis Herthum for inspiring my Pacifica Rising series), Game of Thrones, Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell, Doctor Who, Outlander, Sherlock, pretty much any MCU superhero movie, and anything with Michael Fassbender in it.

 

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

 Food: pizza, which is a shame because I can’t really eat it anymore
Color: Red and green
Music: Anything I can dance to

 

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

 Learn how to paint like a Dutch Master.

 

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

 Here lies Nicola Cameron.
Now go buy her books.

 

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers?

 http://www.nicolacameronwrites.com

Degree of Resistance: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N2A25GG

Palace of Scoundrels: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LX44RKS

Amazon Author page: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00AIE4RAC

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Here is my interview with Eric W. Burgin

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

 

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age?

Eric W. Burgin, 46

 

Fiona: Where are you from?

Originally Chico, California but my family moved to the Portland, Oregon area when I was seven.

 

Fiona: A little about your self (ie,  your education, family life, etc.).

I have a little bit of college, but am mainly a self taught software developer. I’ve spent the last 20 years writing code and managing programmers. I live outside Portland, OR with my wife of 24 years and our two daughters.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

Nothing writing related. On a personal note, I just finished my sixth Hood to Coast running relay.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

In the summer of 2014 a good friend and I were talking about his life story and the fact he was turning it into a novel (it’s quite the tale). He floated the idea that I should take some of my Dungeons and Dragons adventures from when we were kids and turn them into a book series. I started planning in October of that year and wrote the first words on January 24th, 2015.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I finished my first draft.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

As I mentioned above, a discussion with a good friend and a realization that I have a whole world I built years ago that is ripe for picking of story ideas.

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

That’s been a struggle. I’ve gone through five or six of them, but I am still not 100% sold on what I have.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging?

I tend to go dark, even when I try and write a happy story, there will be an element of something grim or scary. This is great for my main genre (Dark/Grim Fantasy) but I am also looking at writing some other stories from my world targeted at more of a YA audience and this can be a challenge to keep it a little lighter.

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

They always say your first book is actually all about you. Not sure this is true in my case as none of this has happened to me, but I can see some qualities of the characters in myself.

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?

No. I can see where that might be useful, but the Internet will have to do for now.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

No cover yet for my novel.

 

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

Rise above your surroundings and lean on your friends. My MC makes some bad choices, the main one being not letting his best friend in on what is going on with him. Had he, they could have overcame some of his challenges.

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

No new writers as of late. My favorite author is Stephen King. I love how he builds the characters and the world so we care, even though not much happens in the first half of the book. By the time the weird stuff starts happening, I’m hooked.

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author.

Only one? I have some close friends that are big proponents of my work and encourage me. I’ve even named a character after one. The writing community in Portland is also hugely positive and encouraging.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes. It seems like a pipe dream at times because everything in this business takes so much time. I am lucky enough to have a day job that supports my family and a family that supports my goals.

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

Well, as it happens, I get to do it all over again. After a few revisions, I met with a professional who has become my mentor and she showed me where my story went off the rails. The beginning and end are solid for the most part, but I get the chance to strengthen the overall premise before it sees the light of day.

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

Absolutely. As a novice author, I fell into the same traps many of us do and waited a long time before getting a professional critique. In the years since starting this process I have learned a lot about the process of novel writing and how to save time in the long run. If I had to do it over again, I would have discussed my MS and idea with a pro after the first draft rather than the fifth.

 

Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

That’s a tough call. My story revolves around a kid who goes through some pretty horrible trials. I am actually not sure it will be picked up for a film based on the content.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Learn, learn learn. No one is born knowing how to do this, it’s HARD. We all have some talent, be it prose, or ideas, or world building, but to tie it all together, you have to study. Get involved with a community, join critique groups, attend conferences, and most importantly, talk to those that have already done it. Pick their brains, find out how they did it.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Be patient, it’s coming! I was hoping to be deep in the process of getting this novel published, but have taken a couple steps back so I can produce the best story possible.

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I just finished The Name of the Wind (The Kingkiller Chronicle, #1) by PAtrick Rothfuss. Right now, I am reading Shopping List, a Horror Anthology as one of my short stories is in there.  Next up is One Night in Sixes (Children of the Drought #1) by Arianne “Tex” Thompson

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Not the first book, but I remember the first book that I couldn’t put down. Dragons of Autumn Twilight by Weiss and Hickman. The Dragonlance Chronicles were hugely influential to me. I tell my kids that they were my Harry Potter: they made me want to read.

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Cry? Just about everything. I am an empathetic person, so anything that brings joy or sadness to others, usually opens the water works.

As for laughing, I like humor of many stripes from bathroom humor to quick witty jokes, to puns.

 

Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

So many! If I have to choose one, it has to be the Dalai Lama. His poise in the face of exile, his ability to see all people he meets and friends, and his happy demeanor is an inspiration.

 

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

Gaming on my PC, running, cooking.

 

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

I go in waves. We as a family have not had TV service for over a decade: we cut the cord before it was cool 😉   I just finished Narcos and am currently watching Hinterland, both on Netflix. My favorite comedy show is probably Archer. I also enjoy The Walking Dead, iZombie, and Turn

 

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

All the food. Probably my favorite type of food is Thai

 

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

I’d like to say I would get outside more or write more software, but I would probably play more games and watch more Netflix.

 

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

“A Kind Human”

 

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers? 

www.ericwburgin.com

 

Here is my interview with Mark Adduci

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

 

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age?

Hi Fiona, thank you for taking the time for this interview. My name is Mark Adduci, but I write under the name of J.M. LeDuc. It was my mother’s maiden name, and I chose it as a way to honor her memory. JAge: I am old enough. LOL.58, to be exact.

 

Fiona: Where are you from?

Originally from Burlington, Mass (just outside of Boston), one of the old Revolutionary War towns. I’ve lived in South Florida since 1984.

 

Fiona: A little about your self (ie,  your education, family life, etc.).

Where do I begin? I graduated from Providence College with a degree in Biology. I then graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic with my Doctorate in Chiropractic Medicine. I practiced for 28 years. During that time, I had 8 hip replacements, and finally had to give up practice. It was during my rehabilitation from one of those surgeries that I began writing. I am currently the Assistant Academic Dean at the Academy for Nursing, in West Palm Beach as well as being a full-time writer.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

I am very excited about my next release. “EVIL AWAKENED,” a YA paranormal thriller/fantasy will be released on October 21^st, 2017

Jon Land, USA Today bestselling author of The Rising, described it this way:

“EVIL AWAKENED features a sultry balance of fantasy, thriller and epic YA adventure—a Native American-themed Game of Thrones!”

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I have always been an avid reader, but when I was younger, writing didn’t interest me. I began writing after a difficult surgery. It started as a cathartic activity where I was able to write down my feelings. I found writing to be the best way to rid myself of my depression and disappointment. The more I wrote, the more ideas for a story came to me. Before I knew it (2 years later, lol), I had a manuscript.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

That’s a tough one. Even though, “Evil Awakened” will be my seventh published novel,I still consider myself to be a student of the craft. If I had to guess, I would say it was after my second book, “Cursed presence” was released.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Again, for me, it was just something that happened organically. If you were to ask me who my inspiration was, that’s easy: my mother. She had a gift and a love for the written word. She was an amazing poet. That’s where my inspiration came from and still comes from, today.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

It was almost ten years ago, so I really don’t remember. I can tell you that the original title was “The Endowment.” For me, titles come as I write. At some point in the process, the title starts to take shape. For my first book, it ended up being, “Cursed Blessing,” which ended up being the first book in a trilogy. And before you ask, it is not something I would recommend. If I had to do it over again, I would have made the books part of a series, but not a trilogy. Why? Because, in my case, I realized the story wasn’t complete at the end of the third book. I ended up finishing that storyline with my next book, “Cornerstone,” which unfortunately wasn’t marketed as such.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging?

Writing style? I consider my style to be fluid. I don’t write from an outline. I start with a seed of an idea and a lead character, then the story and the character(s) dictate where the story will go, I have never had a book end in the way I thought it would when I began writing it.

As far as genre and style, I consider myself to be a thriller writer, but I write in many subgenres, including inspirational (The Trilogy of the Chosen and Cornerstone), hard-core crime (The Sinclair O’Malley series), and now YA fantasy (Evil Awakened is the first book in the Kiche Chronicles).

As far as challenges, I always start with a seed of truth. That seed takes a great deal of research in order to do it justice. As the seed grows and sprouts roots, the fiction takes over.

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

My latest book, “Evil Awakened,” is based on Native American folklore. It’s important to me to make sure the foundation of the book, and entire series, is cemented in their traditions and culture. I want to pay respect to the First Peoples of this country through these stories.

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?

I wish I was able to travel more. When I do travel, I am always looking for ideas or research for my current or future projects. I do most of my research through the internet and personal interviews with experts in the appropriate fields.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

My latest cover (see above) was designed by Keri Knutson. I love her design.

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

I think I’ll let one the people who blurbed the book speak for me:

“Evil Awakened tells a story so tangible and accurate my ancestors would be proud! This is a story for all ages.

“Remember, it is not what is in your blood, it is what is in your heart.”

—Lollie, Choctaw/Cherokee American Indian

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

Oh gosh, there are so many. My favorite author is R.J. Ellory. His writing is gritty, dark, yet poetic all at the same time. My influences are many, starting with Dostoevsky. “Crime and Punishment” in my opinion is one of the greatest books ever written. As far as new authors (I don’t know if I’d consider them new, but . . .), Amy Lignor, Leslie Borghini, J. Kent Holloway, Jeremy Robinson, Kane Gilmour, Matthew James, and my newest favorite, who I can’t get enough of, is K.R. Thompson.

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author.

My greatest supporters outside of my family are the amazing people I get to work with: Shannon and John Raab at Suspense Publishing and Kim Thompson at Magic Quill Press. The other person I would want to thank is friend and author, Amy Lignor. She has been a great inspiration and a wonderful support system.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I see it as a passion that is evolving into a career.

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

No. I love my latest book. It’s helped me evolve into a better person.

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

So much! My respect for our Native American brothers and sisters, and the love and honor that they have for their culture and traditions increased drastically. The respect they have for, not only each other, but for those of different cultures, and their love for nature and the land has influenced my life.

Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

I don’t know. My daughter, Chelsea, if it was possible. If I had to choose from those in the acting field, I would probably choose, Selena Gomez.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Do it because you love it, not because you think you can make money. Passion lasts, money is fleeting.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

I love to stay connected with my readers, and the best way to do so is through my News Letter. The link to it is: http://eepurl.com/cZ4ivH

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I just started reading “Wonder Woman:  Warbringer” by Leigh Bardugo

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

The first? No, but it was probably a Dr. Sues book or a Curious George book.

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

What makes me laugh: I have a very sarcastic sense of humor, so I enjoy sarcasm. What makes me cry: memories of loved ones no longer here.

 

Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

My first thought would be Jesus. I’d just like to walk with him. The other person that comes to mind is Hemingway. I’d like to drink with him. J

 

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

I am an avid reader. So when I’m not writing, I’m usually reading. Other than that, I still hit the gym regularly, and I enjoy going to the gun range. I find shooting (targets) to be peaceful in some bizarre way.  That’s about it. I lead a pretty boring life. LOL

 

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

I don’t watch much. I love “The Big Bang Theory” as well as any of the singing shows: “American Idol,” The Voice,” and X Factor UK.” I watch those with my daughter, so that’s what makes them special. If I’m flipping channels, I’ll usually end up on The Discovery Channel.

 

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

Food: Anything Italian. Music: I’m pretty eclectic. I like everything from Heavy Metal (Metallica is a favorite) to alternative to gospel. There are times I’ll catch myself listening to Opera and really losing myself in it, even though I don’t understand one word. I like the emotion that a song delivers.

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

Read. I will always read.

 

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

That I respected others, regardless of who they were or their station in life.

 

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers?

Absolutely: my website is www.jmleduc.com

You can find updates and events on the site as well as on my Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/J-M-LeDuc-259333374080003/

and my author page on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/J.M.-LeDuc/e/B0096DTNOQ/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1504207352&sr=1-1

But the best way, moving forward, will be through my News Letter. That’s where you’ll find offers and giveaways:

http://eepurl.com/cZ4ivH

 

Here is my interview with Leigh Lennon

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

 

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name.

 Leigh Lennon

What is your age? 42

 

Fiona: Where are you from?

Originally, I am from Washington State, living half of my life in a small farming community by the name of Sprague near Spokane, Washington. Then we moved an hour north of Seattle to a town called Burlington.

I now live in North Carolina near the Raleigh Area.

 

Fiona: A little about your self (ie, your education, family life, etc.).

I am a mom of four crazy kids that keep me busy. I amalso the wife of a cancer survivor. I met my hubs in the Navy, which I joined after Highschool. I have my degree in Elementary Education and I love to cook and read.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

My debut book is coming out on September 15^th and it follows a large and diverse family. In the first book, we meet Justine as an unfiltered woman who says it as it is. This book is appropriately entitled Unfiltered. My next book called Unacquainted will be out Mid October and it follows the same crazy family. The main character is Rose (who is Justine’s daughter) and she is at a crossroads in life. My third book will be the first book in a duet series called The Last Breath.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I started writing in Middle school and my old principle sent my parents a lot of my old manuscripts.  It was fun to see them again and it made me think.I’ve always wanted to be a writer. When my husband was diagnosed with cancer and I was virtually a single mom of four small kids plus taking care of a sick spouse, I needed an outlet. I started writing a YA fantasy book. It sort of stalled then I started with The Last Breath (the book coming out in November). The other books just started falling into place.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I considered myself a writer when I penned the last words to my first book.

 

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Unfiltered is not the first book I wrote, it happens to be the fourth book I wrote. I wanted to write about a woman in her late thirties or early forties who found love again after many years. It was supposed to be a very deep book at first and, though there are certainly serious issues in this book, it is full of humor too.

The first book I wrote is The Last Breath. It is a thought-provoking book dealing with cancer and I wrote it when my hubby was undergoing chemo treatments. It will debut in November and will follow a mother and daughter in a duet with the second book releasing in January called Continue Breathing.

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

It was difficult to name this book that is about to release.  Sometimes, I come up with a title right away or I struggle. Unfilteredhad at least ten different names until one day I said to myself, “This woman is unfiltered and I love writing about her.” Thus the name.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging?

I consider myself a multi-genre writer. I love mysteries with a dark romantic twist. I love chick-lit but I want steamy scenes in the books I read (well most of them). I want to read something that moves me. So I took all those areas I love reading about and that has made me the writer of the subject matters and genres I find myself crafting.

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

I take some of my own life but then twist it into a unique story.

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?

I would like to travel moreand I will start doing that, as it is justified. I try to stick with what I know. I have lived in North Carolina, Washington State,and South Carolina so, as of now, most of stories take place in those areas. One book will take place in New York but I have been there. I will be relying on a lot of research for that though. Another book I started takes place in Australia. I had to put it away because I just don’tknow enough about their culture. I told the hubs, “Hey, I have to go to Australia for research, I will take a friend with me and you can watch the kids.” He only laughed at me. He didn’t think I was serious.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Kasmit Designs designed the cover for Unfilteredand kudos to him for putting up with the first time writer who wanted her cover just right. The problem I had with it is that I had no vision!

 

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

In Unfiltered, I want anyone who reads it, regardless of age, to know that as we get older, we aren’t unlovable. We are just as capable of great love at any age. Though I wrote this book with a certain generation in mind, I think anyone at any age can appreciate this book.

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

I love Jewel E. Ann and her literary style. I just discovered her but I will be reading everything she writes!

Judy Blume will forever be my favorite author. Early on, her Fudge books created a love in my life for reading even when reading was very hard for me. As I got older, I realized she writes women’s fiction. From Summer Sisters to Wifey to Smart Women all the way to In the Unlikely Event, she has stolen my heart with her larger than life characters.

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author.

I have one friend in particular that listened to every plot twist I would come up with, even if she had heard it a million times. She truly cared about everything that my mind was creating.

I also had a beta reader that spent twenty-five hours on the phone with me as we went line by line with changes in my book!

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

That is the plan!

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

If I could redo anything, I would not have changed the tense of this book. I changed from 3^rd POV to 1^stPOV, which I don’t regret! I changed from past to present tense which I totally regret!

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

Oh, where to start. I have stopped writing for the most part for the past five months as I figure out the best way to get my story to print. Once I decided the route to take, I wrote out a strategic plan but even your best laid out plans are not always what works out. It was a lot of hit and miss and determination. So, in the long run, I learned planning is key but it’s also important to be able to change and adapt.

 

Fiona: If your book was made into a film, whom would you like to play the lead?

Reece Witherspoon would be great for the sassy Justine Hernandez.

Mark Ruffalois perfect for the beta male of Nick Wallace.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Don’t let anyone dictate your dreams. I didn’t tell anyone for the longest time I was writing and I know I still get weird looks about this direction I’ve taken in my life.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

I wrote the story of Justine for women in their late thirties and early forties as we begin to realize we are in the middle of our life. Justine is a couple of years away from being alone with her kids in their final years of school. I wanted a book a woman my age could look at and say “We may not be twenty anymore but hell, we are still sexy.” Justine embodies this. I also wanted a book that twenty year olds can look at and think that it is not too bad getting older each year.

The next book follows Justine’s daughter five years later as a young adult. I wanted to make each bookwork for a certain generation but still could be enjoyed by the people of different generations.

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I am all over the place with my reading. I will read three to five books at one time. I am currently reading The Bars Between Us by A. S. Teague, The Truth about Porn Star Boyfriends by Sunniva Dee, The Travelers by Chris Pavone and For You (‘Burg #1) by Kristen Ashley.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I was not a great reader but I will never forget the first book that caught my interest. It is called The Summer of my German Soldier by Bette Greene. It is about a girl living in Arkansas when POW’s from WWII were sent to the United States.  The Nazi POW’s get bussed into town to buy work clothes at a local store. Patty, the main character, becomes infatuated with one prisoner and she harbors him while he thinks of her as a little sister. Oh, I forgot to mention that Patty is Jewish.

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

My kids make me laugh. Their unique personalities and their own passions in life keep me going to follow my own. There is so much that makes me cry. Thanks to my sister, the Christmas Folgers commercial from the 1980’s with Peter surprising his mother, makes me cry.

 

Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

I would love to meet Judy Blume because I adore her books and she has been an influence in my own writing.

 

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

I love to cook and, of course, read. Spending time with my family is the most important thing I do and I make it a priority.

 

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

I fell in love with This is Us. I also am an avid fan of The Last Ship and Eric Dane. Oh, he is just yummy to watch in a uniform. We watch DC comic television shows as a family—The Flash, The Arrow and Supergirl. Then there is Game of Thrones­—need I say more? (Except for saying Jon Snow is hot!)

 

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors, music?

Oh, I am a country girl at heart. It drives my hubby crazy that I grew up near Seattle during the grunge movement. My favorite color is yellow as was evident by every room in our old house(which is a quote in this book) and my favorite food is chicken fried steak, green beans with a ton of butter, and fried potatoes.

 

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

If I couldn’t write, I honestly don’t know what I would do. Nothing is as passionate for me as writing is. (Except being a mom.)

 

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

“I can’t go back to yesterday because I was a different person then.” Lewis Carroll: Alice in Wonderland.

 

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers?

My website is http://www.authorleighlennon.com/

You can follow my at writing-with-a-side-of-life.com to follow my blog.

Please follow me on facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1257849247670788/

Here is my blog tour give away: (It is a great give away!) https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/50f17079264/

I am also looking for three more spots to be filled on my arc team. You can email me at authorleighlennon@gmail.com

Unaquainted-10/13/17
Rose
He burns a passion within me that I have never felt. Do I chose safe or risk it all?

Unfiltered-9/15/2017
Justine
I am always left. Abandonment is my fear and I push everyone away by my cold exterior.  But when I am promised forever, can I believe him?

 

Here is my interview with Shauna Allen

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

 

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age?

Hello! I’m Shauna Allen and I’m the age a girl doesn’t like to give away her age, LOL! Let’s just say I’m comfortable in my own skin. 😉

 

Fiona: Where are you from?

A little bit of everywhere. I’m a dual citizen of the United States and Australia and I’ve lived all over the world, but I’ve primarily grown up in Texas, which is where I currently live.

 

Fiona: A little about your self (ie,  your education, family life, etc.).

I’m married to my high school sweetheart, we have three awesome kids, including a son in the Air Force and two daughters in college, and besides writing, I’m also a Labor & Delivery nurse, a freelance editor, and a Gerard Butler superfan.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

Ooh, I have lots of news! I just released my 25^th book in 5 years! (That includes my YA pen name, SC Montgomery.) This included three, yes, count ‘em, THREE releases this month alone, including Rescuing Rebekah, which is part of Susan Stoker’s Special Forces: Operation Alpha Kindle World, as well as the last two books in my Family Creed series, which I’m incredibly proud of and is the hardest I’ve ever worked on a series.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I can give you the exact date, actually. I sat down to write my first manuscript on July 31, 2007 because the stories just wouldn’t go away, LOL. I tried to ignore them, but when I couldn’t anymore, I figured what harm would there be in writing them down? Who would have to know, right? Well . . . the rest is history, as they say.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I have no idea how to answer this. I think you’re a writer the minute you make up your mind that you are one, and for me, it was a gradual process and the realization that I couldn’t not write.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

See question above and those pesky stories that nagged me, LOL!

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Of what? If you’re asking about that first thing I wrote, well, it will never see the light of day, so it doesn’t have a title. 😉 It might be better instead to answer the question regarding my more recent series instead. The first book came about after I watched the movie “The Green Mile” with my daughter. Tom Hanks’ character intrigued me and I began to wonder if I could tackle making a prison guard, or more specifically, one who works on death row, into a romantic hero. What would his back story be? Why would he do that job? Thus, the Creed family was born and Asher Creed’s story came to be and so, I titled his book simply, The Executioner.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging?

Not really. It’s been an evolution since I published my first book until now, though I have found I have grown to be a more emotional writer, tackling deeper, darker issues. I also love, love, love the male point of view, and this entire series I did something daring and tried 100% first person male POV. So far, no complaints.

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

The Family Creed series is a family saga that follows a family of five brothers as they deal with the aftermath of a tragedy that rocked their family when their baby sister disappeared without a trace over a decade earlier, as well as their love stories, of course. While all of these books are entirely fictional and not based on anything or anyone I know at all, I think the stories are entirely plausible and sadly very realistic with what they deal with.

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?

Not necessarily, but I did have these stories take place near me, so I did take a couple of “field trips” to study the area and take photos for reference before and during the writing process.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Oh, my covers! I love them! NajlaQamber Designs created them for me. Aren’t they stunning?

 

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

The theme of the entire series is really about love and loss and learning to cope through grief.

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

I have so many authors that I love, it would be hard to choose. Off the top of my head, the favorites that come to mind right now would be Katy Evans, A. Zavarelli, Emma Scott, and Katy Regnery because on some level or another all of these authors have moved me emotionally with their words and as an author myself, I appreciate that more than anything.

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author.

My writing friends. Hands down. The friends that writing has brought me have turned out to be some of the best friends I could’ve ever asked for, and some of them I’ve never even met in person.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes. I would love that more than anything and I strive toward that goal.

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

No. Not a thing.

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

That I can do anything I set my mind to.

 

Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

Tom Hardy.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Keep going. You’re not like anyone else, so don’t bother comparing their journey to yours.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.<3

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m actually not reading anything, sadly. I just finished up some edits that I needed to do, then I think I’ll dig into my next book club book! (Yes, I’m part of a book club, which is great because it pushes me out of my normal genres!)

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

No, I wish I did!

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

My son makes me laugh all the time, he’s the funniest person I know and even though he’s overseas in the military, we often get into GIF wars, which are the highlight of my day and make him seem not so far away.

Cry? Well, I lost my mother to cancer in 2014 and I still miss her all the time.

 

Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

Gerard Butler. Need I say why? 😉

 

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

I read, I write, I watch TV. Is that lame?

 

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

I love The Voice, America’s Got Talent, Homicide Hunter, Outlander, Vikings, Call the Midwife, and This is Us . . . and Gerard Butler movies! 😉

 

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

Devil’s food chocolate cupcakes, yellow, 80’s, and Contemporary Christian mostly.

 

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

Teach World Religion or Creative Writing.

 

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

She lived. She loved.

 

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers?

www.shaunaallen.com

Links:

Amazon author page:  http://amzn.to/1jawXro

Family Creed: http://www.shaunaallen.com/the-family-creed/

Kindle Worlds: http://www.shaunaallen.com/kindle-worlds/

Jack ‘Em Up: http://www.shaunaallen.com/jack-em-up/

SC Montgomery website: http://www.scmontgomery.com/

 

Here is my interview with Mary Anne Edwards

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

 

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age?

 First, let me say thank you for allowing me to be on your blog. THANK YOU! My name is Mary Anne Edwards  In my mind, I think I’m 40 but my body tells me I’m almost 60.

 

Fiona: Where are you from?

I was born north of the Mexican border in Mercedes, Texas. I’ve lived most of my life in the Atlanta, Georgia area.

 

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

.My life is rather vanilla. I have two brothers, one older, one younger, and I have two sisters, both younger. I’ve been married almost 37 years. Gertrude is our ill-tempered Tuxedo Cat.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

 I’m currently writing, Good To Be King, the sixth book in The Charlie McClung Mystery Series.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I’ve been writing for as long as I can remember, short stories and poems. My husband encouraged me to submit my short stories and a few of them were published. Then he encouraged me to write a novel. The results, The Charlie McClung Mystery Series.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I held Brilliant Disguise in my hands. When I start to have doubts, it’ll get email or message from a reader telling me how much they love Charlie and Marian’s story.Then, I feel like a real author again.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Brilliant Disguise is loosely based on a family story. So I used that to invent the town, the characters, and crime.

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

My titles all come from songs that inspire me and fit the plots.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging?

 My stories are dialogue driven. The balance of dialogue and description to move along the plot can be a challenge.

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

Almost all of it. I write what I know. My characters are Frankenstein-like. I take idiosyncrasies, features, conversations, and my weird imagination to create my characters and situations. When it comes to Charlie and Marian, well, there’s a lot of my husband and me written into their personalities, interactions, and relationship.

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?

I use my travels sometimes in my books. My husband and I like to cruise. That’s how my third book, Criminal Kind, came to fruition. So far I haven’t traveled for research. But I’d love to travel to Ireland for research. Maybe Charlie and Marian could visit?

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I’ve had four different graphic designers, Jasmin Woodworth, Michael James Canales, Theo Wasserberg, and Grafiz Designs.

 

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

No matter how much you think you know someone, you really don’t. You can’t delve into their thoughts, their psyche to completely understand what makes them tick.

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

Angie Dokos, and Cynthia Lott are two rising stars. They write different genres. Angie writes New Adult and Cynthia writes paranormal mysteries. As for a favorite author, that’s a tough one to answer. These are a few of my favorite authors. Gretchen Archer writes humorous mysteries. Anne Perry’s William Monk series are Victorian mysteries. Hank Phillippi Ryan writes the Jane Ryland Mysteries set in present time. Caroline Graham’s Midsomer Murder Mysteries, British mysteries. Last but not least, the last Elizabeth Peters’ Amelia Peabody Mysteries.

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author.

Gretchen Smith and Shelby Culbertson.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes, I write full-time now. I’m looking forward to be on the bestseller’s list.

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

There are changes I’d like to make in all of my books. But I think if I made those changes it would lead to one more, then another, and another. The changes would never stop.

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

My books are set in the early 1980s. I do a lot of research for each of my books, even to make sure the weather for each day is correct. It surprises me how many everyday items that I use now didn’t exist then. I have a friend who is a forensic medical examiner. She is an invaluable resource. You know how in movies or TV shows when a drowning victim is found in a swimming pool, they’re floating on the surface. Not! Depending on the temperature of the water and other conditions, it can take up to two weeks. But fiction is better than facts when it comes to mysteries. Right?

 

Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

 Who would you pick to play Detective Charlie McClung? LOL Maybe Colin Farrell? I really don’t know. I’d just be happy if my books were on the big screens or little screen.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Before you write the first word, starting building your fan base. Set up your social media accounts, your website or blog. That way when your book is published, you’ll have readers ready to purchase your book.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

First I want to say,‘Thank you for your support.’I’m nothing without my readers. And please, please, please leave a book review on Amazon.

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

The Sociopath Next Door by Martha Stout.

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

It was a Trixie Belden novel. My mother gave a set to me for my birthday.

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

My husband makes be laugh. Besides him, any kind of physical comedy cracks me up and good word play. Everything makes me cry. Seeing someone crying makes me cry.

 

Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

Well, it was Anne Perry but I meet her a couple of years ago. Lovely lady. Interesting too. I think meeting George Washington would be fascinating!

 

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

 Reading and watching mysteries.

 

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

I adore British mysteries! I watch a lot of PBS. I also love comedies and Sci-Fi. Oh, a good western, too. Most anything that’s not too graphic.

 

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors, music?

I love fried chicken fingers and French fries with white gravy. I’ll never say no to pizza or a really good hamburger.Purple is my favorite color. I listen to a variety of music but Tom Petty is my all-time favorite. A close second it Richard Thompson.

 

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

 I would volunteer for a non-profit. Give back to my community through service.

 

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

 “I told you I was sick!”

 

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers?

I have a newsletter that goes out once a month, sometimes twice if there’s news that can’t wait for the next newsletter. To sign up, you can go to my website or my Author Mary Anne Edwards Facebook page.

Website –  www.MaryAnneEdwards.com

Social Media Links

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/authormaryanneedwards

Website:  http://maryanneedwards.com/

Amazon Author Page: USA  http://www.amazon.com/Mary-Anne-Edwards/e/B00HZ28TIQ

UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/Mary-Anne-Edwards/e/B00HZ28TIQ/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

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

Google+:  https://plus.google.com/u/0/+MaryAnneEdwards/posts

LinkedIn:  www.linkedin.com/in/maryanneedwards

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/maedwards58

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpzz9_nQ5yzE60nW-LMkgUQ

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7791576.Mary_Anne_Edwards

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-anne-edwards

 

Buy Links

“Brilliant Disguise” –  USA http://goo.gl/OaJGwc

UK  http://amzn.to/2wV9NAg

“A Good Girl” –  USA http://goo.gl/CBW00b

UK http://amzn.to/2wkZC6E

“Criminal Kind” – USA  http://goo.gl/7EzXn8

UK  http://amzn.to/2x9wznl

“Sins of My Youth” – USA  http://goo.gl/1QqMBV

UK  http://amzn.to/2vMO2Ol

“Flirting With Time” – USA  http://goo.gl/MPaGHH

UK http://amzn.to/2wMiz3f

 

Here is my interview with James ‘Grim’ Desborough

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

 

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age?

 I am James ‘Grim’ Desborough (the Grim being an old college nickname from my Goth days) and I am old enough to know better, and young enough to get away with things.

 

Fiona: Where are you from?

 I live in a small village in deepest, darkest Hampshire in the UK. I’ve lived there most of my life, apart from a short spell in Britain’s most grey and boring town, Basingstoke. It’s so non-descript and grey that even the only thing it has of note – roundabouts – it is beaten out on by Swindon.

 

Fiona: A little about your self (ie,  your education, family life, etc.).

There’s not a great deal to tell really. I’m married. I have two cats who are as much muses as gremlins. I studied to do art but ended up doing writing. I have a lifelong passion for politics and history – especially the history of what you might call ‘nerd media’. I’m a passionate atheist, an ardent – old school – left anarchist, and I spend most of my days in a state of exasperation at the general state of the human species.

I suffer from severe and ongoing depression, which has also made me something of an activist on mental health issues and I try to be open about my illness and state of being as a way of helping others.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

I just released a non-fiction book called ‘Inside Gamergate’, about the big, online scandal of 2014 which is still ongoing to some extent and which has become a part of the broader culture war that is still ongoing around the world. There was an untold story there, passed over by the mainstream media. I was a part of that ‘consumer revolt’ and wanted to write a social history of what happened, to correct the record.

Otherwise I mostly work in tabletop role-playing games, though I have written a collection of short stories (Pulp Nova) and a full length novel (Old, Fat Punks) and I am working on a survival horror diary-novel and a follow-up to Pulp Nova. I also write erotica under a pen name, and no, I’m not telling you what it is.

Game-wise I’m working on licensed roleplaying products based on Jon Norman’s Gor novels, and figuring out my next big projects.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I’ve always been a storyteller, right from when I was little. That was channelled into role-playing games for most of my life and then I began writing somewhat professionally in the 90s, working on fanzines and fan-material.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I suppose when I, and my writing partner Steve Mortimer, wrote ‘The Munchkin’s Guide to Powergaming’ in 1999/2000. That was my first real, commercial break and it won an award, as well as spawning the whole ‘Munchkin’ franchise of card games and so forth. I’ve been chasing a similar level of success ever since.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

In that instance it was all the games we’d ever played and the quirks of players we knew. It was a rich vein of comedy, albeit for a niche audience. The funny thing was that it was really just a throwaway idea we tossed into a bunch of other suggestions we had made when looking for freelance work.

For my own writing, outside of games, I have long been fascinated by early science fiction. I wanted to go back and examine those tropes and ideas with a more modern eye. I’ve long thought that the cheapness and ease of e-publishing lends itself to that high-volume, hit-and-miss, try anything model of the pulps and I think it has, though it’s different.

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Pulps, but new, and explosive. Novel as in new, neo as in new, nova as in explosion, pulp as in what I was referencing. It just seemed to work.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging?

I have a fairly loose, informal style. No matter what I’m writing there’s always a little humour in there and I can’t help buy enjoy wordplay. I suppose my style is a little ‘breathless’, editors often have to break things up as I gallop ahead and cram a lot in, in a short space of time. Despite that, reviewers often tell me my style is efficient, that I can say a lot in a relatively short amount of space, and that my characters are distinct.

Of course, as the author, I have no confidence in my own abilities.

The biggest challenge today, regardless of genre I think, is that everything is so political and I’m not really at home in any camp. I’m not inclined to be PC and I’m not inclined to be mean-spirited or archly conservative either. So I get it from all sides.

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

Fantastical fiction is rarely grounded in real life, but what you’re aiming for is a sort of… plausibility. It’s a paradox in genre writing that the more fantastical elements you use the more the rest has to be grounded in the believable and plausible. Characters help keep such fiction grounded and relatable I think. So long as you can see through the character’s eyes, you can understand the strangest of worlds. That’s true for my games writing and my sci-fi and fantasy work.

My full length novel, Old, Fat Punks, is a departure from fantasy and into a sort of political/crime/caper story, set in our contemporary world. The characters in that are, somewhat, amalgums of people I’ve known and aspects of my own life experience. Ageing, becoming more and more disenchanted with people and politics, frustrated at the world. Seeing how unfair and rough the world can be to people and trying to find humour and defiance in all that.

 

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?

On a writer’s salary? I think not!

You can’t travel to the Moon or a fantasy land, save by reading and imagining. I’d like to travel more but in the absence of that, knowing people around the world and having access to the Internet is the next best thing – so long as you’re careful.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I use all sorts of different people to do cover – and interior – illustrations for me. It wouldn’t be fair to highlight any single individual. I try to work with a lot of younger artists to help them pay their way through school and even run a scholarship in memory of a young artist I worked with for several years, who unfortunately passed away. He went by Darkzel and I still miss him and his brilliant work.

 

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

I’m generally not a fan of bash-you-over-the-head message fiction. I think the story has to come first and your own views and ideas will come through organically that way. Message fiction tends to have the same problem as Christian Rock. It’s so busy shoving its view down your throat that it forgets to be any good.

In some of my work there’s a defiance of social censure and outrage culture, in most of it it’s just about what is fun. Old, Fat Punks comes the closest to message fiction and that’s about finding hope and humour in nihilism and hopelessness.

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

I tend to prefer older books. The New Wave science fiction of the 60s and 70s. The last couple of authors who really grabbed my attention aren’t really ‘new’. China Mieville’s work always has something to recommend it and Peter F Hamilton writes sci-fi almost as good as the old masters.

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author.

The Gamergate community has – mostly – been very supportive of my efforts with Inside Gamergate. Everything I work in is niche though, Steve Jackson Games gave me my first break, but these days I work for myself as a small publisher.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I do, and it’s the only thing I can really do any more. So I’m pretty much stuffed as the market is so volatile and the margins so small these days! Still, you have to do what you have to do.

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

I don’t think I would. It was written, in some ways, as a response to another book that isn’t coming out until early September. I’ve read some leaked material from that book and it seems what I wrote was the best counter I could have hoped for.

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

I learned that writing non-fiction is a lot easier than writing fiction!

Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

That wouldn’t work for Inside Gamergate, so looking back to Old, Fat Punks I would say… that I don’t know. It would need to be a 50 year old character actor from London. I’ve no idea who would fit!

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Write. Network. Hold each other up. Fight for your right to free expression. Our rights, as creators, have never been in more peril and a large part of that is because we’re so intolerant of each other. Worry more about whether the writing is good, and not the ‘message’ it sends.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

I appreciate every single one of you.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m currently reading the Gravel graphic novels by Warren Ellis.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Probably a chewable ABC book.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Antidepressants tend to dull your emotions, so the most anything gets is generally a wry smile or a sigh I’m afraid!

Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

Not any one person… I’d like to travel back in time to one of those 1940s or 50s early, science fiction conventions where all the greats were under one roof.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

Games, painting and drawing though I’d lost any joy in that for years, reading, Youtube commentary, board games… all sorts.

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

Anything SF&F, horror less so – I’m fussy about horror, it has to be really good, or really bad. I have an unabashed joy for schlocky straight-to-video films.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

Curry/Black/Goth, metal, industrial and some odd bits here and there of every other genre.

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

Slowly starve to death.

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

Here lies Grim

He’s really dead

But at least

He was well-read

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers?

https://postmortemstudios.wordpress.com/ is my main blog.

I also have https://talesofgrim.wordpress.com/ for my non-gaming writing.

Twitter: @grimachu

Facebook: james.desborough, JGDgames, Jdwriter, PostmortemStudios

Youtube: jamesgrimdesborough

Lulu: http://www.lulu.com/spotlight/grim1031

Amazon:  https://www.amazon.co.uk/James-Desborough/e/B004ULUKCS/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1

 

Here is my interview with Jennifer Julie Miller

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

 

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age?

My name is Jennifer Julie Miller and I’m 43 years old.

 

Fiona: Where are you from?  

A little town in southern Ohio, called Ironton

 

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

Wow, let me see. I have a boy job by day. I’m a Brazer at a local factory and I have done that for 18years now. I have only been writing since 2015, and I am the proud author of four books. I have two grown kids and now I have both of their better half’s also. I have a very rotten granddaughter who reminds me to play, with very supportive parents, aunts, sister, and friends. I have been blessed with my very own Happy Ever After. I am married to my high school sweetheart, who makes me smile every day, and after all these years I still miss him when he isn’t around. Rick is my very best friend in the world and I’m lucky enough to be married to him.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

I just finished my series the Water Skippers, book four went live August 21,2017 Shadow Reborn.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing in 2015, after my husband had a dream about a girl and her magical Water Skippers…. He got up one morning and said, “Come on, we need to go buy a few things.” He took me to a local office max. I honestly, had that deer in the headlight look. I had no idea why we were there, anyway, he says. “Pick out a nice notebook and a pen I have something I want you to write.”  We came home and he told me all about this dream. This is what my very first book Water Skippers is all about… A dream my husband had.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

After book three, it was a hobby up to that point.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

My husband and his crazy imagination.

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The Water Skippers… It’s the magical creatures in all of my books. They are my little hero’s, and they always help the guy get the girl.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style?

Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging?

I live in Appalachia, so I talk that way, and I spell that way unfortunately.

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

All of my books are me. My mom says it’s like being inside of my head…. So many of the stories in my books, have really happened in my own life.

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?  

No I have everything I need right around me.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Melagraphics , on Fivver

 

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

Love, Love…. Our lives are so much more than sex and arguing. There is no greater gift than to love or to be loved and my books hit that hard.

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

Who is your favorite writer, and what is it about their work that really strikes you?

I have some amazing author friends, People I wouldn’t have ever met if it hadn’t been for this magical world of make-believe. Joann Herley, is an amazing writer with an imagination that will astound you. Sandra Neeley’s humor and her band of misfit shifters will rock your world… My favorite author has to be Donna Grant, just saying her name says it all. She is the queen of paranormal romance.

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author.

Joann Herley, she has pushed me from the very beginning to be the best I can, and she has done everything she can do to help me each step of the way.. I have never met her I’m in Ohio and she is in California. She has become one of my very best friends and I have never heard her voice. We text constantly, like two teenage girls.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I can always hope, but I still need my day job for sure.

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

 

No, my last book I’m very proud of. I think everyone will see me grow immensely as an author.

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

I am constantly learning, from punctuation, to better descriptions. You have to have thick skin to be a writer.

 

 

Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

If it was made into a movie I wouldn’t care… But I see Kyle in my head and he sure looks a lot like Scott Eastwood.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Don’t stop; write until your fingers fall off, because when someone tells you they love it… It’s all worth it.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Remember the little things, like the first time you held a guys hand, or that amazing awkward first kiss. Take the time to look up at the stars, and take the time to play in the rain. It’s the little moments in life you will always cherish.

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I read around 5 books a week so it changes to quick for me to put one on here. But I will say. I only read (NOT REAL) life is real enough, so I want to escape into Jenniferville.

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Johanna Lindsey, she was my fav.

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

I hate to cry, it always makes me sick, so I avoid anything unpleasant, like sappy movies.  My husband always makes me laugh. He is my own personal hero.

 

Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

Not really.

 

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

Flowers, I have 18 flowerbeds that keep me on my toes in the summer.

 

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

I don’t watch much TV. but I will put the book down for the Game of Thrones.

 

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

Mexican, purple, rock.

 

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

I would have my own green house.

 

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

Here lays Ricks wife.. Because he is larger than life, and most people know me only as Ricks wife. Hahah it’s a good thing I like him so much.

 

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers?  

Http://Amazon.com/author/jjm5325903.  I am also on Twitter www. Jenniferrick@twitter.com…. Also I love to talk so email me at Jenniferjuliemiller@gmail.com…. And I have a website https://jenniferjuliemille.wixsite.com/mysite..

 

Here is my interview with Andrew Pyper

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

 

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age?

I’m Andrew Pyper, and I’m 49.

 

Fiona: Where are you from?

I grew up in Stratford, Ontario, Canada.

 

Fiona: A little about your self (ie,  your education, family life, etc.).

I went to McGill University, where I studied English Literature, and then took a law degree at the University of Toronto.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

My latest novel, The Only Child, came out in the early summer. I’m currently working on developing a couple of projects for TV and film.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I was always telling stories as a kid. Recording “shows” on my tape recorder, keeping notebooks. Why? It was an antidote to boredom.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I suppose some time after I made my living from my writing. (This is a very Presbyterian view of things, but I’m a first generation child of Northern Irish Presbyterian parents, so there you go).

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

The pleasure in writing the stories.

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

My first book – a collection of short stories –went through a couple of different titles before we landed on Kiss Me. I really like the invitation in it, the opening for the reader to come inside.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging?

Probably the most challenging thing about writing is, for me, quieting the demons of doubt in your own head.

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

Very little. I’m not an autobiographical novelist, relatively speaking. But it all comes from life, ultimately. Just exploded and reconstructed version of it.

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?

Depends on the project. Although I do my best to come up with solid-sounding reasons to go off for trips, whether truly necessary or otherwise.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

The publishers. I’m published in a number of foreign territories and it’s always fascinating to see the designs they come up with.

 

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

That’s for them to determine.

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

So many favourites. Off the top of my head I’d say Dan Chaon. He’s an American novelist who writes very complex, disorienting, character-driven thrillers. Amazing prose stylist.

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author.

So many. My agent has been with me from the beginning though, so a shout-out to Anne McDermid.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I’d be unemployable without it.

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

A thousand small things, probably. But the big things are pretty much what I intended.

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

Know what your book is about before writing it. (This can change, of course, but start with an “about” you believe in).

 

Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

Rooney Mara.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Make something happen.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Thank you. Seriously. Thank you for coming along on the journey.

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

The Quiet Room by Lori Schiller.

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Don’t know. It would’ve had pictures.

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Pretty much anything these days.

 

Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

Whoever’s paying for drinks.

 

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

I golf a bit, and badly. I’m not really a hobbyist.

 

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

Lately Stranger Things, Homeland on the TV side. Any sci-fi, suspense, horror on the movie side.

 

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

Curry. Blue. Funk.

 

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

Miss writing.

 

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

A Good Dad.

 

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers?

www.andrewpyper.com

Amazon Authors Page

https://www.amazon.com/Andrew-Pyper/e/B001HD0266/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Andrew-Pyper/e/B001HD0266/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1

 

 

Here is my interview with Matthew Williams

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

 

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age?

Matthew Williams. I’m 42.

 

Fiona: Where are you from?

I was born in Evesham, England. I grew up in the village of Feckenham, Worcestershire, and have spent all of my life living around the Midlands area of the UK.

 

Fiona: A little about your self (ie,  your education, family life, etc.).

I have HNC’s in both electrical and mechanical engineering and I work as a maintenance manager in the paper industry. I have 2 sons and a very loving wife. I am extremely happy with my life and I love to travel with my wife and my youngest son, it really does broaden the mind.

 

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

I am just about halfway through my third novel ‘Talia’s Kiss’ and I have the framework for my fourth novel. It is, as yet, untitled; but it’s likely to be an apocalyptic story.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

It was purely by accident and it happened in 1999. I am dyslexic and I managed to overcome reading difficulties by reading. When I was first promoted to be a manager, it was written communication that I found difficult. I decided to write a short story that had been bouncing around in my head for years, it certainly helped my confidence. 7 years later, I found that short story and reworked it into my first novel ‘The Shady Corner’.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I think it was very recently to be honest. After my first novel was published in 2008, and then republished in 2012, I didn’t consider myself to be a writer at all.  After I completed my second novel at the end of 2016 and finally read it back, I realised that I really can create a good story, the feedback that continues to follow since it was published in March 2017 reinforces that I am a writer. I just wish I had the time to write more. My head is bursting with new ideas lol.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

My first novel ‘The Shady Corner’ was based on an idea of what may happen after you die.  The idea evolved as I wrote the story, but fundamentally that initial idea stood firm and became the twist and the end of the story.

 

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The work in progress title was actually just three words from the opening sentence in the book. Until the story was finished I hadn’t given the title any thought whatsoever.  But once the story was complete and the character of David Wilcox had grown into the monster that he is ‘The Shady Corner’ which was always the work in progress title seemed to fit perfectly, when you relate it to the dark corners of the mind.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging?

My writing style is always developing, and has been likened to James Herbert by some of my readers.  My stories are horror/suspense/thriller, so I guess the biggest challenge is to keep the stories original and fresh.  So many stories exist in the world of horror and it is a very broad genre. That makes it difficult to do something new, but I have been told that I am doing ok so far.

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

Apart from the actual horror in my books, a great deal is based on real people, places, events, and experiences. I find that it helps with the visual in my own head as I am writing.

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?

I haven’t had to travel for my writing yet, although I recently spend some time in Switzerland and the framework for my fourth novel was born there.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

The cover for The Shady Corner is entirely my own work, it is even my own face interlaced with that of a skull to give it a more evil look. The cover for Shadowchild was my design, but was brought to life by my publishers.

 

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

No. My work is purely fictional, because of the nature of what I write and the ideas that find their way on to the page, I have found that some of the story arcs do offend some readers.  This is not intentional at all, I write what I write to realise something original, this does mean that the messages may be controversial if they clash with the readers own opinions or beliefs.

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

I don’t read enough to be honest. But I would have to say that my favourite author is Stephen King.  He has let me down on a few occasions, but on the whole his stories are wonderful.  I am currently reading More Nightly Visits by Stephen Helmes, I loved his first book.  What struck me was the imagination and simplicity of his short stories, it reminded me of Nightmares and Dreamscapes by Stephen King in a lot of ways, it’s very good.

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author.

I love the way you’ve worded that question, being a horror writer I deal with entities all the time lol. But aside from my wife, nobody’s support comes close.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I would love for writing to be my career, since finding the stories inside me, there is nothing that would please me more.

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

I have received great feedback regarding my latest novel ‘Shadowchild’ I have also received some criticism regarding certain aspects of the book. At the time of writing it, I was extremely happy with the finished novel and I have to say that is still the case.  I am not naïve enough to believe that I can please everyone.  Just one million happy readers will do lol.

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

Absolutely, I believe that I am still learning in all aspects of life. I don’t ever want to stop learning.

 

Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

For ‘The Shady Corner’ I could see James McAvoy as the lead after watching him in the lead role in Split recently.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Listen to your critics and be patient are the main things that I’ve learned.  And I don’t know if this is true of all authors, but try not to over plan every detail. I did this with The Shady Corner and had to keep going back to rewrite whole chapters when fresh and better ideas popped up.  I do always find that my stories evolve as I write them.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

I write horror stories and I intend to shock and scare my readers, while hopefully giving them an original feel and a satisfying ending.

 

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

More Nightly Visits by Stephen Helmes&The Restaurant at the end of the Universe by Douglas Adams – both great so far.

 

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

The first book that I really remember reading was Danny Champion of the World by Roald Dahl

 

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Many things make me laugh, Ricky Gervais probably more than most though. As for what makes me cry, I’d have to say movies probably do it for me the most, but I have made myself cry on occasion while writing.  Sometimes I am so deep in the characters head that I feel their pain when bad things happen to them.

 

Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

Just one! My God how do I choose just one! Okay I’ll go for James Hetfield from Metallica.

 

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

Travel with my family.

 

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

Favourite TV – Game of Thrones, The Walking Dead, Breaking Bad, Red Dwarf.

Favourite Movies – Eden Lake, The Green Mile, District 9, Star Wars (any of them lol), the list could go on forever.

 

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

I enjoy a range of food and my wife is a great cook so we eat well, but if there was one food that I struggle to be without, it’s a good curry.

Favourite colours – Red and Black

I love music so much it’s unreal. I’ve always said that if I had a choice of going deaf or going blind, then I’d go blind, because I couldn’t live without music.  Metallica, Eminem, Matt Cardle, Adele, Rihanna; basically if I like it then I listen to it.

 

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

Spend all my time with my family and travel the world.

 

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

Loving and dedicated husband and father, so long as I achieve that then my life was a success.

 

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers?

www.matthewwilliamsauthor.com

www.facebook.com/theshadycorner

www.twitter.com/theshadycorner1

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Matthew-Williams/e/B0034OJ6D6/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6525164.Matthew_Williams

http://matthewwilliams.allauthor.com/