Here is my interview with Claressa Swensen

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

Fiona: Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us about yourself. How old are you?

Claressa: I’m Claressa Swensen, a 24 year old author of 5 picture books. I live in northern Utah with my husband, daughter and 2 dogs. I have been writing since I was a child and published my first picture book in 2016.

 Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

Claressa: My new picture book, “How To Make a Mom” will release to major retailers on August 15th. How To Make a Mom is a short story combined cookbook which both tells a sweet story about a mother’s love while teaching children to bake. I am so excited to share this story with the world!

 Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Claressa: “How To Make a Mom” is an easy to follow recipe book for kids that also talks about the different responsibilities a mother has. How To Make a Mom was a very fitting title and came to me early in the process of writing the story.

Fiona: Who designed the illustrations?

Claressa: My amazing illustrator is Alena Paklina. I typically sketch a concept illustration, and she works her magic to bring it to life. Alena is from Russia and she illustrated my previous book “Little Bear and His Chair”.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Claressa: If writing is your passion, don’t let anything stop you from pursuing it. It’s not going to be easy, but you are helping people through your words. It’s a gift, never take it for granted.

 Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Claressa: I appreciate every single one of you and want to thank you for the ongoing support. It’s an honor to have my stories read in your home and I hope they encourage more reading and bonding with your little ones. Thank you!

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

Claressa: Yes please follow me at https://www.facebook.com/ClaressaSwensenOfficial  or sign up for my newsletter at www. https://claressaswensen.com/ to keep updated with latest releases and contests!

https://facebook.com/ClaressaSwensenOfficial/

https://claressaswensen.com/

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=claressa+swensen

https://m.barnesandnoble.com/s/Claressa+Swensen

https://www.walmart.com/search/?cat_id=0&query=claressa+swensen

Here is my interview with Sheri Poe-Pape

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?

Sheri Poe-Pape.  Age 57.

Fiona: Where are you from?

Rockford, Illinois, USA

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

Though Sheri Poe-Pape has written many internet articles about people in the arts and in history, “Cassie’s Marvelous Music Lessons” and “Cassie Pup Takes the Cake??” are the author’s first two children’s books. She has also been Director/Educator of the Pape Conservatory of Music for the past thirty-nine years. Each day, she warms up on the piano, and for fifteen of those years, a small dog has been her constant companion.

In recent years, little Cassie has stood on the right side of the keyboard and brushed the author’s hands off the piano keys and helped also to be a ‘baker’s helper’ – habits that inspired these stories! The author is a graduate of Northern Illinois University where she studied music, English and creative writing.  She lives with her family in Northern Illinois, where she continues to write and to teach music-alongside Cassie.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

Working on my third books’ illustrations.  First two books have hit #1 on Amazon.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing? 

After graduating in 2007 from Institute of Children’s Literature and I felt a calling to write children’s books.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer? 

When I won my first children’s book award.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

My dog Cassie inspired my first book and sequels based upon her real-life antics.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

Again, it was my dog Cassie’s antics that come into the title.

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

No specific style.  Just the marketing of it.

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

About 85% is real and 15% is fiction.

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

Sometimes just a country ride before I start writing.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I come up with the cover and all the pages’ ideas and submit it to the illustrator.

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

Just for all to get along in the world.

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 authors. My favourite author is Hans Christian Anderson.

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

My kindergarten teacher, Connie Mayfield.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I definitely do.

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?

Just to be as creative as I can be.

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

It would be animated, so I would have Cassie back in cartoon form.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Believe in yourself.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Keep a watch out for my future Cassie books!

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

No time to read right now.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

The Boxcar Children.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Old British comedies.  Mistreatment of animals.

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

I got to, Davy Jones, who became a close acquaintance. #1 Monkees fan!

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

Writing is my hobby.

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

American Idol, old British comedies.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

Spaghetti, purple, the Monkees.

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

I would shrivel up like a flower.

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

With a very quick trip to the English countryside.

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

Bless the Beasts and the Children.

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

www.sheripoe-pape.com

Amazon Authors page USA https://www.amazon.com/Sheri-Poe-Pape/e/B00U0K4RKO/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sheri-Poe-Pape/e/B00U0K4RKO?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1564529583&sr=1-1

Here is my interview with S.R. Crawley

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 inviting me here. My legal name is Sherri Phelps but I write and publish under S.R. Crawley. I use this name in honour of my mother. I have now been a survivor of life for 55 years and still counting.

Fiona: Where are you from?

I was born in Valdese NC, raised in Jacksonville Fl, and now reside in Jonesboro Ar.

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

I married at the young ripe age of 17. I was smart enough to know that he was going to be trouble, but my heart had fell in love with him. I followed my heart for 34 years. Over those years, that love slowly, and painfully bled out. I was however; blessed with 3 precious children during that time. I do not and never will regret any of that time.

I started writing poetry as a teenager. I was one of the many that kept their feeling bottled up until they festered and exploded poison outwards. I chose to spill that poison onto paper in the form of poetry.

Writing was my dream, but I had to live in reality. I took my first job at 15 as a donut finisher at Dunkin Donuts. The following year, I moved into retail and was stuck there for too many years.

It took the company I worked for, going out of business, to allow me to change my career. I took advantage of all my benefits from Workers Comp. and followed in my mother’s footsteps.I went back to school an became a Certified Nursing Assistant. That was many years back, you had to learn many skills before you were certified as a nursing assistant. That career path as changed over the years.

It was after I divorced when I finally decided to take my writing serious. I self-published my first two books, “One Shoe” and “Kisses from the Mind to the Soul,” in 2018. I am in hoping to publish “Murder at LPW,” latethis year or early 2020.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

I am working on my third book, “Murder at LPW.” This piece will be my first full length novella. It is takingme longer than I like to write this, but I have high expectations for this piece.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I started writing as a young teenager. It was the safest way I knew to let my feeling out.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

From my first writings, I considered myself as a writer. It was not until I self-published my first book, “One Shoe” in 2018, that allowed me to proudly consider myself as an author.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I remember as I was growing up in Florida, I would see one shoe laying on the road. I remember seeing many of these, one shoe scenes. I found myself wondering what the story was behind that one shoe. Why was it there, where was the other shoe, and who did it belong too?

It was not until I was a young adult, that I came up with the idea of taking my curiosity about one shoe and turning it into a book.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

LOL!! There would have never been another title as perfect as “One Shoe.”

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

I don’t think I have a style, if I do, I am not aware of it. I do have to be in a mood to write. I have diagnosed OCD, If I feel what I am going to write is not perfect, I don’t write at all. That slows down my writing process tremendously.

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

“Kisses from the Mind to the Soul,” is a collection of my poetry. Many of the pieces was wrote for or about a family member.

I am a huge wrestling fan and attend events whenever I can. My work in progress, “Murder at LPW,” is about a murder that takes place in a wrestling promotion. Many of the characters in this book are real life wrestlers that have given me permission to use their name in my book.

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

I don’t have the luxury to travel much. Most of my traveling and experiences is done in reading and research.

I did have to attend many wrestling events to get to know the wrestlers that are in “Murder at LPW.” Oh, what a chore! NOT! LOL!!

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I designed the covers for “One Shoe” and “Kisses from the Mind to the Soul.” Even though“Murder at LPW,” is still in the writing process,  the cover was designed by my oldest son, Norman Meklakov. By the way, he is also a wrestler.

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

The only book of mine that has any messages for readers is my collection of poetry, “Kisses from the Mind to the Soul.” Each piece has it’s own meaning.

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 discovered Stephen King in 1976, and he became and will always be my number one author. His writing fascinates me and never lets me down.

I have read many books not written by him, but the author never mattered to me. I picked those books by reading the back cover. It what I read grabbed me, I bought it and read it.

I am only now getting into reading books from other self-published authors.

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

No doubt, my precious mother. She was my biggest supporter. She was the one that convinced me that my writings were good enough to be published. I just wished I would have gotten my courage to publish before she died.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

According to Webster’s dictionary, the definition of career isan occupation undertaken for a significant period of a person’s life and with opportunities for progress.

If Webster’s definition is correct, then yes, I do.

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

I would have gotten professional editors.

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

I have learned so many things since I published my first two books. I’m still learning whenever and however I can.

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

I have to be honest, if any of my books were to be made into a film, I would be so ecstatic, I wouldn’t care who it was.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Your writing won’t appeal to everyone, so make it appealing to you

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

There were times when reading the words of others brought me peace and understanding. My goal is to pay it forward.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Sleeping Beauties by Owen King

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I know it is not the first book I read, but it is the first book I remember reading. “Carrie,” in 1976.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

There is so many things that can make me laugh or cry. I believe Imust do both to experience a well-adjusted life

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

No other than Stephen King himself. A few years ago, I was able to hear him speak in Nashville, Tn. That was one of my dreams come true. I have never wanted to meet one of my favourite celebrities before. I have this phobia, so to speak, that if I meet them, they will not be as nice as I believe them to be.

After hearing Stephen King speak, I have nothing to fear about meeting him.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

Collecting Stephen King books

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

Just like the books I read, I love a good story line

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

LOL! The only way I can answer this is, variety is the spice of life. That says it all.

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

I guess I would have to hire a psychiatrist to release my feelings on, if not everyone would be mad at me.

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

Every second would be with my family

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

Night-Night, Sweet Dreams, see you in Heaven, I love you. This might sound strange to some, but these words where spoken by me and repeated by my children when I tucked them in to bed at night. Instead of saying see you in Heaven, we would say, see you in the morning.

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

Sure, the best place to stay up to date and receive notice of special offers, is my Facebook page: www.facebook.com/SRCrawleyauthor/?ref=bookmarks

But I can also be found on:

My website: https://srcrawley2018.wixsite.com/mysite

Instagram: www.instagram.com/s.r.crawley

Twitter: https://twitter.com/srcrawley2018

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/srcrawley

Amazon Authors page USA https://www.amazon.com/S-R-Crawley/e/B07FKZ9X42?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1564564169&sr=1-1

UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/S-R-Crawley/e/B07FKZ9X42?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2&qid=1564564231&sr=1-2

I will mail you a personalized copy of either book by emailing me at srcrawley2018@yahoo.com

$6 per copy includes shipping

I except payments through PayPal or Messenger

While traveling have you ever noticed a shoe laying on the highway? Not a pair of shoes, only one. For as long as I can remember, I have wondered how that one shoe ended up on that highway. S.R. Crawley is going to tell you the hidden story of 3 different shoes that ended up lost and abandoned on a highway. She promises you will never look at a shoe on the highway the same ever again.

Many of the poems you will read in this book are based on events in the author’s life. Each poem was written with such feeling that it is sure to tug at your heartstrings.
Some of the poems, however; are from the author’s deep thoughts, and a few come from her dark side. S. R. Crawley proves to have different personalities when it comes to writing poetry. You are sure to connect to at least one of her poems, maybe more

 

Here is my interview with Barbara Ross

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 everyone. My name is Barbara Ross. I won’t say my age, but let’s just say, like my character Jane Darrowfield, I am deep in my second act.

Fiona: Where are you from?

I lived for decades in Massachusetts and now I live in Portland, Maine.

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

I live with my husband in a cool part of Portland. I have two kids who are both grown up and married and two granddaughters.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

Lots of news! Jane Darrowfield, Professional Busybody released at the end of June. It’s the first in a new series for me. Haunted House Murder, the Halloween-themed novella collection by Leslie Meier, Lee Hollis, and me comes out end of August. And, Sealed Off, Maine Clambake Mystery #8 comes out on New Year’s Eve.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I still have my first book, which my mother dutifully kept, written, I think, in third grade.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I have a friend who says, “Only you get to decide to call yourself a writer.” What she means is the publishing industry doesn’t get to decide that, critics don’t get to decide that, your peers don’t get to decide that. As soon as you declare it, it is true. In which case I would say when I started my first novel in the mid-1990s.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

My first book is The Death of an Ambitious Woman, which was published in 2010. I had a year off from work, my kids were in middle school. It felt like an “if not now, when?” situation.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

My original title was An Ambitious Woman, which I loved, since both the victim and the police chief protagonist are ambitious women. But that didn’t indicate to the reader what type of book it was, hence The Death of an Ambitious Woman.

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

Both my series, the Maine Clambake Mysteries and Jane Darrowfield, are amateur sleuth, so the challenge always is—why are they involved? Why are they investigating? Finding that hook is key to the whole thing.

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

My fiction has wandered all over. I have short stories built directly on things people told me. But I also love to make things up, pick up ideas from small town newspapers, etc. Honestly, coming up with ideas is the easiest part of the gig.

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

Yes. I’ve spent a day on a lobster boat, gone to a blueberry farm, toured oyster farms. So many things. I usually do enough research before writing to make sure my premise will work, but I do the detailed work, including any necessary travel, between the first and second drafts. Of course, I’m also confined by the seasons and my deadlines. I am often writing about the summer during the winter and vice versa.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

The covers come from my publisher, Kensington. The Maine Clambake covers, which are terrific, are done by artist Ben Perini.

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

Sisters in Crime, an organization all crime fiction writers should belong to. Also my Wicked Authors blogmates and the Maine crime writing community. Also Grub Street, the writing center in Boston. Too many to name, really.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes—a second career.

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

Laughing. Always! I don’t think any writer is every completely happy with any work.

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

I think I would go into a second retirement, after my first unsuccessful one.

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

She had a great laugh!

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

Yes. Please see my website at https://maineclambakemysteries.com/. I blog regularly at the Wicked Authors https://wickedauthors.com/ and Maine Crime Writers https://mainecrimewriters.com/

Bio

Barbara Ross is the author of seven Maine Clambake Mysteries. The eighth, Sealed Off, will be released in December 2019. Barbara’s novellas are included in the anthologies Eggnog Murder, Yule Log Murder, and Haunted House Murder. Jane Darrowfield, Professional Busbody, first in a new series was released in June 2019.

links

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Barbara-Ross/e/B003ZABYBG/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1468900979&sr=8-2-ent

Website: https://maineclambakemysteries.com/

Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6550635.Barbara_Ross

BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/barbara-ross

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

Twitter https://twitter.com/barbross

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

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

 

Here is my interview with David Kummer

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?

Hey, Fiona, very grateful to be here. I haven’t done author interviews in a while. My name is David Kummer. I actually just graduated high school, so I’m 18 for now. A little bit longer, at least.

Fiona: Where are you from?

I grew up in Madison, Indiana, and I’m going to college just a few miles away at Hanover. There’s a lot of cool things about the town, so come visit anytime you’re in Southern Indiana! That goes for anyone. Not just Fiona.

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

Like I said, I just graduated high school. I’m planning to become an English teacher after college. Also, I have a ton of siblings. I’ll let you guess how many. It’s more than 7. That takes up a lot of time, but I find ways to get the writing in. And the author interviews, of course.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

I just released my first book in almost a year. It’s called Home: A Dystopian Journey, and I wrote it right after my grandpa died and while I was getting through the last year of high school. It’s a bit… unconventional. And you probably won’t forget the ending anytime soon.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I stared writing because I love to tell stories, basically. Since then, it’s become more important to me. Without writing, I probably wouldn’t be in a very good place, nor would I be as happy as I am. It can really be a pain sometimes, but writing has gotten me through a lot, personally and emotionally.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I guess I decided I was a writer just after my second book, She: A Horror Novel. That was the book that really felt like an author wrote it. I’ve redone it since then, fixed some glaring mistakes. I don’t like it as much as I did, but it does feel like that book introduced me into the writing community at large and made me a real author.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Well, my hometown is a little creepy at night. I took some of the places that I found most interesting –street lamp outside my window, stone bridge downtown– and transformed those into the horror novel She, and the sequel She Watches. Those are the most normal books I’ve written, but even they have their twists and turns.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I kind of went through a one-word title phase. I think Stephen King’s It is to blame. The book centers around a creepy old lady, so, naturally, I called the book She.

 

My most recent book, Home, is also a one-word title but for a different version. I wrote the book during a time of searching, and so are the characters. They’re trying to find Home, a location. I was searching for Home, an idea.

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

 Writing dark books, and very deep books, is super cool because I get to explore ideas and aspects of life that other genres don’t. On the other hand, I have a really hard time with endings. I hate giving a solid ending, because life almost never has them. At the same time, readers need closure. I’m still trying to balance that.

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

 Home is special because I really took a lot of the events that I went through and turned them into a story. The book is dystopian, so you won’t find too many familiar places. But I think the emotions, feelings, and struggles of the characters are relatable to anybody who has stepped outside of their house in the last few years. It took a lot of work to plan and to write, but I’m pleased with the result, and especially with the undertone.

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

I don’t have to do very much travel, since most of the books are set in places similar to my hometown. I do occasionally go around on Google Earth to get a feel of other places. That’s actually a really cool tool for anybody to use. You see some weird stuff on there too.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

All of the covers were designed by me, with the exception of Until We Burn. Dark Wish Designs took care of that, and it’s absolutely incredible! Home is probably my favorite cover that I designed myself.

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

 I think the message in Home is that you don’t always end up where you want to go, but sometimes that’s a good thing. All of us are going through some kind of wilderness journey. Most of the time, we all want to reach the end. But the end isn’t what’s important. It’s the middle, the memories, and the people we travel with.

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 that I’m always impressed by are Jordon Greene, author of A Mark On My Soul, and Theresa Jacobs, who wrote Sudden Death and actually was interviewed by you not long ago! My favorite author of all time is Mark Edwards, but the best book I’ve ever read is The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters. So there you go! Four new authors to check out.

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

 My girlfriend has always been very supportive, and I have a group of around 8 people who buy every book that I publish. They really are the best. Even my sales dip (very low), it’s nice to know at least 8 people appreciate the work that I’m doing and the meaning behind it.

 Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

 Writing probably will never be my career, and I’m trying to come to grips with that fact. I’m focusing on making worthy pieces and meaningful art, rather than commercial success. That’s difficult, but I’m trying to get there.

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

Home is still new, so I don’t hate it yet, but I would probably wish that I had more time to put it together. I could have added a couple of chapters, and fleshed out the story more. I love how it is right now, but a few thousand words would’ve done some good.

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

This recent book taught me a lot about myself and how important it is to remember small moments. Everything can fade away really quickly if you forget to hold on.

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

Oh man. Tough question. The lead character is kind of quirky, sad, and slowly falling in love with a doomed girl. So… can I just say Harrison Ford? I know, I know. It doesn’t work. But he’s my favorite actor, and he’s the best actor. YOLO

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

I would say that it’s important to focus on the meaning behind your writing, and to make it something important to yourself. Most of all, keep writing!

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Leave reviews please 🙂 Authors really appreciate them, and I’ll usually give out freebies to people who have left reviews. I’m even hosting a giveaway right now for a 5-book box set!

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Currently, I’m reading two different books by Agatha Christie

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

My first vivid reading memory is of Harry Potter. I don’t know which book exactly.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Simple, sweet moments are my favorite. They produce a kind of laugh/cry mixture from me.

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

I’d really like to meet a famous author and get their advice. Mark Edwards would be really cool. He’s so consistently awesome.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

I play basketball a lot, and I just started an attempt at tennis. So we’ll see how that goes! I think I just miss Wii Sports, honestly.

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

List real quick in no order: Chuck, The Office, Psych.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors, music?

I’m on a mint crave right now. Also, Subway. I love dark gray and red colors, especially mixed. Music, I listen to tons of indie bands. Arcade Fire, The Killers, and twentyonepilots are the best three.

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

I probably listen to a ton of music, don’t sleep very much, and watch Planet of the Apes twice a week.

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

I really hate this idea, because I’m always in fear of what would happen to my unfinished books. If I’m honest, I’d just spend the 24 hours with my loved ones, rewatching my favorite movies, and eating ice cream for the entire time.

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

“Sometimes, just listen.”

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

 Definitely! Check out https://davidkummer.com/  for all the latest giveaways, information, and releases. And absolutely subscribe to my newsletter. Those people get TONS of free stuff

Home– https://www.amazon.com/Home-Dystopian-David-Duane-Kummer-ebook/dp/B07VPMJXTR

Until We Burn– https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07CXL1RSC

My Abigail– https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01BCYKY8U

Here is my interview with VIVA GOLD

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 VIVA GOLD and no way am I telling you my age!

Fiona: Where are you from?

The greatest city in the world; London, UK

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

I work 4 days a week as an Operations Manager. I’ve been at the company for 18 years and love the challenge of managing a diverse array of staff. I have 2 beautiful daughters in their mid-20’s (you can probably guess my approx. age now!) and a very understanding hubby. We’ve been marred for 31 years and are still having loads of fun! We love to go out in London and to travel the world. We’re blessed with a group of amazing friends and a lovely family.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

I’ve just released a new book called BLINK. I’m very excited about it as my Beta readers all said it’s my best yet.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing MF with a friend of mine in 2014 after we read 50 Shades and thought we could do that! Sadly, we didn’t make millions, but we had the best time ever collaborating on a series which we self-published. It was an amazing experience. We went to signings and met some fantastic people along the way. Then I discovered MM…

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I’ve always loved writing. Composition class at school was my absolute favourite. Over the years I have written speeches, articles, work related manuals and guides, and then books.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I fell in love with MM and read as much as I could. My MF writing partner wasn’t keen so I decided to write on my own under the author name Viva Gold. I wrote several books but wasn’t happy enough to self-publish, then one day Izzy popped into my head and the words just flowed. His love is Adam Cohen whose muse was the catalyst for the story. I was fascinated by a physically huge man being dominated by a smaller one. And I love kink, so there was some BDSM in there written how I’d want to read it (if that makes sense).

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

It is basically the story of Isadore Woolf and his sub Adam Cohen – hence Izzy’s Boy.

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

I write with a typically British voice which is sometimes challenging for readers from the US as the language can be quite different. I have to remember to tone it down so that it doesn’t put people off while still remaining true to myself.

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

If we’re talking about Izzy’s Boy specifically then no, it is not based on anyone I know. The thing I do know is their Jewish upbringing and the community they come from. Everything else was researched or created from my weird and warped imagination! Some of the characters have traits of people in my life but I’m not telling who!

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

I try to set the books in locations I am familiar with. I sometimes adapt the story if I have visited somewhere I think would fit. I have traipsed around London to check out areas and places to feature.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Me. I’m quite creative that way and really fussy. I enjoy doing them.

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

Diversity. Expect the unexpected. Love with an open mind.

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 have a favourite writer per se. I review for a blog called Books Laid Bare Boys and some new writers are truly talented, so I enjoy new to me authors very much. My ‘go to’ authors are NR Walker, Angelique Jurd, Garrett Leigh, Joseph Lance Tonlet, Sean Kerr, Bey Deckard, Jack L Pyke, JJ Harper, Lily Morton, Ella Frank…and loads more…I like to read quality writing. I the sappy romance that sounds like it was written by a 5 year old.

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

My friend Suzanne Burke who runs Books Laid Bare Boys and is heavily involved in the MM genre. We now run shiMMer together with a 3^rd team member. (UK MM author event and signing).

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

If I could afford to give up my day job, then I would in a heartbeat. But sadly, I couldn’t earn as much as I need to pay my bills. However, this doesn’t mean that I don’t take my writing seriously and I do consider it a second career alongside my day job. I devote a lot of time to it.

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

No. BLINK is my favourite book I’ve written so far. I really enjoyed writing it. It caused me much stress, but it was worth it.

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

Yes. I can’t just churn out words for the sake of it. Hence, I don’t have a book a month to release. I was very conscious of getting the tempo, emotion, and personalities right and it took me a while. I also re-wrote chunks of it until I was well and truly satisfied with the end result.

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

For Izzy’s Boy, I would definitely have Brock O’Hurn play Adam. He is too devine and that man bun makes me twitch!

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Get lots of advice from the right people. Then just write all the words! Don’t let anyone tell you, you can’t. Beta readers are brilliant and editors a must. Find a great formatter and take your craft seriously. Do NOT piss off your readers and just accept that Facebook is your best friend.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

I love you. And I am humbled by each and every sale. Thank you.

 Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m about to read Sir by NR Walker. I’ve just finished a few shorts on the giveaways. I loved Shaded Chains by Jack L Pyke, Mixing it Up by Angelique Jurd, and Anything Anytime by JJ Harper.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

No. But I was a word hound. I read everything and then some! All the children’s classics then as a teenager and young adult, Harold Robbins, Jackie Collins, Jilly Cooper, Harlan Coben.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Menopause mostly to be honest! Gossping with my girlfriends is always a hoot. American Idol makes me sob hysterically, and so does Queer Eye.

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

Elvis Presley – he’s my idol. I even went to Graceland for a special birthday. So much talent in one person is overwhelming. And he was flawed for sure, but incredibly generous and loving. I wish he’d had better people to help him cope with his fame. And that voice…truly unique.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

Apart from writing I’m pretty good at shopping.

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

I don’t watch huge amounts of telly as I’d rather be reading or writing, but I do enjoy Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, X Factor, Handmaid’s Tale, Fauda, Spartacus, Cold Feet, Schitt’s Creek, Afterlife.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

Food is sushi. Colour is hot pink. Music …usually Elvis!

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

I can’t imagine it. It would be like cutting off my oxygen supply! I’d have to get the words out somehow and I’m not known for my singing voice!

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

Having sex while listening to Elvis and snacking on sushi.

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

YOLO and she did!

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

I’m just creating a website, but readers can come join my reader group on FB called Viva’s Divas. We talk books, post sexy pics, drool over food porn, and generally chat MM.

My book buy links:

BLINK

Amazon UK http://tiny.cc/ynhbaz Amazon US http://tiny.cc/6shbaz

IZZY’S BOY(Woolf Tales 1) by Viva Gold

Amazon UK https://tinyurl.com/m6wdmyf  Amazon US https://tinyurl.com/m5ug49p

GOOD LORD(Woolf Tales 2) by Viva Gold

Amazon UK https://tinyurl.com/y8ybov9j  Amazon US https://tinyurl.com/yafmtyo2

MADE TO MEASUREby Viva Gold

Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2v5y7fvAmazon US: https://amzn.to/2A8lvdu

MONEY MAN (Woolf Tales 3) by Viva Gold
Amazon UK https://tinyurl.com/ybrpfjfhAmazon US https://tinyurl.com/y9km67u3

ALFIE’S UNEXPECTED CHRISTMASby Viva Gold

Amazon UK https://tinyurl.com/y9876teu  Amazon US https://tinyurl.com/y9sgafm

BLUE CHRISTMASby Viva Gold

Amazon UK https://tinyurl.com/yd7nhh2cAmazon US https://tinyurl.com/yd3p3oad

BLUE VALENTINE by Viva Gold

Amazon UK http://tiny.cc/w0g42yAmazon US http://tiny.cc/1ga42y

LIKE me on FB, I’d love to see you there https://www.facebook.com/vivagold1983/

Amazon https://amzn.to/2v7WGt0

Twitter @VivaGold3

Email me at Vivagold1983@gmail.com

Come join my fabulous Facebook reader group VIVA’S DIVAS at 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/362522807713292/

If you are  in the UK VIVA Gold  will be at The ShiMMer UK Author Event on the 22 .2 20 in Birmingham for more info go to the FB Page shimmer Attendees Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1147076735399309/

You can get your tickets here https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/shimmer-2020-mm-uk-author-event-tickets-61060808522?fbclid=IwAR1rKOd13L8QpkMgtrPxKMUOS48Li9G6Zf_9Or_mRrr-Prq8zn7bDAUHt7Y

Here is my interview with Kerry Watts

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 Kerry Watts and I’m 47 already. Can’t believe I’m so old…

Fiona: Where are you from?

I was born and raised in Perth and apart from a brief spell in South Wales I’ve lived here all my life.

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

What can I say about my education. School? I wasn’t a big fan due to my painful shyness and anxiety which only increased as I progressed through the years.  Now that I’m a bestselling author it’s weird to think I failed my Higher English exam so spectacularly. I wonder what my old English teacher would think if he knew. I live with my son and husband whom I adore. My daughter, whom I also adore has moved out and is making her own way in the world doing what she loves. Caring for small animals.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

My latest news is that I’m excited to share that Safe Home – Book 2 in my Detective Jessie Blake series set in Scotland is available to pre order.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I’ve been writing since my daughter was a baby which is a long time ago now. I began writing after reading a copy of Isla Dewar – Giving up on ordinary and thought ‘I’d like to do that.’ – So I did.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I’ve considered myself a writer from the very beginning when what I was writing was so bad. So bad I can’t describe it but I was writing and that meant the world to me.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your latest book?

In Safe Home I wanted to show that nothing is as simple as it seems. I wanted to bring in my interest in mental health issues. Post-natal depression in particular which is particularly personal to me.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The title came about through discussion with my wonderful publisher Helen who has the most amazing mind for that.

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

I like to think my style is simple and quick to read. I want my books to be a good way to relax and allow a story to unfold in front of them.

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

I want my characters to seem real enough so that people can relate to them on a human level. The reason I always incorporate mental health into my books is because of my personal and professional experience with mental health issues.

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

As my books are set in Scotland I haven’t travelled to source material.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

My publisher Helen works very closely with a designer who works with Bookouture. I think the designer captures what I want to say perfectly.

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

I suppose a message I think I’ve always sent is that things are never quite what they seem.

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?

 Billy Mclaughlin is a new author that I love! I think my favourite writer has to be Samantha Downing. Her book My Lovely Wife made me devour it in two days which is unusual for me. I was gripped from page 1 but I don’t give spoilers!

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

My friend Louise Mullins has been a great support to me. I reached out to her one day through Facebook and quizzed her about publishing. We’ve been good friends ever since.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I absolutely do because it’s hard work. There’s so much more that needs to be done than just writing. There’s the editing and rewrites and publicity to name a few.

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

Probably not.

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

I learned that tears in the writer – tears in the reader.

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

I’d like Kelly McDonald to play Jessie although the actress isn’t quite as tall as Jessie. Someone suggested Gerry Butler to me for Dylan recently but I think Mr Butler might be too busy.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Just do it. The first draft is just for you so it doesn’t half to be perfect. Don’t let criticism upset you either.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

I hope you enjoy book 2 enough to read book 3 and that it’s important to me to know you feel satisfied at the end of my books. I want them to know I value their opinion.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m reading a biography about the jockey Keiron Fallon

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Yes I think it was The Lion the witch and the wardrobe. I loved seeing Aslan come to life in the movie Narnia!

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Really good stand up comedy makes me laugh. People like Peter Kay and Billy Connolly in particular. Any form of cruelty to people or animals makes me cry.

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

I’d love to meet Agatha Christie and bend her ear about writing mystery novels. She would be fascinating to have a cup of tea with I think.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

My hobby I suppose is reading and writing as well as watching horse racing which I love. I do enjoy walking too but it’s not the same since losing my dog last year. I enjoy music and going to the theatre too.

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

I don’t know what I watched before I got Netflix! I loved Dexter, Hannibal, Stranger things to name a few. Also The haunting of Hill House. My son and I recently watched the remake of Jumanji with Dwayne Johnson and Jack Black. I laughed so hard I thought I was going to need oxygen.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

Favourite music all my life has been 80’s rock like Heart, Def Leppard etc. I also love Lewis Capaldi and Daughtry just now as well as Panic at the disco and Fall out boy.

My favourite colour is turquoise and I have no idea why!

My favourite food is any meal served with rice. Curries, chillies etc.

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

Can’t imagine such an awful prospect but become a professional reader/blogger maybe. I’m too tall and heavy to be a jockey!

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

I’d take my family and spend the day at a racing stables hopefully getting the chance to feel the speed on the back of a sprinter as he thunders at over 40 mph along the gallops.

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

She never liked any of you. She was just being nice!

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

http://kerrywatts.simplesite.com/ or on my Amazon author page.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kerry-Watts/e/B01F7D6T5E/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

https://www.facebook.com/KerryWattsAuthor/

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B07VJNKXYZ/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0?fbclid=IwAR2b446o4j0jP8QYRCaDsuAbgwMD6Sg9l4vWi7Pj2UTGgBrQDRpDKlF6mfg

 

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B07M5KPPJ9/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i1?fbclid=IwAR2b446o4j0jP8QYRCaDsuAbgwMD6Sg9l4vWi7Pj2UTGgBrQDRpDKlF6mfg

 

 

Here is my interview with M.K. Moore

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 Mary, but I write under M.K. Moore. I am thirty-three.

Fiona: Where are you from?

Originally from Seffner, Florida, just outside of Tampa. I currently live in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

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

I have been married for nine years. I have a huge extended family. No kids. I have three jobs and I write. My life is full and kind of exciting!

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

Love & Candy Canes comes out July 29th and I am super excited about that!

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I have always been writing something, Fifty Shades of Grey brought erotica out of hiding so I thought I’d give it a shot.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When someone outside my family bought a copy of my first book.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

Fifty Shades of Grey. I love that book and it opened my mind to new possibilities.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

My sister, Erin, helped me come up with it.

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

I write novellas mostly. It’s what works for me. I have a short attention span and lots of stories to be told.

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

For the most part, there is a bit of my husband in every man I write!

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

I don’t have to, but I do often. I can write anywhere!

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

Most of my covers are designed by the amazing KL Fast.

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

For all my books, the message I try to impart is that love is everything!

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?

Ember Flint and Loni Ree are currently on my radar. My favorite writer is C.M. Steele. I love her fun style and the men she writes.

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

Hmmm. KL Fast. She beta read my second book and we became best friends and our writing partnership was born.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

Yes. A career I love but a career nonetheless.

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

No, I loved how it turned out!

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

I learned how ice cream is commercially made and stored for sale.

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

It really depends on the book, but if I had to choose one to be made into a movie, I’d choose Madame President. I’d like Gavin to be played by Brant Daughtery and Trista be played by Margot Robbie.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Go for it! Write what you love.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

You guys are the best! I couldn’t do what I love without you!

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Loved By Mistake by ChaShiree M.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Nothing’s Fair in the Fifth Grade.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Movies, puppies, and babies.

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

Jane Austen. She is a huge inspiration for me.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

Reading and I collect office supplies.

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

Friends, The Office, Parks and Rec

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

I love fancy sandwiches. My favorite color is green. I love all music.

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

Be an actress

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

With my husband.

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

Mary Moore wife, writer I don’t really know. I’ve never been asked this question before.

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

My Facebook page is where you can keep updated on all things MK facebook.com/authormkmoore

Madame President: https://www.amazon.com/Madame-President-Love-Norlyn-Book-ebook/dp/B07CSFHB2G/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?keywords=madame+president+mk&qid=1564313820&s=gateway&sr=8-1

Love & Candy Canes: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RKM9179

Amazon Profile: https://www.amazon.com/M.K.-Moore/e/B0745G4CJ4?ref_=dbs_p_ebk_w0m_abau_000000

Here is my interview with Mark L’estrange

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 Mark L’estrange, and I am 25…35…45… 55 years old.

Fiona: Where are you from?

I was born in Balham (gateway to the south), in London.

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

I am divorced (so technically single), and I live in Kent with my six wonderful fur babies, all of whom are great fans of my work, and encourage me to be creative by constantly jumping on my key pad while I’m working. I have a law degree from the university of Westminster, and work in one of the legal sections for the ministry of justice…Not as boring as it sounds, as I have a marvellous team around me, and no two days ever seem exactly the same.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

My next book, a collection of 19 short horror stories for Christmas entitled: ‘Christmas Evil’, is due to be published in September, and my publishers (Creativia/Next Chapter) have struck a deal with a company to create merchandise with the front cover of my book on them. It’s incredibly exciting to see your name on: tee shirts, mugs, posters, blankets, etc. It’s certainly a first for me.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

Over the years I’ve had many creative outlets, inc: amateur dramatics, singing, wrestling, etc, and writing is something I have always been keen on since childhood. Back when I was young we didn’t have computer games, or social media, and even the telly only had three channels, so reading became a full-time hobby for most of us. I try to write books in the style of those I used to love reading when I first discovered horror-fiction.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Ha ha, oh you are kind…I still don’t. I am a full-time civil servant and writing is definitely my number one hobby. Much as I would love for it to become my career, I insist on being realistic about the prospect.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

My first published book ‘Night of the Kraken’ came about from an idea I had once when I was at the seaside looking out over the sea on a stormy day. As the waves crashed against each other I suddenly imagined a huge tentacle rising from the depths, and imagined the beast attached to it, making its way onto the beach to cause carnage and devour innocent (and some not too innocent) locals.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

I stole it! No seriously, I did. There have been so many books and films in the horror genre that had ‘Night of the…’ as their title, I wanted to create something of my own to add to the phenomenon.

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

Horror will always be my true passion, and I include under that umbrella offshoots such as: paranormal, ghost stories, space and post-apocalyptic stories, so all my future writing-I suspect-will fall within one of those areas. As for my style, I like to think it is ‘easy-reading’, switch your brain off and enjoy the ride.

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

It’s hard (for me anyway) not to include real-life experiences in my writing, even if it’s a character I base on someone I saw on the train on my way in to work. These days, so many people spend their commute talking (far too loudly) on their mobiles, by the end of the journey you know they’re entire life story, which makes it so easy to create a character around them.

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

Lord no, it all takes place in my imagination. That is one of the things I love about the horror genre, it taps into the imaginations of both the writer and the reader, and if you allow it, you can be in for one hell of a good ride.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

My publishers, but I do get to make suggestions and choose from the final drafts.

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

Not really. There’s nothing deep and meaningful in my work, it is pure imagination and escapism.

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?

To be honest, I find an awful lot of new horror fiction to be outside the realms of what I consider to be horror. An example would be the twilight stories, not, in my opinion,real horror, even though the subject matter is vampires. So many recent novels are classed as horror, but should be re-categorised as ‘thriller’ or ‘psychological drama’. I prefer the original writers who captured my imagination. The likes of: Guy N. Smith, Richard Laymon, the earlier Stephen King stories, and of course, James Herbert.

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

My good friend Alisha Ramsey who patiently and painstakingly copies all my chapters on to a computer stick-thingy and keeps them safe in case my computer goes kaput…NB: Note the technical terms I use, I am sooooo advanced.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

More a fantasy, in the respect that it would be my dream job.

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

I’ll tell you after the comments start to flow!!! Personally, I love the idea of horror stories at Christmas, and each one of those in my latest book is set on Christmas eve, and together they cover such areas as: vampires, witches, werewolves, cannibals and various monsters of all descriptions, human, and otherwise, so I hope there’s something in there for everybody who enjoys a creepy tale.

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

The one I am working on at the moment has taught me that you can spend an entire week formatting a chapter, and when you finally manage to write it, most of what you intended, needs to be changed.

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

The only character(s) I have ever envisioned as far as actors/actresses are concerned, is in my novel ‘Ghost Song’. I imagined Jodie Comer as the wife of the main character, and former x-factor singer Lucy Jones as the ghostly apparition. Well, a man can dream.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Never quit! I was writing short stories and failed attempts at novels for over twenty years before I finally made it into print. Rejection, is part of the process, so accept it with good grace and carry-on.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Thank you all so much for taking the time to read my work, please continue to do so, and comment whenever you feel the urge.

 Fiona: What book are you reading now?

Guy N. Smith’s Tales from the Black Hills, creepy stuff…Lovely.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

I think it was called Sebastian the bear, or something similar.

 Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Laugh: Modern Family.

Cry: Les Miserables.

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

John Denver. Without a doubtthe greatest singer-songwriter the world has ever produced. I saw him many times in concert, including one in the final year of his life. Such a tragic waste.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

Writing, reading, watching whatever I think is good on the box, playing with my fur babies.

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

Game of Thrones, Modern Family, Superstore, Killing Eve, most Nordic dramas.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

Foods: Mediterranean.

Colours: Midnight Blue.

Music: John Denver, classical, easy listening, and I love a good requiem such as Emanuele Cardosa.

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

Volunteer to look after unwanted dogs and cats.

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

With my fur babies, watching Modern Family, drinking champagne (Moet, naturally).

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

Beneath this sod, lies another.

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

Alas I have no media presence whatsoever. I am a true luddite and believe that all things electrical from televisions to computers and everything in between, should come with a know-it-all 10-year old you can keep in a cupboard and bring out whenever your system is playing up.

Here are the links to my amazon books and the company advertising the accessories for my new book.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/s?k=Mark+L%27Estrange&i=stripbooks&ref=nb_sb_noss

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=mark+L%27estrange+books&ref=nb_sb_noss

https://teespring.com/en-GB/christmas-evil-horror?tsmac=store&tsmic=litmatter&pid=387&cid=101810&sid=front

 

 

Here is my interview with C W Lovatt

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 C W Lovatt, but I’ll answer to practically anything: Chuck, Charlie, or Charles; I’m just grateful for the attention. As for my age, I’m a hopelessly immature 64.

Fiona: Where are you from?

Manitoba, Canada.

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

I’m currently single, living alone on a small acreage on the wide expanse of the prairies. After forty-three years in construction, I’m now on disability due to arthritis in my hip, until I officially retire in November.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

That would be the new novel I’m about to begin writing. It will be affiliated, but not part of the Charlie Smithers books, the series that I’m best known for. It will be written in the first person, the same as Charlie Smithers, but the protagonist will be a London actress, by the name of Dolly Pleasance, which is also the title to the book. The reader will be able to follow Dolly’s career on stage over a period of thirty odd years, as well as her relationship with Charlie over the same time.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

About forty years ago I read a terrible book, and shortly after I read Watership Down. The former convinced me that I could do better. The latter gave me a goal of excellence to strive for.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When my mentor, Amber Clark, read my stories, and finally began nodding her approval.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

The Flashman books, written by my idol, George MacDonald Fraser.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

“The Adventures of Charlie Smithers” is a rarity for me, in that I began writing  it without a title. Back then I was writing short stories almost exclusively, so I had no reason to believe this story would be any different. It wasn’t until I began the second chapter that I realised that it was going to be a novel, in fact, an adventure novel, so the title pretty much wrote itself.

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

My writing style has been described as ‘unique’ and ‘interesting.’ Others more outgoing refer to it as ‘superlative.’ I have a knack of making a reader experience both laughter and sorrow, and everything else in-between. That’s my goal, to make them experience every sort of emotion imaginable, because that’s when we feel most alive. But I would have to say that the most challenging aspect in writing historical fiction is the volume of research that’s required.

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

I’m not sure which book you’re referring to, but almost all of my work is realistic. However, what transpires in my stories is all a product of my imagination.

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

I often travel to where my stories take place. They’ve taken me from Australia to Britain, as well as all around the eastern seaboard of Canada. I often go after the manuscript has been written, to see if there’s an essence that I’ve yet to capture. However, just as often the places I travel to are the birth place of my ideas, so there’s no hard and fast rule.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

My first three covers were a collaboration between myself and the extremely talented artist, Peter Fussey. When, tragically, illness prevented Peter from continuing, we were faced with a real problem as artists with his talent where extremely few and far between. The problem was eventually solved by my publisher’s very own Poppet, who is a gifted writer, but also turned out to be quite a talented cover designer, as well. Since her style was much different than Peter’s, the covers of all the Charlie Smithers books had to be redone, and she’s done all but one of my covers ever since, with very little help from me. The single exception isa children’s book I wrote called, “The Little Mouse,” The cover and illustrations inside were done by the gifted young artist, Angel Rose.

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

Regardless of genre, by and large stories are about people, and the human condition. That’s what I strive to portray = the human aspect of my characters, behaving as humans do. Very few are entirely good, and even fewer are entirely evil. – they’re just human.

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?

Indeed there are. Although he’s been around for several years, Alec Hawkes is relatively new as a novelist. He has a gift with prose and humour, and is passionate about his work. Elaina Davidson and Diane Brown also have a gift for storytelling and the prose to back it up. As well, I’ve recently discovered that Karen Cummings Sanchex is someone to look out for in the future.

As for a favourite writer, it would be a toss up between George MacDonald Fraser and Stephen King – Fraser for his wit, and attention to detail, and King for his uniquely relaxed prose.

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

A dear friend, Amber Clark. She believed in me, and it was her influence that inspired me to take myself more seriously as a writer, and worked tirelessly, coaching me to make my stories even better, until they became worthy of being published.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I rather think that it already is.

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

No. To date “Josiah Stubb: The Plains of Abraham” is my crowning achievement, and one that I’m quite proud of. I wouldn’t change a word.

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

Every book has taught me something, whether it be something historical, or how to become a better writer, there’s simply too much information roiling around in my head; at least some of it has to stick.

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

I think Tom Hardy would make an excellent Josiah Stubb.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Yes, don’t make becoming published your immediate goal. Practice, practice, practice. I can’t emphasize that enough. Pay your dues, learn your craft, so when the day finally comes when you do become published you can stand rightfully proud, and say, “I belong.”

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I love you all!

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

“The Gown,” by Jennifer Robson

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

Ha! Not a chance!

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

Romance, tragedy, beauty and the ridiculous, the human element in a story.

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

My idol, George MacDonald Fraser, perhaps the only writer to whom I might feel intimidated by. I would like us to become friends.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

I’ve recently taken up gardening and bike riding.

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

Outside of the odd football game, and the news, I don’t watch television. I am, however, a big fan of the movies., but not just any movie. I like historical films like Master and Commander, Saving Private Ryan, Lawrence of Arabia – historical films that have taken pains to reproduce an accurate story, the same way as I do, myself.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

Pasta, royal blue, and classic rock.

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

That’s an oxymoron. For me, there is no future without writing.

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

I was going to say writing or editing, but there are friends I would trust to edit my work after I’m gone. So I’d have to say writing, writing, writing, as much as I possibly can, before the curtain finally falls.

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

Here Lies C. W. Lovatt, the Greatest Storyteller of Our Time. Naturally I would want to earn that epitaph before disappearing into the Great Perhaps.

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

Yes, I have a blog, Story River, and you can find it here: http://chuck-storyriver.blogspot.ca/

Amazon author pages:
US: https://www.amazon.com/C.-W.-Lovatt/e/B00AV9ROR2/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/C.W.Lovatt/e/B00AV9ROR2/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0