Blazing Trailers

Meet K. S. Brooks

2011-08-18T02:00:00.000-07:00

Interview with K. S. Brooks, author of Postcards from Mr. Pish, The Mighty Oak and Me, Mr. Pish’s Woodland Adventure (2011), Lust for Danger, The Kiss of Night, & Night Undone (2011)
Watch the trailers and read excerpts at Blazing Trailers.

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

I love shooting rifles, eating good croissants, and listening to an eclectic range of music. When I’m not speaking French to the animals in my yard, I’m writing educational children’s books and action/adventure suspense novels.

Do you have another job besides writing?

Nope! I’m lucky enough to be writing full-time, albeit I’m on food rations.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

Postcards from Mr. Pish was inspired by our move from Maryland to Washington State. I’ve always been an advocate of outdoor learning, and I thought that showing kids really cool places through the eyes of a dog might inspire them to drop their video games and go outside.

Did your book require a lot of research?

Postcards from Mr. Pish did require a lot of research. Since my children’s books have been classified as educational and even used in schools as text books, I feel I have a responsibility to make sure everything in them is completely accurate.

What is the funniest/most embarrassing/scariest story from one of your books signings or events?

I had been bitten by a spider, went toxic and managed to drive myself to the emergency room. A nurse found me in a chair, unconscious in the hospital lobby. The doctor wanted to keep me for two days, but I was doing a signing at Barnes & Noble and begged them to let me go on the promise I would return after the event! Later that day, I sat at the entrance to the B&N store with all my wares, white as a corpse, sweating profusely, and sporting lots of IV marks on my arms. Needless to say, it would have gone better if I’d been selling horror books. I returned to the hospital that evening.

If you are a world builder, what is your favorite part of creating these worlds?

I’m not a world builder. I envy people who can do that. I write faction, putting fictional characters in real places and events.

What would you tell aspiring young writers about the publishing business?

Don’t write for the money. Write for the love of writing. The publishing business is unforgiving and nearly impossible to break into. You have to be tenacious, and you should be good. Hone your craft, and never give up. Start building your resume as early as you can. You’ll be glad, later, that you have the credentials to show off.

Do you get along with your muse? What do you do to placate her when she refuses to inspire you?

I have about 20 books in my head that still need to be written. When I finish those, I’ll let you know what happens.

They say authors have immensely fragile egos… How would you handle negative criticism or a negative review?

A story is like a person and just like people, not everyone is going to want, like, or think it’s that you or your story are that great. You can’t take it personally. With that said, I’d probably be annoyed and want a voodoo doll of the reviewer who trashes my work. Eventually, someone somewhere will not like what you’ve written. Those are the odds. I dread the thought of a bad review but I hope I’d learn from it and become a better writer.

When writing, what themes do you feel passionate about?

For my children’s books- Outdoor learning & literacy. Getting kids outside. Teaching them about nature. For my suspense novels – justice; ecology; human frailty.

Have you ever suffered from writer’s block? What seems to work for unleashing your creativity?

I only had writers’ block once. Then I stopped being afraid.

Technically speaking, what do you struggle the most with when writing? How do you tackle it?

I use the formal “had not” “you are” “could not” all the time. I constantly have to go back and convert them into contractions (depending on the sentence) because it interrupts the flow and makes it very choppy. I have no idea why I do that.

What is the best writing advice you’ve ever received?

I learned a lot about improving my style and building suspense from the great Warren Murphy. I also got wonderful advice about the industry from Marcia Yudkin: (paraphrased) “Find an agent is like finding the man of your dreams. It’s going to take time to find the right one, but he’s out there.” My best friend’s words, however, are the ones I hear while writing. “stay true to the story,” she told me.

Do you have another book in the works? Would you like to tell readers about your current or future projects?I’m currently working on the sequels to Postcards from Mr. Pish Volume 1 and Lust for Danger. The sequel to The Kiss of Night is entitled Night Undone and I’m waiting for my galley proofs on that. Mr. Pish’s Woodland Adventure is also just about to go to press.

Where do you find ideas for stories?

Everywhere and anywhere. I actually just wrote a guest blog about that entitled “Inspiration? Phooey!” just because all it really takes is being open to ideas.

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

I have quite a few:

http://www.ksbrooks.com
http://www.mrpish.com
http://ksbrooks.wordpress.com
http://authorksbrooks.blogspot.com

Meet Stanford Friedman

2011-08-15T02:00:00.000-07:00

Interview with Stanford Friedman, author of God’s Gift to Women
Watch the trailer and read an excerpt at Blazing Trailers.

Do you have another job besides writing?

I’m the Senior Research Librarian for Conde Nast.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

The book actually started as a colletion of poems I’d written over the years. I bashed them into prose and hung them on the framework of a historical event: the 1995 New York City Marathon.

How would you describe your creative process while writing this book? Was it stream-of-consciousness writing, or did you first write an outline?

A little of both. There are a lot of characters and a lot of locales so I had a basic outline of where the protagonist was at any given time, and when each character appears. That said, most morning I would wake up early, down some coffee and let my subconscious loose on a given scene.

How do you research?

Many people have asked me if I ran the marathon to research the book. No way! I actually took a bus tour of the route, and relied on newspaper articles as well.

Tell us five random things about yourself.

I am a two-time champion of the ESPNZone Ultimate Couch Potato contest
I have a collection of moist towelettes
I have an MFA in Poetry from Columbia University and an MLS in Library Science from Rutgers
My first steady job in NYC was working on the loading dock at The New York Times.
I once spent a summer portraying a bloodletter at a Renaissance Festival.

When do you get your best ideas and why do you think this is?

I’m a big believer that my subconscious does most of my work. So, my best ideas either come in the morning when my brain is still sleepy, or after a few days of having the germ of the idea kicking around my head without having really concentrated on it.

Describe your working environment.
In bed, with my laptop, in my tiny studio apartment a few blocks from Times Square.

When it comes to writing, are you an early bird, or a night owl?

Early bird. My brain is too worn out by night time to be of any literary usefulness.

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

The website for my book is: www.stanfordfriedman.com
A page with links to much of my other writing can be found here: https://sites.google.com/site/stanthology/

Meet DV Berkom

2011-08-12T02:00:00.000-07:00

Interview with DV Berkom, author of Bad Spirits
Watch the trailer and read an excerpt at Blazing Trailers.

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

I grew up in the Midwest, received my BA in Political Science from the University of Minnesota, and promptly moved to Mexico to live on a sailboat.

Several years and at least a dozen moves later, I now reside outside of Seattle, Washington with my sweetheart Mark, an ex-chef-turned-contractor, and write whenever I get a chance.

When did you decide you wanted to become an author?

I wrote my first book at seven. It was a parody about the joys of house work.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

Here's the blurb for Bad Spirits: Kate Jones is on the run with a backpack full of money, intent on finding her way back to the United States from Mexico. Unfortunately, a ruthless drug lord named Salazar is just as intent on finding her, retrieving his stolen money, and making her pay for ever having left him. Is there anyone she can trust?
I was inspired to write Bad Spirits after reading about the escalating drug violence in Mexico. That, and I like to blow things up.

How would you describe your creative process while writing this book? Was it stream-of-consciousness writing, or did you first write an outline?

Pantser, all the way.

Did your book require a lot of research?

Yes. It was tough. I traveled to Mexico and ate fabulous food while soaking up atmosphere. Then, I was lucky enough to work with a retired DEA agent out of Dallas on the details, and he put his stamp of approval on the story.

Why do you write?

I can't sing.

Who are your literary heros and why?

Definitely Auntie Mame. That woman could throw a party.

What would you tell aspiring young writers about the publishing business?

Develop a thick skin. Put your work out there. Revise, revise, revise. Don't write drunk. Or text.

Do you belong to a critique group? How has this helped or hindered your writing.

I owe a lot to my fabulous critique group. Where else would you hear someone say "You can't kill someone like that. You need to do it this way…"

What so you see for the future of publishing and ebooks?

The sky's the limit. It's an exciting time to be a writer!

Tell us five random things about yourself.

I used to teach Feng Shui classes. I am an award-winning photographer. I've lived in Alaska. I've been to all 50 states. I like cheese.

What type of writer are you—the one who experiences before writing, like Hemingway, or the one who mostly daydreams and fantasizes?

Definitely Hemingway. Live an exciting life- you'll have a lot to write about.

Do you get along with your muse? What do you do to placate her when she refuses to inspire you?

Yes. Margaritas.

They say authors have immensely fragile egos… How would you handle negative criticism or a negative review?

Kill the critiquer/reviewer off in my next book.

As a writer, what scares you the most?

Brown outs.

Have you ever suffered from writer’s block? What seems to work for unleashing your creativity?

No. Free time!

Technically speaking, what do you struggle the most with when writing? How do you tackle it?

Plausibility. I have a critique group who will kick my a$$ into next Tuesday if I go off on some wild tangent
What is(are) your favorite book/author(s)? Why?

Carl Hiaasen. His characters are hilarious!

Do you have another book in the works? Would you like to tell readers about your current or future projects?

The next book in the Kate Jones Adventure series is titled, DEATH RITES, and will be available by the end of July. I'm editing the fourth in the series now, tentatively titled, TOURING FOR DEATH, due to go live in September.

What book do you wish you had written and why?

Harry Potter. She has a castle.

Where do you find ideas for stories?

EVERYWHERE!

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

http://www.dvberkom.com

Meet Ashley Brooke

2011-08-09T05:00:00.000-07:00

Interview with Ashley Brooke, author of: Submission (First novel in the Beautiful Liars saga)
Watch the trailer and read an excerpt at Blazing Trailers.

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

Other than the fact that I’m a hopeless romantic (smiles). I’m very girly, friendly, and laid back. I can be a little shy when I first meet you, but the moment you get to know me, you’ll find that I can have a very slick mouth.

When did you decide you wanted to become an author?

After watching the first Twilight movie. Despite the fact that the story is based on werewolves and vampires, the romance is something that can actually be obtained in real life. Reaching the world globally with entertainment and a small dose of inspiration has been my childhood dream. I just didn’t know how to achieve that goal until my junior year of high school.

Were you an avid reader as a child? What type of books did you enjoy reading?

I certainly was. I was pretty diverse with the books I read. For about five years I read mystery books, and then later found interest in romantic fiction. I guess that’s why I enjoy writing romantic suspense (smiles).

Did your book require a lot of research?

“Naked” the second novel in the Beautiful Liars saga did. I really wanted to make sure I went into depth as far as the male and female sexual responses were concerned. I wanted to do more than just describe what the characters were doing with one another in bed. I wanted the reader to be able to understand what was actually happening and why the characters felt the way they did about one another during those “sensitive”.

When did you start writing? Relate an anecdote from your earliest writing years..

I was about seven years old when I began writing. Throughout my adolescent years, my mother had always told me that sex was a big “no no”. Even though I was only seven, I’d had a very curious and somewhat creative mind when it came to the art of romance, so, when no one was looking, I would take out my minicomputer and write short love stories on it. As soon as I was done, I’d erase everything I’d written for fear of someone seeing it.

What would you tell aspiring young writers about the publishing business?

Never take away from the story you originally wrote and are passionate about, because no one publisher is the same. If one publisher rejects your work, chances are the next one won’t.

If you could talk to any fictional character, who would that be and what would you say?

I would talk to Carrington, a fictional character in the Beautiful Liars saga. If I could say anything to him, it would be “You’re all mine.”

Tell us five random things about yourself.

I love to dance. I hate the sound of people “smacking” while eating. My favorite vegetable is okra (especially when it’s fried). I love to put bows and burettes in Kelly’s (our little puppy) hair and I love to crack jokes.

Are you a disciplined writer? Very much. It’s all about deadlines and quality for me.

Have you ever woken in the night with the need to write? If so, how do you deal with this urge?

Not exactly. I usually wake up and think, “Ooh! That’s a good idea! Let me right it down before I forget.”

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

I do have a blog, but it’s not dedicated to my work. It’s dedicated to answering general and personal questions, even the most embarrassing ones. http://ashleybrookeeroticromance.blogspot.com

Meet Sally Franklin Christie

2011-06-15T11:07:00.000-07:00

Interview with Sally Franklin Christie, author of If I Should Die.

Watch the trailer and read an excerpt at Blazing Trailers.

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself? I want my tombstone to say “I told you I was sick.”

I am a daughter, sister, mom, wife, grandmother, artist, photographer, researcher, organizer for social change, homeschool teacher, eaves dropper, and the list goes on. I also write.

I like to give my topics a unique slant. I live my life with unusual physical challenges and write from a skewed point of view. I believe that Life is a Story and it is my job to Tell it Big.

When I visit the local cemetery, it is not the date that intrigues me, it is what happened during the dash that comes between a person’s coming and going.

When did you decide you wanted to become an author?

I’d like to say I was born with a fountain pen in my hand or that I wrote my first story in the third grade. I remember the wide ruled paper with a big space at the top for illustrating the story below. What did you do on your summer vacation. But, my first visit with writing was a self absorbed diary I used to feel sorry for myself in high school. I wrote some short fiction in college. I wrote more during a really bad relationship. Then one day I saw an ad for a correspondence course in writing for children. In 1994, I began to learn the craft. I went on to become a ‘professional student.’ I sold some articles and wrote for newsletters. I’ve written four or five novels and don’t know for sure when I ‘became’ an author.

Do you have another job besides writing?

I am a Marketing Manager for Damnation Books and Eternal Press. I also moderate at The Writer’s Chatroom. I began my work-a-day life as a student in college where I made my party money working in the library, cancelling government documents and later became a police dispatcher. I suppose it was inevitable that I would at some point begin to tell a story.

Were you an avid reader as a child? What type of books did you enjoy reading?

When I was a kid, all I wanted was to be as old as my brother. He learned to read and color inside the lines. I could hardly wait. Reading was natural for me. Reading is something I did to pass the time. It was something I could do during long hospital stays.

I used to sneak into the library during a semester in high school when for some reason I was not assigned to a class or study hall for a period right after lunch. To access the library we needed to sign in at the study hall room. To avoid having the error discovered I would sign up for the next hour and go ahead and access the library early.

Why do you write?

I write as an effort to thank all of the authors who came before me. They let me escape to places I will never see. The allowed me to experience physical and mental feats that I would never do. They gave me information. Entertained me. Gave me building blocks. I write because they did it first. I want to take my reader on a journey, too. I write because someone else cared enough to give me something to read.

What would you tell aspiring young writers about the publishing business?

Writing your book is just the first step. After the letter of acceptance comes cover art, editing, more editing, marketing, formatting, editing, marketing, the behind the scenes things that happen to your book on the way to the virtual and real bookstore shelves is a long and winding road. When your book is accepted it is no longer yours alone, the publisher is betting on you, that you wrote something that is going to sell. They are investing in you as they assign editors, cover artists and jump the hoops of getting it ready for consumption. It is a business and it is also a commitment.

What other types of artistic talents do you have?

I paint landscapes, take lots of photos and crochet. In my WIP, work in progress, two of the main characters are photographers and I took an adult ed class to research. Photographers use the same things in a writer’s kit, scene, feeling, theme and composition. Painting is very satisfying because it is hard to be anything but creative during the process. Crocheting is all about following a pattern and building up to the whole. I don’t know if these are talents but they are creative outlets.

What is(are) your favorite book/author(s)? Why?

Wuthering Heights is one of my favorite books, I wrote a thesis paper about why Heathcliff, a dark and brooding character was a hero. Dr. Starr gave me an A-. Harper Lee’s, To Kill a Mockingbird really goes to the heart of ‘life is a story.’ My third favorite book is by Stephen King, The Stand. The Stand is rich in character and it is where I was introduced to the idea that those who survive an initial catastrophe may not have the skills to survive the aftermath.

What is the best writing advice you’ve ever received?

The president of the Women’s Writers Guild sent me a postcard with my membership that said, “Life is a Story – Tell it Big.” I took that to heart and used it as the foundation of my blog.

Where do you find ideas for stories?

I get story ideas from dream fragments. I also like to watch people in parking lots and assign or make up back stories for them. It sounds like a creepy game of “what if,” but I think most authors do this in way or another. My own back story include a highly functional family life, all things considered and I have many things to draw from random childhood events.

Have you ever woken in the night with the need to write? If so, how do you deal with this urge?

Drugs. Zolpidim. Seriously. What I write during the intervals between repeating dreams is illegible. Without drugs I am alert most of the night.

Do you have any recurring dreams or nightmares?

I’m losing control of my car. My teeth are turning cold and falling out. I’m smoking. I have totally forgotten to attend a college class.

The car dreams began when I was a kid. Back in the olden days a parent could leave a kid or group of kids in a car for huge blocks of time. I remember a town in southern Illinois with very steep hills. I always feared the car would begin to roll. Now, that I can drive, I dream all sorts of scenarios related to losing control of my car. A computer voice intruded one dream and advised I was about to experience a head on collision.

Teeth dreams began when I was living a totally day to day sort of life with my daughter and her dad. My teeth turn cold like porcelain and just sort of begin to fall out. I’ve heard this is common to people with self esteem/image problems. Whatever the cause, it disturbs me deeply.

I used to smoke and I loved it. So much, I have a short story I’ve been shopping around for years called, Smokers. I quit in 88 and oh, how I miss it. In my dream, I have forgotten how quickly I got hooked on those things the first and second times and I have no memory of quitting. Just recently, I smoked ten cigarettes at our local Mc D’s. Dr. Oz was there dancing and breaking out in a very bad rash. I could not believe my son and husband who were also there and did not stop me.

I’ve gone on too long about the dreams I have, so you’ll have to make up a reason for my last reoccurring dream.

2011-03-02T15:33:00.000-08:00

Interview with Michael Murphy, author of Scorpion Bay. Read an excerpt and watch the trailer at Blazing Trailers.

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

Good, there’s very little to tell. I’m a mystery/suspense writer from Arizona. I’ve been writing novels for eleven years. When I’m not placing quirky characters in desperate situations, or conducting novel writing workshops in book stores and libraries around the state, I raise five chickens in our backyard.

Were you an avid reader as a child? What type of books did you enjoy reading?

I read Gone with the Wind, all 1,037 pages when I was nine, if that gives you an idea. Yes, I was a geek, and suspect I still am.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

Scorpion Bay follows a Phoenix television news reporter whose life is shattered when his wife is killed in a car bombing along with a key witness in a criminal investigation. When local authorities seem to lack the courage, Parker Knight goes after the key suspect, a powerful Arizona Biotechnology industrialist. Hiding his well-known identity behind a black outfit and motorcycle helmet with a dark shield, he rides a high tech motorcycle seeking answers. When he comes to the aid of a woman being attacked at Scorpion Bay, the press dubs the unknown hero The Scorpion Bay Vigilante. his quest is complicated by the press, including an ambitions female co-worker. With his best friend, Justin, and Justin’s brassy new girlfriend, Parker discovers a link between a powerful drug cartel and biotechnology. But he hasn’t figured everything out. It isn’t until four people are killed in a deadly shootout, that he puts the pieces together.

I was inspired to write the story by visiting a Phoenix news station. I had been wanting to write a mystery/suspense novel set in the Phoenix area. While at Lake Pleasant, north of the city I learned they were building a new marina at Scorpion Bay. Immediately, I had a title. The rest fell into place.

Did your book require a lot of research?

Since it doesn’t take place in a fictitious locale, I had to be meticulous in describing Phoenix. Did a lot of driving visiting places I hadn’t been in awhile. The research at the television station was very interesting. I learned they don’t use cameramen, for example. The cameras are remotely controlled in a control room.

Who are your literary heroes and why?

My two literary heroes are Nelson DeMille for his humor (I met him at a book signing and he’s delightful) and Dennis Lehane for the depth of plot and characterizations and the inevitable twist at the end. My books tend to be suspenseful with twists I hope the reader doesn’t see coming and there’s always humor, because I appreciate the absurdity of life. And laughter is the best medicine.

If you could have any vice without repercussions, what would it be? Seriously? Just between you and me?

What is your favorite part of creating new worlds?

Without a doubt, the heroes and villains. As I see it, setting and story is really secondary to how the setting and plot impact the main characters.

Who was your mentor?

I have two mentors and wonderful writers who taught me ninety percent of what I know about writing, Vijaya Schartz and Toby Heathcotte. I not only learned about writing from them, but I learned the importance of helping other writers perfect their craft. That’s a real kick for me, my only real vice.

Michael Murphy
Scorpion Bay coming April 2
www.mjmurphy.com

New Review and Excerpt--Burgher and the Woebegone

2010-11-11T05:00:00.000-08:00

Burgher and the Woebegone, by Kim Chatel, is an Editor's Choice at Midwest Book Reviews!

Read another excerpt and watch the animated trailer at Blazing Trailers.

Reviewed by Midwest Book Reviews:

"Burgher and the Woebegone" is a choose-your-own-adventure-script illustrated chapter book written to delight and enchant children ages 8-12. Burgher is gnome, another name for an "ugly elf." Burgher lives in a blasted apple orchard, with slugs and fungus. He hates spring, green growth, birds, bees and butterflies. His nemesis is the persistent and cheerful Apple Tree Man, who offers sunshine, blossoms, and fresh life to Oxtail Orchard. Kids get to help Burgher make different choices in his story, finally arriving at a way to bring renewal and fresh life to Oxtail Orchard. "Burgher and the Woebegone" is an empowering book for kids to help create, filled with nudging humor and unique black and white comic commentary.

Excerpt:

Burgher had learned through his many inventions that first ideas are usually best. So, when he came home with his treasure of beaver teeth, he went back to his chalkboard and found the drawing of his wooden horse ax.

Carefully, he rebuilt the tall structure, the long neck and winch tail. He climbed onto his step stool and fastened the beaver teeth to the head with slug-slime superglue. Then he climbed back down and turned the winch. Up went the head. Back stretched the neck. He flicked the switch and the horse head went FLING! in a perfect, smooth arc.

Jonny Gold waited for Burgher at the garden gate. He laughed when he saw Burgher’s disastrous invention remade. Burgher said nothing. He pulled his machine out of the garden gate and down the lane.

“Whoa! Wait up, ol’ boy!” said Jonny. He stayed a few steps behind Burgher to avoid the rain cloud. “Come on. You’re not still bent on chopping the Queen, are you?”

Burgher trundled down the lane. The rain cloud huffed and puffed to keep up. Burgher let rain drizzle into his eyes. The buds were now fat and green on every tree in the orchard. Blossoms were next. Putrid, pink blossoms. He didn’t have much time. After blossoms came caterpillars, then . . . butterflies.

He had to stop the butterflies from coming. Now.

As usual, Jonny Gold had a parade of forest creatures behind him. The squirrels chattered to the rabbits about Burgher’s new killing machine. The rabbits nattered at the chipmunks who chattered to the deer who told the beavers who called to the crows.

By the time Burgher reached the Queen’s clearing, all the creatures of Oxtail orchard had gathered to witness the fall of the Queen. Squirrels, mice and rabbits watched in silent horror as Burgher readied his killing machine. A large buck pawed the ground, watching. A doe and two fawns hid behind his great rack of antlers. The beaver family scurried up. Mrs. Beaver’s new toenail necklace shone in the sunlight.

They had all seen Burgher’s contraptions fail so many times that no one intervened as he set up his contraption beside the tree. He patted the long wooden neck like a favorite horse. It was magnificent. He winched the winch. Up went the head. Back went the neck. The old beaver teeth glowed yellow in the sunlight. Nothing made of wood could withstand those teeth. When Mr. Beaver saw Grandpa’s teeth, he pushed his way through the crowd and confronted Burgher.

“Now see here.” He thumped his tail in anger. “You can’t be doing this . . .”

“Leave it,” said Jonny Gold. He laid a gentle had on Mr. Beaver’s shoulder.

“But . . .”

“Leave him be,” he repeated, and Mr. Beaver went back to the crowd.

Mrs. Beaver put her head on his shoulder and sobbed. “Oh my! Oh my!”

Burgher heard none of this. He was mesmerized by the Queen. His sight was filled with her golden boughs. He remembered another time, a happier time with Katy and a picnic right on that spot. The storm cloud rained and thundered, but Burgher ignored it too. The rain trickled into his eyes, into his ears and mouth. He sniffled.

Now, I’m going to interrupt here, dear reader, because you need to make a choice. Should Burgher cut down the Queen? Choose wisely. Destinies have a funny way of working out. Sometimes the way to happiness is through the door marked ‘Misery.’

Meet Elizabeth Kolodziej

2010-11-08T05:00:00.000-08:00

Interview with: Elizabeth Kolodziej
Author of: Vampyre Kisses
Watch the trailer and read and excerpt at Blazing Trailers.

Why do you write?

Because it is my passion and where my heart lies. Truthfully, if I didn’t I think my characters would kick my arse. They are like my best friends and they want to get their stories out there as much as I want to write them.

Tell us five random things about yourself.

I do roller derby. (Yes, like they did in the 70’s) If my zipper is at the top and I go to zip up my jacket, I think I lost the zipper part. (If that makes sense) If I could marry a man with an Irish accent I would. (Drool drool drool) I’m a cat person but I have a dog. (I’m working on fixing that) I like to light incense when I write. (Lavender is the best)

What type of writer are you—the one who experiences before writing, like Hemingway, or the one who mostly daydreams and fantasizes?

I am big into fantasizes and I like to do hands on experience. Normally, I have a fantasy about the book I am writing. After that, I begin writing. Some parts of the books I like to go out and experience though. For example, flying, I went parasailing so I could get a sense of that. Mostly because skydiving was way too expensive. :D

Have you ever suffered from writer’s block? What seems to work for unleashing your creativity?

Of course! It’s horrible. Normally talking out the scene with a fellow writer or just venting about it period can help. Other times I will just need to step away from writing for a few. Maybe work on something else. My friends hate me for it though. I get so whiny, cranky, and/or stubborn. Just an all around total female dog.

What type of book promotion seems to work the best for you?

Word of mouth; it is always going to be the best promotion for anyone in any business. If you can get people to talk to their friends or family about your book and their friends and so on your golden. You just got to get out there to as many blogs and newsletters as possible. You always want people to be talking about you. Even if they are bad.

Do you have another book in the works? Would you like to tell readers about your current or future projects?

My current project is the sequel to Vampyre Kisses. I am not definite on a name yet. It will be something like Lupine Secrets. It will concentrate more on the werewolf history since everyone really liked the vampire history I had in the first one. ;) So instead of sinking your fangs into it, you’ll go barking mad over it. Oh, man that was a horrible pun huh?

What book are you reading now?

Actually, I’m reading like three different books right now. One is Real Alchemy by Robert Alan Bartlett. That one is for research.
The second is Keri Arthur’s Tempting Evil. This one is for fun.
The Third is Market by Elizabeth Naughton. I am reading this one on my phone so I just read it when I’m on break at work and what not.

Are you a disciplined writer?

Only half of the time. hehe. I’m a Taurus so I am really ruled by my emotions. If I am upset or distraught I normally cannot write. I hear that most writers use it to their advantages but for some reason I can’t.

Have you ever woken in the night with the need to write? If so, how do you deal with this urge?

Yes I have. I normally I get my computer and start writing. It’s easier for me then having a pen or paper by my bed, because with my computer I can keep my eyes closed and just write. That glare really does me in when it’s the middle of the night.

Do your pets help you with your writing?

Actually yes. When I get too overburdened and need to take a break but won’t, I tell myself Sherlock (min schnauzer) needs a walk. That helps to clear my head and forces me out of the house. Though it is not so much fun when I have this great scene and I’m all into it and he starts barking or whining at me for a walk. Ugh.

What’s your worst writing habit?

Writing in different places. It’s so bad. Cause you should pick one place, like I dunno, your desk? LoL. Me? I’ll write in my bed, on my couch, at the dining room table. Ugh.

Do you have any recurring dreams or nightmares?

OMG! I use to have the freakiest thing happen to me. I would be in twilight (you know when your in the middle of awake and asleep) and I wouldn’t be able to move. I would always be terrified. Like something was after me. Plus feeling paralyzed isn’t fun. It would take having someone touch me for me to be able to move. After that I wouldn’t be able to sleep cause on nights like this I would always go back to that place. Very scary.

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

I have a website/blog at www.vampyrekisses.com … It is for my book but the blog will have posts about my indie writing experience, reviews on books I read, my writing process. All sorts of things! I even have guest writers/bloggers on.

Meet Tonya Plank

2010-11-05T05:00:00.000-07:00

Interview with: Tonya Plank
Author of: Swallow

Watch the trailer and read an excerpt at Blazing Trailers.

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

I grew up in Phoenix, Arizona but have lived in New York for most of my adult life. I worked as an appellate-level criminal defense attorney in Manhattan for almost nine years. I'm also a former competitive ballroom dancer and a life-long balletomane, and I write a dance blog called Swan Lake Samba Girl, which focuses on ballroom, ballet, books, and anything else going on in New York that I find interesting.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

My novel is called Swallow (so far it's the only one I have out!), and it's about a young, female Manhattan attorney who's suddenly stricken with the psychosomatic disorder, Globus Hystericus, or Globus Sensation. I wrote it because I suffered from that condition for a few years. I found writing about it to be somewhat therapeutic. Also, the main character, Sophie, is a public defender (a criminal defense attorney for the poor), as I was for many years. I felt strongly about certain things I encountered doing that kind of work, and really felt compelled to write about them.

Did your book require a lot of research?

A little bit but not a whole lot. I suffered from the disorder and I had Sophie's job, so many of the things that happen in the novel grew out of my own experiences, though I manipulated facts to make them more dramatic. But I did research Globus Hystericus, in order to find out what most people's experiences were like with the disorder, and what kinds of people suffered from it so that I could give Sophie a fuller range of experiences than I had myself.

Why do you write?

I write because I have stories that I want to tell people, things that I've experienced that I think they'd be interested in and want to know! Writing is also an exploration. If you're writing about a character very different from yourself (which I'm doing in my second novel), you really need to do a lot of research and delve into that character, immerse yourself in his or her world and really become them. You learn so much and it's such an enriching experience.

What kind of promotions do you do for your books?

I seek out reviews from professional reviewers (ForeWord Reviews, Midwest Book Reviews), from book bloggers, and from top 500 and top 1000 Amazon reviewers who've liked books similar to my own. I also do giveaways on Goodreads and Library Thing and on various blogs, and I did a few Blog Talk Radio interviews. For my first book, I also entered it into a lot of competitions for book awards, some of which it won! I really wanted a strong start to my writing career! I also advertise a bit, mainly on websites and newsletters that have a large audience of ebook readers. I know that since my ebook is priced low, it has a much better chance of attaining high sales than the paperback. For me, Kindle Nation Daily was an excellent place to advertise my Kindle version. I also promote my book on Kindleboards.com and Mobileread.com which are community boards frequented by ebook readers.

How do you research?

It depends on what I'm researching. For my research on Globus Hystericus, I read some psychology textbooks (and I had my own psychologist!) but I also went online and looked in on chat rooms and message boards to get a sense of how real people other than myself were experiencing this problem. Now I'm working on a book about a group of young men who all witness a shooting from various perspectives. Some of that I can base on my work as a lawyer (though I have to re-research the law because it's constantly changing) but I'm also reading lots of memoirs by police officers and by people who've grown up in poor inner-city areas and by people who've been in prison. I'm reading lots of rap lyrics.

When did you start writing? Relate an anecdote from your earliest writing years.

I've been writing ever since I can remember. My mother used to read to me all of the Laura Ingalls Wilder books. I remember when I was a child I fancied that I was going to write a similar series, about my mother's parents and grand parents, and great grand parents, who all lived in very rural areas and had the same kinds of stories. I began several, and I kept them in little notebooks. But when I outgrew Wilder I also outgrew that project, sadly…

Do you belong to a critique group? How has this helped or hindered your writing.

Throughout writing my first book, I took several writing workshops at Gotham Writers Workshop and at the New School in New York. Those really helped me to see how people were reacting to what I was writing, how well they were engaged by it, what worked and what didn't. After those classes ended, a few of us kept meeting and eventually several people read my whole book. They were extremely helpful in terms of helping me think through the logic of certain plot points, making certain scenes more dramatic and characters more dynamic.

What other types of artistic talents do you have?

Well, I'm actually really excited about this book trailer that I just made! When I was younger, I really wanted to go into film. I don't know why I didn't. I think I just wasn’t enough of a risk-taker. But everyone I've shown the trailer to has really liked it and now I'm feeling like I missed my calling! I really loved gathering the images, putting them together to make a little story, manipulating the text and the images to make them more dramatic and movie-like. It was fun! I also designed my book cover. I really like working with images.

What type of writer are you—the one who experiences before writing, like Hemingway, or the one who mostly daydreams and fantasizes?

I'm definitely more like Hemingway. I don't have a very vivid imagination at all! I could never ever be a Stephen King. I really need to experience things in order to write about them.

As a writer, what scares you the most?

Not having anyone know about or read my books! It's too too easy to get lost in the huge crowd these days. That's why I try to do so much publicity, and that's also why I love the emergence of ebooks. You can really sell your ebooks inexpensively and get readers to take a chance on you - if you're a new author like me - that they might not be able to afford or wish to take with a higher-priced print book.

What book are you reading now?

I always read several books at once. Right now I'm reading John Grisham's The Confession, mainly for research for my next novel. I'm also reading Cleopatra, by Stacy Schiff - it's an autobiography. And I'm also reading a literary novel called Waiting for Spring, by a new author named R.J. Keller.

New Review and Excerpt--BOLEYN: Tudor Vampire

2010-11-02T05:00:00.000-07:00

Book Title: BOLEYN: Tudor Vampire
Author: Cinsearae S.

Watch the trailer and read another excerpt at Blazing Trailers.

Reviewed By: Stormy Janes (Member of Paranormal Romance Review Team)

REVIEW:

Boleyn – Tudor Vampire is the incredible “untold” story of Anne Boleyn, Queen of England and wife to King Henry VIII. The Author, Cinsearae S., has taken a piece of history and wrapped it around an amazing story of love and hate, devotion and deceit, betrayal and compassion but most of all revenge.

The story of Anne Boleyn has been told for centuries. She was the Queen of England by marriage to King Henry the VIII and hated by members of the King’s court. The Duke of Suffolk was instrumental in convincing the King that Anne was not only a whore but more importantly, a witch. As the shadow of deceit grew, even Anne’s own father turned his back on her. The King condemned Anne to death by beheading as well as sentenced to death anyone who defended her.

In history as we know it, Anne’s beheading was the end. In Boleyn – Tudor Vampire, Anne’s beheading is just the beginning. A short time after her death, Anne awakens and digs her way out of her unmarked grave. Slowly she begins to realize she is no longer living but is in fact a creature of the night. Anne begins planning her revenge for all those who have wronged her. Anne is not alone in her quest for revenge; she gains assistance from those once close to her. Her accomplices’, both living and dead, add conflict, love lost and rekindled and humor to her terrorizing plan of revenge.

Cinsearae S’s story of Anne Boleyn is exceptional. It almost seems this is the story written “between the lines” in history. She does an excellent job of keeping with the facts of history and uniquely weaves her darker tale within. You will be hooked from the very beginning.

EXCERPT:

One of my undead army men snatched a black hood off of Cromwell’s head. He was unconscious, so I slapped him awake. He gasped, shaking his head, and then looked around himself.

Cromwell stood on the scaffold, his neck in the hangman’s noose. Hands tied behind his back, he gave pathetic, whiny noises of fear as the crowd around the gallows was nothing more but a sea of the dead, the majority of them the ones who died during the bloody onslaught caused by the Pilgrimage. The moonlight cast a pale, grisly glow over the worm-infested crowd as I now stood in the center of them, smiling at him, my arms folded.

“How does it feel, Cromwell?” I called out. “To be judged and tried for crimes you never committed?” I gave a mock gesture of surprise by covering my mouth. “But then again, I stand corrected, don’t I? Aren’t you partly responsible for all these innocent lives lost?” I gestured to the ghoulish group around me. “So tell me, what does it feel like?”

“Let me go!” he cried out, and another one of my soldiers tightened the noose around his neck.

Irked, I appeared before him, scaring the daylights out of him yet again.

“You were a witch all along! Henry’s marriage to you was born out of sorcery!”

“You fool,” I hissed. “I was no witch then… not that it matters now.”

Through his torn shirt, I glanced at the base of his neck and the two marks I left there earlier. I ripped the shirt further, pressed my index finger against the wounds, and callously wiped off a trickle of blood that lingered there. He winced in pain as I licked my finger next, frowning at him as I did so.

“I do not like how you taste.” I frowned, and spat in his face. Cromwell flinched in disgust as a mixture of his blood and my saliva ran down his cheek.

I turned my back to him, and, while not even looking, waved at a third soldier to release the hatch as I walked down the scaffold’s rickety steps.

The hatch dropped, and Cromwell swung. However, Cromwell was tough, and a mercenary in his youth, so I heard. He would not give up without a fight.

I let him writhe, thrash, and sway wildly by his neck until he was just near the brink of death -- then the soldier who released the hatch produced a knife from his tattered, fraying doublet. He cut the noose, and Cromwell dropped through the hatch, falling to the ground with a thud.

My army men clambered down the steps, walked under the scaffolding, and dragged Cromwell out from underneath it. I stood over him, peering down at his terrified face.

“Be lucky I didn’t have you cropped at the neck,” I said, giving an evil grin. “But I need not worry; you’ll get yours in due time.”

I left him there among the moldering crowd that began to circle him. I cared not what they did to him, as his screams echoed throughout the Tower grounds, and well into the night.

Meet Cinsearae S.

2010-10-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

Interview with Cinsearae S., author of: BOLEYN: Tudor Vampire

Read an excerpt and watch the trailer at Blazing Trailers.

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

First, thank you so much for having me here today! I’m a bit quirky, misunderstood, and usually one’s assumptions of me are totally wrong, lol. I’m not TRYING to be an enigma, but I simply like my privacy. (Aren’t all writers this way? Lol!) I absolutely love being out in nature, visiting cemeteries, and checking out a horror movie or two. I’m also Editor/Publisher of Dark Gothic Resurrected Magazine, which caters to anything Vampire, Horror, Gothic or Paranormal-themed. I also love to interview folks in the field that contribute anything creative to the above genres! I’ve interviewed amazing bands such as The Young Werewolves, Corvus Corax, The Last Dance, authors Nicholas Grabowsky, Corvis Nocturnum, Ken Kupstis, Gothic candle-maker Jfay, Jeff Hartz of Buzz-works™, and so many others. The joys of being a magazine publisher is that it brings me in contact with so much talent out there, and to folks with a similar, creative like mind. And I absolutely love attending Horror conventions for the same reasons.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

I already had a big interest in Tudor history, and when HBO came out with their series, “The Tudors” a few years ago, it pretty much ignited the flame again. After watching the series a few times, my muse kept nagging me to write a ‘revenge’ story for Anne Boleyn, and thus, BOLEYN-Tudor Vampire was born. I almost didn’t want to, as I could imagine the Anne Boleyn ‘purists’ having a hissy-fit, but all in all, this book was written to entertain horror readers who don’t mind a vampire story woven into Tudor history. It’s a good mix of facts as well as myths that swirled around the doomed queen. Besides, this book isn’t the only one out there with paranormal elements taking place in the Tudor era!

How would you describe your creative process while writing this book? Was it stream-of-consciousness writing, or did you first write an outline?

I didn’t have a real outline. The first things that came to me were Anne’s vengeful moments! I see a lot of my stories play out like a movie in my mind at first, and the detailed part is writing down exactly what I see. For BOLEYN, it was no different, except a lot of pieces came to me out of order, which I pieced together as I worked on it.

Did your book require a lot of research?

Not too much, actually. I already had a couple of books about haunted England and Tudor history from my college days, and I read a bit of Tudor history online. There’s so much myth and fact mixed together when it comes to this particular subject, but it all makes for a most interesting, if not checkered, past.

Why do you write?

Pretty much to entertain myself, and prevent my muse from driving me batty. Usually, if I try to ‘ignore’ her, she’ll keep on talking to me in my head until I start writing things down! Only afterwards will it be quiet…at least until something else comes up, and she starts blabbing away again, lol. And if the readers love what I write, that makes it all the more better. I do enjoy entertaining one through a good story!

Who are your literary heroes and why?

Stephen King has always been my top literary hero. I’ve always loved how he could take an ordinary setting and turn it into something unimaginable and horrific. My other literary hero is Edgar Allan Poe; he was definitely one of the best masterminds when it came to psychological horror.

If you could have been the servant to any famous person in history, who would that be and why?

Michael Jackson, (God rest his soul), I think he would have been the coolest person to hang out with. Plus, he’s the only one that had zombies dance, (Thriller) and made it absolutely rock! And I don’t give a damn about the negative connotations that surrounded him or what negative things people had to say about him. He was multitalented, extremely creative, and had more heart and soul than a lot of people out here today. He loved the planet and her children, and his death is still felt by millions around the world.

What would you tell aspiring young writers about the publishing business?

Be tough out here and develop a thick skin. Learn how to brush off the negativity. People enjoy being cruel, rude, insensitive and soulless in this day and age, hurting others who haven’t done them a single wrong. Never give up on your dreams--they are the seeds that bloom into reality. Find, associate yourself, and make friends with likeminded folks who have been in the business for a while and can teach you something about this ever-changing industry.

Tell us five random things about yourself.

Freddy Krueger is my favorite horror character, I never turn down a glass of wine, I’m a big fan of The Cure and Gary Numan (there’s tons of others bands/singers I love, but it’d take forever to list them, lol), I used to wish I lived in The Munsters house when I was a kid, and Halloween is my favorite time of year.

What other types of artistic talents do you have?

I love making things out all sorts of stuff! Consider it ‘upcycling’ certain materials. My latest fun project has been making “Little Bottle Boys” out of small, 1/2 to 1oz. sized bottles. They all are horror-themed naturally, and I sell them as well as lots of handmade Victorian and Gothic- inspired jewelry and gifts on my Etsy store, http://www.Etsy.com/shop/MistressRae13.

What type of writer are you—the one who experiences before writing, like Hemingway, or the one who mostly daydreams and fantasizes?

I’m definitely a bit of both. I draw a lot of situations from what I see in real life into most of my urban fantasy stories. When I’m daydreaming or fantasizing about something, it’s usually about how to put together a certain character when it comes to their looks, personality and physicality.

When do you get your best ideas and why do you think this is?

Some of my horror stories will center around a lot of the nonsense I see in reality, which is quite often. There’s more horrors out in the real world than there are in fiction, which is definitely scary in itself. I’d rather face a zombie, vampire, or werewolf rather than someone who can shoot someone in cold blood or run over a child in the street and not bother to see if they’re still alive or not. It’s such a faceless thing to do, and proves how integrity and humanity in mankind has crumbled over time.

They say authors have immensely fragile egos… How would you handle negative criticism or a negative review?

I always keep in mind this one phrase, and it’s helped me overcome that fragile ego and develop the tough skin every writer needs: “Opinions are like a__holes; everyone has one.” So if it’s a negative criticism/review, I brush it off and know there will be a positive one to counteract it down the road. Hopefully other writers out there that do share in a fragile ego will take that phrase and use it like a mantra!

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

Absolutely! They can visit http://BloodTouch.webs.com where they can find all my writing projects, links to my Etsy store, and find out more about Dark Gothic Resurrected Magazine. I can also be found on Facebook and MySpace!

Meet Linda Weaver Clarke

2010-10-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

Interview with Linda Weaver Clarke, author of: Mayan Intrigue

Watch the book video preview and read an excerpt at Blazing Trailers.

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?
I teach people how to write their family history or their own autobiography and turn it into interesting stories. It’s important to teach our children their heritage. If these stories are unwritten, then they’ll be lost forever. Our children need to be proud of their ancestors. Leon Garfield said: “The historian, if honest, gives us a photograph; the storyteller gives us a painting.” What I’m teaching people to do is how to paint, to be the storyteller.

I’m also the author of 5 historical romances, “A Family Saga in Bear Lake, Idaho” series and a new mystery series, “The Adventures of John and Julia Evans.”

When did you decide you wanted to become an author?

After I finished writing my ancestors stories, I couldn’t stop writing, so I turned to historical romance. The fact is, the stories of my ancestors were so fresh in my mind that I decided to add their experiences to my fictional characters. For example: My great grandmother, Sarah, lost her hearing at the age of one when she was very sick. Even though she was deaf, she was known as one of the most graceful dancers in town. She was a beautiful woman with black hair, blue eyes, and was 5’ 5” tall. Nothing held her back. She was an independent and spunky woman. One day, she felt that an intruder was in her home so she grabbed her broom and searched the house. She found him under her bed. With all the power and strength she had, she swatted him out of the house and down the street, pummeling him as she went. My great grandmother was an inspiration to me, so I gave several of her experiences to my character in David and the Bear Lake Monster. I even named her Sarah, after my great grandmother.

And no! This novel isn’t fantasy. It’s historical fiction. In my research about the Bear Lake Monster, I found that people really believe in this old Indian legend. The mystery of the Bear Lake Monster has been an exciting part of Idaho history ever since the early pioneers. Some people claimed to have seen it and gave descriptions of it. The monster’s eyes were flaming red and its ears stuck out from the sides of its skinny head. Its body was long, resembling a gigantic alligator, and it could swim faster than a galloping horse. Of course, it only came out in the evening or at dusk. Throughout the years, no one has ever disproved the Bear Lake Monster. A bunch of scientists tried to discredit the monster and said it was a huge codfish that was shipped in from the East but could not prove this theory. You can watch a video about it on Blazing Trailers.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.
The inspiration behind this series was a television show called Hart to Hart, which featured a married couple investigating and solving crimes. The couple was madly in love. You laughed at the humor and sighed at the romance. I wanted to create something similar with a little suspense and adventure. In this series Julia is a reporter for a daily newspaper and John is a professional knife maker. Just like Hart to Hart, because of her curiosity, Julia gets herself into a bunch of trouble. Before long, she finds herself and her husband up to their necks in danger. There is one difference that I include. John and Julia Evans have three teenage daughters.

Mayan Intrigue is about the discovery of a priceless artifact that puts Julia’s life in great danger. While on assignment for the newspaper, John and Julia try to enjoy a romantic vacation among the Mayan ruins, but when Julia accidentally comes upon a couple suspicious men exchanging an item, she quickly turns and leaves but it’s too late. Before John and Julia realize what's going on, they find themselves running for their lives through the jungles of the Yucatan. You can watch a trailer of this book on Blazing Trailers at http://www.blazingtrailers.com/show/1203.

Did your book require a lot of research?

Yes, a great deal of research. I have always been interested in the ancient American Indians and their way of life, not to mention my great interest in artifact theft. For example, the first book in this mystery series, Anasazi Intrigue, I wondered who the Anasazi Indians were, because their heritage is right here in my valley in southern Utah. Many people wonder why they disappeared, leaving behind their belongings. Where did they go and why? That’s not all. The subject of artifact theft has fascinated me a great deal. In my research, I found that archaeological thievery is becoming more and more of a problem every year. I also discovered that looting is only second to selling illegal drugs. You can watch a video about this book on Blazing Trailers.

While researching Mayan Intrigue, my eyes were opened to the problems they have in southern Mexico. When an ancient ruin is discovered, it doesn’t take long for thieves to take it apart. The reason why is because the Mayas used astrological alignments when planning their city. Looters have learned the layout of the Mayan cities so they know where to dig. With this knowledge, they can loot a sacred temple in a few days. While writing Mayan Intrigue, I found that artifact theft in Mexico has been taken over by drug dealers from Columbia. In other words, since organized crime has taken over, there is also an increase of violence. I ask myself, can anything be done to save Ancient American history? Yes. If no one bought the artifacts, that would put a damper on artifact theft.

How do you research?

I put a great deal of research into my novels. It helps if I can visit the area in person and walk around so I can feel the atmosphere and can describe what it looks like. It’s important to help the reader imagine the scenery. I also do research on the Internet. When researching on the Internet, I always make sure the writer has “back up” from a professional, someone who knows his subject. I remember doing research about Old Ephraim, the ten-foot grizzly bear, which is part of Idaho history. The research about this old grizzly was exciting to me because I grew up with the stories of Old Ephraim. He wreaked havoc wherever he went, slaughtering sheep and scaring sheepherders so badly that they actually quit their jobs. With one blow of his paw, he could break the back of a cow. I found that he was the smartest bear that ever roamed the Rocky Mountains. No one could catch him. Every bear trap they set was tossed many yards away from where they had put it, and the ones that weren’t tripped had Old Three Toes tracks all around it. He was too smart to be caught. It took one man to outsmart this bear: Frank Clark from Malad, Idaho! In my story, I included every detail about this bear and his deeds. Since my story is historical fiction and my hero is Gilbert Roberts, I renamed this grizzly “Old Half Paw,” in honor of “Old Three Toes.” (That was his nickname.) He’s the subplot of my novel Jenny’s Dream. You can watch a video about it on Blazing Trailers.

Which of your characters do you love/hate/fear/pity the most and why?

Most definitely Elena! I absolutely love her character because she is so independent and has to stick up for her rights. She doesn’t allow anyone to hold her back. She takes no guff! Elena, Woman of Courage takes place in the “Roaring Twenties,” a time of great change, when women raised their hemlines and bobbed their hair. It was a time of independence, courage, and adventure.

Elena represents the women of the 1920s. It was a new generation who spoke a language their parents didn’t understand. They used words like: Cat’s pajamas! Horsefeathers! Baloney! When referring to a woman, they used doll, tomato, and bearcat. What was Elena? She was definitely a “doll” with a bit of “bearcat” in her. She has to fight for her rights because she is the town’s newest doctor. As you know, not very many people wanted to see a woman doctor, especially men. In this book, she struggles for equality and you also see a young love blossom. This video was so much fun to make. You can watch it at http://www.blazingtrailers.com/show/1261.

What other types of artistic talents do you have?

Before I became an author, I was a concert singer. I gave many recitals and sang songs from musicals, operettas, operas, and Celtic folk songs. I was an alto. I enjoyed it very much and have many wonderful memories of that time in my life. I even made a CD called The Romantic Love Songs of Sigmund Romberg and Victor Herbert. My major at college was music and theatre.

They say authors have immensely fragile egos… How would you handle negative criticism or a negative review?

I get very few negative reviews, but when I do I’m sad that they didn’t like it. You see, it’s sort of like my child and one hates to have someone criticize your child. Anyway, if I ever get a negative one, I just pick up the positive reviews and read them. That helps a great deal. I just have to realize that everybody has an opinion, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that everyone feels the same way.

Do you have another book in the works? Would you like to tell readers about your current or future projects?

I would love to tell you about the next mystery. Montezuma’s treasure, mysterious events, family secrets, and the importance of learning about your ancestors are themes in Montezuma Intrigue. When a leather parchment of Montezuma’s map is found in great grandfather Evans’ old chest, April and the twins know this summer is going to be a memorable one. With Julia’s help, she and the girls convince John to go on a treasure hunt. Is Montezuma’s treasure a legend or reality? Whatever the case, John insists on keeping their little treasure hunt a secret. If certain people find out about it, the family could be in danger. During this little escapade, a few family secrets are exposed, ones that John and Julia never expected.

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

Yes, I have a blog in which I interview authors. It’s a “Family Friendly” site for all ages. I have “book give-aways” every week beginning on Mondays. It’s so much fun getting to know authors this way. At the end of each interview I ask a question of the author: “Tell us something about the real you.” I can tell you that this question has been so much fun. I get unusual, comical, serious, and even spiritual answers. My blog is lindaweaverclarke.blogspot.com. You may also learn more about me and read excerpts from my books at my official website: www.lindaweaverclarke.com.

Meet Angie Skelhorn

2010-10-12T05:00:00.000-07:00

Interview with Angie Skelhorn, author of On the Edge.

Watch the book video trailer and read an excerpt at Blazing Trailers.

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

I have been a student of the magical arts since 1996. My interests include tarot, runes, and other forms of divination, astrology, spell-casting, healing and spirituality, mythology, folklore, and fairy tales.

When did you decide you wanted to become an author?

My first thought of becoming an author is when I left home in the early 80’s. I was driving towards Toronto in a friend’s car. I sat in the passenger seat a little overwhelmed looking out the side-view mirror and watched my past turn into a speck behind me. As I stared out the window the grey sidewalks and paved streets replaced green grass and ditch-weeds. The mature trees faded and shopping plazas, street signs and pedestrians emerged. I remember thinking what a perfect opening to a novel.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

On the Edge is a novel marketed to young female adults and women.

The death of Carm’s husband had a devastating effect on her. She spends many months in a downward spiral lost to drugs. A witch name Gretchen’s penetrating insight and wisdom offers encouraging helpful guidance for Carm to make positive changes to her personal, professional and spiritual life. A tarot reading is preformed with purpose and intention that turns out to be more than entertainment.

I hope to give to the reader the key – well if she can do it, it can be done.

Joan Kennedy, a very successful psychic from my home town, was my inspiration to put pen to paper. She encouraged me to write the unique story.

When did you start writing? Relate an anecdote from your earliest writing years..

In my teens I journalized until a certain someone found my writing and read what I had written. I was embarrassed they knew how I felt about them. I stopped writing. I picked up the pen again and started writing by documenting rituals, spells and incantations; reason, how and the results. From the information I gathered I wrote a story of a young witch celebrating Yule with her family and friends.

In June 2001, I sent a rough draft to Green Witchcraft Author Ann Moura. She replied with two hand written letters recommending that I extend the story into a book that would include all the witches’ holidays. I did and to this day Ann is still an email away offering support.

Do you belong to a critique group? How has this helped or hindered your writing.

My search to find a publisher led me to RonnaGage’s writing community. The group previewed and helped critique the orginal manuscript. I tried not to burn-out the group re-submitting new and revised versions. I picked up valuable information from fellow members. Their insight helped me cut through the story and get to the bare bones.

Do you write non-stop until you have a first draft, or do you edit as you move along?

I didn’t plan much out I just wrote. Starting from point ideas over days, weeks, months, even years of writing and editing produced On the Edge.

Technically speaking, what do you struggle the most with when writing? How do you tackle it?

In the beginning I could write but I couldn’t type and a handwritten manuscript would not get read past the first page. I hired a typist and was disappointed by the results. Hard as it was to accept, my writing career stood at a stand still. I teamed with my Aunt Donna Jensen. She is my first reader and cheerleader. She typed my manuscripts, prompt and professional, and never attempted to rewrite what I had written. Serious about the craft of writing she gave me an array of English books and dictionaries. She shared her know-how pointing out the spelling, grammar, and punctuation flaws from a compassionate heart.

From start to finish her one-on-one feedback was the difference between my success and failure. She shared my defeats as well as celebrated whether big or small, my accomplishments.

How was your experience in looking for a publisher? What words of advice would you offer those novice authors who are in search of one?

To bring a manuscript to fruition the author writes the story and submits. The editor considers the manuscript beyond the first sale. It is an ongoing relationship of give and take.

It’s hard to break through the maze of the book publishing industry. I sent to an array of magazines, book publishers, agents and contests. I received respectful rejections. I also received suggestions that would enhance my manuscripts. At E-book publishing I found the editors more open to work with writers to polish their work. They are more open to potential.

I tell writers I meet who are trying to have their work published – don’t stop learning and submitting. Be open to suggestions. If you give up you will never know if the results were worth the attempts.

Do you have another book in the works? Would you like to tell readers about your current or future projects?

No Reins, a story of young love, will be released in October 2010 by Club Lighthouse Publishing. Although I stretched a few of the facts and the time line, this book comes from a personal place.

Today I’m working on a collaboration with T.L. Davidson. She is an exceptionally talented writer and artist and can be located at http://clublighthousepublishing.com

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

The internet for a stay-at-home writer is a blessing. The computer allowed me to stay in the loop. I could explore the world of writers and writing.

Creating a website, I stepped out of my comfort zone. I was putting everything out there for people to respond to. There were times I didn’t think I could do this. My friend Gino Tucci, skilled with the technical stuff, supported and encouraged what I wanted done.

Publishing my ideas on the web in book format I maintained creative control of my vision. From writing, editing, proof reading to page layout. I chose what I wanted to express and post my credentials.

As a writer with something to say I geared the websites toward Witchcraft and Spiritualism; the theme of my life and writing career. I write what I truly know and hope people will find what they are reading is worth their time.

My websites are http://Witchskel.com http://Witchskel.blogspot.com http://AngieSkelhorn.com

I also can be found on Good Reads, Author Nation, Fiction Factor Form, The Witches Voice and Facebook.

Thank you for taking a moment to get to know me.

Confessions of a Liberal Lover

2010-08-30T09:58:00.000-07:00

New Review
BookWenches Reviews
Reviewed by: Bobby D Whitney
Having read her weight in historical romances in her youth, Maud has always dreamed of finding that one virile, incredibly handsome man who will complete her. Isn’t that the key to happiness? As the headstrong girl grows into a liberal career woman, she realizes that wishes and dreams are a difficult foundation to build a future on. She also finds that in order to catch a prince, a girl’s got to kiss a lot of…Republicans.

*******
E. M. Muller’s Confessions of a Liberal Lover is a humorous spin on a fairy tale that features a woman whose misguided belief that she needs a man in order to be happy turns her life into a series of romantic misadventures. This is a quick and light read with a serious message about love, respect, and self-determination, and I found it to be both charming and thought-provoking.
Ms. Muller writes with a very personable tone and a dry wit. Her heroine, Maud, speaks to us directly. She has a somewhat sarcastic, self-deprecating humor that causes us to bond with her immediately. In her quest to find a man, Maud tries to transform herself into the person that she perceives her current beau wants her to be. The individuals that she is attracted to are her direct opposite philosophically and politically, so instead of winning happiness, all she manages to do is deny her own identity.
The role of fairy godmother in this fairy tale is played by a plastic statuette of a gargoyle that Maud won in a church carnival as a child. This talking toy is the only enchanted part of this fairy tale. He is the one constant support in Maud’s life, offering her a voice of reason and a dash of wisdom, and he always speaks up right as she is jumping into a disaster. For an inanimate object, he is a remarkably appealing presence in the story.
Confessions of a Liberal Lover does have some political undertones, but although the joke is about Republicans, the pointed commentary actually seems to be aimed at the ultra conservative and socially intolerant right rather than the political party itself. Given Maud’s very liberal bent of mind, I found it quite humorous to witness her trying to fit in with those who are her direct opposites.
My overall impression of this novella is very positive. It is an easy and highly amusing read that made me laugh out loud as well as think a bit. Over the course of this story, our heroine discovers herself. She learns that being with the wrong man is far worse than being alone, and that respect is one of the key factors in love. And that is a lesson that many of us – myself definitely included – can take to heart. Excellent job, Ms. Muller.
Rating: 4.5

Book Title: Confessions of a Liberal Lover
Author: E.M. Muller
Blazing Trailers Link:
Reviewed By: Bookwenches Reviews
Reviewer URL: http://bookwenches.com/
Review:

Excerpt:
One day, Joe called me at work and I could hear the excitement in his voice. "Darlin", I've got something real special planned for Saturday night and I'll give you a hint. I bought you a present today and I sure hope you say yes to the question I'm going to ask you." The hint was a dead giveaway: He was going to propose. That night, I called Sybil and asked to borrow the little black dress again.
"You look good enough to eat, sugar," he said when he showed up for our date on Saturday, dressed in his usual T-shirt, faded jeans, and cowboy hat. Fortunately, both Sybil's dress and his hat were black, so our outfits were nicely coordinated. He must not have been kidding when he said the way I looked made him hungry, because when we got to the Cracker Barrel, he ate like a horse. When he failed to produce the engagement ring at dinner, I was so pissed I made him buy me one of those overpriced packages of candied fruit slices you can get at Wal-Mart for half the price.
"I thought you said this was going to be a special night and that you had a present for me," I whined as we walked across the parking lot to his truck.
"I sure do, lover." He reached behind the passenger seat and pulled out a long narrow object wrapped in pink tissue paper.
"This is for you," he said, planting a kiss on my cheek. "I wrapped it myself. Open it quick, `cause I got something real important to ask you."
I set the fruit slices down on the roof of the truck and tore off the tissue paper. It was a fucking rifle.
"Ain't it a beauty? You're so damn smart, I bet you guessed what it is I want to ask you." Apparently, I wasn't as smart as Joe thought, because I didn't have a clue what he wanted to ask me, although I was fairly certain he wouldn't hand me a gun and then ask me to marry him.
He propped the rifle up against the side of the truck and took a deep breath, his brown eyes glowing with anticipation. "Baby, do you want to come hunting with me when deer season opens?"
One thing I can say with absolute certainty is hunting has never appeared on any of my to-do lists. In fact, killing is so repugnant to me, I'm still consumed with guilt for euthanizing the African violet that had been clinging to life on the windowsill in the bathroom. It's true I've never been squeamish about diving into a good steak, an interestingly prepared chicken breast, or a piece of endangered salmon, but I prefer to remain one-step removed from the execution of my entrées.
Still the prospect of spending a few days alone with Joe in a rustic cabin in the woods where he could yell "Yahoo!" to his heart's content was damned appealing. So I accepted his invitation to go hunting and immediately began working on a plan that would keep us inside the cabin and thus prevent him from killing Bambiâ€Ÿs mother. The plan I envisioned called for scented candles, a few items from Victoria's Secret, and lots of whipped cream.
The first hint my plan was in trouble came when Joe told me his two brothers, their wives, and his father would be sharing the one-room cabin with us. His mother would have liked to go along, too, but had magnanimously offered to baby-sit for Joe's five nieces and nephews. He also revealed for the first time that the cabin had no running water and the toilet was a hole in the ground out back.
As I saw it, the only option open to me was to wait until the last minute and then tell him I couldn't go, laying the blame on an assortment of vague female problems. I was sure Joe, always the gentleman, wouldn't delve too deeply into the particulars. Unfortunately, when he came to pick me up, he was like a kid on Christmas morning and I didn't have the heart to disappoint him.
The first night at the cabin wasn't too bad. Everyone staked out a spot on the floor by participating in the timeless hunting cabin ritual of the throwing down of the sleeping bags. Then we all sat around the wood-burning stove, drinking beer. Joe's family made a big fuss over my new rifle, assuring me nobody knew more about guns than Joe. This sent his father into a tirade about how the damn liberals were trying to take away the people's guns, and why couldn't they understand how important the right to bear arms is in a free county like the U.S.A.? Apparently, opposition to gun control and finding a way to keep the damned foreigners out of America pretty much defined the Piccupston clan's entire political ideology.
For the next two days, we all rose at dawn and marched off into the forest with our rifles slung over our shoulders like Continental soldiers to do battle with the wily deer. Each night, six people returned to that filthy cabin, whistling and singing like the dwarfs in Snow White, while the seventh dwarf―that would be me―returned in a self-induced catatonic trance. I knew if I allowed myself to emerge from that trance, the horror of my surroundings would drive me so far over the edge I'd never recover. After three nights sleeping on the floor with six snoring unwashed people and defecating in a hole in the ground, I began to think there was a chance I was going to survive the ordeal.
And then Joe killed a deer.
It was during the process of gutting the deer that I completely lost it. Screaming hysterically, I fell to my knees and wrapped my arms around Joe's legs, pleading with him to take me home. Although I could tell he was disappointed and embarrassed by my behavior, he was a good sport and didn't try to talk me into staying. He drove me home and even stayed until I showered, put on my trusty old flannel nightgown, and climbed into bed.
"It's okay, baby," he said, sitting down on the edge of the bed and gently brushing the wet hair off my forehead. "You're not the first person who didn't make it to the finish line on a Piccupston family hunting trip. Next year you'll know what to expect and can just relax and enjoy yourself." Then he kissed me goodnight and returned to the rustic cabin in the woods where his family and the deer carcass were anxiously awaiting his return.
After he left, I laid awake in the dark for almost an hour, waiting for the gargoyle to speak.
"Are you all right, Maudie?" he asked softly.
"I think so."
"Do you want to talk about it or are you too upset?"
"I don't think there's much to say, is there?"
"No, I guess not. But I want you to know that I think Joe is a good person, even though he killed that deer."
"He's a lot of fun. I laugh more with him than I've ever laughed in my life. And he's a great dancer."
"You know that's not enough. The two of you are from different worlds. He can't live in yours and you can never be happy in his."
"I know that, but I'm still going to miss him."
"Maudie, there's something you should know."
"What is it?"
"The deer was a buck. It was definitely not Bambi's mother."
"Goodnight," I said, allowing the corners of my mouth to turn up ever so slightly.
"Goodnight, Maudie. If you get scared, remember I'm right here on the dresser."

Interview with Russell Brooks

2010-08-24T14:19:00.000-07:00

Interview with Russell Brooks author of, Pandora's Succession

Read an excerpt and see the video at: http://blazingtrailers.com

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

I’m a former Canadian track team member and I graduated from Indiana University in Bloomington, IN with a BS in Biology. I retired from competition in 2007 but I’m still active either on the track or in the pool to stay in shape. This year I’ve started back playing the violin. I currently live in Montreal, Qc.

When did you decide you wanted to become an author?

I’ve been writing since high school and it was always a goal of mine to have my worked published. I had the ideas and the imagination and after reading books by Vince Flynn, Barry Eisler, and Joseph Finder, I felt that there was a place in the literary market for my stories also.

Do you have another job besides writing?

I’m sales manager for an insurance company.

Were you an avid reader as a child? What type of books did you enjoy reading?

I must confess that as a child I did not read as much as I do now. In elementary school I was into Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys like most of the kids my age at the time. I read less when I was in high school, but picked up again as I entered university.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

My story is about a real threat: biological terrorism. The 2001 Anthrax attacks perpetrated by Bruce Edwards Ivins prove that this is something that could occur at any moment and could come from people working within our government. Studying biology and chemistry in university helped with the research.

How would you describe your creative process while writing this book? Was it stream-of-consciousness writing, or did you first write an outline?

For this novel it was stream-out-of-consciousness. That’s one of the reasons why it took me so long. For my second novel (which is currently being edited) I wrote an outline, allowing me to write it in 2 ½ months.

Did your book require a lot of research?

It required tons of research. It was important to research firearms, military aircraft, the CDC, the CIA, Russian and Japanese intelligence agencies, viruses, micro-organisms, geographical locations (since the story takes places in Chechnya, Darfur, Southern Uganda, Moscow, and Tokyo), American Forces bases, some martial-arts (I had a martial-arts teacher in Belgium beta-read the fight scenes for realism).

Why do you write?

I love to write. If I didn’t, the accumulation of ideas and imagination would’ve driven me crazy years ago.

What kind of promotions do you do for your books?

It’s important to keep an online presence because what’s on the internet is there forever. I’ve done an internet radio interview and am set up for another one in a few weeks. I’m setting up a blog tour, and also book reviews through bloggers, and I hope to get into a few magazines—print or online. I published a short story: To the Last Bite (http://www.scribd.com/full/24394713?access_key=key-8e2g7fl2gh6c2jqxvoe) and will continue to write other short stories when a idea pops into my head. I also produce a YouTube show called: The Russell Show (http://www.youtube.com/user/ridleyfox) where I recite poetry from my buddies on The Artist Lounge Radio Show, which I participate in on Sundays. If you listen in on the show (it’s open mike) you’ll hear me several times reciting what others have written. I maintain a blog where I post my essays (http://www.russellparkway.blogspot.com) and post episodes of The Russell Show. I aim to do one once per month. One of my essays: Why does Vancouver not deserve to host the 2010 Winter Olympics, was picked up by the online Op-Ed of Canada’s National Post. I ended up pissing off a lot of people with what I had to say since I had first-hand experience as an athlete, but I got some letters congratulating me for my courage and exposing the truth.

What is the funniest/most embarrassing/scariest story from one of your books signings or events?

Haven’t done a book signing yet.

Who do you think you are?

Just a regular person like you and I whom the government comes after for taxes.

If you could have been the servant to any famous person in history, who would that be and why?

Never would happen. I lead I don’t follow.

If you are a world builder, what is your favorite part of creating these worlds?

How do you research?

I do my best to contact experts on the subject matter that I’m researching. Otherwise I do a lot of reading, either in print or on the internet.

When did you start writing? Relate an anecdote from your earliest writing years..

I started what is now known as Pandora’s Succession when I was 12. So we’re looking at most of my life.

What would you tell aspiring young writers about the publishing business?

You have to have a lot of patience and do not be afraid to get professional help with writing. Don’t rely on family and friends in order to get an objective critique of your work. With the advent of ebooks it makes it easier to publish your work. However don’t be fooled into thinking that everything is accomplished when your book is published—people have to read your work. It’s the marketing part that is the real challenge. And please be mindful of scammers, there are several crooks that target naïve and inexperienced writers in order to make a quick buck. Before handing over your cash to someone you don’t know, check out Preditors and Editors (http://pred-ed.com/) to see what they have to say about an agent, agency, or publisher. If the individual or company is not listed in their database, simply email them and they’ll investigate the legitimacy of the agent, agency, or publisher that you’re enquiring about.

What has been your experience with literary guilds or groups? I’ve recently joined a few on facebook. It’s a great way to make contacts. So far, some of those group members want to either host me on my blog tour or review my novel, which is great for publicity.

Do you belong to a critique group? How has this helped or hindered your writing?

I got help from a writing coach who was able to assist me with my novel and my writing in general. (http://www.crayne.com)

What so you see for the future of publishing and ebooks?span>

Ebooks, from what I’ve seen so far, are going to be to the publishing industry as paperbacks were to the industry when they first came out. They’ll continue to grow in popularity for readers. That’s great news for writers because it helps to eliminate the middle man—the publisher—who basically control the market. In the future, writers can eventually just sell their novels directly to the public. However, if you’re a beginning writer, I still advise that you exhaust your attempts at getting traditionally published.

If you could talk to any fictional character, who would that be and what would you say?

Clarke Kent aka Superman. I’d ask him which electronic reading device he’d choose, or if he’d rather stick to Kryptonian technology for that.

Which of your characters do you love/hate/fear/pity the most and why?

Hannibal Lechter. Like, come on. Would you invite him to your place for dinner?

What other types of artistic talents do you have?

I sing, play the violin, and some have said that I’d be a good actor, especially with cartoon voices.

What type of writer are you—the one who experiences before writing, like Hemingway, or the one who mostly daydreams and fantasizes?

I daydream and fantasize.

Have you ever suffered from writer’s block? What seems to work for unleashing your creativity?

I always get writer’s block. When that happens, I pick up my violin and practice. That usually helps me to tackle a problem and then the ideas come back.

Read an excerpt and see the video at: http://blazingtrailers.com

Interview with Karina Fabian author of, Why God Matters

2010-07-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

Read an excerpt and see the video at: http://www.blazingtrailers.com/show/956

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

I am a stay-home wife and mother of four who keeps her sanity by writing books. Not that the kids drive me nuts—they’re great—but my characters will drive me insane if I don’t periodically purge my brain of their stories. As such I write science fiction and fantasy, usually with a lot of humor. One of the best parts of finishing a novel is getting to read it aloud to the kids and my husband.

My husband’s a colonel in the Air Force, and I was in the Air Force until our kids were born, so we have done a lot of moving—three countries and seven states so far. Each one has been a wonderful adventure. I love moving; I feel like an artist with a blank easel when I step into our new house. Have to admit, however, I’m looking forward to staying in one place for a couple of years this time.

Do you have another job besides writing?

Wife, homemaker, mother, officer in the Catholic Writers’ Guild, coordinator of the Catholic Writers’ Conference Online, presenter at various conferences, owner/instructor/writer for Kickstart Marketing… None of which pay well monetarily, but all of which have wonderful personal bennies.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

My last book, Why God Matters: How to Recognize Him in Daily Life, was a right turn from my usual sci-fi/fantasy stuff. This is a small devotional with personal stories written by myself and my father, Deacon Steve Lumbert. We also included Scripture, prayer, quotes from the Catechism of the Catholic Church and simple exercises to help recognize God in the day-to-day. We were actually approached by Tribute Books to write it, and it was great fun to work with my dad!

How would you describe your creative process while writing this book? Was it stream-of-consciousness writing, or did you first write an outline?

If you could have any vice without repercussions, what would it be?

The ones I already have—chocolate and Coca Cola. The “repercussions” are mostly around my middle.

What is the funniest/most embarrassing/scariest story from one of your books signings or events?

I once did a books signing on Halloween dressed as a zombie. It was a lot of fun to get the second glances and comments. Sadly, I didn’t sell many books that way, and 20-20 hindsight, I should have had my table outside the store so I could have shambled after people on the sidewalk. (I did do it once or twice.)

If you are a world builder, what is your favorite part of creating these worlds?

The fact that once I get it started, the characters build it for me. It’s like I just have to get to the destination, then the tour guide shows me around.

What would you tell aspiring young writers about the publishing business?

#1 Learn it.
#2 Remember rejection isn’t personal.
#3 Be professional.

What has been your experience with literary guilds or groups?

I belong to the Catholic Writers’ Guild, which I helped found. It’s been fabulous. I’ve made my best friends and writing buddies there, and not just for Catholic writing. In fact, they’re helping me with my zombie exterminator novel right now. It is wonderful to have writer friends who share my devotion to the Catholic faith. www.catholicwritersguild.com

I also meet each week at The Writers Chat Room. This is THE place for writers to learn the business—and to make friends and contacts. In fact, the zombie novel is a direct result of the people I met and conversations I’ve had in the chat room. http://writerschatroom.com.

From the moment you conceived the idea for the story, to the published book, how long did it take?

Why God Matters took about a month. I have another I’ve been working on for three years and counting. It depends on the book and the motivation. When I have an interested publisher or the characters really drive me, I write faster. When the story is complex or intimidates me for some reason, I slow down. It can also depend on what’s going in my life, though I suppose I can’t really say that, considering I wrote two books while planning an online conference, writing two school planners and moving to a new state.

Have you ever suffered from writer’s block? What seems to work for unleashing your creativity?

If I have writer’s block, it’s because I’m intimidated by the story. To get past it, I just give myself permission to write a shy first draft. Usually, once I get moving, it turns out pretty good.

What book do you wish you had written and why?

DISCOVERY, which I am still working on. I was doing really well with it last October, then quit for Christmas and to get my computer fixed. Unfortunately, my backup failed, unbeknownst to me until AFTER Geek Squad replaced my hard drive (they were supposed to repair a cracked case.) If I had not taken that break, but had kept going on my husband’s computer or netbook, the book would have been done now and it would have been awesome.

On the other hand, while waiting for the computer, I started work on a zombie novel on a whim. Neeta Lyffe, Zombie Exterminator, is done and awesome and has an interested publisher, so life’s not all bad. And I’m starting work again on DISCOVERY. I can’t recover what I lost, but I can still write something fantastic.

What book are you reading now?

I’ve found that I can either read a book or write a book, so I have to take turns. I just finished writing Neeta Lyffe, but I’ve not started reading anything yet. I realize this is unusual for a writer, but to be honest; I have so many hours in a day and I choose to use them to produce.

Do you get along with your muse? What do you do to placate her when she refuses to inspire you?

Why do people assume authors are victims to their muses? Would you ask a plumber, “What do you do when you don’t feel inspired to fix a sink?” or an executive “How do write that business proposal when your heart’s not in it?”

When it comes down to it, writing is like any other job—sometimes you love it and everything flows; sometimes, you have to push through the slumps. Either way, you are in charge of your behavior and production—not some mysterious muse that needs placating.

Are you a disciplined writer?

Yes and getting more so.

Do your pets help you with your writing?

My cat, Elbereth, sits on the back of my chair when I’m at the computer. Recently, we moved from California to Utah, and it was about a month before I had the desk set up and was back into a writing routine. She was very pleased to see me sitting at my desk, and for the first few days, would purr and pester me by trying to sit in my lap. She gives me so much joy.

What is the worst, best, most embarrassing or funniest situation your writing career has put you in?

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

http://www.fabianspace.com: This is my “workshorse” website. You’ll find my bio and all my books, plus stuff for authors and my classes via Kickstart Marketing. I also have a weekly newsletter of marketing tasks, 30-Mintue Marketer, which I sell via the website as well.

Read an excerpt and see the video at: http://www.blazingtrailers.com/show/956

Interview with Alaric Bond author of, True Colours

2010-07-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

Read an excerpt and see the video for True Colours at: www.blazingtrailers.com

When did you decide you wanted to become an author?

When I was told by my English teacher that I never would, because I could not spell. In those days most folk thought Dyslexia was a posh girl's name.

Do you have another job besides writing?

Yup, my wife and I run a small Restaurant and Tea Rooms in Herstmoncuex, East Sussex. www.scolfes.co.uk

What so you see for the future of publishing and ebooks?

In the same way as the sixpenny Penguin paperback revolutionised the publishing work, the ebook will make some major changes. The electronic readers have a way to go yet, but once they are cheap enough, they will take the mass market over. Of course the logical progression will then be for Authors to cut out the publisher; that might not be such a good move as, love them or hate them, they do act as a choke on rubbish!

Nothing compares with a real, physical book, however. Nothing feels the same or (sorry) smells the same!

What type of writer are you—the one who experiences before writing, like Hemingway, or the one who mostly daydreams and fantasizes?

I'm the kind that gets distracted easily. Look, there's a squirrel!

From the moment you conceived the idea for the story, to the published book, how long did it take?

The last one was about a year from first word to book shelf. (And during that time I aged about ten.)

Describe your working environment.

I write in a small office next to the old back door. The house is very old and the roof is low; I constantly bang my head – which probably explains a lot.

They say authors have immensely fragile egos… How would you handle negative criticism or a negative review?

I've been very lucky so far. If ever I become unlucky, I know a phone number (which might explain why there are more writers than critics).

As a writer, what scares you the most?

Spiders in my office (I get a lot).

For writer moms: How do you divide your time between taking care of a home and children, and writing? Do you plan your writing sessions in advance?

I say! This would not go down well where I come from – chores, and family, are a shared joy – really you should be ashamed!

When it comes to writing, are you an early bird, or a night owl?

Early in the morning for correction and polish, late at night for the creative stuff.

Have you ever suffered from writer’s block? What seems to work for unleashing your creativity?

No. When I worked for the BBC I had to produce stunningly funny gags of a topical nature every Friday morning; otherwise I did not get paid. Writers block is an indulgence; we must not be indulgent.

Technically speaking, what do you struggle the most with when writing? How do you tackle it?

My appalling spelling is a constant hamper. Word processors and helpful friends are a bonus, but the frustration knowing a word, but not having a clue how it is formed, can rather slow down the creative process. If this sounds trite to the many good spellers out there, I can only say that you KNOW how to spell, whereas most dyslexics have to REMEMBER – there is a difference. The bonus is that our memories develop extremely well. And there is something else, but it escapes me.

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?
Yup, www.alaricbond.com Be warned, there is a trailer (and a photo).

Read an excerpt and see the video for True Colours at: www.blazingtrailers.com

Meet René Colato Laínez

2010-07-09T16:21:00.000-07:00

Read an excerpt and watch the video at Blazing Trailers www.blazingtrailers.com/show/1020

Interview with Rene Colato Lainez author of: The Tooth Fairy Meets El Raton Perez

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

My name is René Colato Laínez. I was born in El Salvador. I have been writing all my life. As a child, I wrote about my toys and school. As I grew older, El Salvador was involved in a civil war. My father and I had to leave the country to come to the United States. We had hard times on our way to Mexico City. My father lost all his money. He had to work to get more money and I was left alone in an old trailer that became our home. In that old trailer, I wrote and wrote in notebooks about my dreams, desires, adventures, etc. It was there, that I realized that I could be a writer. Four months later, we reached the city of Los Angeles.

When did you decide you wanted to become an author?

When I was in High School, I wrote for the Spanish school paper. In college, I wrote two plays, many short stories, and a few novels. But it was not until I became an elementary teacher, that I decided to write books for children. Thanks to the advice of the fabulous children’s authors Alma Flor Ada, F. Isabel Campoy and Amada Irma Pérez, I decided to submit my work for publication. After trying for a year and half, I got my first book contract with Arte Público Press.

Do you have another job besides writing?

I am a bilingual teacher at Fernangeles Elementary School in Sun Valley, California. Working with kids is great. I am always inspired to write a new children’s book manuscript.
Were you an avid reader as a child? What type of books did you enjoy reading?
Yes, I was an avid reader in El Salvador. I loved the Sunday’s newspapers and the comics like Peanuts and El Chapulín Colorado from Mexico. My favorite books as a child were Don Quijote and Las telarañas de Carlota, Charlotte’s Web. First I discovered it as a movie during a Christmas Season and fell in love with Wilbur and Charlotte. When I knew that it was a book, I run to the public library. I read the book in English several years later in the USA.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

My latest book is the THE TOOTH FAIRY MEETS EL RATÓN.
And this is what happened:

“Ahhh, one of my students lives among rats and mice,” a teacher screamed in the hallway. “I need to go to the office and call social services,” she added. The teacher was ready to faint from the impression. I asked her what was happening and she told me that one of her students lost his first tooth and that a mouse took it. But this was not the worst part. All the other students said that they knew that mouse, too. This boy told her that the mouse visited his home often because he lived with his brothers and cousins. That boy was thrilled to lose that tooth and he waited for that mouse the entire night. “The boy said that he wants that mouse to visit his house every night,” the teacher concluded. I asked her if she knew about El Ratón Pérez, the Hispanic tooth collector. “In Latin America we don’t have a Tooth Fairy, but we have el Ratón Pérez. Last night this famous and adventurous mouse visited your student. He collected all my teeth, also,” I told her. The teacher laughed and did not go to the office. She went to celebrate with her student the loss of his first tooth. When I arrived home, I started writing the first draft of THE TOOTH FAIRY MEETS EL RATÓN.

How would you describe your creative process while writing this book? Was it stream-of-consciousness writing, or did you first write an outline?

I usually write an outline. I know that at least I need 14 scenes to write a picture book. I write the first and last scene and then work in the middle of the story. But also my writing is a stream of consciousness. I write about my immigrant experience and my experience about living in two cultures. I write from my heart. I will say that many times my heart whispers my stories while I type them in my computer.  Why do you write? My goal as a writer is to produce good multicultural children's literature; stories where minority children are portrayed in a positive way, where they can see themselves as heroes, and where they can dream and have hopes for the future. I want to write authentic stories of Latin American children living in the United States.

What kind of promotions do you do for your books?

I promote my books in schools, libraries, bookstores, conferences, and workshops. The internet is a great tool for promotion. I have my own blog www.renecolatolainez.blogspot.com and participate in three Latino blogs www.latinbabybookclub.com , www.losbloguitos.com , and www.labloga.blogspot.com . Also visit my website at www.renecolatolainez.com.

When did you start writing? Relate an anecdote from your earliest writing years..
In 2000, authors Alma Flor Ada and F. Isabel Campoy visited Fernangeles and they read my books. Alma and Isabel were impressed with my work and encouraged to send my manuscripts for publication. In 2001, I met author Amada Irma Pérez and she also pushed me to start sending my work.

I did! I submitted my first manuscript in March 2001. Soon, I received many rejection letters, but I did not give up. I joined the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), attended writing conferences and took classes on writing for children. I received my first contract in October 2002. My first book Waiting For Papá/ Esperando a Papá was released in October 2004.
Do you have an agent? How was your experience in searching for one?

I have the best agent in the world, Stefanie Von Borstel from Full Circle Literary, www.fullcircleliterary.com. After I graduated from Vermont College in Writing for Children and Young Adult, I decided to look for an agent. I met Stefanie at the Latino Book & Family Festival in Los Angeles. Stefanie knew so much about the bilingual/ Latino presses and told me about her passion for multicultural literature. Months later, I signed with her and have created many wonderful stories that are about to come.

How was your experience in looking for a publisher? What words of advice would you offer those novice authors who are in search of one?

Keep writing, don’t give up, join to critique groups and SCBWI, take writing classes and believe in yourself and in your writing. Soon, you will find a publisher for your wonderful manuscript.

Do you have another book in the works? Would you like to tell readers about your current or future projects?

My next children’s book is From North to South/ Del norte al sur. The books is about a mother who is deported to Mexico for not having the right papers and her son who has two travel from north to south to visit her in Tijuana México. The book is coming out in September 2010 from Children’s Book Press.

Read an excerpt and watch the video at Blazing Trailers www.blazingtrailers.com/show/1020

Our Featured Guest, Danielle Thorne

2010-07-06T05:32:00.000-07:00

Read and excerpt and watch the trailer for, By Heart my Compass at Blazing Trailers:
www.blazingtrailers.com/show/1109

As my new release, BY HEART AND COMPASS, becomes available this week, my thoughts are with the people and animals in the Gulf, struggling to withstand the environmental tragedy that struck this April. Only a few days after this event, I joined my husband and college roommates on a trip to the Western Caribbean. We had a lovely time taking in the blue sea and pristine beaches off the coast of Mexico. Never for a moment did I understand the implications of what was happening around us.

I saw the ocean for the first time when I was twenty years old. The impact it had on me drove me to read about it, learn and eventually try scuba diving. Now forty, I made my second salt water dive this spring and had a wonderful experience. On that day, I was more concerned about the lionfish species that is invading the Caribbean. I watched the dive master who accompanied us catch several off the reefs. Who would have thought a much worse predator would threaten the sea life that has moved me to write stories centered around our beautiful oceans?

BY HEART AND COMPASS is shipwreck romance adventure about trusting your heart when it matters most. Although it isn't environmentally-themed as was my short novel, TURTLE SOUP, it means just as much to me because it is an opportunity for me to tell stories and most importantly, write about the things I care about.

Please enjoy the video for my new release, featuring pictures from my spring trip to the Western Caribbean just after the oil spill. I hope you enjoy it and check out the book. And don't forget to support all those efforts available to help with clean up in the Gulf.

You can find out more about BY HEART AND COMPASS today at my blog: www.thebalancedwriter.blogpost.com. You can find out more about me and my books at my website: www.daniellethorne.jimdo.com.

Sending prayers and well-wishes to those of you affected by this terrible tragedy. And for my beautiful sea turtles…

Read and excerpt and watch the trailer for, By Heart my Compass at Blazing Trailers:
www.blazingtrailers.com/show/1109

Meet Cythia Vespia

2010-06-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

Interview with Cythia Vespia author of, Demon Hunter 2

Read and excerpt and watch the video at www.blazingtrailers.com

Why do you write?
I love to create worlds. I love to develop characters, breathe life into them, set them off on adventures, let them indulge in romance and intrigue and excitement...and ultimately kill them. Well, in rare cases...most cases actually, if it fits my mood. There's that "sadist" tag again. It's a great outlet to be creative and reign as master over an entire little world that exists only in your head until you put it down in print and the seed spreads to an unsuspecting reader and now the world exists in their head and you can share your own experiences of that world with gentle reader. A screenwriter friend of mine just mentioned to me that if he couldn't be creative he would just die, just fall over and die. People need to express themselves in some way...writing has been my outlet for a very, very long time now. I can remember writing short stories that made no sense at all on my sisters typewriter, click, click, clicking away with childlike glee. There were no rules back then and there really shouldn't be now either.
I don't write to make a profound impact on the world. I don't write to force my viewpoint on affairs down people's throats. I don't write because the ghost of Conan is standing behind me with an axe threatening my life should I not finish his tales (although I don't doubt for a minute in Robert E. Howard's claims!).
I write because I have a story inside me that wants to get out and, short of having it crawl out of my ears while I sleep and run off to become the nightmare ghoul under a child's bed, I condemn it to paper so that others might just have a little bit of entertainment and enjoyment in a world filled with negativity.
So that's why I write. Why do you? And if you don't write...why not? It's very therapeutic...or so the voices tell me.

If you could have any vice without repercussions, what would it be?

I would seriously eat chocolate all day long. Not just sugar in general but chocolate. Candy bars, cake, Hostess, morning, noon, and night I'd eat chocolate just like one of my early favorite books as a child Chocolate Fever by Robert Kimmel Smith. Of course poor Henry Green ate so much chocolate that he started breaking out in chocolate spots...talk about repercussions!

Who do you think you are?

Wow, we're getting deep now! Honestly I used to have a pretty good idea of who I was...but what do you really know when you're twenty? These days I find that life is a journey of exploration of the soul. I'm on an ever changing path. If you aren' t growing you may as well be dying. Sure, the growth might not be very pleasant and you'll have to wait out the storm but on the other side of that is you, a different you, a stronger and hopefully wiser you who is ready for the next challenge. Because they're endless. So who am I? Someone once summed it up for me: I'm an intellectual athlete or an athletic intellectual. You can call me Renaissance Woman, Valkyrie, or Warrior. I'm a tough cookie with a soft chewy center.

When did you start writing? Relate an anecdote from your earliest writing years..

Once upon a time in grade school they were asking my class about our future hopes and dreams. In other words what did we want to be when we grew up. Most of the boys said some type of sports star. The girls all answered veterinarian. I answered from my heart and said I wanted to be an author. I was 8. The teacher commended me on picking such a noble profession. I wrote plenty of short stories after that. A few failed attempts at novels. And then in high school I really solidified my desire to become a writer when I read Dean Koontz novel Intensity. I wanted to instill that same emotion in my readers as he had done for me. Now here I am today living the dream.

What other types of artistic talents do you have?

I have a strong background in art. When I was younger I drew all the time. Now I've continued with my creative expression by doing graphic design. All the work you see on my websites, business cards, etc. are my own creation. Anything that's a creative outlet is a good time for me.

When do you get your best ideas and why do you think this is?

In the shower of all places! I think it's because that is probably the only time my mind is free to wander without distraction. I've written entire chapters in my head. The only problem becomes finding a place to write it out before I forget what I said.

Do you write non-stop until you have a first draft, or do you edit as you move along?

I've done both. These days I tend to edit as I go along. This is where writing on paper versus writing on the computer differs. I'll write by hand on a legal tablet...this is my first draft. And then I'll transfer it to the computer. As I'm moving it over I am doing an edit so it becomes my second draft already.

What is(are) your favorite book/author(s)? Why?

I love anything by Dean Koontz, I grew up on C.S. Lewis' Chronicles of Narnia series, Mary Higgins Clark, Stephen King, Robert E. Howard's Conan

What is the best writing advice you’ve ever received?

“Write for the wastebasket.” Simply translated means that when you're writing your first draft that you shouldn't be so concerned with perfection. Know that you are going to make changes...essentially most of it is going to be changed or thrown out in editing. This way you don't get so attached to the outcome and it takes the pressure off.

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

Please check out my website at www.CynthiaVespia.com and let me know what you think of design or what you would like to see that is missing. There's also plenty of information and free reads.

My blog is currently at http://Cynsights.Blogspot.com
There are plenty of contests, updates, and anecdotes.

Meet Katie Hines

2010-06-26T06:00:00.000-07:00

Interview with Katie Hines, author of Guardian

Red an excerpt and watch the video at www.blazingtrailers.com

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

I’m almost an empty nester with my youngest moving the first of July. The past three or four years have been very busy for me, as I’ve made the transition from chauffeur and other motherly duties to having my days pretty much free to write. I live in SC, and have a wonderful husband (for 25 years now), and two great girls. I’ve been writing for about as long as I can remember - the only problem is that I didn’t know what to write about, so I’d get to a certain place and stop. That did not, however, preclude me from writing teenage angst poetry that got published in a poetry anthology. I have been writing seriously the last 4 or so years and have one book published, “Guardian,” a middle grade urban fantasy.

When did you decide you wanted to become an author?

I don’t know that I can point to a specific date. I always knew that I was “good” at writing, but all that I knew about writers was that they were journalists, and I knew I wasn’t interested in that. I don’t know why it didn’t occur to me that someone had to be writing all those books I was reading. When I was in my late 40s, I “converted” several thick diaries into a book, which needs lots of work, but I went on from there to write “Guardian.”

Do you have another job besides writing?

Sometimes I wish I did because then I would have an excuse for not working on any of my works-in-progress.

Were you an avid reader as a child? What type of books did you enjoy reading?

You have to remember that I was a child in the 60s and early 70s. I loved fantasy, but about the only books that were out in that genre were books by Lloyd Alexander. Still, I read what I could find, like the Walter Farley books, Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys, all of the “Oz” books, Mutiny on the Bounty, and so forth.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

Imagine you have made a secret promise that can lead you to the discovery of an incredible treasure and an ancient power. But in order to fulfill that promise, you must defeat an age-old sect that is determined to claim the treasure and power themselves. Sprinkled with magic, “Guardian” explores the commitment of a boy determined to fulfill his promise to his mother and claim an uncertain destiny.

This book is loosely about the Oak Island treasure story, a true-to-life treasure story based on Oak Island, Nova Scotia. When I was looking for ideas, that one that said “this is the one,” I happened across this story. I knew immediately it was what I was looking for, and I went from there.

How would you describe your creative process while writing this book? Was it stream-of-consciousness writing, or did you first write an outline?

I didn’t do either. I knew the beginning and I knew the ending, but I wasn’t sure how to get from A-Z. There were only a couple of chapters in the book that came easily; the rest were hard work. There were several points where I did some brainstorming with my husband, and the book progressed from there.

Did your book require a lot of research?
I did an incredible amount of research, about 3-4 months. I read all I could about the Oak Island treasure story, about the Templars, about the Holy Grail, learned about Maine and Nova Scotia, and so forth.

What kind of promotions do you do for your books?

I created a web site and a blog. A friend crafted a book trailer for me, which was awesome. I interview authors on my blog, and my friend maintains my web site, linking to blogs, buy buttons for “Guardian” and so forth. Once my book was out, I went on a virtual blog tour. I am a native American, and was able to get a full-page in the tribe’s newsletter. I have also had various book reviews, and am going to be guest speaking three times during our library’s summer reading program. I have also been a guest on blog talk radio, and the Author’s show.

How do you research?

I’m probably a bit different than a lot of folks in that I had a great deal of fun researching. I began my research for “Guardian” by finding all the books I could that related to my subjects. I bought most of them, and read online what I couldn’t get out of books. Internet research is fine, to a point, but there is nothing better than a book you can get a hold of and mark up. I created files on my computer, and physical files for things like maps and literature from the tourism societies of the areas I was researching. Really and truly, apart from the obvious historical references, the research I did made for a much more diversified, complex book.

When did you start writing? Relate an anecdote from your earliest writing years..

I don’t know when I started writing, as it seems I have always done so. Probably the thing I remember most was when I was writing a short story for our 8th grade English class. It was called, “Underworld,” and I loved it! When the teacher asked for volunteers to read their story, I promptly shot up my hand. After I read the story, there was silence. Then the teacher asked me, “What does it mean?” I was crushed, and didn’t write again until the teenage angst years.

Who was your mentor?

What would you tell aspiring young writers about the publishing business?
Mainly that publishing is a business. No matter what kind of writing you do, whether it’s romance, adventures, thrillers, sci fi, etc., for the book publisher the bottom line is that it is a business and they do it to make money. We writers would love it if that weren’t the case, but it is, so it behooves one to keep that in mind.

Do you belong to a critique group? How has this helped or hindered your writing.

I do not currently belong to a critique group because I am in the early stages of writing my next novel. Once I get further along, I’ll rejoin a group. I cannot emphasize enough how important a critique group is to one’s writing. It literally makes a difference between being published or not. Critique buddies are essential for spotting errors that the author is too close to the work to see.

What so you see for the future of publishing and ebooks?

I think it is obvious to anyone who has been following publishing that ebooks are the wave of the near future, and further out. I recently saw in the news where a part of the education system in the state of Florida is buying their textbooks as ebooks and using Kindles as their ereaders.

What other types of artistic talents do you have?
Well, ah, I guess I do folk art painting pretty well. I’ve painted a clock and various wall mounted wood pieces. It is something I had always wanted to do, and found I really enjoyed it.

Do you get along with your muse? What do you do to placate her when she refuses to inspire you?

Now, see, this is the thing: the Muse comes to me during odd hours, like when I’m eating dinner, or reading a book. You’d think it would be courteous enough to wait until I have a piece of paper, or at least not so rude as to interrupt me while I’m reading, but No! it cannot. Thus, I have learned to carry pad and pencil around with me, or by my side of the bed, to make sure I don’t miss out on something.

From the moment you conceived the idea for the story, to the published book, how long did it take?

“Guardian” took me three years to write, and another year for it to be published.

Do you write non-stop until you have a first draft, or do you edit as you move along?

I edit as I move along. Editing, in this sense, means while I am writing the story, and I add somebody, or a plot point in that needs to also be referenced to earlier in the story, then I stop the book wherever I am, go back and make changes and save it as a new version. “Guardian” had nine versions before it was finished.

They say authors have immensely fragile egos… How would you handle negative criticism or a negative review?

I’ve had both! You learn to roll with the punches and develop that tough skin everybody talks about. If you break down every time you have a bad review, or criticism, you’ll never write anything because you’d be too afraid. We all get criticism and negative reviews. That’s as much being a part of a writer than anything else.

Are you a disciplined writer?

Oh, my, no! I have recently become more disciplined, and have set aside specific time to write - not answer emails, or do social networking, but straight, unadulterated time to write. Since setting a schedule, the writing time comes more easily. It’s like the schedule gives me permission to set aside a time to write.

When it comes to writing, are you an early bird, or a night owl?

A middle of the day gal. Night time is when most of my inspiration comes, but the actual writing is during the day.

Have you ever suffered from writer’s block? What seems to work for unleashing your creativity?

I have, although I didn’t know that’s what it was when it was going on. The big thing for me, when I don’t know what to write next, is doing some brainstorming with my husband. That’s usually clears out the “i-don’t-knows” and gets me going again.

How was your experience in looking for a publisher? What words of advice would you offer those novice authors who are in search of one?

While I was writing my book, I was also a part of many online groups. When someone would mention a particular publisher that I thought would be interested in my type of book, I would add them to a list. You’d be amazed at how many publisher’s you’ll get that way. When the book was finished, I already had a ready-made list and began to query right away.

What is(are) your favorite book/author(s)? Why?

Definitely all the books by Terry Brooks. He is the guru of fantasy. As a matter of fact, I am in the middle of rereading ALL his Shannara books, as I do every 2-3 years. I am an admitted die-hard fantasy fan.

Do you have another book in the works? Would you like to tell readers about your current or future projects?

I do have another middle grade urban fantasy in the mix. It is called “Glassblower,” and I’m a quarter of the way through. I am also working on a young adult novel, and two chapter books.

As a writer, what scares you the most?

Readers not finding my book! I am passionate about my book, and I really believe that kids will love it. It is a matter of getting it to them, and I worry that my marketing and promotional work won’t be enough to “get it out there.”

Have you ever woken in the night with the need to write? If so, how do you deal with this urge?

Oh, yes. Usually I write the idea down on a piece of paper beside the bed. I’ve found if I get up in the middle of the night to write, in the morning when what seemed like inspiration the night before, wasn’t worth keeping. I get great ideas, but the fleshing out needs to come in the daytime!

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

Readers can learn about me on my blog at http://katiehines.blogspot.com, on my web site at http://www.katiehines.com, and through my publisher at http://4rvpublishingll.com.

Meet L.M. Preston

2010-06-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

Interview with L.M. Preston, author of The Pack

Read an excerpt, and see the video at www.blazingtrailers.com

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

I’m a mom of four kids, married my teen crush, am a mildly engineer by day and a YA, Scifi writer by night.

When did you decide you wanted to become an author?

I never really decided it. I always loved to write while I was younger. Carried around a book of my poems, short stories, and journal entries for years before a husband then kids took up most of my time. My husband challenged me to write a scifi novel and that was the beginning of my young adult scifi writing addiction.

Do you have another job besides writing?

Yep, tons – lol! Being a mom takes up a lot of my time, but being an engineer has been an awesome ride. I also teach part-time at a local university.

Were you an avid reader as a child? What type of books did you enjoy reading?

I loved reading as a child. I started off pretty mild. Reading Judy Blume and girlie stuff. Then I went through a serious horror phase and read Dean Koontz, James Saul, Stephen King, Anne Rice and VC Andrews like a maniac. In my late teens I got hooked on harlequin romances and have been reading those up until about five years ago when I grabbed my husband’s scifi book, Aliens vs Predator: Prey.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

My upcoming book, The Pack, was inspired by the many pictures of missing kids I saw posted on the board outside my job and Walmart. My kids and I would stop and pray for those kids and hope that they found their way home. Once I’d met a former police officer that told a tale about one of his cases where several missing kids were kidnapped and sold into flesh slavery. One girl got out and led him to the others. It was an amazing story that made me want to write about a hero for them all.

Why do you write?

Writing for me is like taking a vacation within an alternate reality. Building and delving into characters – I become them, if only for the moment in which I am writing them. Hey, who wouldn’t want to shave some years off of your life, become a super-hero, get the girl/guy you want in the end? That’s the fun part of being a writer.

What kind of promotions do you do for your books?

Since I’m with a small publishing company, I do a lot of the promotions. We create a marketing plan and implement it within six to eight months of release. With every release, we evaluate what

If you are a world builder, what is your favorite part of creating these worlds?

World building is so fun for me. I usually start by jotting down the specifics of the world. I search and cut out magazines, clip art, and glue them to a collage I build of that world. I create a basic map, describe creatures, the laws, the people, the conflict. Here’s a blog post I did on World Building if you’d like to try a hand at it. http://lmpreston.blogspot.com/2009/09/how-i-sci-fi-author-build-worlds-my.html

Who was your mentor?

Dave Meadows (Author of the Sixth Fleet Series, http://www.sixthfleet.com/index01.htm )
and JM Hemry (Jack Campbell, author of the The Lost Fleet Series, http://us.penguingroup.com/nf/Search/QuickSearchProc/1,,Author_1000066590,00.html)

Both encouraged me when I decided to become a newbie writer, and supported me personally throughout the process.

What would you tell aspiring young writers about the publishing business?

Take your time to learn the business. Research, research, research. Then decide what will make you and only you happy. That’s what you aim for. Lastly, map out a plan A, B and C to accomplish your goals.
Tell us five random things about yourself.
I love to travel.
I daydream at meetings.
I’m easily distracted yet focused on what is going on around me.
I love to write with noisy kids running around me.
I’m a sucker for an action flick.

Do you write non-stop until you have a first draft, or do you edit as you move along?

I jot down story ideas when they come to me. Then as more peeks through I keep noting it. Then I create my chapter outline. I sit on it about a month to flush out details and play the story over and over in my head. I start writing two hours a day in 30 min sprints. Usually takes me about three months to finish the first draft and about six months of editing before I submit it.

They say authors have immensely fragile egos… How would you handle negative criticism or a negative review?

I’ve been an engineer for almost twenty years. I’m used to opinions of my work. Yet, when I get a negative review or criticism I try to find nuggets of ways to improve within the comments. After that, I remind myself that I picked up my first Harry Potter book because of a bad review someone gave it. After that first book, I was hooked.

For writer moms: How do you divide your time between taking care of a home and children, and writing? Do you plan your writing sessions in advance?

I write when my kids are sleep. I get up at 5am to write before I go to work. I also write for an hour before I go to bed – no matter how late it is.

Do you have another book in the works? Would you like to tell readers about your current or future projects?

Yes, I’m in the editing stage for Bandits. Bandits is about Daniel, a thief and mercenary who’s father is murdered for a priceless treasure he stole. Daniel’s on the run from his father’s killers, in a race against time to find a way to stop this treasure from destroying his world in hopes he doesn’t get killed before it’s too late.

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

My website: www.lmpreston.com
My Book / Movie Review Blog: http://lmpreston.blogspot.com
My Party Freebies Blog: http://bookpartylmpreston.blogspot.com

Read an excerpt, and see the video at www.blazingtrailers.com

Meet Renee Wildes

2010-06-18T07:12:00.000-07:00

Interview with Renee Wildes, author of, Lycan Tides

Read and excerpt and see the video at www.blazingtrailers.com

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

I write fantasy romance for Samhain Publishing, in a series called Guardians of Light. I have trailers here for Duality, Bk 1, and Hedda’s Sword, Bk 2. I live in central WI w/my husband, two kids, 2 half-Arab horses, a Chow puppy and a calico cat. I like reading, horseback riding, scrapbooking, volunteering at my local animal shelter & watching the PBR on TV.

Were you an avid reader as a child? What type of books did you enjoy reading?

I started reading when I was 4, with CW Anderson’s “Billy and Blaze” horse books. I adored Trixie Belden and Linda Craig mysteries. I started reading Terry Brooks and Mercedes Lackey in high school, but didn’t read romances until I was out of high school. The first romance author I really loved was Julie Garwood – her old historicals were so funny! My favorites were “The Prize” and “The Gift.”

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

The newest book is #4 in the “Guardians of Light” series. It’s entitled “Dust of Dreams” and features a dream faerie Pryseis and Benilo, the elven spirit healer from Hedda’s Sword. I’ve always loved faeries, I have a bumper sticker that reads “A Day Without Fairies Is A Day Without Sunshine.” And people told me they wanted to see more of Benilo and of Loren’s little brother Brannan so this was the result. Pryseis and Benilo team up to remove nightmares from a goblin child, only when they get there they discover there’s a lot more to the problem than they thought. Brannan carries a sub-plot w/Pryseis’ half-troll nephew, Dax. Classic good vs. evil tale.

Did your book require a lot of research?

I do a TON of research for each book. I’ve got several history books from ancient times through mediaeval, also like herbal medicine, ancient weaponry, costuming, mythical creatures and magic. I’ve got the entire Edwin Tunis series, and several mythology books. I do a scrapbook page for each book – seasons, setting, characters, creatures. I select the music to listen to while writing – each book has its own “soundtrack” if you will. I write an outline, then write down each chapter bare-bones plot, then layer in character depth, multi-sensory description, religion, cultural references, geography & government, etc. It takes me a year to write a book.

Who are your literary heroes and why?If you are a world builder, what is your favorite part of creating these worlds?

Layering, and seeing how all the pieces fit together as a whole. Because I write a series, I have to make sure to stay consistent within my world. Shamar is always north of Arcadia, the Great Sea is west, the elves live to the east. The elves call the Great Goddess the Lady of Light, but the faeries and trolls refer to Her as the Mother. I want it as solid and real as our own – politics, religion, medicine, weaponry, social hierarchy, prejudice – even geography & weather!

How do you research?

I pick the place, and the season/timeframe. Duality was autumn, Hedda’s Sword was winter, Lycan Tides was spring, Dust of Dreams is late spring. Then I decide setting – rural, urban, etc. and people. Music and level of technology come next. My humans are dark ages, so the elves are middle mediaeval to seem more advanced but still fantasy. When I “see” my characters, I do the scrapbook page, and I always listen to “their” music while writing. I do nitpicky research as I go along – ancient shipbuilding, water rescue dogs, caving, whatever it takes. The hardest part as designing my own spells and ceremonies – weddings and funerals. I once did an exorcism in Duality – that took weeks of refining!

Who was your mentor?

Funny – I started out writing contemporary romance. Finished one called “Second Chances” that finalled in the 2002 NJ RWA Put Your Heart In A Book Contest. The final round judge was a favorite author of mine, Suzanne Brockmann. Now, I was a beginning author back then and had now idea about character POV at the time, but she loved the emotion and she loved my characters, especially my heroine’s three-year-old son, Alastair. Said I nailed small children realistically. I did not win, placed third out of the three, but her kind words kept me going. Then my muse (big red dragon) showed up and told me to knock the whole contemporary thing off. I read Tolkien and was a Joseph Campbell groupie, I read Mercedes Lackey religiously, so should “write what I know.” I’ve written fantasy romance ever since.

Describe your working environment.

We just bought a 4-bedroom house in November (rent-to-own) and I confiscated the only one w/out a closet (it’s out in the hall) as an office. It’s right at the top of the stairs and has a door I can close. I can play my music and write w/o interruption. I have a very eclectic music collection from Celtic & Nordic to Native American & Wimme through Kate Price & Enya to Axel Rudi Pell & Nighwish. Basically, everything from the hammer dulcimer to gothic heavy metal. Drives my kids nuts – they usually close the door FOR me! My big red dragon muse is especially partial to Medaieval Baebes.

Do you write non-stop until you have a first draft, or do you edit as you move along?

I totally edit as I write – probably why I’m so slow. I write a book a year, but when my editor gets the book I always get comments on how “clean” it is. She’s a busy lady, so if I can make her job a little easier, I feel better!

For writer moms: How do you divide your time between taking care of a home and children, and writing? Do you plan your writing sessions in advance?

I plan, and life happens. I work a later day shift, 10:30 am -7 pm, so I usually write after they leave for school and before I go to work, after they go to bed, and on weekends and holidays. I’ve been known to make notes on restaurant napkins and bar cocktail napkins! I’ve discreetly scribbled at family get-togethers when no one’s looking. I have the “memory of a hamster” according to my kids, so if a snippet of dialogue or a bit of description hits, I have to jot it down right away or it’s gone forever.

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

http://www.reneewildes.net
http://reneewildes1.wordpress.com

Read and excerpt and see the video at www.blazingtrailers.com

Meet Kathy Kulig author of, Damed and Desired

2010-05-30T18:30:00.001-07:00

Read another excerpt and watch the trailer at Blazing Trailers at
http://www.blazingtrailers.com

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

Damned and Desired is the second book in the Demon’s in Exile series for Ellora’s Cave http;//www.jasminejade.com, but each book is a stand-alone story. In this book, Sakari Lock, a demon drone, is struggling with her demon duties. She must gather life force energy through sexual seduction in order to save her exiled world—a dangerous ability that can kill a mortal. Brad Montag is a shapeshifter and has no clue what he has gotten himself into when he falls for the beautiful and mysterious Sakari. Brad finds himself caught in the middle of a battle between mortal and immortal and he may have to sacrifice the one woman he loves. I was inspired to write this series after a trip to Sedona, Arizona. It’s truly an amazing place. A Navajo guide gave us and a group a tour to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and told us a number of Native American folk stories along the way. This is where the Native American influences came into the story.

How would you describe your creative process while writing this book? Was it stream-of-consciousness writing, or did you first write an outline?

I think my creative process combines the two. I do character sketches, the GMC (goal, motivation and conflict) for protagonists and antagonists, list major plot points/turn points and figure out the ending. After that, I jump in and the story evolves as I go.

Did your book require a lot of research?

Traveling to an area where a particular book will be set helps, but I did more. I researched climate, fauna and flora, hiking trails, wilderness search and recovery teams and techniques, Native American folklore and mysticism and sandpainting. I even read up on quantum physics to help develop my alternative universe—Anartia.

If you could have any vice without repercussions, what would it be?

Quit my day job, be a beach bum, write full time.

If you are a world builder, what is your favorite part of creating these worlds?

Being mostly a paranormal writer, I can get quite creative with my world building. I have a strong scientific background and a love of mythology and folklore, so I try to incorporate all those strengths into my world building. It’s important to make a world as realistic as possible. My intention is for the readers to have a vivid sense of place and have them connect or be intrigued with the world in every detail. I also like to have the setting behave as a character.

What would you tell aspiring young writers about the publishing business?

JA Konrath has a good quote on this: “There’s one word for a writer who never gives up—PUBLISHED.” I can give you a couple more: Triumph comes through persistence. Or, Never give up, never surrender!

What so you see for the future of publishing and ebooks?

I figured once technology caught up, ebooks would take off. And with the Kindle and the Nook ereaders, ebooks sales have exploded. Last December, for the first time ever ebook sales exceeded print sales on Amazon, and 500,000 Kindle readers were sold during that time. That tells you people are gadget receptive now even though most still love a traditional book. I don’t think print books will be leaving any time soon but the business model for traditional publishers is changing to adapt to the shift in the market.

When do you get your best ideas and why do you think this is?

Ideas come at any time or place and that’s why I carry a small notebook with me at all times. I can be sitting at our little local bar/restaurant and overhear a conversation. Ideas come while driving to work, standing in the shower, on vacation, watching a movie, reading a book, hearing a song, working out at the gym, having a dream, taking a walk, etc. Making a list of ‘What ifs?’ help too. Change of scenery. Anything that stimulates or conversely calms the mind may help the creative process.

When it comes to writing, are you an early bird, or a night owl?

Since I work a day job, I write when I can squeeze in the time. During the week, I write in the evenings until 11pm. Weekends, I’ll get up as early as 4-4:30am and write most of the day between household chores.

Have you ever experience weird cravings while you write? If so, what kind?

Hmmm. How about Prickly Pear margarittas? The bartender in Damned and Desired makes them. I remember having them in Sedona at a Cowboy bar. They’re yummy.

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

http://www.kathykulig.com
http://www.kathykulig.blogspot.com
http://www.dangerzoneauthors.com

Read another excerpt and watch the trailer at Blazing Trailers at
http://www.blazingtrailers.com

New Review: Healers Fate, by Beth Caudill

2010-05-30T17:20:00.000-07:00

New Reviewed by: Xeranthemum http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.com/2010/02/healers-fate-by-beth-caudill.html

Review:

"Look no further for an entertaining and interesting wolf shifter romance than Healer’s Fate. It delivers a fine balance of love, intrigue and relationship quirks....Healer’s Fate is a solid romance between two characters which others deemed unsuitable yet fate determined as perfect. I agree with fate and Ms. Caudill. Liam and Corliss are a fine match and I enjoyed reading their story. I hope to read more by this author."

Excerpt from the book:

Liam couldn’t watch the ceremony that would mate Corliss to someone else. He could’ve challenged for her, but that meant fighting his father—the ruling wolf, who was neither a tyrant nor senile. Both of them in their prime, a fight would have ended in one of their deaths, and he couldn’t justify the loss of life.

Not even for her. Unable to keep control of his wolf, Liam let the animal free to seek solace in the forest. Except every tree, every scent roused memories of her, and the wolf circled back towards the clearing, towards the woman who should be his.

Stark quiet alerted him to trouble as the wolf crept along the edge of the grass. People were missing and those who remained stood as if waiting for the ceremony to start. He circled around to the front to get a better view, hiding in the shadows so

as not to alert anyone. Raymond was unaccounted for. Corliss stood stiff-backed, facing away from the audience.

Her caramel-colored hair was piled atop her head, darkened to walnut in the moonlight. Shadows hid her sea-green eyes and emphasized her high cheekbones. She appeared cold, harsh, and removed from events going on around her. Yet

he knew her to be warm and caring, often too caring.

Giving to others more of her personal energy through her healing powers than she should. As her friend, he could offer support, but he couldn’t push too hard for her to rest, or she’d rip out his throat.

He chuffed. The dark blue specks in her eyes glowed when she was angry. That spark had been missing from her eyes for days. He repressed a growl as Corliss bit the inside of her cheek. Before the wind shifted, he backed away. She wouldn’t appreciate someone seeing her close to tears.

The wolf wanted to rip a hole in Raymond’s belly, but even the animals had rules for a challenge. He trotted to a cache of clothes. Only the man could help her now.

Watch the trailer, and read another excerpt at Blazing Trailers

Meet Cathy Bryant

2010-05-27T06:13:00.000-07:00

Interview with Cathy Bryant, author of Texas Roads

Watch trailer, and read an excerpt at Blazing Trailers

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

I’m a Texas gal, born and bred, though most would consider me a chick hick from the sticks. I live in a small East Texas town in a century-old farmhouse, complete with white picket fence. I share this paradise with my amazing hubby, a phobia-ridden cat, and a bevy of blossoms, butterflies, and late-summer mosquitoes the size of your fist.

When did you decide you wanted to become an author?

I’ve always wanted to be an author. The trick came when it was time to do something about it. Who knew writing a novel would be so difficult and so addicting?

Were you an avid reader as a child? What type of books did you enjoy reading? Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

TEXAS ROADS is a 2009 Genesis contest finalist, and tells the story of a disillusioned widow’s quest for home. Here’s the back-cover blurb:

Dani Davis longs for a place to call home. With quaint country charm, quirky residents, and loads of business potential, Miller’s Creek, Texas seems like the perfect place to start over…except for the cowboy who gives her a ride into town. Then malicious rumors and a devastating discovery propel her down a road she never expected to travel.

The story came from my own desire to put down roots and stay a while. Instead, my family and I seemed to travel from one small Texas town to another. What I came to learn about home is really the theme for the book.

What would you tell aspiring young writers about the publishing business?

That it’s just that…a business. No one can tell you what path to take. It’s up to you to decide. But whichever road you choose, know that each comes with their own challenges. Publishing a book is easy. Selling a book? Not so easy.

What so you see for the future of publishing and ebooks?

I believe that within the next ten to twenty years, ebooks will be the norm. Why? They’re cheaper and greener, and fit in with a world that is becoming more technological all the time. If you don’t believe it, take a good look at what happened in the music industry with MP3 technology.

If you could talk to any fictional character, who would that be and what would you say?

Mark Twain, but I don’t want to talk to him. I just want to listen.

Which of your characters do you love/hate/fear/pity the most and why?

I love Mama Beth. She is witty and wise. But as is usually the case, that kind of wisdom comes at the expense of much sorrow. For that reason I also pity her. She’s shouldered a dark secret all of her adult life.

What other types of artistic talents do you have?

I sing, play several musical instruments, and have composed and published several children’s songs. I also enjoy home improvement projects, interior design, gardening and landscape design. I also paint, craft, scrapbook, and enjoy photography.

Technically speaking, what do you struggle the most with when writing? How do you tackle it?

I abhor the tedious process of edits and revisions. But strangely enough, I’m also enamored with this part of the writing process because the story comes to life here.

What is the best writing advice you’ve ever received?Do you have another book in the works? Would you like to tell readers about your current or future projects?

I’m currently writing book two in the Miller’s Creek, Texas series, tentatively titled A Rocky Path. In this story, a mother struggles with being a single parent when her husband is unexpectedly killed in a freak accident.

Watch the trailer, and read an excerpt at Blazing Trailers

Meet Anne Patrick

2010-05-24T05:00:00.000-07:00

Interview with Ann Patrick, author of Lethal Dreams

Watch the trailer, and read an excerpt at Blazing Trailers

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

I write mostly 'Sweet Romantic Suspense and have penned almost a dozen novels so far. Five of which are published, four are under contract, and three works in progress. Influenced by authors such as Iris Johansen, Lisa Gardner, Tami Hoag and Dee Henderson, my heroines are usually strong willed, witty, and often very opinionated…which usually gets them into situations where a rescue seems imminent. I have an alter ego by the name of Kinzie Monroe, who writes Inspirational Romance. Anne, you might say, is the dark side of Kinzie. Anne’s books may be darker in subject matter, but they all carry messages of hope and faith.

List of my works:
Every Skull Tells a Story
Journey to Redemption
Dark Alliance
Lethal Dreams
Reservations for Two (Kinzie Monroe)
Ties That Bind (April 2010)
Out of the Darkness (May 2010)
Fire and Ash (July 2010)
The Courage to Love Again (Nov 2010)

Blazing Trailers page link:
http://www.blazingtrailers.com/show.php?title=868
http://www.blazingtrailers.com/show.php?title=869

When did you decide you wanted to become an author?
As a kid I was always dreaming up these adventures, many of which landed me in a load of trouble, so it just made more sense to write them down.

Do you have another job besides writing?

Yes, I do have a day job where I work as an administrative assistant.

Were you an avid reader as a child? What type of books did you enjoy reading?

Yes, I was an avid mystery reader. Nancy Drew was my favorite.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

Ties That Bind is my latest release. Here’s a blurb: Sheriff Austin Garrett enlists the help of FBI profiler, Jo McDaniels, to help him solve a string of murders plaguing his community. Unlike most profilers Jo has an unusual gift that allows her to get to know the victims better than anyone else. She not only feels their emotions; she feels their pain. But the last time she relied on her physic ability it almost cost her career as well as her sanity. As the case progresses and the body count rises they soon realize that Jo’s sanity isn’t all that is at risk.

I was a fan of the Profiler series a few years ago, and I like Medium. Ties That Bind is sort of a combination. Only Jo doesn’t see spirits, she feels their emotions and pain prior to their death. It’s a gift that can sometimes be very dangerous.

How would you describe your creative process while writing this book? Was it stream-of-consciousness writing, or did you first write an outline?

I'm not a plotter. My stories are all character driven. So once I have a story in mind, I work on developing them. As they start to come to life they tell me most everything I need to know. Although I usually have a killer in mind from the start, sometimes they toss me a curve ball. The funny thing is, when I look back at the story and see the tidbits of clues scattered here and there, it all fits into place as if that's the way they'd planned it all along.

Did your book require a lot of research?

Yes. I do some on line and I also know a federal agent whose brain I pick from time to time. His help has been invaluable.

If you could have any vice without repercussions, what would it be?

An unlimited supply of Snickers with almonds.

What so you see for the future of publishing and ebooks?

I think ebooks will continue to grow in popularity. They’re convenient, reasonably priced and environmentally friendly.

Tell us five random things about yourself.

I’m an animal lover. Some of my fury friends often appear in my books.
I love traveling out of the country, especially to Central America.
I have a vicious sweet tooth.
I often talk to my characters (when no one else is around) or they won’t shut up.
I’m a huge rock n’ roll fan.

When do you get your best ideas and why do you think this is?

Right as I’m fixing to fall asleep. Why - Probably because I’m more relaxed and the voices in my head are napping.

Do you write non-stop until you have a first draft, or do you edit as you move along?

I finish the first draft while I’m comfortably in the zone, then set it aside for a couple of weeks before I do the first edit.

Where do you find ideas for stories?

From dreams, newspaper articles, books, and sometimes TV and movies. Oh and I'm also a people watcher. If you see me lurking around in the mall I'm usually searching for victims in one of my WIP's.

Watch the trailer, and read an excerpt at Blazing Trailers

Meet Kenny Luck

2010-05-21T19:07:00.000-07:00

Interview with Kenny Luck, author of Thumb Through Thoreau

Read and excerpt and watch the trailer at Blazing Trailers

When did you decide you wanted to become an author?

While attending my freshman year in college, I slowly began to realize that writing was perhaps something I could do. It took me several years, however, to build my craft. Becoming an author was not an instantaneous realization for me; it was something that came incremental, over time.

Do you have another job besides writing?

I am currently finishing my master’s degree in teaching. When complete, I will be looking for teaching positions.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

Thoreau was someone who I always enjoyed reading. When I read his essays, journal entries, and so on, I always felt that he was talking directly to me. I began pulling quotes for my own purposes and that built the foundation for my book.

How would you describe your creative process while writing this book? Was it stream-of-consciousness writing, or did you first write an outline?

The process of collecting the quotes was, as you can image, a very unromantic, tedious task. It took discipline for me to sit and keep my attention on the readings.

Why do you write?

Good question. My reasons for writing can fall under two broad categories. First, I enjoy the technical and creative intersection that writing is. On the one hand, punctuation and grammar are unalterable when it comes to prose. Poets have freedom to play around with those things for creative purposes, but not prose writers. We get to be creative, on our own terms, but only within the framework that language itself provides. On the other hand, writing at its core is the expression of ideas, and I love ideas.

Who are your literary heros and why?

Some of my literary heroes are: Thoreau, Emerson, Sartre, Kafka, Wordsworth, and so on. For some reason, their works and personal lives appeal to me. I see a bit of myself in them, and I appreciate their attitude toward life.

If you could have any vice without repercussions, what would it be?

I would probably choose one of the most ancient, and well-known vices that has corrupted mankind across the ages: sexual promiscuity. Just ask Tiger Woods, and he will tell you that this is truly a vice.

If you could have been the servant to any famous person in history, who would that be and why?

I would have liked to have been a part of Gandhi’s inner circle. I think I would learn a lot by being around him on a daily basis.

How do you research?

All of my research is qualitative. My research mostly involves interviewing, primary source documents and newspaper archives. I enjoy using interviews if the topic is apropos. The human interaction is better than working strictly with documents.

If you could talk to any fictional character, who would that be and what would you say?

Sal Paradise from Kerouac’s “On the Road.” Although most agree that Paradise was Kerouac hiding his identity, I think that a conversation with Paradise would be priceless.

What type of writer are you—the one who experiences before writing, like Hemingway, or the one who mostly daydreams and fantasizes?

Generally I would all into the former category. I am usually drawn more to non-fiction. Having personal experiences to write about, as well as other people’s experiences, are preferable in my eyes.

They say authors have immensely fragile egos… How would you handle negative criticism or a negative review?

I think criticism comes with the territory. When a person makes a decision to engage in a creative act, they are also making the decision to open themselves to criticism. That said I tend to brush it off my ignoring it. I adhere to the idea that I am not going to like everyone else’s work, and I do not expect them to like mine.

Read and excerpt and watch the trailer at Blazing Trailers

Meet Maggie Anderson

2010-05-21T05:00:00.000-07:00

Interview with Maggie Anderson, author of Night Garden

Watch the trailer, and read an excerpt at Blazing Trailers

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

I live in the Australian countryside. The southern highlands are quite high, it snows here, but rarely. I write looking out at the ducks in the stream with my cat lying beside me. I initially wanted to be a crime writer, I completed a BA in English, then an MA in Creative Writing with that view in mind. My first novel, Casey’s Luck is an English murder mystery published now with Wild Child Publishing. But I prefer to write romantic suspense, I have a couple published and am writing another. Angel with One Wing is set in America and is about art forgery.

Were you an avid reader as a child? What type of books did you enjoy reading?

I read my way through the small library in my town. Everything I was allowed to read and then some I wasn’t.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

Night Garden was inspired by a painting of my mother’s. She was an accomplished artist – she passed away last year – I miss her sorely. She also chose the title for the book.

How would you describe your creative process while writing this book? Was it stream-of-consciousness writing, or did you first write an outline?

I’m both a panster and a plotter these days. I find I write a better book if I shape it as I go. The left side of my brain doesn’t want to though. It would rather sleep and let my right brain do all the work.

Did your book require a lot of research?

Writing historicals do require quite a bit of research. You need to know the world your writing in. It shows if you don’t and readers are pretty knowledgeable these days.

Who are your literary heros and why?

Georgette Heyer in my youth and Mary Stewart, because they told great stories in their wonderful poetical language and drew you into their world. I’m re-reading both. Mary was a poet too.

If you are a world builder, what is your favorite part of creating these worlds?

Adding color, light and dark, sound, movement and smell to bring the world alive for my characters to pass through.

How do you research?

Where would writers be without the internet? I remember how much harder and longer it took me to research before its introduction. But I also shop for books. We have a great book depository near my town. I buy a lot of books, the house is groaning with them. My husband is very good natured about it.
When did you start writing? Relate an anecdote from your earliest writing years..

What would you tell aspiring young writers about the publishing business?

Be careful. There’s a lot of people trying to make money out of writers whose dreams make them vulnerable. Work hard, perfect your craft. Edit, edit, edit. Then send it out, everywhere. Not just agents either. Send to publishers.

Do you belong to a critique group? How has this helped or hindered your writing.

I have a fantastic critique group. They pick up the small details – I’m a big picture person – and often throw up some aspect of the plot I hadn’t thought of.

Do you have another book in the works? Would you like to tell readers about your current or future projects?

I am at present working on a historical romance about the French Revolution. This story has two sets of lovers, an older and a younger as I did in Stirring Passions. But it will be a longer work. An actress is sent to London to seduce a lord and bring him to Paris. His daughter, enjoying her first London season joins forces to save her father from the guillotine. There’s a spy in the mix too. I’m quite enjoying writing it.

What book are you reading now?

Two books. Georgette Heyer’s Powder and Patch and A story of the French Revolution, Annette Vallon.

When writing, what themes do you feel passionate about?

Passion for another person but also for life, truth, justice, the good prevailing. That’s why I like writing romance, there’s always that happy ending.

Watch the trailer, and read an excerpt at Blazing Trailers

Meet Cat Winchester

2010-05-19T05:00:00.000-07:00

Interview with Cat Winchester, author of Past Due

Watch the trailer, and read an excerpt at Blazing Trailers
Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

My life could have easily been little more than a cautionary tale. I went through my childhood with undiagnosed dyslexia and the first 10 years of adulthood as an alcoholic. I just didn't feel I was good enough and I was quite content to drink my life away.

By the time I was 27 I had already lost the will to write. I had no real friends and was starting to drive my family away. But I functioned, I endured life until I could have my next drink. The only respite I had left from my own self loathing was reading. I could still escape my misery for a brief time. Then on the eve of my 28th birthday, by 7pm I was so drunk that I had lost the ability to see straight enough to read.

And that was truly terrifying.

I called AA and went to my first meeting the next day. Then I went to what was my worst birthday party ever. I was the only sober person there!

The last five years haven't always been easy. I had to rebuild my life a second time when an ex boyfriend began stalking me but I've somehow managed stayed clean and sober. I rediscovered my love of writing and rebuilt my relationships.

I wouldn't go so far as to say I'm happy, but I am content.

Were you an avid reader as a child? What type of books did you enjoy reading?

I was an avid reader as a young child, I loved my storyteller series, which combined books with audio tapes. I read/listened and that over and over. As I grew up though my choices seemed to narrow to books like the Famous Five and the Railway Children. There's nothing wrong with those books, they just didn't capture my imagination. I did find one book series about a girl names Jinny and her Arabian stallion, Shanti, but other than that nothing. It wasn't until I was in my early teens and I discovered Sci-Fi that my reading really took off and I realized I didn't have to stay in the childrens' section any more.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

Frankie is a woman in her mid 30's who works for MI5. Her job is to prevent the public learning about the supernatural because of the inevitable panic it would cause. She's also psychic, something that's good for her work life but very bad for her personal life. She's never been able to have a real relationship because of her gift and she's a broken young woman.

Her latest case brings her to the attention of a local vampire and they're forced to team up to stop the bad guy.

Do you belong to a critique group? How has this helped or hindered your writing.

I've belonged to may over the years and it's definitely helped. You have to understand that there is always room for improvement and as long as a critique is well rounded and truthful, listen to it. After you've listened you can ignore it if you want, but you need to consider it first.

What so you see for the future of publishing and ebooks?

Ebooks are the way of the future. I read almost all my books in digital format now, and I used to be a real traditionalist! But ebooks are just so easy, if I want to read it it, five minutes later I have it and best of all, it doesn't take up shelf space. I must have given a Forrest worth of books to charity very the course of my lifetime, just because I didn't have room for them.

I also think publishing is moving away from the big houses now and lots of smaller firms are popping up all over the place. I think that's a good thing because it gives readers so much more choice.

Which of your characters do you love/hate/fear/pity the most and why?

They all have their problems, but I suppose I relate to Frankie most of all (the fact she's the only human woman in the books doesn't hurt either). Frankie has spent her life either not being understood by those around her or being teased and feared because of her gift. Her parents were very religious and didn't believe in her gift and the few people who believed her thought she was crazy. As such she's built walls around her heart to protect herself, which is something I think most of us can relate to on some level.

What type of writer are you—the one who experiences before writing, like Hemingway, or the one who mostly daydreams and fantasizes?

I daydream and fantasize. Reading and writing are my escape from life and it's troubles. I don't want to read about things I'm going to have to worry about in real life. I want my monsters to be fake so when I put a book down, they don't follow me around.

When do you get your best ideas and why do you think this is?

Night time. I'm an awful insomniac and night time is the worst for me. If I don't keep my mind occupied then lots of things I'd rather forget take over and then sleep becomes impossible. The things I dream up don't always make to to the page, but that is often when my best ideas will come.

Do you get along with your muse? What do you do to placate her when she refuses to inspire you?

I should preface this by telling you I have PTSD. Nothing too severe and I'm pretty good at handling it but sometimes I can't help the flashbacks and shakes. That's when she tends to desert me, and I'm okay with that. I've learned to ride those times out and when I'm feeling better, she'll come back. And if I could, I'd leave me alone during those times too!

They say authors have immensely fragile egos… How would you handle negative criticism or a negative review?

It helps that I don't have a huge ego to begin with but criticism always hurts. I try and tell myself that it's okay, not everyone is going to like what I do, just as I don't like every book I read. Plus, I know where I sit in the pecking order. I'm no Steinbeck and even if I wanted to be, I will never have that talent. My only desire with my writing is to entertain and to take my readers away from their own lives for a while. If I've succeeded in that, I'm happy.

Are you a disciplined writer?

Oh hell no! Real life gets in the way far too often for my liking. Sometimes I'll struggle to get a hundredwords down, but other times it just keeps flowing and before I know it, I've written 5,000 words. It all balances out.

Technically speaking, what do you struggle the most with when writing? How do you tackle it?

Spelling, and to a lesser extent, grammar in general. I'm quite lucky in tat my love of reading has made grammar almost instinctual but spelling is really difficult. It's because I don't read whats actually on the page, I read what I expect to find there. When reviewing my own work, I know whats there do spotting where I've written 'as' instead of 'was' is nearly impossible. Thankfully I have some great people around me who are willing to pick up my slack in that area, for which they have my eternal gratitude.

Watch the Trailer, and read an excerpt at Blazing Trailers

New Review: Love Turns the Tide, by Gail Pallotta

2010-05-15T17:00:00.001-07:00

Reviewed by: Miss Lynn http://www.misslynnsbooks-n-more.blogspot.com

Review: This was an excellent story with three main characters that grow on you right from the beginning, Cammie, Angie and Vic.

Excerpt from the book:

Suddenly Cammie noticed that the bright red sun sat on the surface of the water melting into the sea like butter. Soon the boat turned, probably to head back to dock. But Cammie didn't want the cruise to end. She wondered if the other passengers were thinking the same thing, because the deck grew so quiet she could hear the sea sloshing as a boat pulled alongside them. It was a gondola with a young couple and a gondolier, who wore black pants, a white shirt with blousy sleeves, and a big red cummerband.

Cammie got up and rushed to the side of The Shrimp Boat. "Oh my, look at that," she said. The boy and girl, seated at the end of the boat underneath the soft glow of a lantern anchored on a pole behind them, waved at her. When she threw up her hand to return the gesture, she leaned across the rail, sliding forward. But Vic pulled her back with his strong arms.

For a few moments he held her close to him. "Whoa, take it easy."

She felt safe and comfortable being next to him, but pain from the depths of her soul screamed that she couldn't be hurt again.

Watch the trailer, and read an excerpt at Blazing trailers

Meet Renee Wildes

2010-05-15T17:00:00.000-07:00

Interview with Renee Wildes, author or Guardians of Light Series

Watch the trailer, and read an excerpt at Blazing Trailers

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

I write fantasy romance for Samhain Publishing, in a series called Guardians of Light. I have trailers here for Duality, Bk 1, and Hedda’s Sword, Bk 2. I live in central WI w/my husband, two kids, 2 half-Arab horses, a Chow puppy and a calico cat. I like reading, horseback riding, scrapbooking, volunteering at my local animal shelter & watching the PBR on TV.

Were you an avid reader as a child? What type of books did you enjoy reading?

I started reading when I was 4, with CW Anderson’s “Billy and Blaze” horse books. I adored Trixie Belden and Linda Craig mysteries. I started reading Terry Brooks and Mercedes Lackey in high school, but didn’t read romances until I was out of high school. The first romance author I really loved was Julie Garwood – her old historicals were so funny! My favorites were “The Prize” and “The Gift.”

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

The newest book is #4 in the “Guardians of Light” series. It’s entitled “Dust of Dreams” and features a dream faerie Pryseis and Benilo, the elven spirit healer from Hedda’s Sword. I’ve always loved faeries, I have a bumper sticker that reads “A Day Without Fairies Is A Day Without Sunshine.” And people told me they wanted to see more of Benilo and of Loren’s little brother Brannan so this was the result. Pryseis and Benilo team up to remove nightmares from a goblin child, only when they get there they discover there’s a lot more to the problem than they thought. Brannan carries a sub-plot w/Pryseis’ half-troll nephew, Dax. Classic good vs. evil tale.

Did your book require a lot of research?

I do a TON of research for each book. I’ve got several history books from ancient times through mediaeval, also like herbal medicine, ancient weaponry, costuming, mythical creatures and magic. I’ve got the entire Edwin Tunis series, and several mythology books. I do a scrapbook page for each book – seasons, setting, characters, creatures. I select the music to listen to while writing – each book has its own “soundtrack” if you will. I write an outline, then write down each chapter bare-bones plot, then layer in character depth, multi-sensory description, religion, cultural references, geography & government, etc. It takes me a year to write a book.

Who are your literary heroes and why?

I’m a HUGE Joseph Campbell groupie, and incorporate mythology & the hero’s journey in all my books. I adore Tolkien, and my contemporary favorite is Mercedes Lackey. I’ve been told my voice is similar, which I take as a compliment.

If you are a world builder, what is your favorite part of creating these worlds?

Layering, and seeing how all the pieces fit together as a whole. Because I write a series, I have to make sure to stay consistent within my world. Shamar is always north of Arcadia, the Great Sea is west, the elves live to the east. The elves call the Great Goddess the Lady of Light, but the faeries and trolls refer to Her as the Mother. I want it as solid and real as our own – politics, religion, medicine, weaponry, social hierarchy, prejudice – even geography & weather!

How do you research?

I pick the place, and the season/timeframe. Duality was autumn, Hedda’s Sword was winter, Lycan Tides was spring, Dust of Dreams is late spring. Then I decide setting – rural, urban, etc. and people. Music and level of technology come next. My humans are dark ages, so the elves are middle mediaeval to seem more advanced but still fantasy. When I “see” my characters, I do the scrapbook page, and I always listen to “their” music while writing. I do nitpicky research as I go along – ancient shipbuilding, water rescue dogs, caving, whatever it takes. The hardest part as designing my own spells and ceremonies – weddings and funerals. I once did an exorcism in Duality – that took weeks of refining!

Who was your mentor?

Funny – I started out writing contemporary romance. Finished one called “Second Chances” that finalled in the 2002 NJ RWA Put Your Heart In A Book Contest. The final round judge was a favorite author of mine, Suzanne Brockmann. Now, I was a beginning author back then and had now idea about character POV at the time, but she loved the emotion and she loved my characters, especially my heroine’s three-year-old son, Alastair. Said I nailed small children realistically. I did not win, placed third out of the three, but her kind words kept me going. Then my muse (big red dragon) showed up and told me to knock the whole contemporary thing off. I read Tolkien and was a Joseph Campbell groupie, I read Mercedes Lackey religiously, so should “write what I know.” I’ve written fantasy romance ever since.

Watch the trailer, and read an excerpt at Blazing Trailers

Meet Carol Mayer

2010-05-14T05:00:00.000-07:00

Interview with Carol Mayer author of Ravenwing

Read an excerpt and watch the trailer at Blazing Trailers.

Do you have another job besides writing?

I am an artist. I work with archival ink, and my drawing has a distinct ethnic look, bright and colorful.

If you could have any vice without repercussions, what would it be?

Chocolate, doughnuts, cinnamon buns, you name it. I have a sweet tooth the size of Alberta (where I’m from) and I would love to live on sweets and not have it go directly to my thighs!

What so you see for the future of publishing and ebooks?

Ebooks are the future…look what is happening! Kindle, Iphones, and now the Ipad. Soon we can have books beamed directly into our brains, or even better, touch the screen and have the book assimilated through your skin…

Describe your working environment.

To write romance I put on some background music, soft and almost white noise, light some candles and turn off the cell phone.

They say authors have immensely fragile egos… How would you handle negative criticism or a negative review?

FRAGILE, I’ll say. Every picture I draw, every word I write is a little piece of myself, and when someone critiques me, it cuts like a Samurai sword.

As a writer, what scares you the most?

I have osteo-arthritis in my hands, and I fear the day when I can’t write or draw. At least with the writing I could use voice recognition on my computer.

Where do you find ideas for stories?
Life, the creepy weird unexplained things in the world. Shapes that materialize out of the dark, a draft of cold air, the deja vue thing that happens some times.

Do your pets help you with your writing?

Heavens yes. Bud, one of my cats likes to snuggle close and occasionally edits with one sneaky black paw. Jinx, another cat that owns me thinks she can lay on my lap top (after all it is nice and warm).

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

http://google.com/site/carollynnmayer
blog http://boomerang-heartbeats.blogspot.com
artwork www.zazzle.ca/canadianagurl

Read an excerpt and watch the trailer at Blazing Trailers.

New Review: A Talent for Quiet by Kim Chatel

2010-05-11T16:34:00.000-07:00

Blurb

Illustrated with Kim Chatel’s photography, “A Talent for Quiet” is more than a story. It is a journey with Reanie as she finds her voice and her artistic talent. The back of the book includes 4 nonfiction pages about photography: a glossary of terms, tips on taking better pictures and historical tidbits about photography.

Read another excerpt and watch the trailer at Blazing Trailers.

Reviewed by Cheryl C. Malandrinos at The Book Connection.

Review

A book of photography, learning new talents, and accepting change comes to life through the talent of artist, photographer and author Kim Chatel.

Reanie has a new stepfather. He has a loud voice, likes sports, and makes their house seem too small when he's there. Bill also has many cameras, terribly breakable cameras that Reanie is not allowed to touch.

When Bill decides to go on a photo safari, he asks Reanie to come along. They pack up a picnic breakfast and head out in Bill's truck. After some lessons from Bill, Reanie begins snapping photos of the wildlife and soon discovers a new talent. She also comes to the conclusion that Bill isn't quite as scary as he first seemed.

What a wonderful book! Chatel's stunning photography and masterful storytelling create a beautiful story of a shy, young girl intimidated by her new step-father, who is able to discover a talent she never knew she had, while slowly getting closer to the new man in the house.

Chatel has a way with words that truly engages young readers and makes them want to keep turning the pages; and in this book, the photographs of the wildlife encourage young readers to learn more about the world around them.

Also included is a glossary of terms about cameras and photography tips for children and adults. The last page of the book contains facts about photography, making A Talent for Quiet an all around great read and learning experience.

Both my daughters enjoyed this book, and my budding photographer couldn't stop commenting on the beautiful photographs.

A Talent for Quiet is destined to win awards!

Excerpt:

Reanie watched her stepfather, Bill, pack his camera bag on the kitchen table. He took out the pieces one by one, pulled off caps and wiped each lens with a green cloth. She knew

without being told not to touch Bill’s cameras. They were terribly breakable. Many things in the bag looked strange to her–round pieces of glass, tubes and straps. Reanie wanted to ask what these were for, but Bill had only been living with them for a month and she was still too shy to speak to him.

Reanie had always lived alone with her mom. Bill’s loud voice frightened her even when he laughed or spoke kindly. The house seemed too small when Bill was home. His shoulders filled their kitchen. Reanie didn’t know where to sit or stand that wasn’t in his way. And Bill liked to play soccer, football and baseball. Reanie wasn’t good at sports. If she played with him, he might see how clumsy she was, or tease her with his loud voice. She wasn’t sure if she liked her new step-dad, but she was certain she didn’t want to disappoint him. So when he asked her to kick a ball around or go to the batting cages, Reanie just shook her head and went to her room.

She watched him inspect his cameras, and wished she could help. Bill spied Reanie in the shadows of the hallway. He smiled at her.

“I’m going on a photo safari,” he said. “Do you want to come?”

Reanie almost shook her head and turned for her room. Instead, she surprised herself and

said, “Yes.”

They left a note for Reanie’s mom, packed a picnic breakfast of muffins, fruit and juice, and drove away in Bill’s old blue pickup truck.

The sun was just rising. The sky was such a pretty pink-yellow-blue that Reanie couldn’t find the words to describe it and thought it was better not to try. They bumped along an old dirt road. What could they photograph here? All Reanie saw were weeds and gravel.

“Have you ever used a camera?” Bill asked.

She shook her head.

“Would you like to try?”

Read another excerpt and watch the trailer at Blazing Trailers.

THE PRIVATEER by Danielle Thorne

2010-02-24T20:34:00.000-08:00

What readers are saying about THE PRIVATEER:

"Ms. Thorne has written a detailed historical piece that captures the era where marriage and secure social standards are honor bound…The dialog was perfect for this time period, sweeping you back in time. (I thought of Jane Austen novels in this respect.) The pirates are not the romantic heroes but the true-to-life dangerous men where violence is apart of their daily routine. The author betrays their viciousness with descriptions that will chill you."

--Karen Nutt, Goodreads

A Teaser and a Trailer:

The reign of piracy is over in the Caribbean, or so it’s believed until diamonds are discovered in Brazil. Despite the cover-up, Captain Julius Bertrand begins to hear whispers. The Spanish guardacostas are dumping log books, and a new French pirate is on the prowl. Distracted by an avaricious woman he could never love, and the beautiful Kate O’Connell who doesn’t need him, he tries to untangle the web of mysterious cargo someone in the New World wants kept secret. When Bertrand’s pirating past returns with the explosive force of a sweeping broadside, he finds he must sacrifice everything his respectable life has brought him, in order to save what matters most.

View the Trailer! See it HERE

Excerpt:

She wore a floppy straw hat pulled over her nose, which was now slightly scorched. With her head bent over a piece of parchment upon which she feverishly scratched, she did not appear to hear him creep up behind her.

“Miss O’Connell?”

Kate jumped out of her skin, knocking over a teacup. Its contents streaked across the tabletop. “Captain Bertrand!” she said in surprise. She added, “Good morning.”

How vibrant she looked with a plain dress tossed unmindfully over her fairness and hair all askew.

Bertrand, in a white embroidered smock and dark trousers tied at the knees, moved around the table as if to better observe her. “You have all of your limbs after all.”

“Did I appear to be missing some?”

“There for a moment yesterday I was not quite sure.”

Kate laughed quietly. “There for a moment yesterday I was not quite sure myself.”

He stood uncomfortably trying not to appear so, with hands clasped behind his back. “Your father is well?”

She turned up her head so that he could see her lovely eyes. “He has seen better days. I believe his heart nearly did him in.” A little laugh and he felt her uneasiness.

“Or perhaps it was you,” Bertrand replied, “that nearly did him in.”

He did not reproach her further but made a serious face. “You are quite impulsive for such a thoughtful creature.”

“Creature? Why is it men believe that word to be both synonymous and complimentary to femininity?” She shifted her hat back precariously.

“Do I really need to explain such a thing to you?”

“Unless you find us frightening, mysterious, or unsightly, then yes.”

He almost smiled, but chuckled under his breath instead. “You are the heroine of the hour.”

Kate disbelieved it. “To whom? Every midshipman and cabin boy in the harbor?”

“Well,” he teased, “perhaps it has not reached the Governor.”

Kate narrowed her gaze at his attempted spar. “I believe I have been the heroine of the hour with the Governor since our lovely ball.”

At this Bertrand said, “Hah,” and it came out as close to a laugh as he had ever let Kate hear.

“I suppose I owe you an apology as well,” she muttered, “although I’m not sure why. I do know poor Mrs. Fox has merit. Is there anyone else I have forgotten?” She gave him a defiant stare which he met straight on, unblinking.

“You owe me nothing,” he said quietly. “You owe regrets to no one.”

His sincerity caused her to blush and she looked down at her scribble. This pleased him. She whispered, “I certainly am indebted to your intervention.”

“You weren’t afraid?” he asked.

“It happened so quickly.” She made an incredulous face. “But, yes, there came a moment that I was very afraid.” A flush still on her cheeks, she seemed aware he studied her. “I’m glad you came when you did.”

“As am I,” he replied instantly. “And I’m happy you took on the monster rather than sacrifice the victim.”

She drew back with a faint, confused smile. Bertrand cleared his throat and to his surprise, felt a pinch in his chest. “May I pose a question?”

“Yes.”

“Why did you come to San Madrid?”

The question caught her completely off guard. Kate paused. “Because my father asked me to.” He remained silent. “Because,” she relented, “because I wanted to travel abroad again, to take leave from Boston for a time.”

Still he said nothing but shifted his feet for more. Kate sighed then laughed aloud. “I came for many reasons, but not for the same reasons as the Spencers,” she said meaningfully.

He grinned at this. “There are some who would be disappointed to know that.”

“You mean Captain Adair, I presume?”

He nodded. “And his wardroom.”

Kate laughed nervously and tucked a wild lock behind her ear. “If you imply Lieutenant McCracken, I would hope you would take anything he professes as lightly as you would take him into battle.”

“I was referring, in fact, to all of his officers,” Bertrand answered mischievously, and Kate laughed again. Having wheedled what he wanted from her, he changed tack.

“You have reservations as to McCracken’s ability?” He crossed his arms across his chest as if they were engaged in a casual interview.

“I consider him a coward in most affairs, to be frank, Captain. I cannot imagine he would hold to a higher standard at sea.”

“You would be surprised.”

Kate conceded. “Perhaps he will surprise us all.” She realized too late he had nothing to drink. “Did you want some refreshment? Some juice or ginger beer?”

He raised a brow at her then shook his head. “No. Thank you.” He moved to say good-bye and she stood.

“I’m sorry. I should have asked Elizabeth to bring something out.”

Bertrand waved her off. “No mind. I should go.”

“I’ll walk you,” and she did, around the house past the garden to the sandy lane. She thanked him again and he took her hand and gave it a squeeze.

“I wish you luck with Adair,” he said with loyalty and softness he wanted her to feel.

“Oh,” she smiled, “I don’t quite know about that.” The vulnerability in her voice filled him with an inexplicable affection. He managed a smile in return but not before pulling out his rolled tar cap and tugging it over his head.

“Good-bye!” Kate called after him.

Bertrand turned and gave a bow. He then hurried his way back to the harbor, astonished at the lead-line swinging aimlessly in his heart.

Buy Now Link: http://www.awe-struck.net/books/the_privateer.html

Author Website: www.daniellethorne.jimdo.com

Meet Susan Whitfield

2010-02-02T05:00:00.000-08:00

Interview with Susan Whitfield, author of Hell Swamp.

Watch the trailer and read an excerpt at Blazing Trailers.

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

I live in eastern North Carolina. I taught English for 13 years and then became a high school principal to complete my career before writing murder mysteries, all set in North Carolina. I get a few snickers when I tell people I was a principal and now write about murder.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

Hell Swamp is the third novel in The Logan Hunter Mystery Series. Logan is a quirky but focused criminal investigator, over 6 feet tall, with knobs for boobs. In Hell Swamp, she has to investigate a heinous murder back home where she grew up along Black River. When she arrives, she finds a woman gutted and hanged in Black River Plantation and the crime scene compromised by curious local law enforcement officers from three counties. Deer hunters quickly become the prime suspects and as Logan gets closer to the truth, she is assaulted, kidnapped, and taken to an abandoned deer stand in Hell Swamp. She has to get herself out of the situation but ends up in the hospital. Other attempts are made to stop her, but when her love interest, Chase Railey, joins the case, they team up to find the shocking truth.

What kind of promotions do you do for your books?

After my first book, Genesis Beach, was published, I spent a small fortune on newspaper ads, big posters and such. I soon found that word-of-mouth was the best promotion. When Just North of Luck was published, I started doing more book signings and less printed ads. Sales were better. Over the past year since Hell Swamp was released, I have promoted much more on-line and even though it’s time-consuming, I love it and have met so many wonderful people who help each other out, as you are doing, Kim. I continue to do a few signings, but on-line promotions, networks with the right audience, and word-of-mouth are becoming my main focuses. I have video book trailers for Just North of Luck and Hell Swamp. I definitely think they help folks decide if they want to read the books. I, too, am a visual person.

Who do you think you are?

This might be the best question I’ve ever been asked! I think of myself as an intelligent, creative, passionate, and compassionate individual whose feelings cannot be denied. I’m quite out-spoken but over the years I’ve mellowed and learned tact. One of the things I love about writing is that I can work through my feelings and nobody knows if it’s me, or some fictional character’s personality in the works. Some folks look at me as though I’m creepy or “sick” since I write murder mystery, sometimes with intense scenes that even scare me. But I’m really just a normal woman. Really;-]

Describe your working environment.

I have two spaces that work for me. I usually spend hours in my sun room pulling scenes together on paper. I have a lake behind my house so I can enjoy the geese and cranes and watch fish jump out of the water while I think through a scene. I can also see deer in the field nearby. Just a lovely place to work. Then move to my office which has plenty of big windows for light. I have a computer armoire which houses not only the hardware but also files, disks, etc. Beside it, I have a long table in front of the windows for my calendars so that I don’t miss a deadline, interview, guest blog, radio show, or TV appearance. It also helps to keep track of all the hundreds of writers and other professionals I interview on my blog.

As a writer, what scares you the most?

I’d have to say that I’m afraid I’ll lose my mind before I can write all the ideas I have swirling around in there. Some folks think I already have.

When writing, what themes do you feel passionate about?

Glad you asked. Even though I had a wonderful childhood with both parents, I feel very strongly about child abuse. It hurts my heart every time I hear about another child being hurt in any way. That them runs through my books and I supposed some readers think I was abused. Nothing could be further from the truth. I just want adults to stop hurting kids. Another theme in Just North of Luck is creating a Living Will and donating organs. Everyone needs a Living Will. I decided to recycle myself by becoming “an every tissue every organ donor” some years ago when a close friend received a heart transplant. What an awesome gift! That theme resurfaces in Gator Creek, to be released this year.

Do you have another book in the works? Would you like to tell readers about your current or future projects?

Gator Creek will be released in a few months. It is set in Wilmington, North Carolina, and is the fourth novel in The Logan Hunter series. She finds herself investigating the pornography industry, much to her discomfort. She battles memories of a date rape in high school as she and her husband, Chase, deal with obstacles of all kinds, including a deadly Bushmaster snake. The title came from Alligator Creek which flows into the Cape Fear River in downtown Wilmington. I plan to have a book video for this book as well.

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

www.susanwhitfieldonline.com is my web site. I also blog at www.susanwhitfield.blogspot.com where I interview guests several times a week. I’m learning a lot from them and hope bloggers will also pick up a few helpful hints.

Meet Arlington Neutzel

2010-01-30T17:04:00.000-08:00

Meet Arlington Neutzel, author of Murder in March Commons: A Steven Burr Adventure and 2027, New Madrid, Missouri

Watch the trailers and read excerpts for Arlington Neutzel's books at Blazing Trailers.

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

I was born in St. Louis. I’m named for an 1880’s baseball player, Arlington Latham. I’m an educator. It leaks out into my writing. My career path was industrial sales and marketing but it required me to teach people how to handle new technology. I really enjoyed teaching kids to ski downhill a lot more.

When did you decide you wanted to become an author?

I wrote short stories which were meant to make people cry. Then a formulaic novel with sequel potential crept into my head and landed on the page. It was really junk and has since been rewritten and a sequel produced. The third iteration terrifies me.

Do you have another job besides writing?

No, I write full time. My other jobs are music and housekeeping.

Were you an avid reader as a child? What type of books did you enjoy reading?

Well, comic books ruled my early life. I used to go to my girl friend’s house and read her brother’s comics under his bed. Aside from those, I read poetry, Ogden Nash and Robert Service. I also enjoyed James Thurber. Thanks, Dad.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

Telephoto will be out in January. I have three beautiful daughters and it was the father’s fear of losing one and my love for them that launched this imaginary craziness. As I wrote it, it took on a life of its own. That often happens in writing, the characters decide the dialog and the plot progression. The author just types.

How would you describe your creative process while writing this book? Was it stream-of-consciousness writing, or did you first write an outline?

I don’t outline although some writers should. My books just seem to come out of the ether. Erato is a wonderful woman.

Did your book require a lot of research?

Some do. My historical novel, 2027, New Madrid, Missouri took me to water ditches, lakes, cotton fields, museums and college libraries. My adventure novels and Telephoto were researched on the Web.

Why do you write?

I write to leave a legacy for my daughters, to inspire them. There certainly isn’t any money in this.

Who are your literary heros and why?

Dirk Pitt, Billy Pilgrim and certainly Travis McGee. Very few others have staying power. I like a character with grit and humility. That’s hard to find but I think that my franchise, Steven Burr, has both.

If you could have any vice without repercussions, what would it be?

Well, in no particular order, drinking, smoking and sex. Driving fast in a cool car would come second.

What kind of promotions do you do for your books?

I maintain a Website, I do all the written and mailed stuff, to newspapers, radio and TV plus the Internet writer’s and reader’s sites. I do a lot of book signings and I blog and (Oh, I hate this) “tweet” on the major social network sites.

What is the funniest/most embarrassing/scariest story from one of your books signings or events?

No one knew I was coming to a confirmed event. They had the wrong date and I drove four hours to get there. I then sold a book to a woman who only had a ten dollar bill. A kid asked me why he had never heard of me. “Now you have!”

Who do you think you are?

Wow! I identify strongly with Leonardo DaVinci, Thomas Jefferson and Ben Franklin but I am not any of them. I devoutly wish that I were.

If you could have been the servant to any famous person in history, who would that be and why?

I would have liked to follow William F. Buckley, Jr. around. He was not only a deep thinker and a wry wit but also an imaginer and creator. I would have taken something new home when the day ended.

If you are a world builder, what is your favorite part of creating these worlds?

Authors are like little Gods. They get to create, bear, kill, teach, manipulate, well, without being graphic, get to make people do things within or outside of their character without any consequence. I can write friends into books with permission. Sometimes they ask. It’s wonderful.

How do you research?

I start on the Web, then I go to places that I need to go to. Research is really more than half of writing.

When did you start writing? Relate an anecdote from your earliest writing years..

I started in a mall parking lot in Chesterfield, Missouri between sales calls. I started writing my short stories journal style, just thoughts. These gave way to finished works, then the novels started pouring out.

Who was your mentor?

I wish that I had one. My Grandfather taught me a love for the written word and for creativity in general. So I guess that you could say that he was, if not my mentor, my inspiration.

What would you tell aspiring young writers about the publishing business?

Plan to be broke but enjoy writing. Don’t believe the crap you read about Indie publishing. Grisham was discovered selling books from the trunk of his car. Grammy winning bands are recording in garages, films made with Sony cameras are winning at Sundance and Cannes. Just make sure that your work is tightly edited.

What has been your experience with literary guilds or groups?

I am a co-founder of the Independent Authors Guild. Groups like ours pass valuable marketing and production information between us. I’ve sold a few books as a result of this effort but I’ve gotten more reviews and blurbs as a result.

Do you belong to a critique group? How has this helped or hindered your writing.

No, I tried and there are too many trolls out there. Honest people tend to stay away from critique. It isn’t worth the unnecessary humiliation from unqualified wannabies. Check writerscafe if you want a dose of lugubrious umber.

What so you see for the future of publishing and ebooks?

Traditional publishers are folding like tents in a hurricane. Who can read the same safe stuff they publish every six months. The problem is the inventory model, both in the warehouse and on the shelves. The traditional publishers are now using print on demand to exacerbate this problem but the gates are now open to Indies who write well and edit with excellence.

As to e-books, I believe that people still want to hold a book and turn the pages. There is a proven market but there will always be books.

If you could talk to any fictional character, who would that be and what would you say?

I thought about Jay Gatz, Rhett Butler and a few others but I would actually like to hang with Travis McGee for a while and ask him how he stays alive and meets so many hot women.

Which of your characters do you love/hate/fear/pity the most and why?

I most pity Amanda Uganda from Murder in March Commons. She was a Belle from the Mid South with everything going for her but she just went down the wrong road. Molly Barksdale from Telephoto is a close second. She never knew what she wanted out of life so she trashed everyone around her.

Tell us five random things about yourself.

1) I’m a computer geek. 2) I love dogs and horses. 3) I play everything but horns. 4) I can recite the Greek alphabet. 5) Green is my favorite color and also the color of my eyes.

What other types of artistic talents do you have?

I was trained to be a concert pianist but ended up an almost rock star. I’m a pretty good photographer and work at line drawing. Mostly, I’m an educator in engineering to writing to alpine skiing.

What type of writer are you—the one who experiences before writing, like Hemingway, or the one who mostly daydreams and fantasizes?

My work springs from my imagination, but who doesn’t have a life experience spun into their work? I think that you can’t avoid the places that you’ve been and the people you’ve met and the things that you’ve done both good and unfortunate.

When do you get your best ideas and why do you think this is?

I usually get my best ideas in restaurants overhearing people at other tables. People are the best subjects to spin into fiction.

Do you get along with your muse? What do you do to placate her when she refuses to inspire you?

I live with her, I love with her and we spar over words. It is a mutual love of reading and writing that I wouldn’t trade for a pot of gold. We have that together.

From the moment you conceived the idea for the story, to the published book, how long did it take?

Each book takes about a year from beginning to end no matter how I rush. I wrote 2027 in forty days to impress a woman, now my editor and wife (that part worked) but it took a long time to edit and publish.

Describe your working environment.

I’m in a kitchen with oaken cabinets. The bar is angled out, I’m on the great room side on a comfortable bar stool. I’m on an IBM laptop on our wireless network with stereo speakers attached. I can access out hard drive in the other room or save to my speed stick through either USB. Wireless is magic.

Do you write non-stop until you have a first draft, or do you edit as you move along?

Nope, I write and then go back three chapters and re-edit. No one can successfully edit their own material, they see their mistakes as correct but it helps and it lets me put the missing words between the other words.

They say authors have immensely fragile egos… How would you handle negative criticism or a negative review?

After two divorces, I couldn’t find my ego. Where the hell did that rascal go? Yes, authors do have fragile egos but good writers find friends and reviews easily.

As a writer, what scares you the most?

I am most afraid of a lack of ideas. In fact, I’m frightened by any gap in creativity.

When writing, what themes do you feel passionate about?

Truth, justice and the American Way.

Are you a disciplined writer?

No, I’m just impelled. I write to speak. I write to educate. I write to entertain. I’d like to read books like mine on a sandy beach in Florida or on a plane to Frankfurt.

For writer moms: How do you divide your time between taking care of a home and children, and writing? Do you plan your writing sessions in advance?

Hey, this applies to Dads too. Moms don’t have a patent on stress. All writers budget their time, men, women, mothers and fathers. If we have a passion, we pursue it. With purpose.

When it comes to writing, are you an early bird, or a night owl?

Mid morning suits me then I edit in the afternoon. In the evening I read the paper.

Do you have an agent? How was your experience in searching for one?

It was dismal to abominal. They are blood sucking leaches or else they are too good to answer their mail. The rest want to charge a “reading fee” before they vanish completely. This species is extinct.

Do you have any unusual writing quirks?

Yep, I like to weave opinions and history into my fiction. I also write friends into my stories with their permission or even at their insistance.

Have you ever suffered from writer’s block? What seems to work for unleashing your creativity?

Never. I go back to the beginning or out to the end and get things rolling again.

Technically speaking, what do you struggle the most with when writing? How do you tackle it?

I guess plot. I want to keep the reader on his or her toes, keep guessing. It is hard to figure ways to make a reader guess.

How was your experience in looking for a publisher? What words of advice would you offer those novice authors who are in search of one?

Don’t pay money. I just wanted my works in print with a quality house. I didn’t have to endure the humiliation of three years of submitting to the likes of Random House who will probably be out of business by the time that you read this. I self publish and I am very dammed proud of it.

What type of book promotion seems to work the best for you?

The Internet is a treasure first. But your library and public TV station are at your disposal. Then make friends with the book stores. Both the Mom and Pops and the Chains.

You have to promote your books like any other product, even Ivory Soap. You need a full bag of marketing and if you don’t know how to do this find someone to help you.

What is(are) your favorite book/author(s)? Why?

I love the MacDonalds. Ross and John D. Elmore Leonard is prolific and amusing and of course I’ve enjoyed anything by Vonnegut. I don’t really like Stephen King’s style but he seems able to violate every rule of good writing and get away with it. Hey, made up words, passive voice, typos, ouch. I really do like his stories, though. Oh, well.

What is the best writing advice you’ve ever received?

Eschew adverbs although I still place them in my writing once in a while.

Do you have another book in the works? Would you like to tell readers about your current or future projects?

I have a collection of short stories, two men’s adventures, an historical novel and a techno-thriller out. I’m between books and doing some long distance mentoring with a gifted young lady in California. I do feel a biography coming on and I have the usual pre-writing jitters.

What book are you reading now?

The Incredible Voyage ISBN # 0-8362-0703-3 autographed for me by the late Tristan Jones.

Where do you find ideas for stories?

Half are suggested by my muse, the other half are a result of being aware of my surroundings.

As a writer, what scares you the most?

I have an irrational fear of word count. I find that if I ignore it, the book gets written the way it should, for the story.

Are you a disciplined writer?

No, not at all. I have to drag myself to the keyboard but, once there, I can’t stop.

Have you ever woken in the night with the need to write? If so, how do you deal with this urge?

We keep a spiral notebook by the bed but it is filled with hysterical gibberish from our dreams.

Do your pets help you with your writing?

My dog defines a door as something that a dog is always on the wrong side of.

What’s your worst writing habit?

I’m guilty of the overuse of “but.” We go back and purge most of them. It took three books to get my attributions under control.

I maintain a Website at http://www.freewebs.com/nuetzel and invite everyone to mix it up at
http://www.myspace.com/nuetzel
http://www.facebook.com/nuetzel
I’m also on Twitter and Linkedin but I still don’t understand how they work.

Meet Caroline Addenbrooke

2010-01-27T05:00:00.000-08:00

Interview with Caroline Addenbrooke, author of The Gates of Hell.

Watch the trailer and read an excerpt at Blazing Trailers.

Do you have another job besides writing?

Yes. I work full time in a field I have been involved in for the last twenty years: controls for mega projects. When I left school I pursued a career in business management, even though from the get go I knew I wanted to be a writer. I still follow that career with interest, but writing is my great love.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

My latest book … I wish! ☺ The Gates of Hell is my first novel.
Africa inspired me to write The Gates of Hell, but it is the characters who emerged from the past to tell their stories, who deserve the credit. There is so much that is not known about Africa; so much information that has found its way to the first world that is incorrect. Africa, during the Golden Age of the Discoveries, was every bit as dynamic as Europe … different certainly; but dynamic none-the-less. Africa was socially organized, with trade interests in Europe and the Middle East. African nobles traveled abroad, studied abroad, and returned to Africa, bringing with them ideas and dreams inspired by what they admired in the places they visited.

The Gates of Hell is a story about Africa that is different from the stereotypical dark, savage Africa. It is a story that incorporates the idea of vibrant and interesting cultures, and their interaction with one another.

Did your book require a lot of research?

Yes. The research took nearly two years. It was like discovering new worlds – both in Southern Europe and Africa – that I never knew existed. The Gates of Hell, incidentally, is a limestone cataract through which the Congo River plunges on its way to the ocean.

Why do you write?

Because I am compelled to. It gives me deep satisfaction.

What would you tell aspiring young writers about the publishing business?

I would tell them to follow their heart. To not be put off by anything they may have heard about how difficult writing is, or how tough it may be to find a publisher. In the end, you write for yourself, and if someone else appreciates your work – well, that is a bonus. Maybe you will write a bestseller; who can possibly know that except you.

Do you belong to a critique group? How has this helped or hindered your writing.

I did belong to a critique group when I first got serious about writing … they were also all learner writers (if that is the correct word). It was a bit like the blind leading the blind – and it was stunningly NOT useful. I do, however, think an association with other writers is good for the support and mutual admiration factor. Writing can be lonely.

What do you see for the future of publishing and ebooks?

Given the turmoil of the publishing industry currently, the future appears to be chaotic and uncertain. I think, however, that it is an enormous opportunity to model a new way of doing things. A new way that is based on trust, fairness and integrity between authors, publishers and distributors. That is very, very exciting to me.

Do you get along with your muse? What do you do to placate her when she refuses to inspire you?

I don’t think I have a muse. I’m a very practical and pragmatic individual. I write whenever I can, and if I get stuck, I get out my notebook and do a ‘what if’ analysis of the story at that point. Whatever is the most intriguing result becomes the story line going forward. I may not actually use the plot turn in the end, but gets me going, and usually the story starts to flow again.

From the moment you conceived the idea for the story, to the published book, how long did it take?

It took me seven years to complete the Gates of Hell. I re-wrote it at least five times. Each time the results were different, and only on the final re-write was I semi-happy. Then the Editor got hold of it, and I had to work through another 8 months of refinements, changes and partial re-writes until she was happy … and I’m grateful, because she took The Gates of Hell from a fair story – poorly written, to a good story – well written (in my humble opinion ☺). Thank goodness for editors.

When it comes to writing, are you an early bird, or a night owl?
I write whenever I can. In the morning before I start my regular job; in the evening, while cooking dinner. On my laptop, in my car, if I have to wait for an appointment. Really, whenever I can.

Do you have another book in the works? Would you like to tell readers about your current or future projects?

Yes. I am working on a novel about the discovery of a sunken treasure ship off the Sperrgebiet Coast in Namibia. In 2008, a fifteenth century ship thought to be the Bom Jesus, was discovered by Namdeb (Namibia De Beer Diamond Corporation), north of Oranjemund. It hadn’t been found when I started writing the story, so it made my hair stand on end when the news broke, and I was already well into the story development. Makes one think, doesn’t it!

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

Yes. Readers can find me on my blog: http://carolineaddenbrooke.wordpress.com/

New Review: Children of the Mist by Hywela Lyn

2010-01-23T05:00:00.000-08:00

Read another excerpt and watch the trailer at Blazing Trailers.

Reviewed by: Marilyn Thompson at Author Meeting Place/Mind Fog Reviews

Hywela Lyn creates a very vivid and wonderful world in Children of the Mist. Her characters have depth beyond any I have seen in a science fiction novel. She has the ability to give them souls in the literary sense, which is a rare talent. The extensive descriptions of the world she has created forms in the mind almost like the memory of a place once visited.
I enjoyed this story and felt as if it carried me along from beginning to end. There was no effort in trying to understand the plot and I found it to be a bit of a mystery as well. It was a journey well worth taking and I highly recommend this book as one of the best I have ever read.
I look forward to reading more books by this author. 5 Stars *****

Excerpt from the book:

Tamarith stopped and gazed for a moment across the water. The G-type sun, now fully risen, caused the lake to shimmer like a veil of golden silk, with scarcely a ripple disturbing its calm. The pastel-colored walls of the graceful buildings on the shore reflected the glow of both suns. In the distance, the mountains encircling the settlement reached high into the cerulean sky. The swirling mist that hid their summits was as much a part of Niflheim as the earth upon which she and Vidarh stood.

She sensed his mind discreetly touch hers and realized he was staring at her keenly. She turned back to face him, returning his questioning glance and studying him in turn. Taller than average, and broad-shouldered, today he wore a sleeveless, belted leather shirt over thick breeches, with long, icecat-wool lined boots. His upper arms were well muscled, his skin tanned as if he were used to working outdoors. His curly, dark auburn hair, kept away from his face with a plain leather band, reached almost to his shoulders. It caught the sun’s rays and gleamed like the polished dark red wood of the trees that flanked the feet of the mountains.

She took in his clear, hazel eyes, with their friendly twinkle, the long, straight nose, strong jaw line and smiling mouth. He would have been fighting off the local unattached young women if the situation they found themselves in were not so serious. Not that she was particularly interested in his looks, or those of any other man, for that matter.

No, something else about Vidarh of Ragnak excited her curiosity.

It’s about yesterday.

(Italics denote telepathic speech)

Meet L.M. Preston

2010-01-20T05:00:00.000-08:00

Interview with L.M. Preston, author of Explorer X-Alpha.

Read an excerpt and watch the trailer at Blazing Trailers.

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

I am a working mom by day, and a young adult science fiction author by night. I always loved to write growing up, but life happens, and I stopped for about fifteen years. On a dare from my husband I came up with the concept of EXPLORER X – Alpha, and couldn’t stop there.

Do you have another job besides writing?

Yes, I am an engineer and I teach part-time at a university. My work has always been a playground for my imagination. However, being an author allows me to create all the neat things that I would like to create in real life.

Were you an avid reader as a child? What type of books did you enjoy reading?

When I was younger I read everything. I most enjoyed horror, romance, mysteries, science fiction. As I grew as a reader, I delved into the classics.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

My husband dared me to do it. He is a science fiction fanatic, and he told me I should write a science fiction book. I had started writing several other stories, but I got bored while writing them. He told me if I wrote science fiction, I would have no boundaries. Boy was he ever right. After some thought and dreaming, I came up with Aadi. Aadi’s adventure takes him to space camp where he realizes he and others have been created to adapt, evolve and to conquer the worlds in which they land on.

How would you describe your creative process while writing this book? Was it stream-of-consciousness writing, or did you first write an outline?

At first the story overtook me. I just wrote for about thirty pages. Then I realized that the story was too complex for me not to outline. I took about a month to outline it. After I completed the outline I realized that just one book couldn’t tell it all.

Who do you think you are?

When I write, I am usually one of my characters. It’s weird but I see their stories as if I am watching a movie. When there is a part, that doesn’t fit, I just replay it. Writing allows me to be the super hero I have always wanted to be. I live through my characters and boy do I enjoy the ride.

If you are a world builder, what is your favorite part of creating these worlds?

I love to do world building. As a science fiction author, I do it with all of my books. I like taking the qualities of earth and kicking it up a notch. Challenging the world we live in, expanding it, and creating a new world for my characters to explore. My favorite part of world building is when I cut out pictures, make a collage, and draw out my species.

Who was your mentor?

Dave Meadows, author of THE SIXTH FLEET. We worked together, and he encouraged me to write one page a day. He was an awesome and helpful mentor, and I was lucky to have met him.

What would you tell aspiring young writers about the publishing business?

Learn the business in and out. Never let the fact that you were rejected stop you from reaching for your dream. Think outside of the box and create the career you want to have.

Do you belong to a critique group? How has this helped or hindered your writing.

I have and it can be a great help. The feedback you get is valuable if you have a great and supportive group. Pick your group wisely, and you will benefit greatly.

Tell us five random things about yourself.

I love karate movies.
I love chocolate.
I am obsessed with traveling.
I am a big kid who loves to play with her kids.
I talk to myself – and sometimes answer back.

When do you get your best ideas and why do you think this is?

I daydream all the time. I get my best ideas when I am sleep, or zoning out while doing things I don’t like to do – like cleaning the house.

Do you get along with your muse? What do you do to placate her when she refuses to inspire you?

Do you write non-stop until you have a first draft, or do you edit as you move along?

I write at night, and edit my work during the day. I usually print out my work as I go, and carry it with me in a notebook. While I am at my kid’s sports practices, I edit my book with a red pen. It allows me to finish faster, and the work is cleaner for my follow-on edits.

They say authors have immensely fragile egos… How would you handle negative criticism or a negative review?

I have tough skin because as an engineer you are used to your work being criticized. I will defend my work, but I will also concede if the criticism is accurate.

Are you a disciplined writer?

Yes, I am extremely disciplined when it comes to writing. I tend to kick out three novels a year. However, I couldn’t do it if I didn’t love it so much. I write most nights. When I am not writing I am thinking through the aspects of my story.

For writer moms: How do you divide your time between taking care of a home and children, and writing? Do you plan your writing sessions in advance?

I am a rather organized mom. I schedule ever aspect of my day, and write at night when my kids are asleep. I edit in the day when I am on the road, and once I have edited the hard copy, I take a weekend to make corrections.

What is the best writing advice you’ve ever received?

Never give up. Stay true to your book. If you start a series, write book one, outline the rest and write something totally different. Writing something different was the best advice anyone gave me. It allowed me to explore other facets of my writing, while trying to sell the series. It also gave me more product to sell.

Do you have another book in the works? Would you like to tell readers about your current or future projects?

I am working on an Upper YA novel called THE PACK. Shamira decides to help her parents locate the missing kids on Mars. She grudgingly takes the help of Valens, who’s sister is missing. During her investigation, her brother is taken. Her determination to bring down those who kidnapped him pushes her to recruit kids from her enemy’s gang to help. In doing so, she has to trust Valens and the others, something she has never done. It comes out in the Fall of 2010.

What’s your worst writing habit?

My worst writing habit, is closing my eyes while I write. My husband says it freaks him out.

Do you have any recurring dreams or nightmares?

When I am writing a book, I dream about it over and over until I am done. I suppose that’s why I write them so fast. It’s like the characters keep bugging me until I tell their story.

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

Yes, check it out. I update it once a week. Please follow me.
www.lmpreston.com
http://lmpreston.blogspot.com/

Meet Gail Pallotta

2010-01-17T05:00:00.000-08:00

Interview with Gail Pallotta, author of Love Turns the Tide.

Read an excerpt and watch the trailer at Blazing Trailers.

Why don’t you begin by telling us a little about yourself?

First of all, thank you for having me on Blazing Trailers. The granddaughter of a minister and niece of several English teachers, I inherited their interest in storytelling and a love of people from my mother. Drawing upon my fascination of others at an early age, I worked with a friend to put out a grammar school newspaper about my classmates that told what they might be doing in thirty years. Little did I know, when I sent one of them into outer space in his feature article, someone actually would land on the moon in my lifetime. However, it was years later after I graduated from college that I took my writing more seriously. Until I married I worked as an editor and copywriter. Then I moved to a smaller city and helped my husband with his business. I also wrote freelance articles. While some of them ended up in anthologies two of the historical pieces are in museums. Today, I enjoy creating fictitious characters. When I’m not writing, I like to spend time with my family and friends, read or swim. Once when it was sixteen degrees outside, I entered the locker room at the county pool and started peeling off my coat, then my sweatshirt and blouse to get down to my swim suit. A petite, dark-haired woman who’d arrived at the same time was doing the same thing. She turned and said, “Most folks put on extra clothing, caps and gloves and run or walk to get exercise. It’s freezing outside. We’ve stripped off all our clothes except our bathing suits, and now we’re going to jump into a pool of cold water. What kind of people are we?”

I laughed. “I don’t know, but that’s us.”

Were you an avid reader as a child? What type of books did you enjoy reading?

I read anything I could get my hands on. My grandmother signed me up for a Zane Grey book club. And, I bought every Nancy Drew mystery I could afford with money I was paid for doing chores. By the time I was in the fifth grade I’d accumulated quite a few books, so I opened my own library in our garage and lent them out to other children in the neighborhood.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

Love Turns the Tide relates the story of twenty-six-year-old Cammie O’Shea who suffered a traumatic split-up with her fiancé and vowed never to be that hurt again. Not only is she heartbroken, but just when she needs her friends and family the most, she has to move to Destin, Florida, and begin a new job. She dreads meeting her boss, the editor of The Sun Dial newspaper, but it’s Vic Deleona, the real estate tycoon she must interview, that causes her angst. While she tries to finish the article about him as quickly as possible he insists on making more business appointments to see her. She’s not about to open herself up to another painful relationship. However, when her friend has a break-in at her condo, and there’s a mysterious vandalism at Cammie’s place, Vic comes to their rescue. He even launches his own investigation into the crime, and Cammie sees a different side of him. Just as she’s getting to know him better she has an offer to return home. Maybe Vic can solve the mystery and win Cammie’s heart, or she could leave Destin.

I was inspired to write this book because I know some people have a difficult time finding the right person to love. I wanted them to realize they aren’t alone, and there are significant others for them. While there are certain men and women who meet, fall in love and have a smooth courtship that leads to the altar there are others who get hurt again and again before they find the right person. Cammie is one of them. She’s so lonely, but she’s so afraid of re-visiting the pain she just experienced she shuts her heart to the idea of love. In her isolation she turns to God to find answers and help.

What is the funniest/most embarrassing/scariest story from one of your books signings or events?

After I graduated from college I went to work as a writer in the employee relations department of a large company. One of my most harrowing experiences occurred, when I wrote an article about the corporation’s new airplane. When I arrived at the airport, I took one picture of the plane on the ground. Then, the pilot insisted I get the rest from inside the aircraft. He explained that I could stand in exactly the right spot and prop myself and my camera against a tiny window while he flew in circles. That way, I could photograph the wing, part of the nose of the plane and some of the company’s holdings on the ground at the same time. While zooming around the Heavens at hundreds of miles an hour, I needn’t worry about getting a good shot in my sight, he would tell me when to snap the button. All I had to do was balance myself in spiked heels and focus. After all these years I still remember having my body angled, so I could steady the camera by wedging it between my face and the window. And until this day I don’t know how I stayed upright. But, I do have a copy of the picture.

If you could have been the servant to any famous person in history, who would that be and why?

That’s easy. I would love to have been a servant to Jesus. What an inspiration it would have been to see him heal people and watch him talk to the crowds who came to him seeking advice on how to live. What an enlightening experience it would have been to hear his parables and his gospel of love. When so many people lived by guidelines and rules, he told them to love God and love one another. I can only imagine their faces and the relief they must have felt, when they understood that love would lead them to behave in the way God wanted them to. Thank goodness, his teachings have been recorded in the Bible.

What type of writer are you—the one who experiences before writing, like Hemingway, or the one who mostly daydreams and fantasizes?

I’m a mix. In the factual areas of the book I want to write about things that I know. However, I don’t chronicle my own experiences or any other person’s. That would be non-fiction. Since I empathize with people I can feel the happiness or sadness an experience caused by just seeing or hearing about it. I try to capture the essence of those feelings and apply them to one of my make-believe characters. Another fun part of writing fiction is imagining “what if.”
For instance, what if a person who had very little money won the lottery? How would that change that person’s life change? I also enjoy research. Sometimes when I discover fascinating facts I didn’t know, I get side-tracked doing the research and end up with more material than I use.

Technically speaking, what do you struggle the most with when writing? How do you tackle it?

Sometimes I’m so enthusiastic about something that’s going to happen to my main character I can’t wait to write that part of the book. Yet, I know I have to build up to the scene. Even though I may want to write that portion immediately, my readers will not understand if I suddenly put my character on a moonlight cruise in sunny Florida, where she meets a handsome man, if they just read that she is slaving away at a job she doesn’t like in North Carolina. As for how I tackle that problem, I work harder on it so no one but me knows I wasn’t as passionate about those scenes as I was any other.

Have you ever woken in the night with the need to write? If so, how do you deal with this urge?

Yes, my professional writing instructor in college was an award winning poet, so he required us to write lots of poems. While in college and for at least ten years afterward my poetic muse woke me spouting lines of poetry in the middle of the night. I got up and wrote them down immediately before they escaped me. I’ll share a short poem that was published by Royal Publishing Company in Dallas, Texas, while I was in college.

The Wave

“White foam curls from its surging bank
While the wave rolls around grained earth
And folds under to meet towing currents
That take it back to reach the depths,
From where it first broke forth to climb
To the edge of white sunny sands.
Tossed and turned, the wave rolls about
To land in a dark sea of doubt.”

Copyrighted, 1963
By Paul L. Heard

What is the worst, best, most embarrassing or funniest situation your writing career has put you in?

After my daughter was born I had less time for myself, but I continued to spend my spare moments writing. One day in the grocery store I noticed a new magazine about the county where my husband and I had moved. Excited, I rushed home and called the editor to see if he wanted freelance articles. He said, “Yes, why don’t you come talk to me in the morning?”

That evening after I put my daughter to bed I dug around in the closet and found a notebook to display my articles, but all of them wouldn’t fit in it. I needed a briefcase, but didn’t own one. Since it was too late to go out and buy one, I searched for something that looked like a briefcase. Finally, I settled on a small, square wicker box that held a tiny bottle of wine, two glasses and napkins that a friend had given my husband and me for Christmas. Taking out the contents, I put in copies of my published work.

When I got in the editor’s office the next morning, I sat the container on my lap. The editor stared at it for a moment and asked, “Are we going to have a picnic?”

I felt my face flush. For the first time since I had planned my visit it dawned on me that the picnic basket looked like a picnic basket. But, I’ve always been truthful to a fault. “Oh no, I didn’t have a briefcase, so I put my articles in here.”

“Good, let me see them,” he said.

After I handed them to him he looked them over and gave me an assignment. I ended up writing one or two articles for nearly every issue he put out until he retired.

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?

Yes, my Web site is www.gailpallotta.com and my blog is “Peering Through Life’s Window” at www.gailpallotta.blogspot.com. The Web site gives information about Love Turns the Tide and Destin, Florida, where the book is set. It also has my favorite links and a brief bio. The blog is eclectic. “A Place for God” (December 2008) was my answer to a comment I heard someone make. “Finding Love” (February 2009) was inspired by my mother. And “Leap of Faith” (April 2010) chronicles the experience my husband and I had, when we were driving on Interstate 24, headed into the tornado that hit Murfreesboro, Tennessee, last April.

New Review: A Deadly Wilderness by Kelly Irvin

2010-01-14T05:00:00.000-08:00

Watch the trailer and read another excerpt at Blazing Trailers.

Reviewed by Genre Go Round Reviews

"This is an entertaining inspirational police procedural with a strong cast (no pun intended). The inquiry is top rate while the characters have real issues. For instance, Susana worries about her sons safety and the incident affirms her belief while Deborah has her own demons. Hernandez is a sinister villain who is the opposite of caring Bible Boy Ray who is a true believer. Although dubbed Bible Boy and Mr. Grace, Ray does not shove Christianity down the throats of his peers, his beloved and the readers as the super investigation is the story line. "

Excerpt from the book:

"Hang in there, Ray Johnson. Susanas words sang in his head like the refrain of a song as he started the engine, rolled up the windows, and turned on the AC. Lukewarm air hissed through the vents, doing nothing to cool his damp body.

As he turned the wheel and rolled away from the curb, he glanced at the rearview mirror. Susana and Marco stood on the sidewalk, still waving. A flash of silver gleamed in the mirror. He slammed on the brake and twisted to look back. A car hurtled down the street, bearing down on the Bronco. The BMW moved at a clip that seemed impossible. The passenger side window was down and a man, dark, sunglasses, leaned out, the long barrel of a weapon balanced on the edge of the doorframe.

Rays hand shot toward his Glock.

The frenzied staccato of automatic weapon fire filled the air.