Category: Author Interview

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Interview with author David Rosenbaum

Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

A1. Sure. David Rosenbaum. I am a retired academic who was involved in research and teaching at Masters level in leadership and change management. My PhD thesis was all about change in the nonprofit sector. Towards the end of my academic career, I became interested in fiction, and the more I read, the more I got interested in it as a genre. And reading numerous books by authors such as Gail Honeyman, Gabrielle Zevin, Frederik Backman, Lan Chang, Kevin Powers and Kristin Hannah, to name but a few, I became excited about the art of writing fiction and using imagination as a form of intimate expression. It was the ability to let my imagination do whatever it wanted to do, that got me very excited about writing a book.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “The Remaking of Myles”?

A2. The biggest challenge was developing a writing style that was conducive to writing fiction, especially having come from an academic background where I was the expert and my writing was reflective of conveying expert knowledge. Having worked with a book coach for a period leading up to the writing of my novel, it became more and more obvious that the approach of ‘telling’ the reader, needed to be replaced by ‘showing’ the reader as the story unfolds. So, the challenge became relying on the reader’s imagination to interpret my own imagination. Even as I was writing the novel, slipping back into the ‘telling’ versus the ‘showing’ approach occurred regularly, and recognising this as it occurred was a continuing challenge. Having finished the book, I think I can happily say, I’ve got it! And so the sequel is moving ahead well.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

A3. Frederik Brokman’s ‘Anxious People’ & ‘A Man Called Ove’; Gail Honeyman’s ‘Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine’, Taffy Brodesser-Akner’s ‘Fleishman is in Trouble’, and David Grossman’s ‘More Than I Love My Life’

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

A4. My favourite spot is the Blue Mountains which is around two-hours’ drive west of Sydney. Whilst it’s becoming somewhat more congested as is the rest of Sydney, great parts of it still remain somewhat of a haven. Beautiful sights along the mountain ranges, ancient trees in the extensive bush, and a wealth of wildlife that you don’t see much of in the greater Sydney area. Staying overnight in one of the many guest houses gives you the opportunity to take deep breaths and relax, so that you can put up with the chaos that Sydney is fast becoming.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘The Remaking of Myles’?

A5. My original aim was to write an autobiography. But the more I thought about this and planned for it, the more I realised that nobody would be interested as I was an unknown quantity, both as an author as well as an individual. So, I ruled this approach out and decided that writing fiction that was based on real foundations was a better way of going.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘The Remaking of Myles’?

A6. There are probably two parts to this answer. Before I started writing, I worked with a Book Coach for around 12 months. This was to ensure that I was able to transition from academic writing to fiction writing. Then when I became more comfortable with what was involved, it took me around two years to finish the book and another 6 months or so to complete all levels of editing.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. It is currently available on Amazon in both Kindle and Paperback and Books Online Australia for paperback

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘The Remaking of Myles’?

A8. I wanted a title that reflected personal change and growth, a favourite topic of mine especially during my academic career. I was considering an alternative title of ‘I Am Myles’, which focused on the positioning of a character in the here and now, rather than the character’s past. But that seemed slightly static, and I was looking for something more active and in fact positive. Having someone being remade responded to this. And so ‘The Remaking of Myles’ was born. The cover needed to respond to 2 desires on my part. First, the visual aspect. I wanted uplifting and bright colours reflecting a future and optimism. Secondly, I wanted a cover design that showed fluidity. Things moving and flowing which is how Myles’ life changed.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself.

A9. That’s part of the journey. I write every day even if it’s only 100 words, knowing that there are days when I can’t stop writing and an entire chapter may be the result. But before any writing is undertaken, I reread what I wrote the previous day and when a chapter is written I tend to reread it at least 2 to 3 times to ensure 2 things, first that it gels and secondly that the next paragraph, page, chapter etc. is consistent with what I am trying to achieve with the story. In between writing I am constantly reviewing the character arc of the protagonist and researching elements of scenes to ensure reality is maintained with regards where scenes take place etc.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A10. Don’t give up. If you believe you have a story to tell, then don’t let anyone else tell you otherwise. Given that a very small portion of writers make a living out of writing, make sure you do it because you love doing it.

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Interview with author Liam Finlay

Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

A1) Hi, my name is Liam Finlay, and I’ve just published my first book called The Outside World, a story about a group of young kids who discover a portal to another world where anything they think of becomes real.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “The Outside World”?

A2. I had no previous writing experience, and have honestly never been much of a reader, so for me one of the bigger challenges, at least early on, was actually taking the idea in my head and putting it into words. Most of my ideas were very ambitious and imaginative and at times became a lot to juggle. Over time I did become better at this and crafted a story that I now can say I’m confidently very proud of.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

A3. My biggest inspirations come more from the likes of The Duffer Brothers, the minds behind Stranger Things, as well as directors like Guy Ritchie, Stephen Spielberg and Edgar Wright.

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

A4. Every now and then I think back to old hangout spots my friends and I would frequent as kids. I don’t often get to see those places anymore, but I’ve learned more about how much they meant to me, and how much it influenced my writing when coming up with characters for pre-teen boys.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘The Outside World’?

A5. Music was one of the biggest influences on my writing. I’ve been told in the past that I have a talent for matching songs with certain types of scenes and visualising them better. This was a big help in putting together action scenes like car chases and shoot-outs, but it’s also how I put together characters and learn more about them, their personalities, their likes and dislikes, the boring stuff that wouldn’t appear in the core story but holds significance to them. The more thought I put into this made it feel like I knew the characters personally, and that can only be a good thing when writing. There’s a big accumulation of other movies, shows and even video-games that, combined with this mode of thinking, inspired what eventually became The Outside World.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘The Outside World’?

A6. All together the whole process of mapping out the story in a journal, officially writing, making drafts and changes, and finally working alongside Tellwell Publishing took about three years, but it was worth it.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. The Outside World is available on Amazon, Kindle, Smashwords, Barnes & Noble, Indigo Chapters. Chances are it’s available wherever you get your books from.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘The Outside World’?

A8. In both cases I learned that simplicity is best. I sketched my original vision for the book’s cover myself with the intent of making readers wonder what was on the other side of that portal, but obviously when I passed on the image to the design team at Tellwell they expanded on it further and helped you understand a lot more about the characters just by their stance and clothing. The title was also born out of simplicity, though it’s a little more complex. The Outside World is already a fairly common term, but there can be layers to its meaning. I thought of when parents would tell their kids to go out and play because “there’s a whole world outside waiting to be discovered” which obviously in the case of this story turned out to be true.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself.

A9. I think the natural thing to do as a writer is connect with your own characters. When something monumental happens that the characters won’t forget, you should always keep in mind how it affects them, how they react to it and what they do next. Do they grow? Do they regress? Do they try and stifle it and move on? These questions constantly keep me guessing and challenge me to answer them. When writing I never want to repeat myself or become stale, so I stay with these characters, I stay in their headspace, I think of each indivdual reaction, I’m always thinking of how to expand and make the story bigger and more unique. It’s okay if the story isn’t the only thing on your mind 24/7 but as long as you remain thinking about in some way, even if bare minimum, you’ll find more ideas will come to you naturally. It won’t always happen quickly, in fact most of the time it won’t, but as long as you take your time, and work within your own comfort, whatever your method may be, the ideas will come to you eventually.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A10. It sounds obvious to say but less is more. I think it’s easy for new writers to get bogged down in the “fill your word count” mindset, but I learned from my editor at Tellwell that most of the time you don’t need to spell everything out for the readers. A lot of the time the small details carry more meaning than you might think and it’s enough for readers to understand the way characters are feeling, the lesson you’re supposed to learn, etc. Be detailed in your descriptions, yes, but don’t feel like the obvious needs to be pointed to make yourself sound smart because that’s the mistake I made. Simply put, when the author says the curtains are blue, there’s not some deep, existential meaning behind it… it just means the curtains are blue.

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Interview with author Phyllis M. Cutler

1. Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.

A1. I am a former elementary teacher and have experience working with a national textbook company, as well as with a real estate magazine and mortgage company. I find joy in reading stories to a preschool once a month. I am a mother and grandmother who is writing stories that children will enjoy.

2. What is the inspiration behind your book “Little Bird”?

A2. I sit on my deck in the morning on a sunny day with coffee and appreciate looking at the colorful flowers and bushes in the yard. I especially observe the cheerful chirping birds. A robin builds a nest and has her babies each year in a lilac tree by the deck. I decided to write a story about a robin family.

3. When did you realize you want to be an author?

A3. I am an avid reader and wanted to become an author after my children grew up, but wasn’t sure what to write about. I learned that inspiration could come from looking around your house and yard and thinking about your own experiences.

4. Please tell us something about your book “Toby”.

A4. I often walked the lovable dog and had a close bond with him. He inspired me to write a book about his life, going through the years.

5. For which age group is your book “Little Bird”?

A5. 5-12 years, although adults might like it also.

6. What is your favorite Quote?

A6. I like an Emily Dickinson poem, If I Can Stop One Heart From Breaking
If I can stop one heart from breaking,

I shall not live in vain;

If I can ease one life the aching, 

Or cool one pain,

Or help one fainting robin

Unto his nest again,

I shall not live in vain.                
                                                              
7. What do you like the most about your country?

A7 The freedom to live your life the way you want to.

8. What suggestion do you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?

A8. Parents can look at pictures in a book and talk about them with their young children to build vocabulary and observations. From preschool on, parents can read simple stories to their children. When the children are able to read by themselves, they can read along with the parents, especially if there is a repetition of a line in the book. As they become better readers, the children can be encouraged to read daily. They can discuss if they like a book or not, and parents can find books of interest to them.

9. What does literary success look like to you?

A9. If the readers say they enjoy the story and it has a message for them.

10. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?

A10. My family inspires me as they pursue higher education and are kind and caring to others.

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Interview with author Leith C MacArthur

Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

A1. My name is Leith Campbell MacArthur. Leith is the name of a river in Scotland, and I’ve always been thankful to my mother for having had the courage to give me a unique moniker. I live in Greene, RI, on a beautiful piece of land surrounded by woods and water. I love animals, most particularly dogs. I’m of the belief that dogs were put on this planet to show us oft-confused humans the true nature of love and devotion. Speaking of love; I’ve been blessed by the most amazing woman I’ve ever known (beyond my mother, of course). After having spent five of my eight decades feeling lost, my wife Katira has gifted me with true love. I was lost, and now I am found.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “An Artificial Life”?

A2. The most difficult aspect of writing my memoir “An Artificial Life” was telling the truth. I am a recovering addict. I abused drugs for nearly five decades, and telling the truth about the insane and sometimes terrible things I did while using drugs took a kind of courage I did not know I possessed.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

A3. As a child, I was profoundly influenced by Robert Louis Stevenson. His stories of humanness, heartache, and triumph temporarily relieved me of my suffering. Because of Stevenson, I began writing short stories at the age of eleven. As a teenager, Dashiell Hammet, Ross Macdonald, and John D. Macdonald helped me to express, through writing, my anger about injustice. When I was older, Robert B. Parker helped me to round out my fictional protagonist, William Snow, for my series of suspense thrillers. Although my writing pales by comparison, I learned how to create vibrant scenes by reading every book ever written by James Lee Burke, Master Storyteller.

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

A4. The area around the White Mountains of New Hampshire contains some of my favorite places on earth. Before our family fell apart, my father took us on epic driving trips throughout New England. Whenever we were in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, I did not want to go home. I loved those mountains. As an adult, I went on to climb many of them.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘The Man On The Moon’?

A5. For three consecutive summers, I vacationed in Pleasant Bay, Nova Scotia. Because Pleasant Bay is the most tranquil place I’ve ever been to (the population is about 100), I wondered what it would be like if I were to uncover some unspeakable horror buried in the town’s history. Out of that wondering came the fifth book in the William Snow series, “The Man on the Moon”.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘An Artificial Life’?

A6. Writing “An Artificial Life” was a grueling process. I began writing about the havoc I’d wreaked in my life (while dodging my own bullets and praying they wouldn’t kill anyone else) in the fall of 2012, which was when, at the age of sixty-six, I finally got clean. I finished “An Artificial Life” in May, 2026. Therefore, it took fourteen years to complete.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. My books can be purchased at Amazon and Barnes and Noble, or at my website LeithMacArthur.com

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘The Finding Man’?

A8. Coming up with the cover design for “The Finding Man” was easy. All six books in The William Snow series have the exact same image on the covers. The only difference is the color. The image of the hand coming up out of the water on those six covers is the opposite of the hand coming down out of the sky on the cover of “An Artificial Life”. The common theme is, “getting a hand”.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself.

A9. Keeping my writing fresh is easy. I write “the truth”, whether it be the actual truth in the story of my life, or the created “truth” of the stories in my head. Even though I have been blessed with an active imagination, I do my best to write stories that come across as possible.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A10. The most valuable piece of advice I’ve ever been given regarding writing is this: read, read, READ!

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Interview with author Bob Brill

Q1 Could you please start by introducing yourself to our readers?

A1. I’m a long-time author and radio veteran. I’ve been in radio broadcasting for 55 years mostly as a newscaster, reporter, journalist and formerly a disc jockey in my younger days. I’m a sports fan and got into radio to do sports back in 1972 and am a hopelessly devoted fan of my hometown teams from Pittsburgh. I love gaming but not video gaming and have written 17 books, produced a feature length documentary, several short films while writing 20 scripts and pilots. Yes I’m always busy.

Q2 What would you say is your strength as an author?

A2. Experience, creativity and an endless stream of ideas and that I’m willing to do several things at the same time.

Q3 What is your favorite part from your book ‘Lancer: Hero of the West: The Virginia City Affair’?

A3. The fact Lancer is a good guy who rarely loses, his love for Turkish Delight and of course his running into someone who really was a famous person at the time in almost every book.

Q4 How do you handle literary criticism?

A4. Like most people, not well, but I get over it figuring this is MY story, not theirs.

Q5 What do you like about audiobooks?

A5. I’ve only done two. I’m not a fan. They are necessary. Some people use them while driving, others who are visually challenged buy them because they love books but are unable to read them.

Q6 How has the experience of writing and publishing a book influenced your perception of yourself?

A6. It’s brought about the realization that I really am a creative. I was always bothered by the wondering how I would face the challenges of being a writer but now I don’t fear it, I just tackle it.

Q7 What, in your opinion, are the most important elements of good writing?

A7. Certainly not spelling as I’m the worst. I was known as the worst speller at UPI when I worked there. Thank the Good Lord for spellcheck. Good writing means breaking barriers, sometimes forgetting about the norms and do what you feel makes your story better. Punctuation and all that other stuff will fall into place but while you will always get challenged by editors on your creativity, I believe their job lies mainly in the corrective process.

Q8 What is your work schedule like when you are writing?

A8. I sit and write until my eyes go buggy or my wife says she needs some help with something. I write in the morning and the evening and in the afternoon and often just push through.

Q9 What is the significance of the title ‘Lancer: Hero of the West: The Virginia City Affair’?

A9. Each Lancer book is called an “Affair” meaning his challenges happen in a different city where he took the job. Prescott, AZ, Los Angeles, Broken Bow, New Orleans. Wherever he goes the Affair part follows. To be honest I stole (uh, borrowed) that from a great TV show in the 1960’s, which probably stole it from somewhere else. The Man From U.N.C.L.E, labelled each episode “the Affair” and I thought it was a good way to separate the Lancer stories.

Q10 What did you want to be when you grew up?

A10. A Major League Baseball Player.

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Interview with author Dawne Marie Strub

1. Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.

A1. I grew up in New Jersey and later moved to Tennessee with my husband and family. My educational background includes legal studies and graduate studies in professional writing, both of which have strengthened my research, analytical, and communication skills. I enjoy creative, academic, and faith-based writing because writing allows me to inform, encourage, and connect with others through meaningful ideas and stories. Along with continuing my journey as an author, I aspire to become a writing educator who helps students develop their skills, discover their unique voices, and recognize the value of their own stories.

2. What is the inspiration behind your book “Clyde the Alien Puppy: Commander of the Galaxy.”?

A2. The inspiration behind Clyde the Alien Puppy: Commander of the Galaxy came from a real experience when my husband and I found six abandoned puppies on a cold, damp evening along a rural mountain road. When we stopped, one puppy immediately jumped into our car, climbed onto my husband’s lap, and acted as though he already belonged with us. We later named him Clyde. As Clyde grew, we noticed his remarkable intelligence, athletic ability, and unusual behavior, which led my husband to jokingly call him an alien. That playful idea inspired me to imagine Clyde as the commander of an alien crew whose spacecraft had crashed in the nearby mountains. By combining our real rescue experience with imagination and humor, I created a story that explores trust, kindness, loyalty, gratitude, and the sense of belonging that can develop when someone offers help during a vulnerable moment.

3. When did you realize you want to be an author?

A3. I realized at a young age that I wanted to become an author. I enjoyed keeping a journal and expressing my thoughts through poems, stories, and songs. Writing gave me a creative way to use my imagination, explore my feelings, and share ideas. As I grew older and continued my education, my love for writing became a serious personal and professional goal. I came to understand that words can inform, inspire, encourage, and connect people.

4. Please tell us something about your book “Clyde the Alien Puppy: Commander of the Galaxy”.

A4. Clyde the Alien Puppy: Commander of the Galaxy is an imaginative children’s story centered on Clyde, a special puppy whose adventures extend far beyond Earth. The story combines humor, excitement, and space exploration as Clyde steps into the important role of Commander of the Galaxy. At its heart, the book encourages young readers to use their imaginations, believe in themselves, and recognize that even an unexpected hero can accomplish something remarkable. I hope readers will enjoy Clyde’s personality and have fun joining him on his galactic adventure.

5. For which age group is your book “Clyde the Alien Puppy: Commander of the Galaxy”?

A5. This book series is for children ages 3 – 8 years old, great for story time, and for early readers.

6. What is your favorite Quote?

A6. My favorite quote is, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you,” by Maya Angelou. This quote speaks to me because I have enjoyed writing since I was young, whether I was keeping a journal or writing poems, stories, and songs. It reminds me that our experiences and imaginations can become meaningful stories, but we must have the courage to write and share them with others.

7. What do you like the most about your country?

A7. What I appreciate most about the United States is the freedom we have to make our own choices and become the people we are meant to be. We have opportunities to pursue our goals, express our ideas, and create lives that reflect our values and beliefs. I believe these freedoms allow people to discover their purpose and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

8. What suggestion do you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?

A8. I encourage parents to introduce reading when their child is ready and to make it a consistent, positive experience. Be patient, kind, and encouraging while supporting your child’s natural curiosity and imagination. Children develop at different rates, and reading should never feel like a punishment or comparison. We are all perfectly imperfect, so children should be supported in their weaknesses as well as celebrated for their strengths. Most importantly, allow them to choose books that interest them and make reading an enjoyable time you can share together.

9. What does literary success look like to you?

A9. Literary success means seeing my writing inspire readers and make a meaningful difference in their lives. Although publishing accomplishments are important, true success is knowing that something I have written has encouraged someone, sparked a child’s imagination, or helped a reader see the world in a new way. If my stories remain in readers’ hearts and positively influence their lives, I will consider my work successful.

10. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?

A10. One person who inspires me is Melania Trump. I admire her beauty, determination, and the way she worked toward achieving her goals. I am especially inspired by the patience, thoughtfulness, and grace with which she carries herself in challenging situations. Her quiet strength reminds me that a person can remain composed, confident, and true to who they are, even while facing criticism or difficult circumstances.

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Interview with author James L Hill

Q1 Could you please start by introducing yourself to our readers?

A1. I am an award-winning multi-genre author and publisher. I started out as a sci-fi writer and penned books in adult urban crime, fantasy, and I am now working on a horror novel.

Q2 What would you say is your strength as an author?

A2. The ability to describe thrilling events quickly that build a story. It also creates an emotional bond with my readers.

Q3 What is your favorite part from your book ‘The Emerald Lady’?

A3. When Shera, a mermaid, is trying to save Jeremy and he in turn must keep her from drowning. It shows that each of them is willing to sacrifice for the other out of true love.

Q4 How do you handle literary criticism?

A4. All criticism is good, you must realize everyone will not like what you write. Finding out what they don’t like is important too. And if the criticism is valid it is a good way to improve your writing.

Q5 What do you like about audiobooks?

A5. When done well it can transport you into the story. Unlike movies and TV, audiobooks open your imagination to visualize the scenes.

Q6 How has the experience of writing and publishing a book influenced your perception of yourself?

A6. I have been writing for such a long time my perception of myself is set. However, writing and publishing allows me to live different realities.

Q7 What, in your opinion, are the most important elements of good writing?

A7. Clarity and imagination, to be able to create situations and relate them so anyone can understand, is what writing is all about.

Q8 What is your work schedule like when you are writing?

A8. When I am actually writing I pour every free minute into working at the keyboard. And when I am not at the keyboard, I am running dialogue and scenes in my head.

Q9 What is the significance of the title ‘The Emerald Lady’?

A9. The Emerald Lady is the first book in the Gemstone trilogy. Emeralds are precious and so are ladies. They are green which signifies the start of something great. 

Q10 What did you want to be when you grew up?

A10. A scientist. A chemist to be precise. But I like all the sciences, now I am a computer scientist and a software engineer.

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Interview with author Ira White

Q1 What is your favorite part from your book ‘The Children of Raven’s Reach’?

My favorite part is the love between Chase and Pearl. Love is the most wonderful feeling in the world and my description of the love between these two goes beyond physical and into the realm of metaphysical.

Q2 What would you say is your strength as an author?

My descriptive skills are the strongest arrow in my quill. Some of the comments I have received back this up.

Q3 How do you typically celebrate once you’ve completed a book?

I will go out for a special dinner and then sleep in as when I am working on a book or other large project, I get up at 4 a.m. because early morning is the time I work best.

Q4 How do you handle literary criticism?

I try to understand it and why my book prompted what was said about it. I want to be a better writer, and understanding the criticism you get is an important way to understand your creation.

Q5 What do you like about audiobooks?

I haven’t done an audiobook yet, but I plan to. What I don’t like is some of the readers have such flat tones with little inflection. I am trained in speaking and in oral interpretation, so if I do get an audio book out, it will be much more stimulating than some of the ones I have listened to.

Q6 How has the experience of writing and publishing a book influenced your perception of yourself?

Writing has given me more confidence in myself. I know I have the ability to write as my readers tell me that through their comments on my work.

Q7 What, in your opinion, are the most important elements of good writing?

Good writing is composed of knowing your subject, having a good vocabulary and a sense of what words to use in different situations, a creative mind, and a sense of the audience you are writing for.

Q8 What is your work schedule like when you are writing?

I get up at 4 a.m., pet my dogs for a few minutes, make coffee, then dive into writing. I will continue until about 8 a.m. when it’s time to feed the dogs and chickens and make something for me to eat. I will write again after breakfast until about 11 a.m. when it’s time for a walk with the dogs. Late in the afternoon, I will meditate and visualize what I will write next.

Q9 What is the significance of the title ‘The Children of Raven’s Reach’?

“It’s all about the children.” Raven’s Reach is the name of the property where the children are held. In the story, Raven’s Reach becomes transformed into a very different place.

Q10 What did you want to be when you grew up?

I’ve always wanted to be a writer.

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Interview with author Ann Charles

Q1. Could you please start by introducing yourself to our readers?

We are Ann Charles and Sam Lucky, and we co-author the Deadwood Undertaker series. We have been working on projects together for over twenty-five years—from rebuilding houses to raising children to herding cats. It was only a matter of time before we started telling stories together.

Q2. What would you say is your strength as an author?

It’s mostly about the storytelling. If we can improve that a little with every novel, that’s a good thing. To ice the cake, we’ve spent a lot of effort on polishing things that pull a reader away from the story, mainly, formatting and editing. Those things should be transparent, make the experience seamless, not get in the way.

Q3. What is your favorite part from your book ‘The Backside of Hades’?

The characters spend the entire time in a creepy settlement called Slagton. This book is pretty close to non-stop action the entire way through. Monsters die. Characters may or may not die. Knock down drag outs a plenty. It’s very actiony with not too many breathers to slow down the story. That’s fun. We learn more about the characters too, so that’s good.

Q4. How do you handle literary criticism?

Ha! It might sound flippant, but the quick answer would be, we don’t. At first, we thought it might make sense to read criticisms and reviews to gauge the reactions to the books, to see if the stories were hitting the way we wanted. Then, we pretty quickly realized that there are a lot of fun, good people who were enjoying what we do. Great! But, there are also those out there who seem to enjoy cutting authors down, and those reactions can sting a little. With a little experience, the skin gets tougher. In the end, we’ve decided to keep doing what we’re doing—bringing some fun and lightness, even if it’s just a little, to the readers who like our books. The rest? They can move on.

Q5. What do you like about audiobooks?

Oh boy! So many things. The voice talent makes a big difference, and Jason Culp is a humdinger. He’s nailed the characters in the Deadwood Undertaker Series in a way we doubt anyone else could. The connection is there now, when we read previous Undertaker books as a refresher or for particular phraseology or cadence. We hear his characterizations. We also hear them when we’re writing new scenes.

Narration really is a cool thing. It adds wonderful dimensions to every story and enables listeners to turn dead time into reading time. Driving, exercising, yardwork, and all those other times that require your eyes, become listening time. Is there anything better?

Q6. How has the experience of writing and publishing a book influenced your perception of yourself?

ANN here—I have a quote on my wall that an author friend once said, which pertains to this question: There’s nothing like authorhood to keep a person humble.

There are no truer words for me. There is no end point on this journey to create great stories (well, except for death). Every book is hard to write in a new way, especially if you like to change up themes and premises, like I do, in order to keep the readers satisfied and coming back for more. At the start of every story, I question my ability to deliver a well-crafted tale. At the end of every book, I am amazed with what ended up being on the page.

And then I have to send it out for readers, reviewers, and critics to judge. This process ends with ever-thickening skin.

Q7. What, in your opinion, are the most important elements of good writing?

Know the craft. It takes experience to bring all the components together in a way that’s entertaining. Sam’s mother, an English teacher, always said you’ve got to learn all the rules in order to know how to break them. That one sticks with him. Ann took English classes all over the place in college. Now, she’s breaking the rules like crazy.

Also, try to tell a story that resonates. A story that a reader will think about for hours or days after finishing the last page. Good stories will stick with a reader forever.

Q8. What is your work schedule like when you are writing?

If you’re familiar with Downton Abbey, we chuckle every time one of us pops the phrase “What is a week end?” into a conversation (this line was delivered by the Dowager Countess played by Maggie Smith). We didn’t really get into that series, but the line makes us laugh.

Really, our schedule entails writing into the evenings and weekends. Unlike an 8 to 5 job, we are able to schedule things with a lot of flexibility. Dentist appointment at 10AM or a visit to the car at the mechanic? No problem. Dropping off and picking up the kids to/from school? Covered. (Thanks be our kids are now in college, so no more daily drop offs/pickups!). But writing for a living also means discipline is needed. Otherwise, it’s pretty easy to get behind. Start late? Write late. There is no quitting time and sliding down the dinosaur’s back like Fred Flinstone.

Q9. What is the significance of the title ‘The Backside of Hades?

SAM here—I’m not sure I’ve thought of it in terms of it being significant in some revelatory or life changing way for me or anyone else. At its base, it’s just a part of a continuing story of some people I know well who’ve had some interesting adventures. It does occur to me, some of the responses my wife (Ann Charles) has received from her readers has had an influence on the way I think about what we do. To hear that her work has helped quite a few people through some difficult times, with laughter and connections with the characters in some way or another … well, come on. To brighten someone’s day, even by just a little? That seems significant to me. If I can do that, too? That’s a success. 

Q10. What did you want to be when you grew up?

This has been a deceptively simple question for us since we were pipsqueaks. It was always asked, usually in an offhanded way, by someone (an aunt or a mother’s hairdresser) who isn’t really that interested in the answer. But, boy, did it put us on the spot.

SAM:  I remember I used to steal other kids answers for that one. In grammar school, I think ‘astronaut’ filled that slot a lot.
There are too many possibilities. How is someone expected to pick just one? I’ll get back to you.

ANN: I can tell you what I didn’t want to be—an author. Sure, I loved books, but writing them? Eek, that was a lot of work. I loved to read, though, often daydreaming about books I read and how I might change them a little to fit my liking more. That led to me trying my hand at a book in my mid-20s. From there, the desire to keep telling stories grew.

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Interview with author Seth Voorhees

Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

A1. I’m a dark fiction author who lives in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The hills are a great place to draw inspiration. When I’m not writing, I’m either reading, shore fishing, hiking around the hills, walking in the park with my family, or entertaining our family rabbit, Snowball. I’m employed at a non-profit as an evidence-based curriculum educator and trainer, serving youth ages 10-19 who are homeless, living in residential settings, in schools, or in foster care. My work requires travel both in and out of state, taking me all over to meet fun and exciting people. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Sociology and Psychology from Black Hills State University.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Mid-Glow”?

A2. Set in the 1940s, right around the time of Pearl Harbor, I wanted to ensure its authenticity and realism. I wanted to ensure that I got the feel right, including the cars, the clothing, and the speech.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

A3. That list is long because many have inspired me over the years. When it comes to books, there are I Am Legend, The Goosebumps Series, The Shining, and Hatchet. Past authors include R.L. Stine and Stephen King. But lately it has been Jennier McMahon, Darcy Coates, and Catrina Ward.

Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

A4. Out of state, my favorite place has been San Francisco. I explored Alcatraz Island, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Fort Point. The ocean is always mesmerizing, and I walked along the boardwalk. In state, my favorite place is Lake Pactola, a wonderful spot to get attuned to nature. I’m a spiritual person, and nature is a big part of how I recharge. It is also my favorite fishing hole.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Mid-Glow’?

A5. I never have a complete picture when I start a project. One idea and scene build on the other. Originally, I wanted to write about the Depression era and my own version of Bonnie and Clyde. But I’m not a plotter, as I said, and eventually the book took on a mind of its own, with one path building on another, and so forth, eventually leading to the finished product.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Mid-Glow’?

A6. With all of the drafts and revisions, it took about a year to get it to a point where it could be published.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Readers can buy my books on any online platform. The two I recommend are Amazon and Barnes & Noble. They can also go into any bookstore and order my books. I encourage them to support their local and smaller bookstores and to encourage those stores to carry my books.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Mid-Glow’?

A8. I have a friend who is artistic and has more skills than I do, and I had them produce the cover.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself.

A9. For me, writing is free-flowing, and the ideas that are good stick with me and can be built on. Usually, the “what comes next” thought occurs during those in-between writing sessions when I’m busy with my other life responsibilities. If it doesn’t happen, the story wasn’t going anywhere, and it gets tossed.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A10. Do it for joy and be yourself. Don’t worry about comparing yourself to other authors. Comparison is the biggest thief of joy and can take away your desire to create.

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