Category: Author Interview

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Interview with author Robert Starnes

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

A1. I was born in a small town in Northeast Texas, where my journey with the written word began. In middle school, I discovered a love for writing short stories, a passion that blossomed despite the challenges I faced with dyslexia. To overcome my learning disability, I immersed myself in reading books that were adapted into movies, exploring the differences between the written and visual narratives. This practice not only improved my understanding of language but also enriched my appreciation for storytelling.

With a professional background in customer service and property management that spans over 24 years, my experiences bring depth and authenticity to my writing. My diverse career has given me a keen insight into human nature, which is reflected in my characters and storylines.

My first published work was The Multifamily Housing Guide – Leasing 101 in 2016, a guide aimed at assisting new leasing professionals in the multifamily housing industry. This guide provided practical tools and advice to help them succeed in their new career, making their transition easier and more efficient.

Building on my early success, I ventured into the world of fiction, writing the Saving History Series, a young adult historical fiction series. The five-book series has earned me the title of #1 best seller on Amazon, and the second book of the series debuted at #64 on Barnes & Noble’s top 100. My novels draw inspiration from the past, present, and future, offering readers captivating and thought-provoking narratives.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “A.N.D.R.E.”?

A2. My challenges while writing A.N.D.R.E. were mostly researching AI in general. There are so many types of AI in the world today, another challenge I ran across was how was I going to be able to make my AI different than others. I didn’t want my Artificial Intelligence Beings (A.I.B.) to be a typical bot or android being. I wanted them look human, while not having feelings or emotions in their programming. Then figuring out a way for one of the original A.I.B.s to have human feelings and emotions without a need for his creators programming, but to be more organic. Which I believe I have managed to achieve in A.N.D.R.E.

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

A3. I can tell you John Grisham is one of my favorite authors, though I also find inspiration in the works of Suzanne Collins, Stephenie Meyer, Dan Brown, and Jobie Hughes. One of my all-time favorite books is ‘A Painted House’ by John Grisham. The way he was able to tell such a unique story and for me to be able to imagine each character fascinated me. I wanted to be that created in my writing, which is a working process to say. I was inspired for ‘Saving History Series’ from reading series by Stephenie Meyer for her ‘The Twilight Saga’, Suzanne Collins’ ‘Hunger Games’ collection, Dan Browns collection of ‘Robert Langdon’ books like ‘The Da Vinci Code’, ‘Angels & Demons’, ‘Lost Symbol’, and ‘Inferno.’ Then I fell in love with Jobie Hughes collection of ‘Pittacus Lore’ books like ‘I am Number Four’ all the way through ‘United as One.’

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

A4. I love to travel, but one of my favorite spots to visit is the big island of Hawaii, Kona. It may be the big island; it really is a small place. The beaches are amazing, the people are friendly, food is excellent, and so many tourist spots like volcanos and waterfalls.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘A.N.D.R.E.’?

A5. My inspiration for writing ‘A.N.D.R.E.’ came from my mom actually. She works as a movie producer and has been working on several sci-fi movies, and shorts, with her best friend for the past few years. Seeing the films they create inspired me to see what I could do if I applied myself to try writing different genres. I have written business books and a YA Historical Fiction Series, so I figured my next stop was science fiction.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘A.N.D.R.E.’?

A6. I began writing ‘A.N.D.R.E.’ in May 2023 and finished it the end of March 2024, so almost a year to complete it.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. My books are sold on almost all platforms. You can find my books on Amazon, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble online, Books-a-Million online, and my website for links. http://www.starnesbooksllc.com

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘A.N.D.R.E.’?

A8. The over art was a collaboration between my editor, Pat Carpenter with Carpenter Editing Services LLC, and myself. We spend a weekend in Florida brainstorming and bouncing ideas off each other until we found a concept we both liked. From there we just continued to change one thing or another with the buildings above ground or how humans were living underground. We spent days on the cover art and after three days of work in Florida, we had a finished product. We wanted to incorporate as much of the story in the cover as we could without giving too much away. The cover becomes obvious once you read the book.

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

A9. To keep things fresh for me is to keep an eye out for anything new happening in the world to see if it my pertain to what I am currently writing at the time. I also like to post updates on my WIPs on my social media platforms, My Facebook pages, LinkedIn, Instagram, and X. I like to let my followers and fans know when they can expect my upcoming projects.

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

A10. The most valuable piece of advice I have been given was to never stop writing. If you have a story in your head, write it. Every story has an audience, you must get out there and find the right audience for your story. If you have a book that you think is a failure, before writing the book off, try changing your audience. You may fail with one group of readers and excel when you find your true audience. Research categories you can place your book in. It could find into several markets. I sci-fi novel would find in Science Fiction and Romance at the same time, depending on the content. Find those different areas of your book and market it again with new audiences.

Buy Book on Amazon

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Interview with author Mark K. McClain

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

A1. Hello one and all! As a teenager I wrote short stories for pleasure and relaxation. My passion for stories has never faded.

As a former columnist/staff writer for a local newspaper I have penned more than forty outdoor-related articles. I have also published several full-length pieces for magazines, including local history articles, parenting column,s and articles in both China and Uganda.

Fantasy, Sci-Fi, and Horror hold special places in my heart. Currently, I have two published YA Fantasy novels (Books 1 & 2 of the series: The Ruinous Curse) with the third and final installment being written now. In addition, I have one short story horror collection. (Passages of Peculiarity.)

Also, I advocate for animals rights and love the outdoors, especially the mountains.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Passages of Peculiarity”?

A2. Honestly, the creative process for PoP was thrilling. It was my first venture into short stories and my maiden voyage into horror, as well. My key challenge was forcing my mindset into a ‘short story’ mode. Along the way, I discovered I love that style of writing more than I would have believed. I am proud of my end result.

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

A3. My writing style developed due to authors such as J.R.R. Tolkien, David Eddings, Isaac Asimov, Agatha Christie, Stephen King, and others too numerous to mention.

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

A4. I love the mountains. I do not have a particular spot as I have traveled quite a bit and it would be quite difficult to pick just one. I feel at home around wildlife, trees, and the tranquility certain spots can bring. With that said, I do gravitate toward the ancient forests of Washington state.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Passages of Peculiarity’?

A5. I often tell my clients, especially if they are stuck writing their current genre, to ‘step outside of what you know and try a completely different project.’ (As I did by delving into horror) This can guide you into a wonderfully creative adventure and lead you down paths you never realized where inside you.

Stepping outside my comfort zone gave me inspiration for PoP. (I actually took my own advice!)

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Passages of Peculiarity’?

A6. Surprisingly, the stories flowed one after another. There are 11 stories within PoP. I kept it short on purpose to gauge reader reception to the collection. However, PoP 2 will contain 15 or more stories. (I have already completed four of those.)

As a proud side note, some of my stories from PoP were accepted for publication by several different presses. I am thrilled to see my work in upcoming anthologies.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. All my works can be found on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Nook, Apple Books, and more. I also have an LIB (Link in Bio) on my social media sites like LinkedIn and FB. Simply click on that and you will have a direct link to Amazon if that is your preference.)

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Passages of Peculiarity’?

A8. I LOVE my cover. (I know I am admittedly biased) Jess LaGreca, who is a fabulous designer, came up with the final version after we discussed what ‘feel’ I wanted. (I wanted a Gothic, creepy feel.) I am so pleased with the results.

As for the title, PoP was to be unique. It took me quite some time to find the right wording that fit my stories. Keep in mind, this collection is not themed. Meaning they are not simply a collection of slasher stories or the like. These stories range from modern day to gothic era. Some characters even have a Sherlock Holmes mentality and personality, while conversely, there are a pair of murderous teenagers, or a young grave robbing trio.

My characters are what I love most. Even though these are short stories (aka Shorts, as I call them) you can relate to them in one aspect or another.

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

A9. I gravitate toward fantasy and horror because nothing is out of bounds, so to speak. Take Stephen King for example. He has written about possessed cars, an alien clown, and more. Very original and well done.

Fantasy and Sci-Fi wise, you have otherworldly creatures and races, talking dragons, light sabers, and so on. These imaginative genres feels like playgrounds for your mind. Nothing is really out of bounds and that is thrilling. (Tolkien is my fantasy ‘hero’ by the way.)

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

A10. The best, and truest, advice would be: Your first book will not be perfect. It may be close, but as your experience grows, you will look back on it and understand just how far you have come and see the flaws in it.

Salman Rushdie say he took his first novels and shoved them in a drawer years ago. He never published them. Now, when he looks at them, he is very thankful he did not. I believe that is a natural progression for writers.

I tell that story to my clients, especially those seeking instant fame or fortune with their first novel. Writing is a very humbling, and often frustrating, experience. Which is why I formed my own editing /writing coach business. It is my way of being here for any authors who need a guiding hand. Simply put, I adore the written word and helping writers come into their own is what I love to do.

Buy Passages of Peculiarity by Mark on Amazon

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Interview with author Jô Zanardini

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

A1. Hi! My name is Jô Zanardini and I’m a Municipal Attorney and have been working since 2011. I have a postgraduate degree in Contemporary Law and training in Leadership from Harvard University.

In addition to my legal career, I am a Writer and Researcher, passionate about topics related to personal and professional development, spirituality and Christianity.

I published the “Transformation” series, which received several recommendations from literary critics and influencers.

Book 1 : 📚Transform your life and inspire people

Book 2 : 📚How to maintain stable and lasting relationships

Book 3: 📚 Principles for a life with more happiness and love

Volume I was a finalist for the Book Brazil award in the 2021 – non-fiction category.

It also received reading recommendations from magazines such as Exame magazine, which chose the book as one of the bedside books to inspire entrepreneurs.

My goal is to contribute to the positive transformation of people and society, through law, writing and research.

I believe that knowledge, ethics and faith are powerful tools to achieve this purpose.

And finally, I live in Curitiba with my husband and son and love traveling and connecting with people.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “How to maintain stable and lasting relationships”?

A2. One of the biggest challenges I faced when writing my book was balancing time to dedicate to writing and work, family and other responsibilities such as speaking engagements and events. It really wasn’t easy to find consistent moments to focus on my project.

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

A3. Many authors influenced me in my writing, but to name the main ones I can say that C S Lewis and his excellent books and, of course, the Holy Bible, as well as several scientists such as John Carson Lennox.

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

A4. I love the cities of Santa Catarina for various reasons: beaches, sunshine, lots of nature.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘How to maintain stable and lasting relationships’?

A5. I sought to create an informative, inspiring and practical book. So, my inspirations went beyond personal experiences, and observation of everyday life and surroundings, I focused a lot on research and academic studies to understand how to build a solid foundation of fundamental principles that support healthy relationships, seeking empirical evidence and practical strategies to maintain stability in relationships and also in success stories that worked for many people.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘How to maintain stable and lasting relationships’?

A6. Between writing and revising it took about 12 months.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Amazon

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘How to maintain stable and lasting relationships’?

A8. As the book is part of a series, the first concern was to have a connection with the first book.

I thought about adding people in deep connection and seeking to convey a feeling of peace around them.

As for the title, before I even started the book I already knew that I wanted the title to represent the essence of the book’s content.

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

A9. Each author has their way, but I always tried to take notes, and always reread the text so that things were fresh in my mind.

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

A10. The advice that I consider most valuable was that we should love what we do and always be practicing, this way we can overcome any creative block, or desire to give up on the project.

Buy How to maintain stable and lasting relationships on Amazon

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Interview with author Kathleen Welton

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

A1. I advocate for beaches, birds, and wildlife and write picture books and screenplays. I began my book publishing career as a college textbook sales rep. Since then, I have served as senior editor for Dow Jones-Irwin, publisher for Dearborn Trade, vice president and publisher for IDG Books, director for H&R Block, and director of book publishing for the American Bar Association. As publisher of aka Associates, I collaborate with authors and organizations on book and writing projects. After serving as a book publishing professional for many years, I am excited to begin the next chapter of my career as a writer. I am especially grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with amazing editors and illustrators on the publication and debut of my first picture books. When I am not writing, I enjoy meditating, reading, and exploring the Lake Michigan shoreline.

  1. What is your inspiration behind your book “The Magic Sea Turtle”?

A2. I love sea turtles. I got more involved with them when I first “adopted” a sea turtle nest from Outer Banks Forever. Sea turtles are an endangered species and their habitats are threatened. I wanted to write a book that celebrates the majesty of these creatures and hopefully helps support them. A portion of the revenue from the sales of “The Magic Sea Turtle” go to SEE Turtles to help protect sea turtle habitats around the world.

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

A3. It wasn’t until a few years that I truly believed in my own ability to be a writer of my own work. In addition to the support and encouragement that I received in my writing classes at UCLA Extension, a friend of mine kept asking to read my stories and then suggested that I write books for kids. So…I reached out to a couple of picture book publishers and while some rejected me outright there were two who loved my ideas and gave me the opportunity to move forward. I was fortunate to find great editors and publishing pros to project manage the entire publishing process including choosing illustrators and providing wonderful ideas throughout every step of the way. While it was a long time coming for me to be a writer, I finally feel like I have found my true purpose!

  1. Please tell us something about your book “The Magic Sea Turtle”?

A4. In The Magic Sea Turtle young Myrtle, who, like so many youngsters, dreams of being a queen in her world, tumbles into the sea, and is rescued via a magic carpet to their friends in the ocean. There, she meets dolphins, swordfish, an otter, flying fish, swans, and a magic sea turtle. Myrtle feels so welcome and at home in the sea that she decides she would like to stay and play. Myrtle learns that sometimes you can find an even better place than you first imagined and that everything is possible if we believe in ourselves.

  1. For which age group is your book “The Magic Sea Turtle” suitable for?

A5. My publisher, Bookfox Press has chosen the age range of 4-9. I wrote it for anyone who wants their wishes and dream to come true.

  1. What is your favorite Quote?

A6. “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” –Eleanor Roosevelt

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

A7 The beauty of the USA is amazing. I was lucky to grow up near the beaches in Southern California. I love beaches, birds, and wildlife and support organizations that have a passion for sustainability and work to keep “America the Beautiful” the best it can be for today and for future generations.

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

A8. Start early. One of my first memories is reading books. My mother gave me a copy of “A Friend is Someone Who Likes You” by Joan Walsh Anglund. That book is still one of my favorites and inspired my love of books at a very early age. I have a picture of myself as a young child holding a book upside down in the back of the family station wagon while I slept. So having a book in a child’s hands has always been vitally important to me.

  1. What does literary success look like to you?

A9. Literary success to me is enjoying the journey. I love to learn new things and the world of picture books is a big world filled with wonderful people. I am happy to be a part of everything. My dream is to have a feature film made based on one of my books one day,

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

A10. Women writers including Eleanor Roosevelt. Emily Dickinson. Joan Walsh Anglund, Mary Oliver, and Kay Ryan. All these writers worked diligently at their creative craft. Eleanor Roosevelt was dedicated to writing 500 words a day at times in her life. Joan Walsh Anglund wrote and illustrated her books in her kitchen while she cared for her children. The poet including Mary Oliver, Kay Ryan, and Emily Dickinson were also dedicated to their craft for many years as well as the joy of sharing the wonder of words and wisdom.

Buy The Magic Sea Turtle on Amazon

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Interview with author M Thomas Apple

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

A1. My name is M Thomas Apple. I’m originally from Troy, New York, but my family moved around a lot when I was a kid. We ended up in a small village in the Adirondack Mountains, and I still have a strong love of forests and mountains, hiking and camping, everything Nature. After college, I also moved around a lot, trying to find my way (Michigan, Indiana, Massachusetts…). I ended up teaching English in Japan, where I fell in love and started a family and living, you guessed it, in the mountains.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Bringer of Light”?

A2. Trying to stay motivated despite a busy work schedule! I’m not a full time writer, but a full time teacher. Also, the original story idea and concepts came from a friend whose background was much more science-oriented than mine. So I had to do a lot of research to make sure things made sense.

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

A3. I’ve read most of the work by the “Big Three” of science fiction (Isaac Asimov, Arthur C. Clarke, Robert Heinlein), but Ray Bradbury’s Martian Chronicles and Frank Herbert’s Dune are probably the most influential.

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

A4. I love taking my family to visit Natural Stone Bridge & Caves, in Pottersville, New York. It’s a massive natural cavern with a walking trail along a small creek with loads of outdoor activities for kids. And the handmade ice cream store nearby is the proverbial icing on the cake!

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Bringer of Light’?

A5. An old friend of mine and I came up with the idea after reading about the possibilities of mining asteroids for rare and valuable metals. But we wondered what would happen to the people who actually went looking for the asteroids, how others would react to changes to the way they viewed the universe and their place in it. And naturally how this would affect the politics that inevitably wind up tangled together with space exploration and settlement.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Bringer of Light’?

A6. From start to finish, nearly ten years! It was slow going in the beginning, since it was originally a joint project, and when my friend gave me everything, I needed to start over to make the characters my own.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Nearly everywhere! It’s of course on Amazon, in paperback/hardcover and Kindle, and the ePub is available through multiple online platforms such as Smashwords and the Apple Store. Just visit Books2Read.com (https://books2read.com/b/bp1yqE)

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Bringer of Light’?

A8. I went through many iterations of the book cover — most of them way too complicated — before settling on a simple photo of Mars, which, after all, is where most of the characters end up and whose water needs to drive the plot. The book title is a reference to the Greek god Apollo, who brings both light and pestilence. However, many other mythologies feature a light bringer and thus the title draws together beliefs from multiple cultures.

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

A9. I read constantly — especially things of a mythical, mystical, and scientific nature. Keeping up to date with NASA, ESA, JAXA etc discoveries means I can make sure my writing stays as accurate as possible, and maintaining a mystical connection to nature means (I hope) I can continue to maintain a sense of wonder in my writing.

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

A10. “Just do it.” At some point, more outline or plotting or character backgrounds just keeps you from doing what is necessary — just write, and let the words flow.

Book is available on Amazon

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Interview with author Portia Y. Clare

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

A1. My name is Portia Y. Clare. I am a left-handed only child who loves spending time with family, bowling, singing, and writing children’s books. I am the author of three children’s books – Best Friends Forever: A Puppy’s Tale, His Name is My Daddy, and Life is More Than This Covington Pond. I am a citizen of the United States and The Commonwealth of The Bahamas. I am grateful to be in my 32nd year of teaching. Simply put, I teach because I love children. I believe that I was born to teach.

  1. What is your inspiration behind your book “Life is More Than This Covington Pond”?

A2. My inspiration for writing Life is More Than This Covington Pond is two-fold. First, this story is inspired by true events in the life of My Mommy, Jane Ann Easterling Clare. It is her story. Second, it is a story that inspires children and adults to dream big, to see beyond their immediate surroundings, and to imagine the endless possibilities that are available to them and through them.

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

A3. I realized at a young age that I enjoyed creative writing. My writing journey began in second grade when I wrote a story about my visit to The Statue of Liberty. The story won first prize in a writing contest, which made creative writing even more special, and helped to spark my genuine interest in becoming an author!

  1. Please tell us something about your book “Life is More Than This Covington Pond”?

A4. Life is More Than This Covington Pond by Portia Y. Clare is a heart-warming story about a little girl named Nann who wonders and dreams with her eyes wide open, always imagining the possibilities. It is a story that sparks the imagination and motivates readers to dream big and believe that their dreams really can come true!

  1. For which age group is your book “Life is More Than This Covington Pond” suitable for?

A5. I believe that Life is More Than This Covington Pond by Portia Y. Clare is suitable for children between the ages of six and ten. It is also truly inspirational for those who are children at heart!

  1. What is your favorite Quote?

A6. My favorite quote is, “Choices are long-lasting and life-changing!”
– Episcopal Pastor John A. Cherry

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

A7. What I like most about our country is that it is a melting pot of many cultures that come together to enhance and create a beautiful tapestry known around the world as the United States of America.

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

A8. My suggestion to parents is to begin to form the habit of reading in your children while they are in the womb. Reading encourages thinking, and everything begins with a thought. Make the habit of reading a family tradition that opens your children’s minds and that nurtures their abilities to dream and imagine and explore the wonder of it all!

  1. What does literary success look like to you?

A9. Literary success looks like a child at play who becomes the main character of a story that was read or heard, and is now acting the part and expanding on that part in his or her dreams and imagination! It is a story that becomes a part of that child and that is requested and selected and recommended over and over again by that child.

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

A10. My inspiration for life and for beginning to write children’s books was My Daddy, Mr. Randolph George Clare, Jr. I clearly remember the afternoon when My Daddy asked, “Scoop, how is your writing coming along? I know that you said you want to write children’s books. Have you begun to write anything yet?” I told him that I had several ideas and stories in my head, but that I had not put them on paper yet. He responded, “Scoop, do it NOW. NOW is the acceptable time. TODAY is the day of salvation. You have so much on the inside of you that will help children to grow, develop, and learn. Begin to share that gift with them NOW.”
So, with My Daddy’s admonition, I began to write children’s books. My Daddy went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, June 14, 2020. My heart’s desire remains to honor My Daddy and My Mommy through my writing, through my teaching, and through my character.

Buy Life is More Than This Covington Pond on Amazon

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Interview with author Robin L.R. Kellogg

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

A1. Hi everyone. I’m Robin Kellogg. I’m an author, business owner, copywriter, and course instructor residing in Los Angeles, CA. It All Began with a Goodbye is my third book but my first novel. In 2014, I published A Life Put on Hold: My Son’s Journey with a Brain Injury and the Lessons I’ve Learned Along the Way. Two years later, in 2016, I published an ebook, 12 Steps to Better Business Communications, which I updated in 2021. My most recent endeavor, It All Began with a Goodbye, is my first attempt at fiction.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “It All Began with a Goodbye”?

A2. The book is set in 1930s and 1940s America, so I had to be sure that all the technology, language, and behaviors reflected that era and that section of the USA. The country was on a roller coaster, first experiencing the Great Depression and then entering World War II. Against this backdrop, Sarah, born a year before the stock market crash in 1929, straddles two worlds: that of her immigrant family and being a young woman in the U.S. I thought about this book for several years before I wrote it, trying to figure out how I would weave Sarah’s adventures with a subplot that enhanced the story and somehow connected with her profession as a bookkeeper.

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

A3. There’s not one author or book that I can reference. The books I love to read are written by authors like Margaret Atwood, Toni Morrison, Charmaine Wilkerson, James Clavell, Viet Thanh Nguyen and so many others.

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

A4. I love the East Coast. I grew up in New Jersey, and the change of seasons is spectacular, especially during the fall. The tree leaves are a palette of colors—shades of burgundy, amber, and rose. I also enjoy visiting New Jersey because I miss having easy access to New York City and all that it has to offer.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘It All Began with a Goodbye’?

A5. My mother passed away in 2005. She had always talked about growing up in that era, which made me feel a connection to it. When I started writing the story, I tried to modernize the storyline, but it still felt like the characters were part of another era. So, I started over and wrote it for that period.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘It All Began with a Goodbye’?

A6. It took about four and a half years. I did a lot of research on that era in my country’s history and was focused on creating three-dimensional characters that resonated with my potential readers.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. A Life Put on Hold (pen name Evie Rosen) and 12 Steps to Better Business Communications are available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. It All Began with a Goodbye can be purchased on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Reader House, and iTunes.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘It All Began with a Goodbye’?

A8. I struggled with the title for this book. Finally, one day I started writing down the themes in the book and one was that Sarah kept losing significant people in her life. Her mother died, her brother went off to war and her younger brother was taken from the family for two years. So that’s when It All Began with a Goodbye seemed like the perfect title for this book. Since the story is set in a specific era of U.S. history, I needed the cover to reflect it. The kitchen was the hearth of the home. It’s where all the action happened. Additionally, one of the themes in the book is making or having a cup of tea. It seemed natural to have two teacups set on a kitchen table. There is also a pile of mail on the table, reflecting how hand-written correspondence was a huge part of everyone’s life. And finally, I wanted a sepia tone in the image so that it looked old. I sent pictures and suggestions to the graphic designers at Newman Springs Publishing, and they produced the cover. I’m pleased with how it turned out and I believe that it helps transport the reader back in time.

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

A9. I read it aloud to myself over, and over again, and then pass it along to members of my writing group to get their feedback. When writing this book, I wanted to set each chapter up so the reader would be left guessing what would happen next.

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

A10. Read, read, read. Writers, at least decent writers, are also readers. Reading others’ works not only gives you a sense of how to develop your own style but also opens you to other storylines and writing approaches.

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Interview with author Michael C. Higgins

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

A1. For more than twenty years, author, photographer and wine expert Michael C. Higgins has been the publisher of Flying Adventures, a lifestyle travel magazine for food and wine lovers who own and travel on private airplanes. As a private pilot, travel enthusiast and food and wine lover himself, Higgins continues to live the story he’s been sharing for decades.

Between the magazine and this book series, Higgins has participated in some of the most extraordinary experiences. He has virtually done it all: from pruning vines, picking grapes, working alongside winemakers, to participating in blind tastings, food and wine pairings, judging Cru Bourgeois wines, and sharing many meals with world-renowned winemakers over countless hours, discussing everything wine. His time in wine regions adds up to thousands of days and counting. And as an accomplished photographer, he has captured even more spectacular images of the wine world.

Higgins has participated in many unique wine experiences, indulged in the most exclusive culinary affairs, been pampered in highly luxurious destinations and jumped into the wildest of adventures. His goal is to inspire his readers to join him in exploring the wine regions of the world and experiencing the unimaginable. Higgins has a BA in Commercial Art, an MBA and a PhD in Business Administration. He is a California native and lives in Pasadena, California.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Exploring Wine Regions: Argentina”?

A2. Since this is my first book, I was faced with all the challenges of beginning a new business. I know a lot about print publishing from the publishing of my magazine Flying Adventures over 20 years. So, producing the Argentina book I completely understand creating a beautiful physical publication. However, the distribution is different. Fortunately, I was able to create a relationship with the largest book distributor in the world, Baker and Taylor Publisher Services, so this created a large distribution in small and large bookstores across the country.

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

A3. My books are unique. There is nothing else like them. Spending four years to create the content to produce a book makes them quite special and unique. And being a photographer, this is my favorite part of the book. Creating spectacular beautiful photographs unlike anything else you would ever see.

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

A4. The California Wine Regions are some of the best in the world. And with my current book being on the Central Coast of California, this is a very special place for me. The wines are extraordinary. The food is amazing. The tourism is awesome. And the landscapes are ever so beautiful. All types of wines are made here, so I can indulge in whatever I desire at the moment.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Exploring Wine Regions: California Central Coast’?

A5. After completing my first book on Argentina, my distributor and I looked at what would be the most important wine regions to produce books. The two that we decided on were Bordeaux France and California USA. Bordeaux became my second book and California became my third book. The reason for the Central Coast is simple. Napa Valley and Sonoma are very well-known and so the Central Coast gets lost in the shadow of their success. The Central Coast Wine Regions are amazing and they produce some of the best wines in California. So I wanted to show my readers what an amazing place this is to visit.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Exploring Wine Regions: Bordeaux France’?

A6. The Argentina trip took four years. Bordeaux France took another four years. The California Central Coast took three years. And fortunately, my next book on México is only one more year.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. My books can be found in physical bookstores, as well as ordering them online at all the major venues you can think of. The big ones like Barnes & Noble and Amazon, as well as the small local bookstores, which are very important to support. We also produce a Travel Edition e-book, which is available through Apple and Amazon.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Exploring Wine Regions: México’?

A8. The overall look, design and graphics of all the covers remain the same, including México. What is different on the México cover is the photograph, which is a beautiful hacienda in Valle de Guadalupe. It just felt very stylish México. The other difference on the México cover is the subhead: Exploring México’s Quality Wines And Phenomenal Cuisine. People think of Mexico for tequila as this is where the trademark tequila region exists in the world. People don’t normally think of México for wine. However, México produces high-quality wines and I have found those quality wineries and pointed them out in the books. The other great part of México is the food. And I’m not speaking of necessarily Mexican food. You can eat some of the best cuisine you’ll ever taste in the world.

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

A9. This is a very interesting question. I am often asked why write about different wineries because they are all the same. A winery makes wine and the process is the same from one winery to the next. To me, each winery is unique. I tell people to read my books and then I get the responses of wow, it’s amazing how different each winery can be. When visiting wineries, I only do one winery per day. This way I can focus on what makes that winery unique. I spend time with the winemaker, the vintner/owner, and the agronomist if they have one, and I explore their vineyards, winery, cellar, tasting room, and restaurant, and get involved with all of their activities, which collectively makes each winery it’s own unique special place. This is how things stay fresh for me. On every trip, I always learn something new.

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

A10. That I have a great voice. That I should keep this style of writing. I received this feedback from some of the judges who have judged my books and honored them with awards.

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Interview with author Deborah Threadgill Egerton

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

I describe myself as a matriarch, a mentor and a mystic.

As a Matriarch, I’ve cultivated a global sisterhood, providing a nurturing space for women from all walks of life to explore and celebrate their diverse cultures, customs, and values. I offer the gift of guidance and support, offering the wisdom I’ve obtained from my experience to women of varied backgrounds.In my role as Mentor, I’ve dedicated myself to shaping the future generations, not through wealth or power, but through the sturdy foundation of love, wisdom, and respect for humanity. I aim to leave behind shoulders strong enough for them to stand on, inspiring them to craft something truly extraordinary.

As a Mystic, I traverse the world with a heart filled with joy, embracing the beautiful tapestry of humanity. My faith is my anchor, guiding me to trust in the power of love as the ultimate source of strength.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Enneagram Made Easy”?

The key challenges were distilling the Enneagram down into understandable terms without losing its essence or power. I could easily have written hundreds of more pages!

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

I too am a voracious reader so my interests are very broad. In this vein of thought it would have to be. C. G.Jung, Richard Rohr, Pema Chodron, Russ Hudson and Beatrice Chestnut.

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

I was born there. It will always be home and the city energizes me.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Know Justice Know Peace’?

There is great power in looking at the way you are showing up in the world. I believe if people slow down and take a look at the consequences of their actions, they might change their behaviors. The Enneagram helps you to do that, and with all the ways that we marginalize people all over the world it’s important to have some tools in place that will help us to look at the way we are “othering“ people, as in treating them like objects. Kindness matters.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Enneagram Made Easy’?

About a year.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

My books are available everywhere books are sold. Amazon, Barnes and noble even target Walmart. The easiest way to access my books and audio books is to go to my website Deborahegerton.com. The links to the books take you directly to a purchasing option.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Know Justice Know Peace’?

The book cover, is really part of the creative genius of my co-author Lisi Mohandessi. Lisi is a graphic artist. We both wanted something that represented Beauty and strife at the same time. The colors of the book are beautiful and yet there is something somewhat twisted and tortured in the graphic depiction of the human terrain. It’s what we look like beneath the surface of the skin.

The title came quickly. We will never be able to elevate the consciousness of the human species if we do not understand Justice and Peace. We must take the time and get to Know Justice and Know Peace if we are to move forward.

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

I make sure that I remain very present. I don’t try to force words to come I actually let the words come through me. When the words are not there, I let it be until they come back and then I will resume the writing. Everything comes in its correct time and season  I trust that,and that is how I write.

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

someone told me once, (and I don’t remember who) that anything that was meant to be written by me would come through me. I have found that to be true. Writing is something that I enjoy. I do not labor over it. I do not stress during the process of trying to allow a book to be born. A book cannot be born before it is ready, and I have the wisdom in this season of my life to recognize that.

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Interview with author Richard

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

A1. My name is Dick (Richard) Contino and I am an attorney / businessman, specializing primarily in the finance area. I founded and co-founded a number of businesses as well as joint ventures with major companies, and currently I am the CEO of a relatively new business that sets up finance companies for equipment manufacturers, the Managing Director of a specialized investment banking company and the founder and managing partner of an equipment leasing specialized law firm.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Emotional Intelligence at Work”?

A2. I was writing about an aspect of the business process that is generally not recognized as existing, and a topic rarely addressed in business schools or in life in general. Most people are indoctrinated by their parents, teachers, mentors and society in general to believe emotional issues do not belong in the business process and therefore we are lead to believe do not exist in business. So, in writing about emotional issues in business, I needed to identify examples that the reader could relate to notwithstanding what they believe.

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

A3. Initially I was most influenced by business self-help books and books on psychology; that is, until I actually began my own businesses and encountered issue after issue that seemed to block progress. And the more I encountered business challenges, the more I realized that business self-help books in the market did not address how to really overcome the hurdles and negativity resulting from progress roadblocks. So, I found that the many suggestions offer by business self-help books, although theoretically appealing, did not in fact solve challenges I faced almost on a weekly basis. And as I became more aware of my feelings in the business process I realized that what I have been taught, emotions are not a part of the business process, was not in act the case and that there was a lack of books that effectively addressed how to succeed/prosper in business and address the underlying feelings and emotions that we are rarely aware of and that dictate how we progress or do not progress in the business environment.

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

A4. The Outer Banks water community in North Carolina, USA—hands down. Spending time by the water provides the ultimate relaxation time.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Emotional Intelligence at Work’?

A5. As I progressed in various startup businesses and consulted for other businesses where management struggling to progress, I began to see not only where my unconscious emotional roadblocks were but where they existed in others. And how the unconscious roadblocks either slowed progress down or completely blocked it. And this reinforced my emerging belief that society’s well-meaning cultural and socialized beliefs imposed on each of us as we grew up were clearly a self-limiting issue.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Emotional Intelligence at Work’?

A6. I spent 8 months, part time, 2 to 3 early mornings hours per day, every week.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Amazon

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Emotional Intelligence at Work’?

A8. The book publisher provided a book cover designer and the title was based on what I was advancing as an awareness concept.

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

A9. I try to address in a simple and understandable way the various aspects that the book was conveying—not going into any more detail than necessary to advance an idea that would benefit people in business, both for themselves and in working with and for others

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

A10. If you want to write do it, even when your writing at first is not accepted—keep on going and eventually you will succeed. And convey your ideas simply and in plain English. Do not use fancy words in an effort to make yourself look smart.

Author’s profile on Amazon

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