𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Thousandth Year: Part 1: Meeting Jaeda 📚 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: E.L. Anderson ✍️ . .
🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: “The Thousandth Year: Part 1: Meeting Jaeda” written by E.L. Anderson is an interesting read. The story features a people-pleaser Malachi aka Mal. He could talk about anything with his best friend Sheila from high school. Sheila and Malachi had many common interests. When Sheila left Boise to go to the University of Michigan, they kept in touch and talked on the phone for a few hours.
One day, Sheila stopped answering Malachi’s call. After two years, when Malachi saw Sheila doing grocery shopping, he tried to talk to her but she avoided him. Mal cried a lot and was badly hurt. He realized he was the only one who had put effort into all the friendships he had till now. Mal made the decision to enjoy solace and to not make any new friends. However, things changed when he came across an Earth Spirit Jaeda.
This is a unique story and an interesting one. I enjoyed every bit of it. The characters are written well by the author and the plot is nice. The author has used lucid language in the book and I had a great time reading this book. I am eagerly waiting to get my hands on the next book by the author.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
1. I taught literature for 30 years at the Brooklyn campus of Long Island University. Though I have a PhD in English, I never did what you might call “academic writing.” My work has always been narrative, whether fiction or non-fiction. I was born and raised in Reading, PA but have lived for most of my adult life in New York City. I love the energy, diversity, and cultural richness of New York.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “American Scholar”?
2. The key challenge I faced when writing American Scholar was finding the critical distance needed from the subject matter to writer about it with lucidity. The book is based on personal experience, and that both fueled my creative energy but also made it difficult, sometimes, to stay focused on the essential story I was trying to tell. At times I had to alter the facts of what actually happened in order to get at the higher truth I was searching for.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
3. The author that has most influenced my writing is Virginia Woolf. Her novels are puzzles that I love to solve, though they are so poetic and profound that they can never be totally solved. Woolf minimizes plot in favor of character. She mines the consciousness and unconsciousness of her characters even as she shows them going about their daily business. She creates characters who are engaged in the lifelong struggle to find meaning in existence, and she often depicts people who are disappointed with their lives. All of this I find enormously interesting, and it has influenced the way I write fiction. Perhaps the novel that is most important to me is Woolf’s 1925 masterpiece Mrs. Dalloway, about one day in the life of an upper-class wife and mother and, parallel to her story, the life of a shell-shocked war veteran.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
4. My favorite spot to visit in the US might be The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The Met is an encyclopedic museum with more than 1.5 million objects spanning over 5000 years of art and culture. It contains the whole world. I particularly love looking at painting, and the Met has a stupendous collection of paintings from the Middle Ages up to the present. I feel sane and safe and free in the Met.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you dive in and start writing a book?
5. Before I dive in and start composing a book, I do a lot of reading and outlining. I write in my diary about my ideas for the project. I create mini biographies of my characters, which help me get to know them. I make timelines of characters’ lives, which also help me flesh out their stories in my mind before I start composing. Sometimes I travel to places that are relevant to the book I’m working on, taking photos to help me capture the spirit of the place.
Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘American Scholar’?
6. American Scholar started out as a memoir. I began working on it in the late 1990s. But I wasn’t entirely satisfied with it as a memoir, so I put it aside and turned to writing fiction. Then about eight years ago, I decided to tackle the project again, but this time as fiction. I completely reconceived and rewrote the book. So all totaled, I’ve been working on this book on and off for about 25 years.
Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?
7. Readers can buy my books on Amazon and through my website, www.patrickehorrigan.com. You can also ask your local bookstore to order it.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘American Scholar’?
8. The title “American Scholar” was inspired by Ralph Waldo Emerson’s famous 1837 essay “The American Scholar,” which is referenced a couple of times in the novel. It’s often been called America’s “declaration of cultural independence” from Europe and the Old World. A brilliant, stirring essay. The title also refers to the novel’s protagonist, who is a professor and writer; it refers to the subject of the protagonist’s latest book, the real-life Harvard professor and American literature scholar F.O. Matthiessen (1902-1950); and it refers to the primary love interest of the protagonist, who is a budding scholar himself. So it works on multiple levels. As for the book’s cover: I supplied the book’s designer with a detailed description of the book along with some ideas for images (men reading books, brains, marginalia). He came up with a handful of designs, and I and the published made our choice. We then asked the designer to tweak it—to try it in different colors, to adjust the image, and so on. I’m really happy with the design we finally came up with!
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
9. I keep things fresh for me as a writer and, I hope, for my readers by choosing subjects that I find challenging to understand. I hope by writing about them, I will reach a better understanding, and this intellectual and creative endeavor will communicate itself to readers and appeal to them. I try never to stay on the surface of things but to dig down deep into my subject. I create characters who on some crucial level do not know themselves, a psychological phenomenon that interests me and, I hope, my readers. Also, each of my books revolves around a specific artistic medium (film, painting, architecture, literature), and I do research on that medium as part of the composing process. I think this also communicates itself to readers. I am pushing myself up to and beyond my cutting edge.
Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?
10. This isn’t exactly a piece of advice, but one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned as a writer is that revision is always possible and it can really improve a piece of writing. Sometimes we fall in love with our words, with the way we write something on the first draft, but usually that’s not and cannot be the end of the story. There is usually a lot more work to be done. That work can be daunting, and you do have to cut things, get rid of things, change things, rethink things, but doing so almost always leads to a better outcome. I’ve come to love the process of revision. For me, that’s when the real pleasure kicks in.
𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Liverwurst Tree and Other Stories 📚 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Lakota Meyer ✍️ . .
🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: ‘The Liverwurst Tree and Other Stories’ written and illustrated by Lakota F. Meyer is a must read book. This book is a collection of poems that would bring a smile on the reader’s face.
“Button Button Who Touched my Mutton” is a rhyming poem. This poem is about a man whose mutton has been touched by someone else in his absence.
Outie Belly Button is a humorous poem about Vincent who has a six inches long belly button. Vincent gets stares from other people because of it but he is unashamed of it.
It’s a delightful read and I enjoyed this poetry collection. Those who appreciate humor would have a great time reading this collection. It’s a short read and readers could finish this anthology in one or two sittings. The writing style of the author is nice. Even if you aren’t an avid poetry reader, you would be able to follow the poems from this book. I recommend this collection to my fellow readers.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
Hello! I’m Amelia Cole, and I’m an award-winning fantasy author. My stories have been featured in magazines and in a soon-to-be-published anthology. I’m a huge history nerd, and so I always try and incorporate mythology or ancient stories into my own writing (with a personal twist, of course). When not writing or reading, I play TTRPG games, hike and camp in the mountains of the Pacific Northwest, and binge-watch CW shows.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Bridge of Eternity”?
One of the most obvious challenges of writing Bridge of Eternity was describing places in the world that were and still are too dangerous to actually visit. And while in popular tourist areas, there are great resources available online, in conflicted regions, I was lucky to find photos newer than five years old. I also worked actively to incorporate and accurately represent the Arabic culture and language with some very generous forum posters that were from the Middle East with whom I could bounce questions.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
This is so tough, but I’m a big fan of Madeline Miller’s delicious prose (Circe has a million highlights), I love Raven Kennedy’s world-building and writing love interests with the Plated Prisoner series, and I love all of Patricia Briggs’ stories, she really has figured out the sweet spot of urban fantasy.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
I’m obsessed with a lakeside campground next to Mt Adams in Washington state. It’s like a postcard, and the looming mountain is breathtaking. Some of my best writing was done there as I sat at a picnic table under the watchful gaze of the snow-covered peak.
Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Bridge of Eternity’?
I’ve always had an interest in human civilization through technology and culture. I can’t pinpoint exactly, but I was watching a History channel program or a Youtube about Mesopotamia and came across the Vela supernova. Instantly it fascinated me that the people alive back then were able to witness a real live supernova. A star so bright that they could see it during the day and lasted for months. I can only imagine what they assumed it was, sign from gods, prophecies, literally anything. And then, the real fun is that shortly after, like a handful of years, the Sumerian technology exploded. Writing, metalworking, medicine, all of it seemingly overnight, evolved. While it’s all speculation about a connection, I found this mystery a great inspiration for my story.
Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Bridge of Eternity’?
Two years total.
Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?
Its available on Kindle as an ebook, paperback through Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Bookshop.org, and other online retailers. Also, an audiobook is currently in production and will be available soon on Audible.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Bridge of Eternity’?
I knew I wanted Ella, my main character on the front of the book and there was an earlier where I had Jason, but decided it really should focus on her. My illustrator was so experienced and made some great suggestions like showing Ella’s magic and dramatic color scheme. She truly was amazing to work with and the cover turned out better than I’d envisioned.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I used to outline heavily when I first started writing, but have switched to lighter outlines, letting more organic and creativity slip in. I also have a habit of writing down specific scenes when I’m inspired, that are out of order for the story, but I know I’ll add in later. It’s an awesome motivator to have say, chapter 16 and 19 mostly finished and encourages me to fill in the rest.
Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?
Oh this is a tough one! I think the biggest hurdle most writers face is self doubt. Doubting if you’re good enough, doubting if the scene should be longer, shorter, or altogether cut. And so I’ve found the best way to overcome this is to connect with other writers. They’ll be your sounding boards, your first beta readers, your cheerleaders, and your shoulders to cry on. They keep you grounded and give you perspective. I’m very fortunate to have a writing tribe (love you, llamasquad!) and wouldn’t be where I am today without them.
𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: A Little Superhero Fights Cancer 📚 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Destiny Flood-De Jesus ✍️ . .
🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: “A Little Superhero Fights Cancer” written by the author Destiny Flood-De Jesus is a must read book. The story features a young girl named Destiny. She once failed an eye exam at school. Destiny’s parents took her to Dr. Kalpan’s office and ran lots of tests on Destiny’s eyes.
Destiny was sent to a big hospital for more tests and the doctors found a tumor in her right eye. Read this story to know more about Destiny’s journey with cancer.
The story is intriguing. Parents who have a child suffering from cancer should read this book to their little ones so little readers would be strong on their own journey. The illustrations are mind blowing and made me feel connected with the story better. I am glad to get my hands on this amazing book.
1. Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.
Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better. I am an Army Veteran, having served ten years and reaching the rank of Captain in Military Intelligence. I have been teaching for over 20 years, from elementary to university level. My discipline has been Special Education and English. I have one son, whom I’m very proud of, and who is currently serving this country in the Army. I absolutely love gardening and have a happy, although very overrun garden, which I enjoy watching grow. I am a Trekie and enjoy going to the annual Star Trek convention in Las Vegas, NV each year. I have two dogs, both named after Star Trek characters – Data and Saru.
2. What is your inspiration behind your book “Tempus Fugit! Time Flies”?
During my youth, I would often hear Latin phrases as a way to pass on wisdom to me. Once such a phrase was tempus fugit – time flies. Children of all ages seem to struggle with the concept of putting first-things-first. They usually believe there is always time to get things done, but in truth, time flies and oftentimes, there is not enough time to complete all tasks, such as homework and chores. My son is my inspiration for this book, EJ. He was a carefree child, who was so happy and believed he could get his homework and chores done after play. Oftentimes, his response to me when I would remind him of tasks to be completed was, “No problem. I got this!” He eventually learned that this was not always the case and the need to put first things first became evident.
3. When did you realize you want to be an author?
As a child, I loved reading and entertaining the imagined worlds the words took me, and understood the power of the written word. I have been writing stories and poems from early childhood. My dream continues to be able to touch many hearts with my words, and perhaps, pass on life lessons.
4. Please tell us something about your book “Tempus Fugit! Time Flies”?
EJ looked stunned. He had put off completing his project and had forgotten that he still had the presentation to do, and it was due tomorrow! He knew if he didn’t complete the assignment, he would not have the grade he was hoping for, and his mother would be very disappointed. The reader will see that it is better to put first things first as the main character, EJ, eventually learns this important lesson. EJ always feels that he will have time to get things done…later. Even after missing the bus, forgetting to do chores, and letting down his best friend, Juan, EJ does not learn his lesson. Finally, after feeling that he let his mother down, EJ learns that time does indeed fly and it is better to have a plan and complete tasks as they come along, rather than wait until the last minute to get things done.This is a book that I hope sibling will pass on to sibling as they learn the importance of not procrastinating.
5. For which age group is your book “Tempus Fugit! Time Flies” suitable for?
I wrote this book for elementary-aged students to help teach them this valuable lesson at a young age, so that they may realize early on that Tempus Fugit! -time flies, so put first things first!
6. What is your favorite Quote?
To succeed, jump as quickly at opportunities as you do at conclusions. Benjamin Franklin.
7. What do you like the most about your country?
I like that no matter who you are, the country still offers an idealist possibility that one can achieve their dream.
8. What suggestion do you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?
As a parent and educator, it is vital to have books and reading material available to children. I was always saddened when students would tell me they had no books at home. I used to have my son read everything he saw when driving to the store. Reading must be part of children’s daily life. Remember, children should learn to read by the third grade; then they read to learn for the rest of their education.
9. What does literary success look like to you?
Literary success would be for my books to be on bookshelves when I walk into a book store. I want my name to be synonymous with children’s book author, kind of like Dr. Seuss!
10. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?
All that I do is for my son. I want to show him through my own actions that he should always pursue his dreams… no matter how long it may take.
𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Pretty Little Widow 📚 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Shelley Jinks Johnson ✍️ . .
🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: Pretty Little Widow written by the author Shelley Jinks Johnson is a collection of poems based on loss, love, grief, living, etc.
‘This is Grief’ is a poem about pain and tears that come after being separated from a loved one. The lover is longing for that special touch.
Dark Matter is a poem that we all could relate to. After being betrayed or wronged, we feel bitterness, anger, denial, regret, etc. I could very well feel the words of this poem.
Grief Cosmos of darkness Home of despair anger bitterness loneliness denial regret self-loathing
Pains of mercy, to live and ‘Catch and Release’ are a few of my favorite poems from the collection. This poetry book would take readers on a rollercoaster ride full of emotions. This is the debut book of the author and I enjoyed reading it. The author has used lucid language in the poems so I was able to understand the meaning behind them. Those who are not an avid poetry reader can also read this book. You would have a great time reading poems of different emotions.
𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Many Many (Friendly) Monsters: Learn to count 📚 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Joseph Crabtree Jr ✍️ . .
🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: “Many Many (Friendly) Monsters: Learn to count” written by the author Joseph Crabtree Jr is an engaging book for little ones. In this book, little readers would find eleven different groups of monsters.
This book will help little ones to learn counting. They will get to see so many interesting monsters. Kids will also learn a few words that will enrich their vocabulary. This book is for kids of the age group 2-5 years.
The pages of the book are colorful. Readers would have a great time with this book. Parents should definitely add it to their bookshelves. The monster’s theme is what I liked the most. My nephew loved this book and he has learned counting till 5 as of now with the help of the funny monsters.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
I’m an attorney, former journalist, and a die-hard fan of the Chicago Cubs baseball team. I’m also a founding member and president of the nonprofit Chicago Writers Association. I’m the first male recipient of the National Federation of Press Women’s Communicator of Achievement Award and was named to NewCity’s 2019 and 2022 ‘Lit 50: Who Really Books in Chicago’ list. My essays have been published in the anthologies ‘Chicken Soup for the Father and Son Soul’, ‘Humor for a Boomer’s Heart’, ‘The Big Book of Christmas Joy’, ‘Storytellers’ True Stories About Love’, and ‘Cubbie Blues: 100 Years of Waiting Till Next Year’, as well as in numerous literary journals including Hypertext and Memory House. I’m the author of three novels, ‘Havana Hangover’, ‘Cheeseland’ and ‘Lost in the Ivy’, and coauthor of ‘Cubsessions: Famous Fans of Chicago’s North Side Baseball Team’. To learn more about me, visit my website: randyrichardson.co.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book ‘Havana Hangover’?
Perhaps the biggest challenge was writing during the pandemic. I started writing the novel in 2019, after my fourth November visit in as many years to Havana, Cuba. It’s a thriller/adventure inspired by events and people I encountered on that island nation. In many ways, it’s my love letter to the country and its people. There is so much beauty and history to be found there, but what kept bringing me back was the people I met.
When I started writing the novel, I had every intention of returning to Havana. But then COVID-19, the inspiration-killer, struck. The pandemic and the US embargo and political changes in Cuba all came together like a perfect storm to close the doors to Cuba yet again. My plans for traveling there in November 2020 were put on hold. At the time, I told myself, as well as my friends there: Next year.
Life became even more turbulent in Cuba, forcing some of my best friends there to move to other countries – in some cases, separating themselves from their loved ones just so they could make money to send back home.
Like many a writer, I had a tough time finding the inspiration to write during the pandemic. My home office used to be the place where I did the kind of writing that was an escape from the writing I did for my day job. But during the pandemic, it also became the office of my day job. It no longer seemed like an escape.
What I came to discover, however, was that it wasn’t the home office space that was the escape. It had nothing to do with the walls around me or the computer in front of me. The escape was all in my head.
While writing this novel, stuck at home, I was traveling to Cuba, this place that I love but could no longer visit. The inspiration was within me to go there whenever I wanted to.
When I wrote The End on the final draft, it came with a lot of joy. I’d crossed that finish line after a marathon like none I’d ever run before. But it also came with a little sadness. Because I was saying goodbye to the place that had helped me get through all of this.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
Anyone who reads ‘Havana Hangover’ will see that Ernest Hemingway has been my biggest influence. I’m 100 percent a Hemingway fanboy. I’ve read just about anything he wrote, have all of his books and Life magazine covers, and followed his footsteps to just about anywhere he lived and wrote about. My favorite book of all-time is Hemingway’s ‘The Sun Also Rises’, which, to me, is literary perfection.
Other authors who have had a profound influence on me include: Larry McMurtry, Nicholson Baker, Jay McInerney and Scott Turow.
Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
That’s an easy one: Wrigley Field, the home ballpark of the Chicago Cubs baseball team. As I previously noted, I’m a die-hard Cubs fan and there’s no place like the bleachers of Wrigley Field on a hot summer day in Chicago. I love the history, the smell of the steamed hot dogs, the energy of the crowd. It’s my second home.
Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Havana Hangover’?
All of my writing is, to some extent, inspired by pieces of my life. For ‘Havana Hangover’, that piece begins in November 2016, the first time I traveled to Cuba. Two historic events collided during the time of my travels. On the same morning I left for Cuba, my favorite baseball team, the Chicago Cubs, won their first World Series in 108 years. On the same morning that I returned to the states, the U.S. presidential election results had just been decided. Those two events served as a springboard for the story that becomes a runaway adventure with many twists and turns where little is as it seems. The characters behind it were mostly inspired by real-life people, including me and my travel companion, a friend whom I’ve known since law school, and our tour operator and tour guide. But the real seed for the story was planted on our second trip to Cuba, the following November. It was on that trip that my friend and I had been out on the town and, at some point, we were separated. I went back to our casa particular, a Cuban bed-and-breakfast, and went to bed. The following morning, I woke to a string of text messages from my friend. The last of those messages said: “Help Me!” I won’t go into what actually happened – it’s a long story – but as you can imagine I sprung out of bed and fortunately found my friend asleep in the other room. But that little jolt became the starting point for my story of a disoriented narrator. From there, the story is all fiction, including the back story of the complicated history between the protagonist, Tanner, and his missing friend, Jackson, who, it turns out, might not be his friend at all.
Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Havana Hangover’?
It took about three years to write. Most of that time was during the pandemic. After the first draft, I worked with a developmental editor, Katherine Don, who saw things that I couldn’t see and helped me fill in all of the plot holes and get the story back on course whenever it veered. There were, I think, four drafts in all before Katherine told me that she thought it was ready to be released into the world.
Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?
‘Havana Hangover’ is available on Amazon.com in Kindle and in Trade Paperback.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Havana Hangover’?
The credit for the book cover goes mostly to my publisher, Dan Davies at Renegade Press. I love the little details: the mojito on top of the classic car; the Cuban flag for the license plate; and the publisher for the bumper sticker. As for the title, it fit the story where the characters consume way too much rum.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
My books are written organically. I don’t work from an outline, and I don’t think that I could. That’s not how my mind works. For me, that keeps the writing fresh. Like the reader, I don’t know where the story is going or even how it will end. That’s what makes writing fun for me. I plant a seed and watch it grow.
Most of the characters I write are inspired by real-life characters from my own world. I think that helps to make them feel authentic. But then of course, I put them into situations that ordinary people would not typically find themselves in. It’s fun to play with them, to see how they react.
Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?
Don’t think about publication. Just write. Write the best damned book you can write. Then start thinking about publication. If the book is good, really good, they will come.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
As an author, being cloaked in the shadows has been my goal. I emerged from a divergent path in life. Being creative was what helped me navigate the intricacies of a hard childhood and careers that eventually I couldn’t love. It was during this ruff patch that I discovered a dormant passion for literature. I had only found I loved reading in my early twenties. As I read more and more I yearned to take stories of suffering and make them into fiction. Hopefully releasing trauma for those that bear it. Not only from those who would share their stories with me, but also for those who would read them. I want to weave captivating tales that transport readers to uncharted realms where reality and imagination intertwine. For this reason I chose to use my pen name Belle Jay James, to be able to draw freely from my past and those willing to share theirs as well.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Hearts Redress Series: Undesirable”?
While writing the Hearts Redress Series: Undesirable, one of the key challenges I faced was accurately portraying and bringing to life the experiences of Luna suffering from PTSD. As someone who personally suffers from PTSD, I wanted to ensure that these paragraphs reflected the harsh reality of living with this condition. The reality of living with PTSD is a burden many people carry, while many people do not understand. The emotional weight and intensity of these scenes often took a toll on me, and there were times when I had to take breaks from writing for a few days to prioritize my own well-being. However, it was crucial for me to capture the authenticity and depth of Luna’s struggles. I persisted in order to create a genuine and relatable portrayal of PTSD within the narrative.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
My bookshelves today are stuffed with hundreds of books and Authors. Several have had a significant influence on my own writing. The first book that ignited my passion for reading was “Push” by Sapphire, which exposed me to the power of storytelling and inspired me to explore the written word further. Additionally, Christine Feehan’s “Torpedo Ink” series captivated me with its blend of romance, suspense, and paranormal elements. These influences, along with my personal experiences and aspirations, motivated me to combine the realms of fiction and non-fiction in my writing. I aimed to create narratives that not only entertained and transported readers but also touched upon real-life issues and emotions.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
My favorite spot to visit in the United States is Florida. While i dont not live there, it holds a special place in my heart. It has been a destination where my family and I have often vacationed, creating countless memories together. Florida has become even more meaningful to me because my favorite relative now resides there. Going to spend even a day with them brings me so much joy. The state’s peaceful ambiance and slower pace of life are often overlooked in our fast-paced world, but they bring me a sense of tranquility and allow me to unwind. Florida is a place where I can escape the daily hustle and bustle, enjoy the beauty of its beaches, and savor the simple joys of life.
Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Hearts Redress Series: Undesirable’?
My inspiration behind writing the book ‘Hearts Redress Series: Undesirable’ stemmed from a deep desire to explore and shed light on the themes of overcoming trauma and raising awareness about PTSD. Showing that the stigma behind mental illness needs to be overcome. Drawing from personal experiences and a passion for understanding and advocating for mental health, I embarked on this writing journey with the intention of creating a narrative that not only resonated with individuals who have endured trauma but also fostered empathy and understanding among readers. By delving into the struggles, triumphs, and complexities of Luna’s life, I aimed to bring attention to the realities of PTSD, breaking down stigmas and fostering a greater sense of compassion and support for those who face these challenges.
Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Hearts Redress Series: Undesirable’?
Writing the book ‘Hearts Redress Series: Undesirable’ took longer than I initially anticipated. I began writing it during a period when I was also beginning to address and treat my own traumas. This presented challenges and made the writing process more difficult at times. As a result, it took me three years to complete ‘Undesirable.’ However, after experiencing the sense of triumph and accomplishment upon finishing ‘Undesirable,’ writing the sequel, ‘Unconquerable,’ has been much smoother. I expect to finish ‘Unconquerable’ later this year, building upon the momentum and growth achieved during the creation of the first book.
I will be announcing other platforms in the coming months on my social media @bellejayjames and website https://authorbellejayjames.com .
I also plan on selling books from my website that will be signed.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Hearts Redress Series: Undesirable’?
The process of determining the title and designing the book cover for ‘Hearts Redress Series: Undesirable’ was a journey that evolved alongside the writing process. It wasn’t until I completed the book that the title finally crystallized. I went through numerous word combinations, searching for a title that truly captured the essence of the story. In ‘Hearts Redress Series: Undesirable,’ Luna, the main character, embarks on a journey of healing and rediscovery, learning to mend her heart. This theme of the heart redressing resonated deeply, and it became the perfect title to encompass the book’s core message. Once the title was settled, finding a suitable cover picture became relatively straightforward. The cover needed to portray the initial state of Luna’s heart, setting the stage for subsequent covers that would depict her and many other characters’ transformative journeys throughout the series.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
To keep things fresh for both my readers and myself, I would love to say something smart like, “I employ various strategies: constantly challenge myself by experimenting with different writing styles and techniques, exploring alternate perspectives, and even playing with unconventional storytelling methods.” The reality is that I just write from the heart. What feels right to me as I pour words into google docs. The characters and plot come to life in my mind. One thing that I did enjoy was putting in little surprises on the first page of each chapter. If the reader looks closely they will find something hidden on each chapter’s first page. Most importantly, taking breaks to recharge was key.
Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?
Early on, a friend from “The Suffering Podcast” graciously offered to read my book. It was still a very rough draft. His advice was the most valuable piece I’ve received about writing. He told me that there is never too much detail you can put into a book. While writing I had been holding back, thinking people wouldn’t want to read every little thing in a scene. When he told me that, I took that advice to heart and embraced it fully. Letting go of any concerns about overwhelming readers. This liberating perspective allowed me to dive deep into the intricacies of not only the suffering, but also the steamy, raunchy scenes as well. I was able to start painting vivid scenes and providing rich descriptions without hesitation. It empowered me to create a fully immersive experience for readers, where no detail was deemed insignificant. This advice has been a guiding light throughout my writing journey, reminding me to embrace the power of a writer.
Buy Hearts Redress Series: Undesirable Book One on Barnes&Noble
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