Here is my interview with Lizzie Chantree

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, I’m Lizzie Chantree and I’m well over 40!

Fiona: Where are you from?

I’m from Essex, England.

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

I am married with two children. I ran my own businesses for over 15 years until my child became unwell and I had to have a change of career. Writing meant I could stay at home and be near.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

I have published two books this year so far, with Crooked Cat Books, and both are international bestsellers! My latest book, If you love me, I’m yours, was ranked #1 on Amazon’s Hot New Releases.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing to be able to sit and listen to my daughter’s breathing as she was unwell for seven years. To keep myself awake at night, so that I could watch over her, I began to write books full of the sunshine and laughter that was missing from my own life at that time.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

After people began buying my first book and letting me know how much they loved the stories.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I was in quite a dark place, emotionally, so writing something full of happiness and light really helped me cope with the depression I suffered when my child was unwell (she’s fine now).

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The book is about a chauffeur company with gorgeous drivers, which is run by a shy woman who hates the limelight. Her company hits the headlines for various reasons and she has to scoop her sister and friends up and hide them away on an exotic island, while she tries to find out who is sabotaging her business. The book is called Babe Driven. It’s full of sunshine, laughter and sexy band members who are out to cause all sorts of trouble!

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

I write by hand for the first 20,000 words or so. Then I type the rest. I have rough chapter guides, but the story flows from those. I don’t plan every page. The challenging part is reading my own messy handwriting and then typing up the rest of the manuscript. I write quickly, so my handwriting gets even worse.

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

I have 20 years of experience of running creative businesses. All of my books have quite unusual businesses in them and a few eccentric characters, which I love. Other than that, I make it all up from ideas in my mind.

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

I move around a lot with my family and love taking a pen and paper with me to write. I write anywhere, from the car outside school whilst waiting to collect the children, or in café’s, at the beach, or anywhere with a beautiful view.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I chose the images and my publisher designs the rest.

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

Most of my books are about not being perfect and not needing to be. Some of my characters are really troubled and have had difficult pasts, but I try and help them find a light in dark times like I did.

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 really admire the work by Isabella May. She writes really fresh and exciting books.

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

I am part of a book club called RRBC. There are so many authors there who have helped me and offered support and advice. One in particular, Jan Hawke, sadly passed away recently, but she will never be forgotten.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes. I love my new career. It’s my full-time job now, which I find really exciting!

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

Not at all. I love my stories and hope readers do as well. The feedback I have received from people who have read it has made me cry happy tears, as it has moved some of them to tears too and made them feel really connected with the characters.

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

I learnt to enjoy the whole process and to give myself time to relax now and then, as writing a book and bringing it to market can be exhausting and exhilarating.

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

For if you love me, I’m yours, I’d like someone like Margo Robbie to play Dotty.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Get words onto paper. You can’t edit a blank page.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Every time an author is given a great review about a book they have written, it’s like they have just been handed a rainbow. It means the hours of writing were worth it and it makes us want to write more books!

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m just about to start reading Chasing the Case by Joan Livingston.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Perhaps not the first book, but I was inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien and Charlotte Bronte in school.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Friends and family. 😀

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

I’d love to meet Ed Sheeran. I’m fascinated with how he writes music. His songs are stories and they evoke such emotion.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

I love to paint huge landscapes. I have exhibited them over the years.

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

I love reality TV! I work long hours, so seeing people have fun always makes me smile too. I also enjoy going to the cinema to see movies. I have an eclectic taste in films and television.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors, 

Music? Fajitas. Blue. Soul music.

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

I’d paint.

Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time?

With my family. Probably eating a good meal and enjoying the conversation. My family are lively and a bit bonkers.

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

Loved.

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

 Social media links:

Website:  https://lizziechantree.com

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/Lizzie_Chantree

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/lizzie.chantree.

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/lizzie_chantree/

Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7391757.Lizzie_Chantree

Universal book buy link: If you love me, I’m yous: viewbook.at/IfYouLoveMe-ImYours

Universal book buy link: Ninja School Mum: viewBook.at/NinjaSchoolMum

Universal book buy link: Babe Driven: myBook.to/LizziesBooks

Universal book buy link: Love’s Child: viewBook.at/Amazon-LovesChild

Universal book buy link: Finding Gina: viewBook.at/Amazon-FindingGina

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Here is my interview with Michelle Ann Hollstein

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 Michelle Ann Hollstein and do I have to admit my age? 😉  It’s 43.  

Fiona: Where are you from?  

I live in Oceanside, California.

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

I’m a single mom with two wonderful children and two spoiled cats.  I work from home as a Safety Analyst for an online company.  For fun, I love to write books.  To me writing a book is just as much fun as reading one.  I have a BA Degree in Art Studio with a concentration in painting.  I love tapping into my creative side.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

I’m currently having my books made into audiobooks. I’m so excited!  I love hearing the different narrators bring my stories to life.  So much fun!

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing? 

I was working as an administrative assistant for a company in the desert and was bored out of my mind.  I couldn’t just open a book at my desk and read when work was slow, so I decided to write one instead.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer? 

Probably after I’d written my 6^th or 7^th book.  I was addicted and couldn’t stop.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book? 

I had gone on a date with an eccentric musician when I lived in the desert.  He believed a certain planet was going to be coming into our solar system and colliding with the Earth.  Well, I was telling one of my co-workers that worked in our accounting department about my date.  He laughed and said, “That would make a good book.”  I remember looking at him and saying, “I think you’re right!  I’m going to start writing it right now.”  And, I did. 

 Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I’ve lost count on how many books and stories I’ve written, but sometimes the titles come to me before I even begin to write the story.

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

I’ve written in several different genres; fantasy, cozy mysteries, paranormal mysteries, sci-fi horror, and also beginning painting books.  I don’t know if I’d consider my writing as having any certain type of style.  In every genre, I just go with the flow and have fun.

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

I write fiction in several genres, but there are always experiences, people, and places in my books that are based on real life.  I like to use places I’ve been and know really well.  Before moving to Oceanside, I lived in the Palm Springs for 11 years.  Since I’d spent so much time in the Southern California desert, I love using the area in my Aggie Underhill Mystery series.  

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

A couple of my books were inspired by places I’ve been such as One Hell of a Cruise, An Aggie Underhill Mystery, I wrote right after I took a Mexican Riviera cruise.  Both Vegas or Bust, An Aggie Underhill Mystery, and Beautiful Beginnings, A Vienna Rossi Paranormal Mystery, were written right after I returned home from attending the Marine Corps Ball in Las Vegas.  In fact, I have a scene in both of those books where my characters from both series cross-over and meet.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

 The book covers for my latest books and stories I’ve been purchasing from SelfPubBookcovers.com.  I love their covers!

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

My main goal is to provide a fun escape from reality for my readers.

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 so many authors.  I don’t believe I have a favorite.  J.K. Rowling had inspired me to want to write my own books.  After reading Harry Potter, quite a few years back, I’d written my Niberia Trilogy (which I’m currently rewriting).  Recently, I’ve been reading a lot of Janet Evanovich and MC Beaton books.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career? 

Oh my goodness, I would be in writer’s heaven if I could write full time and make it a career.  That is my goal and dream!  However, as a single mother, I’m balancing my work, children, and writing.  But the answer is yes, I see it as a career.

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

No.  I’m very happy with my latest work.

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

My most recent books, my Fatal Reaction series, are in a completely new genre for me.  I’ve learned that my writing is quite versatile.

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

Hmmm, I still have stars in my eyes thinking of my Fatal Reaction series in film. Ha ha!  Honestly, I’m not sure who I would case to play the lead.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers? 

Write what you enjoy reading.  Don’t worry what other people might think.  Have fun!

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers? 

No, nothing specific.  I just want them to know that I think they’re fantastic!

 Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m looking at my bedside table, and at the moment, I’m actually juggling several books; two screenwriter’s books, a Doctor Who book, and a Mr. Monk book.  I’m also reading and studying Real Estate.  I know!  That’s a lot on my bedside table.

 Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read? 

No, I don’t.  I do remember that I loved reading books by Judy Bloom, Beverly Cleary, and C.S. Lewis when I was a child.

  Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

 Writing and painting.

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

I love way too many shows and movies to list.  I generally gravitate to either comedy, mystery, action/adventure, or Scifi.  As much as I enjoy dramas or chick flicks, I avoid them because they usually make me cry.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

I love pizza!  Unfortunately, I can only eat gluten free, but lately, I’ve been finding some really delicious gluten-free pizzas.

I love all colors!  Must be the artist in me.  However, I’m partial to a brilliant, yet deep, blue.

As for music, I mostly listen to Top 40, Hip Hop and R&B, but I do enjoy most types of music.

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

That’s so hard for me to imagine.  I’m sure I’d spend my time either painting or singing.

Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time?

I’d spend every second with my children.  They’re my entire world.

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

Good Question!  I haven’t thought that far ahead. 😉

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

Website – http://www.michellehollstein.com

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/Michelle-Ann-Hollstein-Author-Page-172084432819333/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/michellehollstein/

Twitter – https://twitter.com/mhollstein

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/user/michelle92284

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-hollstein-31a95035/

Amazon authors page

https://www.amazon.com/default/e/B004FSAF7Q?redirectedFromKindleDbs=true

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Michelle-Ann-Hollstein/e/B004FSAF7Q

Here is my interview with Lucas X. Black

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

I’m delighted to meet you and flattered that you wanted to interview me, Fiona.

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

Lucas X. Black. I was born before mankind started telling time, so I think “age” is “antediluvian.”

Fiona: Where are you from?

I am a proud Texan.

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

I’m a former paramedic.  An injury left me with the opportunity to write full-time, and what the hell, this keeps me out of bars and bordellos, right?

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

I recently published Razor’s Edge, and I have one hell of a lot more in the hopper.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

In earnest, back in 2014.  Several authors released a collection called Awakened, in which I debuted with my story Legacy.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Probably with Legacy.  Up until then, I wrote a tale here or there to entertain myself with a textual mind movie.  But Legacy … I published that, put it out there for others to read.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

My imaginary friends popped into my head one day and wouldn’t shut up until I told their tale and kicked ‘em out of the nest LOL

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I come up with working titles that are, all too often, horrible in the cold light of dawn.  So I seek the wise counsel of the good offices of my PA, Kim Lehnhardt. She’s better at titles than I am.

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

I’m not sure if I write this stuff or the muses do it for me, to be honest.  These tales pop into my head from time to time and I write ‘em out.

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

Depends on the book, I suppose.  All are rooted in a bit of fact, but all are likewise rooted in a measure of fiction.

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

Only to the kitchen or the john.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

The Josiah’s Love & Justice covers were all done by Tiffany Huegele, a talented artist who’s also the PA of Al Daltrey.  All of my covers since then have been the handiwork of Kim Lehnhardt, my indispensable PA.

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

I write BDSM master-slave romance-erotica.  But I try to make the characters real, people like anyone else you might bump into at the grocery store, with their winnings and losings, their foibles, their humor and sometimes their sadness.  I want to convey that because someone is kinky doesn’t mean that person has something wrong with him or her, but only that the person is kinky. Frankly, it pisses me off to read a book of BDSM where a major character is into kink because he or she is somehow fucked up, more to be pitied than loved for what they are.  Sure, we all have our scars as we trek through this life, but I see being kinky like I see the LGBT crowd. That’s simply how they are, yes? There’s nothing inherently wrong with them, and there’s nothing inherently wrong with kinky people.

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’m my favorite author.  I mean, face facts, we all have to be at least a little bit narcissistic in order to do what we do.   There are others whose work I like, but I find myself all too often faced with the choice of writing or reading, and writing almost always wins out.  My imaginary friends never shut up, even when I try to sleep LOL

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

My PA, Kim Lehnhardt.  Without her tireless efforts, my writing would be like singing without a microphone in an empty concert hall.  Probably in a ghost town.

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.  I’m not George Lucas with his neverending compulsion to change Star Wars, and I don’t dwell on what I already wrote.  I keep my eyes looking ahead, not behind. Down that other avenue lies madness, addiction, despair, maybe even a dose of athlete’s foot and jock itch, so no thanks.

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

That I can write MC fiction, which came as somewhat of a surprise.

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

Which book?

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Yes.  Illegitimum non carborundum.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Just that I love y’all and be patient.  There seems to be a deep well of ink for my pen.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

WIPs that I’m writing, of which there are several.  One working title is Speed Date.  Another is Veteran & Master.  A third is Grown Up.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

When I was a little fella, I was a precocious reader, even reading the newspaper at the age of about 3.  Probably would’ve been one of about 43 zillion Little Golden Books I had. I particularly liked one called Corky.  Insofar as a novel, I was about nine when I read The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

I love comedy.  I love to laugh.  I love the shit that’s fundamentally wrong, as well as darker stuff, gallows humor.  When I worked EMS, we lived on gallows humor, and those who know me find jokes and silliness all over my Facebook wall.  Crying? You want the truth, those reunion videos where deployed troops rejoin their families … those get me each and every time.  Don’t judge, I’m a lot of Irish in my DNA and we’re a sentimental lot, you may have heard.

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

The present one.  Past people are, I assume, dead. They don’t tend to converse and they do tend to smell badly.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

I don’t know if you’d call it a “hobby,” but I like going to the movies, and I do so often.  I also enjoy people-watching.

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

Walking Dead, Big Bang Theory, M*A*S*H, iZombie was fun.  Insofar as movies, I’m particularly fond of the coming-of-age genre.  One of my favorites was Secondhand Lions.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

Food:  Mexican, Cajun, Thai, Indian … if it don’t put up a fight, it ain’t worth bothering to eat.

Colors:  As James Taylor once sang, “deep greens and blues for the colors I choose.”

Music:  Older rock and country, little or none of that newfangled crap.

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

Oh, that’s easy.  I’m dead or as good as dead in that unhappy future scenario.

Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time?

Trying to finish off a major shit-ton of works in progress.

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

Here lies Lucas X. Black.  His calliope crashed to the ground.

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

My Facebook fan page is www.facebook.com/author.LucasXBlack

On Twitter, I’m @lxblacktx.

I have a fans’ group on Facebook, www.facebook.com/LucasBlackFans

On Amazon, go to author.to/LXBlack and ta-daa there’s my Amazon author page.

Here is my interview with L.T.Marshall

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 there, my name is Leanne or better known as L.T.Marshall and I am in my mid-thirties.

Fiona: Where are you from?

I am from central Scotland

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

I am a crafter and artists who went back to writing books after a twenty-year gap. I used to run an online store that sold unicorn and rainbow themed handmade goods but I am now a full time writer, mum to two kids and author of a bestselling series. I also still have a craft channel on YouTube.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

This week my book 1 audio book went live and I have the release of my series book 7 in two days’ time.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I have been writing since I was very young. I won a small book competition when I was as young as 8. It’s just something I have always done.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When people came to me and begged me for the next book in my series, it sort of hit me then that I was really a writer.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I wrote my first novel at about thirteen, so I guess it was just the passion to tell stories and I had a completely romantic outlook on the world, despite a bad start that I wanted to write about. It was a form of escape.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

That book remained unnamed and still has never been released.

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

I am known for writing really emotional rollercoaster books with a lot of detail on real human reactions. I like psychology and real to life relationships. I find dealing with the ups and downs of all the emotions a challenge and tend to disconnect until the book is finished.

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

Real life experiences are littered through all of my books. Not just of my own scars and memories but those of people who I have known or walked along with in life.

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

No, I research if I want to set a book in a new place so I become familiar with it but I focus more on the emotion than the details of the surroundings.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I do but I have a designer who then makes them for me.

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

Not all victims of child abuse go on to lead broken sad lives and repeat the cycle. Some grow and heal and move on in life.

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?

As a teen it was Jackie Collins, I liked her lack of fear and the way she touched on sexy topics without giving a toss about lash back. She is still to this day my author role model.

I liked the fifty shade books because I feel E.L. James opened the way for female writers of romance to get a foothold and do it for themselves. I have spoken to her on twitter and find her a really down to earth person.  It’s her same passion to write what she wants and not give a crap that I admire, in same way I admire Jackie Collins. I may not always like the written work but the women behind the books are an inspiration.

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

My craft business fans really supported me in the beginning and now a lot of them are my book fans now too. I really think my own ambition and desire to write my own books is what pushed me though, I’m not one who needs outside encouragement to do what my heart is set on.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I am a full-time author so yes, this is my career.

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

No. I progress with every book and no doubt a few books form now I will have a lot more skill. I wouldn’t change any that have been stepping stone sin finding my voice.

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

I have a dark side with a twisted mind, LOL

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

This is an ongoing debate in my fan group and I honestly still cannot pick. I change my mind all the time.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Be brave… You’re biggest critic is yourself and the only thing stopping you from taking that leap is your own fear.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Carrero is far from done.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I have so many new books on my kindle but none I am currently reading. I don’t read when I write.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Enid Blyton and her fantastic five books

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

A good love story with lots of twists and a happy ever after.

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

Jackie Collins – she is still my idol and her attitude towards sex and love in books really moulded me.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

I am an artist, crafter, knitter and socialiser. I just like to do things which give me a sense of achievement.

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

I love adventure, action and always have to have a romantic plotline. My favourites include Gladiator and the marvel movies. I also love things like The Notebook and series such as Spartacus.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

I love all savoury food, especially mild curry. I love good healthy meals, but I can be a junk food binger at times.
I love rainbow colours, brighter the better and all at once.
I love all music but prefer female vocalists and lyrics with meaning. I love dancing so a beat is always good.

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

Make movies.

Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time?

A blow out party with all my family and friends and make memories.

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

She was fearless in chasing her dreams.

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

Yes I do – https://ltmarshall.blog/

 

 

 Amazon Authors Page UK   https://www.amazon.co.uk/L.T.-Marshall/e/B01N9ME8C0/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1532787615&sr=1-2-ent

USA  https://www.amazon.com/default/e/B01N9ME8C0/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1532788061&sr=1-2-ent&redirectedFromKindleDbs=true

Here is my interview with S.R. Chappell

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 pen name is S.R. Chappell. I go by my middle name Rachele. I am 46 years old.

Fiona: Where are you from?

Powder Springs, Ga.

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

I was born in Pensacola, Fl. My mother divorced my father at age 3 months old, that’s when we moved to Georgia. My mother then married my step father. At age 11 I got a sister. I was a quiet, well behaved child. In my teen years I became quite rebellious and met my husband at a punk rock concert. I’ve been with my husband for over 25 years now. We have one son who is now grown with a family of his own. He has given me a grandson who is 4 and he definitely has me wrapped around his finger.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

I just released my first book of poetry called “Inked Heart Poetry” It’s available on Amazon.com, bookdepository.com, & Barnes&Noble

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I wrote my first poem to my Mother for Mothers Day at age 9. I didn’t start writing a lot till I became a teen. I found poetry helped me sort through my feelings. About 2 years ago I decided to start a poetry blog. Now I write for the sheer joy of writing.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I’m still not sure I consider myself a writer. I would say I consider myself a poet. Though since I released my first book in May of this year it feels more like I can say I’m a writer. I think once I have published another book of poetry or written a novel I’ll feel more comfortable with saying I’m a writer. By the way, I’m already writing another book, so hopefully by next year I can wear that title proudly.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Honestly I got frustrated with so many publishers including me in their anthologies and never seeing any reward other than my poems in print. When I realized I had over 200 poems copyrighted I decided to make the leap and publish a book myself.

 Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

My book was title is my poetry blog name. That name being based upon the fact that my poetry comes from my heart.

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

I write mostly rhyme and free verse, though I like to challenge myself by learning new forms of poetry.

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

Most of my book is based on my life experiences or observations

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

I do not travel in order to write. If I’m feeling lack of creativity I pull inspiration from photography, art, music, or nature. Though I will say when I do travel it’s very refreshing for my writing.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I designed my own cover.

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

I think some of the more important messages I wish to convey are those of my humanitarian efforts on homelessness, equality, peace, and kindness. Though with my darker poetry I wish to offer to people who are having troubled times in their life something to let them know they’re not alone. I often include links for help and information when I’m writing on subjects like addiction, molestation, and depression.

 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 could go on for hours about poets that inspire me because I fell in love with Dr. Seuss as soon as I could read. Even before I could read at bedtime my mother would recite “Little Orphant Anne” by James Whitcom Riley. When I grew older I discovered an encyclopedia of poetry in our home library. It was HUGE, like 5 inches thick! I would thumb through it all the time. That’s where I discovered poets such as EE Cummings, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Walt Whitman, and Emily Dickenson. In my teens I fell head over heels in love with Edgar Allen Poe. I loved his dark poetry that told stories. Then I discovered Mya Angelo in my 20’s. I found her message of equality and inspirations refreshing. I’m always finding poets that inspire. A few modern day poets I love are Atticus, Lang Leav, & Erin Hanson.

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

I have a few close friends that have been supportive and excited for my new endeavour. I also have around 5500 followers on Facebook and 900 followers on Instagram who give me feedback and support on my poetry.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I trying my best to be successful enough to consider it a career, but honestly I would be homeless and starving if I relied on my royalties as an income.

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

Well this was my first book so it was a learning experience. When I first typed my book I typed it in manuscript form. When I uploaded my work for my book it had to be in a different format, so everything had to be revised. I still have some format flaws that could use correcting. Next time I will be typing it up in the right format to begin with.

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

To use the right format! lol

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

It’s a poetry book so a movie is out of the question. If they ever made a movie about me I would pick Alicia Silverstone. When I was younger people used to tell me I look like her.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Marketing yourself is the key to success.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Buy my book please!

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m not currently reading any book. I only read a couple books a year. I mostly read poetry anthologies, magazines, articles. I read a lot of poetry online as well. Instagram has so many talented poets its ridiculous!

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

I do a lot of laughing. Just the hearing someone laugh makes me laugh. Sometimes I even crack myself up to the point that I cry from laughter.

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

Probably Gwen Stefani, or P!nk because I admire their no holding back girl power.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

Mainly poetry but I also dabble in photography, art, gardening, and jewellery design.

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

I watch a lot of TV and movies. Some of my favourite shows are Big Bang Theory, Shameless, Weeds, &Two Broke Girls. I grew up in the 80’s so I’m a big John Hughes fan. I absolutely love all his movies and any directors that have that same filming style. I also enjoy more edgy movies from directors like Quentin Tarantino.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors, music?

My favourite food is Mexican, Seafood, or Hamburgers. My favourite colors are blue and green. Picking favourite music is too hard. I’m a huge music lover and love so many genera’s of music. I listen mostly to rock, alternative, ska and reggae.

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

I find a way to create art even if I had to use my feet.

Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time?

I would throw a party with live music and great food on the beach with all my close friends and family.

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

I want to be cremated and have my ashes spread at my birth place of Pensacola, Fl. on the beach. Though if I had a headstone I’d like to think it would say, “She was kind & loving with a heart of gold.”

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

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

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/inkedheartpoetry/

Inked Heart Poetry

By: S. R. Chappell

Publication Date: May 12^th 2018

Available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Inked-Heart-Poetry-S-Chappell/dp/1718836465/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1526074345&sr=8-1&keywords=Inked+heart+poetry

ISBN-13: 978-1718836464

Retail Price: $13.95

Page Count: 188

Genre: Poetry/ Rhyme/ Free Verse

Promotional Info

S. R. Chappell’s poems have been featured in magazine publications, many poetry anthologies, and she’s been featured on many Instagram pages for her outstanding work. She was most recently published in Cult Magazine by Rad Press Publishing.

Inked Heart Poetry will take you through a range of emotions as you read each chapter.

Table of contents as follows:

Chapter 1: Love, Passion, and Romance

Chapter 2: Sadness, Pains, and Evils

Chapter 3: Hopes, Dreams, and Inspiration

Chapter 4: Nature, Music and Glimpses of Joy

Chapter 5: Time for a Change

Chapter 6: Spilling Ink

Zach Spiczak writes to S.R.Chappell the following:

“I love the book you wrote! I have a day off today, and actually had time to read some of the stories and poetry…very deep, romantic, and touches a lot of other feelings when reading. I love the romantic deep poetry. I suggest anyone to log in to Amazon and order Inked Heart Poetry!”

 AUTHOR BIO

Rachele Chappell goes by the pen name S. R. Chappell. She was born in the early seventies and graced with southern charm.  She became a lover of poetry at a very early age.  Her influences started with Dr. Seuss and Shel Silverstein.  They laid the ground for her flair for poetic rhyming. She also enjoys writing free verse poetry too.  Occasionally she steps outside her box dabbling in learning other forms of poetry such as ballads or sonnets. Her first poem ever published called “Mothers Love” was written at age nine.  Most of her poems are written about love or heartbreak.  She is a true romantic at heart. She has used her poetry as an outlet for her emotions on darker subjects like anxiety, addiction, and molestation. Rachele also has written humanitarian efforts for peace, hunger, and equality.  She’s received many certificates honoring her as a poet.  Her work has been included in several anthologies. Her first self-written book “Inked Heart Poetry” was released May 2018.

Book Excerpt

The Breakup

Walking with him in the cold drizzling rain,
I tried to explain why we’re not the same.
As we walked in the forest in the deep dark night,
I tried to explain why things just weren’t right.
I cried in his arms, he held on tight.
Breaking up with him, my love was in a fright.
Walking back home on an old gravel road.
Silence so heavy it was bound to explode.
Arriving home, he had gone silent, deaf and stony as a marble statue.
I sat down on the porch, staring at the night sky, black clouds obstructing the full moon in view.
He sat beside me, in his embrace I softly cried.
My love was obvious, though I tried to hide.
I wanted to tell him, but I couldn’t, we just didn’t belong together.
He lost himself somewhere, like the wind in stormy weather.
Finally, he spoke, his voice soft as a whisper.
“Hold my hand and give me time to realize it’s over.” The breeze felt cold like winter.
I held his hand, and warmth was found.
Holding one another, not making a sound,
We stared at the sky of diamonds that got covered in a cloud.
Though our mouths were silent, the heartbreak was loud.

Here is my interview Reece Taylor

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 Reece Taylor, and I am 49 and holding.

Fiona: Where are you from?

I am from a small town in Louisiana southern United States.

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

I am a mother of two grown children, and a grand mother of two small children.  I also the mother of a fur baby named Gracie.  I have also been married to my hunny for 29 years.  I am a registered nurse and I work in labour and delivery.

 Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

I am about to release my second book in my Two Oaks Series!

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I have been an avid reader my entire life, and I dabbled in writing on and off through out the years until I just decided to just jump.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I sold my first book.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

This story just came to me and just kept growning ang growing until I just couldn’t contain it anymore I had to write it.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Well it is about a Southern town, so I thought it would be neat to use southern sayings.  But aside from that it is a mother daughter story aside from the romance.

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

I try to outline the story first and get a general feel for it, next I have started writing the general idea for each chapter as the story progresses, I build upon that. My greatest challenge is finding the time to write and distractions.

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

Hmm… I would say around eighty percent or more, but the names are changed to protect the ‘innocent’.

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

No, for now I am using places I have visited, but have plans to travel in the future.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Laura Hidalgo, she’s amazing and gets what I want.

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

Love your family and don’t allow misunderstandings to come between you. As make laughter a priority, it truly is the best medicine.

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?

Nicole Archer is starting out and I enjoy her books. Some of my favourites are C.M. Owens, Sherrilyn Kenyon and my fav is Kresley Cole-I adore her writing. Humour and laugh out loud moments, but Sherrilyn Kenyon’s characters rip my heart out.

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

The girls at Beyond Def promotions and some of my good friends, Joy, Stephanie and Karen.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes, I would love to get to the point of it being my primary one. Fingers crossed, hopefully one day.

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

It’s in edit right now, but I love the story and as I go through it I love the story even more.

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

I believe I became more organized in my style and outlined more.

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

Margot Robbie and Robbie Amell for the male lead.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Believe in yourself and keep writing.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Thank you! I hope I have made you laugh and become a part of my world for a time.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Talk Nerdy to Me by C.M. Owens

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

No, it was a Harlequin Romance my grandmother gave me. I have loved romance ever since. I do remember my first Historical Romance though, it was Shanna by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

I have a warped sense of humour and tend to be a bit on the sarcastic side so I love sarcastic humour. I cry when I see someone in pain and I hate to see my family hurt.

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

This is a difficult question because there are so many people I would love to meet to get their side of the story. Like Marie Antoinette or Mary Queen of Scots and who wouldn’t want to meet Anne Boleyn.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

Reading, of course and scrapbooking

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

I am a Marvel nerd and love all the movies. I also enjoy The Walking Dead and the Big Bang Theory, but don’t watch much else.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

I’m from Louisiana so I love seafood in Gumbo or stews. My favourite color is red but lately I’ve been leaning toward teal blues. I am listening to new country music, it has been putting me in a small town frame of mind.

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

Scrapbook more and continue nursing.

Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time?

With my family, letting them know how much I love them.

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

She loved and lived life to the fullest.

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

www.reecetaylorwrites.com

Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F1TNS86

Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07F1TNS86

Amazon CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07F1TNS86

Amazon AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B07F1TNS86

Universal book link for all other retailers: http://www.books2read.com/MamaKnowsBest

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Reece-Taylor/e/B076HSQBR6/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2?qid=1532745356&sr=8-2

 

Here is my interview with Sheri-Lynn Marean

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

Great to meet you Fiona! 😊

 

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

I am Sheri-Lynn Marean, and I just turned 50. ☹ ( I really don’t feel 50… )

Fiona: Where are you from?

Well, I was born in Scarborough, Ontario Canada, and have lived in quite a few different places, but I grew up in Calgary, Alberta. I now live in British Columbia, in rolling hills/farm country, surrounded by mountains.

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

I’m the oldest of 2 children in my family, and grew up riding& working with horses, drawing and selling animal artwork, and of course reading. I moved around quite a bit after I graduated, but finally ended up back in Calgary. Then in 2008 my family and I all left the big city and moved out to B.C.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

I will be releasing my 8^th book on Aug 30^th. It is called Casstiel; Born of Lightning, and is the 2^nd book in my spin off series; Dragonkind ~ 52 Realms.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I never imagined that I’d ever be an author. In fact, I would have laughed if anyone suggested it. I rode/worked with horses, drew/painted, did photography, raised Jack Russell Terriers, owned and operated a window cleaning company… but, I’ve always loved reading, would devour books. Always had one on hand, and loved scouring used book stores, or garage sales for books. Never went anywhere without one, then I started reading digitally, and in 2008 I read a book that almost made me toss my reader out the window! After that, I decided to try my hand at writing. I have always made up stories in my head, or thought what if this happened, or that… so in reality, I guess it wasn’t that crazy an idea. Though I never thought I had much imagination, but after reading a series I really enjoyed, I realized anything can go. Yes, rocks can speak.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I started my Dracones series, and then put it away for a few years, as my kids were young and I was busy, but then I got it out again and knew that I wasn’t going to stop until I published, so I guess I that was when I really saw myself as a writer.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

That bad book I read, plus I have always loved the TV show Supernatural, and all the paranormal/magical/fantasy stuff. So when I decided I was going to do this, Vampires and werewolves were huge, and while I love them, I also love dragons, and no one at the time that I knew of, had any dragon shifter books. I call mine shifter, but really I think of them more as immortals who can turn into dragons.

 Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

With help from my Dad. I went through a list of words/titles, and this was it.

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

I tend to write what I love, so darker stuff, and I like deep characters, with flaws…I also love multi POV’s and a large cast of characters, where you start with one couple, but the next book is about one of the other characters and his or her soul mate, while you still get to see what the previous characters are doing. Plus, I love when they all come together like a family, though they may not be blood. I strive to make the reader fall in love with my characters, and in some cases, I get them to hate a character, then in the next book they learn more about that character and fall in love with him or her. 😊

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

Well, there is a lot of unreality to it all, but they do deal with issues that can happen to any human, and a lot of readers can relate too, or sympathize with. There is the fantasy aspect like dragons, magic, werewolves, vampires, witches, curses, other realms, but also self-doubt, guilt, anger, fear, some of and my characters have to deal with abuse or neglect in their childhoods, in fact, in my first book, they have to face the monster who hurt them …

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

No.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Mihaela Voicu did most of my covers, and she is fantastic. I did the cover for my prequel novella, and may do more in the future as I just finished a great cover course.

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

Sometimes there is more than one message, and no I am not saying what they are, you will have to read them, lol.

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 nearly as much anymore, just no time, but I do have my favorite authors and series, and do my best to keep up with their latest. Sherrilyn Kenyon’s books and J.R. Wards Black Dagger Brotherhood have been huge inspirations in how I write my books. They are my fav’s and so is Gena Showalter, Nalini Singh, who I guess you could call her a newer to me author, as I just discovered her books about 2 or so years ago. I also love my friend and fellow author; Donya Lynne’s AKM series, plus always love Faith Hunter’s Jane Yellowrock and Patricia Briggs Mercy Thompson series, along with Christine Feehan, and yes, I do love Laurell K. Hamilton, these are just a few of the ones I love. I also have to mention that my friends; J.F. Lewis’s Void City Vamp’s are the best, funniest books I have ever read, so come one Jerry, get the next one out, please!!! I need a Fang fix!

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

I became friends with Donya Lynne, and picked her brain about writing, publishing, etc, and she was super supportive and helpful. Then I took a 3 hr Self-Publishing course at our local college and became friends with the author who put it on; Val Comer. She has also been a huge help and support. I didn’t really tell anyone else until I was ready to publish, but I also didn’t need any other support.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

For sure. It has become my career.

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

No, not in my latest. I’d change who I had edit my first book however, but live and learn…

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

I am always learning, it never stops, especially when you have a great editor.

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

Hm, how much time do you have? Which book?

Okay for my first book; Dracones Awakening, I’d love Jensen Ackles/Dean Winchester or Tyler Hoechlin to play Jax, though they are both a little old now. I think Poppy Drayton with long wavy back hair as Tierney. Since Jared Padeleki/Sam Winchester is also too old, then I’d say Kit Harrington with dark, shaggy blond hair as Sami. Chris Hemsworth would be Zander with dark hair. Josh Holloway with long silver/blue &blond hair as Kyrian. And Steven Amel with dark brows, dark whiskers, and shoulder length black hair as Soroyan. Dylan Sprayberry with long pale blond hair as Thaniel. (Yes, I love Supernatural, Teen Wolf, the Originals, Arrow, GOT and so many more of these wonderful fun shows. lol)

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Don’t listen to anyone who says you can’t do it. Just do it.

Even if you hate plotting or don’t do much, I highly recommend Debra Dixon’s GMC, (Goal, Motivation, Conflict) to make your characters & structure stronger. It is easy to make up a simple chart and use it. Also, KM Weiland’s Structuring your novel is awesome, and it has a ton of extra little tips, (ie; hooking your reader)

Make sure you use hooks. In your first sentence, paragraph, and all the way through to keep your readers reading, wanting to know more.

I spent months in a group called agentqueryconnect.com, and the learning experience was invaluable. So often I see blurbs that give away too much of the story so that you don’t need to read it, or it just doesn’t hook you. Learn to do your blurb right, there are many resources out there on how.

I recommend having a handful of decent Alpha/Beta readers. I call my first readers Alpha, as it is their job to question, find flaws or gaps in the story, basically tear it apart. Telling me it is great, does not help me to make it better. I also give them a specialized questionnaire to fill out, and find that helps big time.  My Beta readers and ARC readers get it later, after it’s been edited, and they are the ones who like to pick out any typos that have been missed during editing. Don’t know how to find Alpha/Beta readers? Join some author/writing groups on FB, ask other authors whose books are in the same genre as yours to help.

Build a street team, they are invaluable! Get reviews. There are tons of places on FB to find people to review, but make sure it is in your genre. The big thing with reviews, follow up. Don’t be demanding, be appreciative and considerate of their time, but do follow up, or they won’t leave a review.

Hire a good Editor! Try & get a referral to a few, talk to the authors who they have edited for and find out what they have to say. Some have just slapped the title to their name, thrown up a website, and sound like they know what they are doing. Then get a SAMPLE edit of your work, to make sure you are compatible, and be sure to sign a contract. I’d also say get an editor who does a few passes.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Thank you for reading and loving my books! 😊

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Between pleasure reading books right now, but I do have some writing resources I am working my way through…

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

No, I’ve been reading since I was young, but the first book that really got me to love-love readingwas The Black Stallion by Walter Farley. I then devoured the whole series.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

My smart-ass family makes me laugh, and I crywhen my computer freezes up and I lose my work.

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

Yes. My dream is to meet/chat with and pick Sherrilyn Kenyon’s brain, big time. I’d also love to meet JR Ward, Gena Showalter and Nalini Singh.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

Horseback riding, kayaking, drawing, or nowadays playing on Photoshop, and of course reading. Oh, and are watching movies and TV shows hobbies?

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

I love soo many, too many to name, but I will try; DC and Marvel movies and shows, Guardians of the Galaxy, DC legends, Dare Devil, Punisher, Jessica Jones, Arrow, Flash,  most Fantasy/Sci-fi shows. Game of Thrones, Supernatural, Originals, Lost in Space, The Expanse, Stanger Things, Santa Clarita Diet, Sense 8, Queen of the South, the latest Star Trek Discovery, Loved Star Gate’s, Altered Carbon, the Star Wars movies, Harry Potter, Xmen, and many more…

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

Love Purple, fav music is Nickelback, and I love good, homemade Spaghetti, but can no longer have it. ☹

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

Ride, draw, paint, watch TV, travel if possible, most of the stuff I already do. If I couldn’t write due to being unable to type, then I’d dictate my words.

Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time?

With my family/kids.

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

Never thought of it, but maybe, She flies with Dragons?

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

Yes. Website; http://www.sheri-lynnmarean.com

And my FB reader group where I post a lot of what is going on;

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1888266421432580/

Amazon Authors Page USA  https://www.amazon.com/default/e/B01B89QHVM?redirectedFromKindleDbs=true

UK  https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sheri-Lynn-Marean/e/B01B89QHVM/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1532730235&sr=1-2-ent

Here is my interview with John Murray

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 John Murray and I am 30 something (the rest is classified)

Fiona: Where are you from?

A miserably cold South Africa

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

An English educator trying to get my minions through to highschool. An Afrikaner Boer living in a Muslim community, teaching Indian children. You know, the normal story.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

Trying to get book 2 of The Venom Protocols and book 1, part 2 of The N Days edited and ready for market. Oh and almost finished with a standalone novel. Busy boy here.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

It started with poetry written for beautiful women and then morphed into web series writing and final novels. Been writing since I could remember.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When that first royalty cheque landed in my account. The faith people put in me was staggering.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Boredom. I was an assistant teacher with too much time on his hands. So I found a gem of an idea and ran with it.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I always like to play with my title or have it as reference to something that happens in the novel along the way.

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

Can chaos theory be classified as a writing style? I just let this madness in my head loose and see where it takes me.

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

The emotions and the characters are real. Brutally so at times. The story is just my imagination.

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

Not at all. Just me on my fine behind.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Various artists I have met through publishers usually.

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

That we can be strong, no matter who we are. A simple but profound message.

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?

New authors- Julie Stanley and R.R Virdi are amazing for sure. Favorite writer is the late, great Anthony Bourdain. Oh and Clive Cussler as well. I loved how they brought me into their worlds and refused to let me go till I closed the book at the end.

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

Fans that I met through life. They have carried for so many years, I am so grateful to know them.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Of course. An amazingly hard but amazingly rewarding career for sure.

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

Nothing at all.

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

That editing sucks?

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

Emily van Camp. As for the younger version of the character maybe Alexandria Daddario.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

You are never important enough not to be nice to others. That and never believe your own hype.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Don’t be shy to drop me a message and say hi. I love hearing from new fans.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

In a massive reading slump so it’s graphic novels for now. Tragic, I know.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Haha no.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Moments of real human emotion. When the dam walls break and it all comes flooding out. That’s real.

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

I would love to sit down with powerful women in history and just talk to them. Yes, I know I’m weird.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

I cook.

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

Currently addicted to ‘Into the Borderlands’ and ‘Yellowstone’. So good.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

Love Hotdogs and anything fried. My waistline hates me for it. Bright colors and pop when you look at it. Music has to be loud and one must be able to sing along at the top of your voice.

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

I would cook and I teach. Nothing more.

Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time?

Sitting on a beach, watching the Pacific. My soul would be at peace then.

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

He was an asshole but a lovable one.

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

Check me out at https://www.facebook.com/NDaysSeries/?ref=bookmarks  and

https://kristan65.wixsite.com/johnmurraymckay

The Venom Protocols by Author John McKay

(Summer Indy award winning 2016, Wild Dreams Publishing best African author 2018)

Blurb:
“You should have left me alone.”
Charlotte Corday was once called the most dangerous woman on the planet by the FBI until she retired. But it’s not so easy to remain retired when the past is determined to drag her back into the hell she wanted to leave behind her.
To uncover the origins of the mysterious Valkyrie program, Charlotte fights through her own dark past, dredged up by those determined to keep her out of retirement… or out of the business permanently… and to find solace in her own razor blade filled mind.
Her own words—her own warning—will come to haunt them.
They should have listened.
Buying Links:
UK ~ https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07C1W1SKX
US ~ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C1W1SKX
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-venom-protocols
Google Play: https://goo.gl/CWkN9A
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/781944

Follow me on
https://www.facebook.com/NDaysSeries 

Here is my interview with Diane Merrill Wigginton

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 Diane Merrill Wigginton and I am 55 years old or young depending on your mind set. Personally, I’m the glass is half full kind of person.

Fiona: Where are you from?

I was born in Riverside, California. I moved to San Diego when I was 7. Then in 2001 my husband and I moved our family to Sacramento, California. Then in February 2018 we decided that we needed an adventure so we pulled up stakes and moved the two of us and our dog, Bella to Kalispell, Montana.

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

I graduated High School from Mira Mesa High in 1981, then attended a trade school to become a Registered Dental Assistant in 1982. (Side not ─ I wanted to be a photo journalist and write articles for National Explorer and take pictures from around the world but my mother told me at the time that there wasn’t any money in that kind of pipe dream so I settled.)

I have taken some writing classes on line in my spare time, while working around my hectic schedule of raising a family and working full time. I never really thought that I would have the opportunity to do anything with my specific skill set, even though I dreamed of publishing books one day.

I’m just like everyone else in the fact that I was so full of all these hopes and dreams at one point in my life but had little faith in myself that the dreams would every come true.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

I am preparing to release my 4^th novel, a Young Adult Historical Fiction titled “Lara’s Story,” as well as continuing to market my “JewelledDagger Series.” I won two awards for the series, a fact that I am still very proud of.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

Well, like I said before, I was always full of these hopes and dreams but I was way too busy to do anything about them. Then one day in January 2011, my brother David became very sick. I drove all night from Sacramento to San Diego with my mom and kids to be with him. Unfortunately, he died just shy of his 49^th birthday. Then a few months later in October of that same year my father called to tell me that he had stomach cancer and he passed away in December. 2011 was a very rough year. I was three months shy of my 49^th birthday and left completely devastated by the events of the year. In fact, it took me another year just to process everything and finish grieving.

Then just before my 50^th birthday I was examining my life. I mean really examining it. I put my life under a microscope and dissected it. I was trying to decide what I truly wanted out of life when I grew up. It was then and there I decided that there were just some dreams too big to be shoved into a box and placed on a shelf. That was the beginning and I haven’t run out of crazy ideas since.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

After I wrote my first story and gave a very rough copy of it to my best friend, Gigi to read. She loved it and asked me where the second book was.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I simply sat down at the diningroom table one day and began to write. I had this idea to write a grand love story where an unbreakable bond between the two characters was the main theme and no matter what their love would win out. Then I filled it with action, suspense, and romance. The entire story played out in my head like a movie. I just had to translate the entire thing into words.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The title, “Angelina’s Secret,” came from the fact that the main character had a secret that she was forced to keep throughout the entire plot of the story.

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

I know that the proper way to write a book is to sit down and plot out an out the entire story line but… and this is a big but, I find that it is more exciting to be just as surprised by the twists and turns as the reader. I like to keep the story line moving and so I throw in a few unexpected plot twist here and there that keeps the reader on their toes. It’s just more fun that way.

The only thing that is particularly challenging for me is the editing. I am not an editor and will never profess to be an expert at editing. I can never identify my own mistakes and I prefer to let others handle that part. I love being involved with the design of the book cover and interior stuff but I will never be much good at editing.

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

In my first book, “Angelina’s Secret,” I pulled from my long-time friendship with my best friend, Gigi for the two characters. The way in which Angelina and Sarah relate to each other and their ease with one another as they interact is real. The rest of the story is completely fictional.

I have to say that in all three books of The Jewelled Dagger Series, I tried to add authenticity to the sibling’s relationships. The way in which they each interacted with one another; sometimes petty and at other times genuine and loyal was taken from my relationship with my brother. Which if you really think about it, is limited because I only really had the one brother. But other than that, the entire series is completely fabricated from my over active imagination.

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

No, because I have done some traveling in my other life. I love traveling and of course being aware of other cultures and places enriches the authenticity of any story line. But now days, one can simply google something or someplace as well as research a particular story line. So, in reality one can write an entire book from the comfort of their home and never step outside to come up with a convincing storyline.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Fine Design. When I was redesigning my covers, I looked around and found a wonderful company called “IzzardInk.”

Shameless plug for my friend Tim McConnehey of Izzard Ink, tim@izzardink.com. He took my covers from obscure to incredible with his design team.

Let me just say that people do judge your book by its cover. If your cover is not eye catching or spectacular, people will pass you over.

The best advice I can give to any aspiring author is this, make your book covers stand out. You won’t get a second chance to place your books in readers hands if you don’t make your book covers stand out in a sea of other books.

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

I try to add some kind of message in all of my novels. A little tidbit from everyday life. It just makes the story mean more to me and hopefully my reader. And each one is different so you will have to read the books to “glean” the message.

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 Diana Gabaldon and her Outland Series. I met her over 20 years ago at a Scottish Festival in San Diego and I bought 4 of her novels that she signed for me. Her success gives me hope that one day I will have my adventure series made into a T.V Series. Fingers crossed. I just hope it doesn’t take me 20 years.

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

I began doing small Barnes and Noble Bookstore, book signings early on and there was one particular Community Resource Manager by the name of Suzanne Stock who helped me and encouraged me to keep going. She was wonderful and I love you so much for her wonderful words of encouragement. I will always be grateful to her for he act of kindness.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I love writing and feel that I was born a natural story teller. I intend to continue doing this as long as I have a good story to tell. I have several ideas for children’s books as well and would love to make them happen. I feel that one day it will all come together and that I just need to be patient. All good things in their time. I have to sell books to make money to produce the next book. I retired from my full-time job in 2017 and so the only money generating endeavour I have is my books. So, will just plod along, steady as she goes and do what I can do.

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

I find that life is a journey that is best enjoyed if you allow yourself to slow down and enjoy the ride. We are all in such a rush to make it all happen at once. That is like skipping to the back of the book to see how it all ends, then turning to the first page reading from the beginning.

As a kid I enjoyed the element of surprise on Christmas morning. I never wanted to know ahead of time what Santa had brought me.

To make a long-winded answer shorter, the answer is no, I wouldn’t change anything about my journey or my book.

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

I always learn something about myself when I write and I always reveal something about myself as I write. Each book is like a love letter to my readers. So, if you want to learn something about me you have to read my books. I feel that they make me grow as a person every time I sit down to write one. It’s like reaching inside of myself and laying my heart out on each page as the words come out of me.

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

Well it all depends on which book we are talking about. We have Angelina’s Secret, Isabella’s Heart, Olivia’s Promise and now Lara’s Story. They are all so different and diverse individual in character. I would have to give that subject a lot more thought.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Hone your craft, believe in yourself and never give up on your dreams.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Just that if you found this interview interesting reading, that check out my books and give them a read. Then don’t forget to leave an honest review. People don’t think about the fact that leaving reviews, especially if you enjoyed the book and it caused you to stop and think or ponder for a while is like giving that author a “great big hug.” No really, I’m serious.

We all crave recognition and acknowledgment in some way. And the way you can give that acknowledgment is to leave a wonderful review and open your mouth and spread the word. How else do you think we will know that anyone enjoyed the book that took a year of our life to write and produce. That’s right, it usually takes a year to write, rewrite, edit, design and plan a launch of just 1 book. That is if the book is of any quality.

Sure, there are those who put out several books a year and they rush to release it and there are flaws and errors here and there. Some people don’t care, and they read past the mistakes. But if you want to put something out into the world that is as near to perfect as humanly possible and you don’t have a team working behind the scenes, it takes a year to get a book to market and a lot of capital as well.

So, before you rush through a book in a matter of one weekend and then move on to your next book, remember that it took that person about a year to get it to market and leave them a review. And I don’t mean a five-word review, that you really enjoyed the story and plot but leave a decent review and thank the author for their time and talent. It will mean a lot to the person.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

The last book I read was “The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah. I found it interesting and not something that I would normally pick up to read. But I am part of a book club and that was the book that they chose to read. I found the story hard to read at times because of the raw but real perspective of a toxic and abusive relationships between the mother and father. Yet it was also heart-warming when told from the daughter’s younger perspective.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I can’t remember back that far.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Raw, honest perspectives that leave you wrung-out in the end.

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

Abraham Lincoln because he changed history with his courage to stand up for what was right, rather than going along with what was the standard at the time. I love people who do the right thing even if it is difficult or dangerous.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

I am a grandma and love and enjoy that part of my life. I also love to travel and go on day trips with my husband. We both see it as a great adventure and love spending time with each other. Life is truly sweeter if you have someone you love to share it with.

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

Blacklist, Outlander Series, The Game of Thrones. I am sad that The Game of Thrones has ended, especially on such a juicy cliff-hanger. I hope they bring it back and finish the story. I was really hooked.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

I love food in general, especially really well-prepared comfort food. I love to cook and prepare wonderful meals for friends and family.

I love soothing colors in my home like creams, blues and greys but I love to wear reds, pinks and black. I think I wear far too much black but it makes me look thinner.

I grew up on Country music and love the fact that you can tell an entire story in a song. Garth Brooks, Luke Bryan, Sam Hunt, Carrie Underwood, Bradberry, Shelton, I love them all

Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time?

With my family in my home. Home is my safe haven and I love the feeling I get when I walk in after a long trip. It’s like taking a deep breath or letting out a long sigh. It just feels good.

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

“Devoted wife andmother”

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

Of course:

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

https://www.facebook.com/AngelinasSecretBook/

https://www.jeweleddaggerpublishing.com

https://twitter.com/wiggintondiane

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8355606.Diane_Merrill_Wigginton

Here is my interview with Deborah Camp

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 Deborah Camp and I’m old enough to know better.

Fiona: Where are you from?

Tulsa, OK

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

I have a bachelor’s degree from the University of Tulsa. I was a newspaper reporter for several years before I became a fulltime fiction writer. I have a long-time companion. He lives in NYC, so we are back and forth between NYC and Tulsa. I have three dogs (Mr. Christian Grey, Mr. Darcy, and Slim).

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

Through Her Touch, #5 in my 6-book Mind’s Eye series was released July 25. The final book, Through Her Heart, will be published this fall.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I’ve always wanted to write, even before I could write, I loved to tell stories or have them read to me.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Oh, I suppose in high school when I wrote for the school newspaper.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I love romances and read them all the time, so I decided to write one.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The title of my first book? It wasn’t the one I had. It was changed by the publisher. I don’t actually recall what I’d titled the book. It was back in the late 1970s.

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

I’m sure I do have a writing style, but I don’t know what it is because I don’t pay attention to that sort of thing. Any style of writing is challenging because you’re always learning and trying to get better with each book.

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

If you’re referring to my latest book – Through Her Touch – it’s a work of fiction, I’ve woven things through it that I’ve experienced – I’ve been to Eureka Springs and have stayed in the places I mention in the book and I’ve had a ghostly experience or two while I was there – and I have made up things in it, too. So, it’s a combination of my life experiences, what I’ve observed in others, and pure fabrication.

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

I don’t have to travel, but I do sometimes. Eureka Springs is close to where I live, so I did go there a time or two to refresh my memory of it and to stay in the tree house lodge and the Belladonna Inn. I also do “armchair” or “computer” traveling.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Patricia Schmitt designed the cover. She is very talented.

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

I suppose in the Mind’s Eye books it would be to not judge people before you get to know them. Don’t jump to conclusions about new acquaintances and don’t judge too harshly until you know what someone has been through or is battling. Life is tough and many of us are just coping, day to day. The two main characters in the Mind’s Eye series – Levi Wolfe and Trudy Tucker – are talented psychics, but they are flawed individuals dealing with their own inner roadblocks.

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 quite a few authors I like. Right now I’m loving Roni Loren’s books. I like her sexy romances and her interesting characters and backstories. I also love Abigail Barnette’s (The Boss) books. The Boss, The Girlfriend, etc. Her books are very sexy and realistic to me. They also deal with some sticky subjects. And C.D. Reiss is a talented writer who doesn’t pull any punches.

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

I had a mentor named Peggy Fielding who encouraged my writing and was a wonderful friend. The character of Quintara in my Mind’s Eye series is based on Peggy.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Writing is my career and has been my only career since I was in college.

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

No.

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

I learn from every book.

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

Someone as lovely as Trudy and someone as handsome as Levi.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Just keep on plugging away at it.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Thanks for hanging in there with me!

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m reading a Roni Loren book. The One You Can’t Forget

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I think it was The Pokey Little Puppy.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Life.

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

Truman Capote. I think he was a great writer and a fascinating person.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

I volunteer with an animal rescue group. I foster dogs until we can find great homes for them.

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

Romance, mystery, some sci-fi.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

Orange is my favoritecolor. I like a lot of different kindsmusic, and I like food way, way too much!

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

I’d probably be a teacher.

Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time?

Worry about it, cry, hug my dogs, make love to my man.

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

She loved to laugh.

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

My website is www.deborah-camp.com

Or visit me on Facebook.  https://www.facebook.com/officialdeborahcamp/

Amazon Authors page USA https://www.amazon.com/default/e/B006U1ZS4Q/?redirectedFromKindleDbs=true

UK  https://www.amazon.co.uk/Deborah-Camp/e/B001HOGDMW/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1532628317&sr=1-2-ent