Author Interview – Page 2

June 29, 2026

Interview with author Maria Gallucci

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

A1. My name is Maria Gallucci, and I’m a Colorado REALTOR®, author, and advocate. I’ve spent more than 30 years helping people buy and sell homes, but my story started long before real estate. I grew up as the hearing daughter of Deaf parents, and that experience shaped who I am. It taught me about communication, empathy, and seeing the world from a different perspective. Those life lessons became the foundation for my book, Raised in Silence, and they’re something I carry into everything I do.

Q2. In your view, what distinguishes a writer from an author?

A2. I think a writer writes because they have something they want to say. An author takes that idea all the way to the finish line and shares it with the world. Writing the book is only part of the journey. Publishing it, putting yourself out there, and connecting with readers is what makes you an author.

Q3. Which part of your book “Raised in Silence” proved to be the most challenging to write, and why?

A3. The hardest part was writing about my family. Those memories are very personal, and I wanted to honor them while also being honest about my own experiences. Reliving some of those moments brought back a lot of emotions, but I knew they were important to tell because they’re what shaped me into the person I am today.

Q4. How do you typically celebrate once you’ve completed a book?

A4. Honestly, I don’t think it really hit me at first. It was more relief than celebration because writing a book is a huge project. Once I finally held it in my hands, I took a moment to appreciate how far I’d come. Then it was right back to work sharing it with readers.

Q5. How do you leverage social media to connect with your audience as an author?

A5. I try to keep it real. I share stories, behind-the-scenes moments, reader feedback, and pieces of my everyday life. I want people to get to know me, not just my book. Social media has been a wonderful way to connect with readers and hear how Raised in Silence has impacted them.

Q6. On average, how many hours a day do you dedicate to writing?

A6. It really depends. While I was writing Raised in Silence, I’d spend several hours at a time working on it whenever I could fit it into my schedule. Since I’m also a full-time REALTOR®, I had to write around my business. Some days it was a few hours, and other days I was simply jotting down ideas or memories so I wouldn’t lose them.

Q7. What kinds of books did you enjoy reading during your childhood?

A7. I’ve always loved a good mystery or suspense novel, and honestly, I still do. There’s something about trying to figure out what happens next that keeps me hooked. Even now, if I have time to pick up a book just for fun, chances are it’ll be a mystery or suspense story.

Q8. Is there an author within your genre whom you particularly admire?

A8. There are so many authors who tell meaningful personal stories, but what I admire most isn’t a specific person. It’s anyone who’s willing to be vulnerable enough to share their truth. Those are the books that stay with you long after you’ve finished reading them.

Q9. How has the experience of writing and publishing Raised in Silence influenced your perception of yourself?

A9. It gave me confidence in a way I didn’t expect. For years, people encouraged me to write my story, and I always thought, “Maybe someday.” Finishing the book showed me that I could do something that felt overwhelming. It also reminded me that our stories have value, even when we don’t realize it. Hearing from readers who say the book opened their eyes to the Deaf community has been incredibly rewarding.

Q10. If you had to describe yourself using just three words, which would you choose?

A10. Compassionate. Determined. Genuine.

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June 29, 2026

Interview with author Mandy Eve-Barnett

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

A1. Hi, my name is Mandy Eve-Barnett and I am an expat from England living in Alberta, Canada. I came to the art of writing later in life and since then have embraced it with passion, some would say fanatically but hey. I write fiction as a way to get a multitude of stories out of my head, as well as write non-fiction in a variety of ways as a freelance writer. I love the natural world and spend as much time as I can in embracing the gloriousness of our world, whether walking in a local park, road tripping, or vacations throughout England or Canada and beyond. To date I have eleven books published and one more launching this September. I am a fierce writing community advocate and love helping new writers find their niche and style.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Willow Tree Tears”?

A2. As a new comer to the world of rodeos, ranches and especially barrel racing, I wanted to ensure I reflected the life correctly. I was lucky to connect with a champion barrel racer, who was kind enough to give me specific details on all the aspects of the story in relation to how Madison lived and reviewed the passages regarding the quarter horse, ranch and rodeo life and circuit. Without her help the narrative would not have been as authentic. Researching any story leads to gaining an abundance of knowledge and this story gave me a deeper understanding of how many Albertans live.

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

A3. This is a tricky question as I write in multi genres and age groups, so my reading is as eclectic. My number one is Stephen King, he is the ultimate storyteller, but I also love Kate Morton, M.J. Arlidge and Felix de Palma to name a few. Apart from the famous, I also enjoy books written by authors I have come to know personally within my extended writing community. It is the diversity of style and imagination that is so captivating. In addition I am extremely lucky to have a wonderful local writing group who give constructive critique, support and encouragement. Without the Writers Foundation of Strathcona County, I don’t think I would have written so much, or indeed been published.

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

A4. Well, there’s a question as I have ‘two’ homelands the list would be exceptionally long. I love the ancient sites and historical estates of England and visited many while I lived there. A couple stand out (well as I write, it may change) York Minster Cathedral, stayed in an old coach house above the entry arch in a huge four poster bed with a feather mattress. The room overlooked the cathedral which was lit up at night. And the Royal Albert Hall in London, where I experienced a superb evening concert of Beethoven. The domed building is striking and magnificent. As for Alberta, I have enjoyed numerous road trips from west to east, north to south and have discovered wonderful places, such as Spirit Island, the town of Jasper and Pyramid Lake in the Jasper National Park. Also the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, which has an incredible museum of Blackfoot culture and Elk Island Park, where bison roam free. For me anywhere there is water: a lake, a river, or a waterfall, I am happy, as Alberta is landlocked I miss the ocean a lot.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Willow Tree Tears’?

A5. On one of my road trips we came across an enormous ranch, the Bar U Ranch, which is the largest in the province. As we drove alongside the miles of land I spied a couple of cowboys. Now, as an English person the only cowboys I had seen up to that point were on the TV. So I was thrilled to be able to see ‘real’ cowboys looking after the cattle. In addition, when I experienced my first rodeo it added another layer to my story idea and the characters germinated from there. I wanted a character to struggle between her traditional ranch life and a nonconformist exotic one. I suppose it echoes the huge differences I experienced coming to live in Canada from England. The countries are so different.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Willow Tree Tears’?

A6. I actually began writing it as a National Novel Writing Month project back on 2013. Yes, that long ago. I wrote the qualifying 50K words for the challenge, but then I made multiple revisions for a few months until new ‘shiny’ stories caught and demanded my attention. I would return to it periodically during the subsequent years and refine the story, the characters and the plot. That is until I thought it really needed to be out in the world. So in 2025 it was published. I think it is better for the extension, as my craft improved year upon year.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. They are all available as print or e-books across all the online purchase sites, including Kindle, Amazon, Kobo, Smashwords, and more.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Willow Tree Tears’?

A8. The cover was actually an idea of mine to have willow trees present and the horse ranch in the background, with the three main characters positioned, however the publisher refined it somewhat and then commissioned the image as you see it today. The title was due to my wanting the weeping willow to reflect Madison’s previous heartache and her indecision and emotional struggle when faced with a choice, but also as a hint at the name of her family ranch.

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

A9. I enjoy creating unexpected twists in my stories, so the reader cannot guess the outcome, or the journey toward it. Although, I write in many genres I do not want my narratives to be too generic to that specific genre, so modify them. My characters are always steering me in directions that are not only surprising but fun. When I begin writing I write to the story rather than the genre, or age group, that becomes evident as the narrative develops.

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

A10. To write authentically, and ensure the story is yours alone. Each story is unique to you even if it is in a popular genre. Your life experiences and imagination make it special. You write like no one else.

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June 17, 2026June 18, 2026

Interview with author Nzondi

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

A1. I’m Nzondi, the first African American to win a Bram Stoker in the novel category for my book Oware Mosaic, and I write stories about young people trying to survive the things that should have broken them. My novels may contain horror, mystery, science fiction, or the supernatural, but those elements are really vehicles for exploring trauma, resilience, grief, identity, and survival. As an educator, I’ve spent years working with teenagers and empathizing with their stories of pain, loss and dysfunction.

When you read my latest novel, DeathCon: A Zombie Story, you may pick up that I love writing with a female character as my protagonist. It’s because I’ve also watched many of the women in my life carry heavy burdens that were often invisible to everyone else and that deeply inspires my writing. So many of the women in my life had mental health issues that they fought through every day to raise their children properly or still perform well at their jobs, or just to survive life, in general.

Those experiences of seeing people face their struggles and live with trauma, shaped me as a writer. The monsters are symbolic of the emotional struggles I face, and my friends and family face, every day but fictionalized with vampires and zombies and the supernatural.

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

A2. My strength, my superpower, as an author is empathy. I write characters whose pain feels authentic because much of it comes from real-life people I’ve known and cared about. Readers may come to my books for the mystery, suspense, or horror, but I think they stay because they recognize something relatable in the characters, that pain, that grief and struggle of every day life. I’m interested in what happens after the worst thing imaginable occurs. How do people keep going? How do they get out of their own way? How do they find meaning in loss? How does someone who is young and immature handle great power? They’re bound to make terrible mistakes. Are they the kind of mistakes that are redeemable? Those are the questions that drive nearly everything I write.

Q3 What is your favorite part from your poem ‘The Devil’s Blood’?

A3. My favorite part of the poem is when Nurse Gnat asks, “Does she not know who she is?” Up until that moment, readers believe they’re following a curious mosquito searching for answers about the devil. Then the story reveals that the seeker and the subject of the search may be one and the same. I enjoy that moment because the poem suddenly becomes larger than a discussion about good and evil. It becomes a story about identity, memory, self-discovery, and the possibility that we spend our lives searching for truths that already exist within us. As a writer, those are themes that continually fascinate me.

The other passage that I hope resonates with readers is:

“What’s fed, grows.”

Because that line quietly becomes the theme of my entire fable.

Not just evil. Not just goodness. Whatever we feed grows.

Fear.

Faith.

Hatred.

Compassion.

Curiosity.

It’s one of those lines that keeps echoing after the story ends.

Q4 How do you handle literary criticism?

A4. I don’t lose sleep over it. Letting something like that weigh me down could affect my energy. It’s okay to have grief, or anger, or pain when I write. Some of the best works came from heartbreak. I just don’t want someone’s opinion to make me not want to write. I have to protect my muse at all costs.

Q5 What do you like about audiobooks?

A5. They’re awesome, aren’t they? Audio books give many people who don’t have the time to read, the opportunity to be exposed to many horror authors and their works.

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

A6. I thought teaching eighth grade English was challenging, and believe me, it was, but writing a novel, one that gets traditionally published is a hundred times more challenging. It took me writing a million words, and reading 50 novels in my genre(s) to innately get a grip on writing compelling stories.

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

A7. I just spoke about this in a panel I spoke on at StokerCon in Pittsburgh.

There are many elements to writing a good story. Sometimes, as a writer we get caught up in mechanics but there are stories out there that I personally, couldn’t get past page ten because the writing was so bad but you know what? The readers didn’t care as much about writing mechanics as they did about the story. If they could relate to the characters, their situations and the plot, they fell in love with the story. That showed me that writing a good novel is more than just learning mechanics. That very same story that I couldn’t read, sold millions of copies, and was adapted to a string of films. It had many of my friends in a frenzy to read cover-to-cover, fiending for more.

That tells me, writing a good story, as obvious as it sounds is the basic element. How do we do that?

1. Have a compelling plot that strings each chapter along and has the type of conflicts that play tug-o-war with the reader’s emotions.
2. Develop characters that are relatable.
3. Create an obstacle from the protagonist’s inner demons or past, he or she must overcome to reach a personal goal in the story.
4. Create an impossible conflict for the character to face that delivers pain and turmoil
5. Develop a strong narration

And there are other elements that make a good story but the bottom line is that it all depends on which genre one is writing in and what their goal is in telling the story. Whatever it is, make it compelling and relatable to readers.

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

A8. If I’m not on set, I get up at 5:30 a.m., head to Starbucks and write for four-to-six hours. Hit the gym or go for a run for two hours, and then hit the library for a couple more hours of writing or reading.

Q9 What is the significance of the title ‘Only to Those Who Believe: The Devil’s Blood’?

A9. It’s just an ideology. I had a friend recently that said, “I can’t do that,” and I replied, “I’m going to respond to that in three words—I. Believe. You.”

I would then go on and explain to them most things happen in a person’s life based on belief. If you believe something, then in your reality, it’s probably true. If you believe you can’t do something, you’re probably right. If you believe you can, you’re probably right. If you believe you have bad luck, guess what? You probably do.

The title reflects that ideology. The Devil lives…only to those who believe.

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

A10. I wanted to be Evel Knievel. I wanted to be Muhammad Ali. I wanted to be the Six Million Dollar Man. I wanted to be Sammy Davis, Jr., and I wanted to be Rod Serling. I guess I’ve always been interested in science fiction, horror and storytelling.

Social Media Links:

Website: https://nzondiauthor.com/

Read DeathCon: https://books2read.com/deathcon

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/nzondi

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ace.antoniohall.1

June 11, 2026

Interview with author Kalee Boisvert

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

A1. My name is Kalee Boisvert, and I am an author, financial educator, and mom of two. I love writing stories that help children feel seen, understood, and confident in who they are. Many of my books are inspired by real-life experiences and focus on themes like kindness, empathy, and self-acceptance.

2. What is the inspiration behind your book “Evie who Feels Everything”?

A2. The inspiration for Evie Who Feels Everything came from my own childhood. I was a very sensitive child and cried often. While the people around me meant well, I was often made to feel that being so emotional was a weakness or something I needed to outgrow. Over time, I started to believe there was something wrong with me.

As I grew older, I realized that my sensitivity wasn’t a flaw at all. It allowed me to care deeply, connect with others, and notice things that many people missed. Then, as a mom to two sensitive children of my own, I saw how important it is for children to feel accepted exactly as they are. I wrote Evie’s story to help children understand that feeling deeply is not something to be ashamed of, and that it can be one of their greatest gifts.

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

A3. I loved reading as a child, and even when I was young, I dreamed of one day writing a book of my own. But for a long time, I didn’t think I had the skills to be an author. I was nervous to try because I wanted everything to be perfect before I began.

Eventually, I gave myself permission to write without worrying about perfection. Once I did, the ideas flowed. I realized that stories don’t need to be perfect to make a difference. They just need to come from the heart. Taking that first imperfect step is what led me to become an author.

4. Please tell us something about your book “Evie who Feels Everything”.

A4. Evie Who Feels Everything is about a child who feels emotions very deeply. When she can’t hide her feelings at school, she feels embarrassed and different from everyone else. As the story unfolds, she learns that she is not alone. By accepting her sensitive nature, she creates a safe space for others to share their feelings too. It’s a story about self-acceptance, empathy, and belonging.

5. For which age group is your book “Evie who Feels Everything”?

A5. Evie Who Feels Everything is written for children ages 3 to 7. While young readers will connect with Evie’s journey, I believe the story can be just as meaningful for the parents and caregivers reading alongside them. Many adults grew up being told they were “too sensitive,” and Evie’s story offers a gentle reminder that sensitivity is not something to fix. It can open the door to meaningful conversations and even help heal parts of ourselves we may have learned to hide.

6. What is your favorite Quote?

A6. One of my favorite quotes is, “You are a very special person. There is only one like you in the whole world. There’s never been anyone exactly like you before, and there will never be again. Only you. And people can like you exactly as you are.” by Fred Rogers. I love this message because it reminds children and adults alike that they don’t need to change who they are to belong. They are worthy just as they are.

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

A7 What I love most about Canada is its natural beauty. From mountains and forests to lakes and oceans, there are so many places that inspire a sense of wonder. I also appreciate the kindness and diversity of the people who call Canada home. It’s a country where many different stories, backgrounds, and perspectives come together.

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

A8. My biggest suggestion is to make reading enjoyable, not a chore. Even a few minutes of reading together each day can make a big difference. Let children choose books that interest them, ask questions about the stories, and most importantly, make reading a time for connection.

9. What does literary success look like to you?

A9. Literary success, to me, is sharing the ideas and stories that come to me and knowing they have found the people who need them. I love writing across different genres and age groups because different messages reach people at different stages of life. If a story helps someone feel seen, understood, or a little less alone, I consider that a success.

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

A10. My children are my greatest inspiration. They remind me to slow down, have fun, and enjoy the little moments. Watching the world through their eyes helps me remember what really matters and inspires many of the stories I write.

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May 31, 2026

Interview with author Kim Lengling

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

A1. If you happen to spot someone walking through a field with a cup of coffee in one hand and a dog leash in the other, there’s a good chance it’s me. I’m a author, podcast host, dog lover, nature walker, and someone who genuinely believes kindness still matters in this world.

I didn’t set out to become a writer. In many ways, writing found me through life experiences, conversations, heartbreak, hope, and the stories people carry with them every day. Over time, those stories turned into books, a podcast, and opportunities to connect with people from all walks of life.

I host a podcast called Let Fear Bounce, where I chat with guests who’ve faced hard things, found their footing again, and chose courage anyway. Around here, we call it “tossing nuggets of hope.” Some days those nuggets come through serious conversations, and other days they come from a sunrise walk, a good song on the radio, or something funny my rescue dog Dexter does.

I love real conversations. The kind where people can admit life gets messy, but still find reasons to laugh, keep going, and look for the good. I’m passionate about mental health, veterans, animals, kindness, and reminding people they’re not walking through life alone.

Most of my days are pretty simple and honestly, I like it that way. Coffee refills, long walks in nature, writing notes for future projects, recording podcast episodes, and finding inspiration in everyday moments. I think some of the best parts of life are the little things we rush past too quickly.

At the end of the day, I’m just someone trying to leave my small slice of the world a little better than I found it. If my words, books, podcast, or even one conversation can help someone feel seen, encouraged, or hopeful, then I’d say that’s a pretty good day.

Q2. In your view, what distinguishes a writer from an author?

A2. Those two words are often used interchangeably. I look at the difference between the two pretty simply. A writer is one who writes letters, journals, short stories, articles, and more. I look at an author as one who has been published.

Q3. Which part of your book “Nuggets of Hope” proved to be the most challenging to write, and why?

A3. I felt a responsibility to make the stories relatable and genuine and to do justice to a person’s moment in time. I didn’t want the book to sound preachy or unrealistic. Life is messy. We all struggle. We all have moments where we feel tired, discouraged, or uncertain. I wanted readers to feel like they were sitting down with a friend over coffee, having a real conversation about life, kindness, and the small moments that matter.

Ironically, some of the simplest stories were the hardest to write because they carried the most meaning. A smile from a stranger, a quiet conversation, a small gesture of compassion — those moments may seem small on the surface, but they leave a lasting mark on a heart. Capturing those moments in words was both challenging and rewarding.

Q4. How do you typically celebrate once you’ve completed a book?

A4. I don’t celebrate per se, but I do feel a sense of satisfaction, and then the real work begins. Editing, formatting, publishing and all that goes with it.

Q5. How do you leverage social media to connect with your audience as an author?

A5. I do post on social platforms regularly, but to be honest, I don’t care to spend personal time on social media. It’s too easy to get sucked in to rabbit holes or doom-scrolling. I use social media as a means to keep the word out about my books and what I’m up to, including my dog Dexter.

Q6. On average, how many hours a day do you dedicate to writing?

A6. I don’t keep to a specific schedule. If I have an idea that pops up, I need to get to my laptop and get that idea down, or if I am out on a walk with my dog Dexter and inspiration hits, I’ll record my thoughts because I know I’ll forget that brilliant idea before I get home! LOL

So, short answer, I write when inspiration hits. I believe if I were to keep to a schedule, I would eventually feel stressed and I’d eventually not want to write.

Q7. What kinds of books did you enjoy reading during your childhood?

A7. I have always been an avid reader, 2 – 3 books per week. As a child I remember loving the Nancy Drew series and the Little House on the Prairie series. As I got into my teen years, I remember reading Steven King, but also I think I read some Sweet Valley High books.

Q8. Is there an author within your genre whom you particularly admire?

A8. I typically write non-fiction, and funnily enough, I don’t read much non-fiction. When I do read, I read fiction for pleasure.

Q9. How has the experience of writing and publishing a book “Nuggets of Hope” influenced your perception of yourself?

A9. It was interesting while writing the book, which included some research and delving into my memory, how much I realized we as humans take for granted. It’s the little things that are often overlooked or the people you pass on the street or in a store, you don’t “see” them.

Writing Nuggets of Hope was a lesson to myself, or a reminder if you will, to keep my eyes and heart open to my small slice of the world and try to make it a better place, if even for a moment for one person.

Q10. If you had to describe yourself using just three words, which would you choose?

A10. Compassionate, resilient, hopeful.

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May 22, 2026

Interview with author Michael Stephen Daigle

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

I’m Michael Stephen Daigle. I grew up in the Northeast U.S.. I live in New Jersey, and have lived in Maine, Massachusetts, and New York. I don’t recall when I started writing, but it feels like I’ve been doing it forever. I wrote two books when I got out of college, one of which became part of the 6-book Frank Nagler Mystery series. I’m a life-long Boston sports fan, and was at the game in 1975 when Tony Conigliaro hit his last-ever home run.

Q2. In your view, what distinguishes a writer from an author?

Semantics. Whatever you call yourself, the task of creating written works requires imagination, discipline, attention to detail, and hard work. I’m not a suffering artist type. I’ve been doing this a long time and have written in many forms, including a long career as a journalist. To be productive, which can lead to success, requires the ability to stay on task and manage your time.

Q3. Which part of your book “Nagler’s Secret” proved to be the most challenging to write, and why?

Parts of the story take place in different decades, so making sure all elements of the story and characters stay in order took planning. The challenge for any story, and for any mystery, is to make sure you get it right, the right pacing, the characters in the right place, saying the right things so the reader feels satisfied when they are done reading.

Q4. How do you typically celebrate once you’ve completed a book?

Actually, start the next one. Which is hot as hard as I seem,. Because, especially with the Nagler mysteries, one story flows into the other. The satisfaction of finishing one is knowing that you’ve given the readers a worthy reading experience.

Q5. How do you leverage social media to connect with your audience as an author?

That is all under review. After Facebook was hacked two years ago, I had to rebuild the social network. I’m planning to explore Tik Tok and Substack and start over with other mediums. In the meantime I rely on my website, www.michaelstephendaigle.com.

Q6. On average, how many hours a day do you dedicate to writing?

Four to five, and more if I’m on a journalism deadline. It’s a job.

Q7. What kinds of books did you enjoy reading during your childhood?

Very young, I read sports books and newspapers daily, I later moved into historical fiction then literature.

Q8. Is there an author within your genre whom you particularly admire?

For mysteries, Walter Mosley, who writes exquisite fiction. For literature, Markus Zusak, whose stories border on magic. I’d add Kristin Barr, who writes ferociously and fearlessly about women.

Q9. How has the experience of writing and publishing a book “Nagler’s Secret” influenced your perception of yourself?

The writing of Nagler’s Secret was taking place while I was republishing the other five books in the series. There was a lot of learning going on.

Q10. How would you sum yourself up in just three words?

I’m a storyteller.

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May 22, 2026May 22, 2026

Interview with authors Annette Marie Griffin and Franella Smith

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

A1. I’m Annette Marie Griffin. I enjoy books and kiddos. So I’m thrilled to be able to write for an audience I truly care about. My passion is to help little ones find the God who loves them and to help them discover who He made them to be.

Franella: I’m Franella Smith. I am from a military family so we moved a lot, but I grew up mostly in Connecticut. I have been a registered dietitian for more than 25 years and enjoy my work. I have 3 children, 5 grandchildren, and one very adorable miniature Schnauzer named Winston.

2. What is the inspiration behind your book “The God Hunter”?

A2. My co-author Franella Smith and I have a deep desire for children to know they can run to God in times of trouble.

Franella: Annette introduced me to the character in a critique group and I immediately fell in love with him. When she asked me to help develop the story and his character, I was excited, and absolutely elated when she said she liked what I had done. It is such an important story to help children understand that God is not a far-away being looking down on us harshly, but a good and loving father who wants to be part of our everyday lives.

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

A3. I began writing curriculum for our children’s church program when I was a ministry director–many years ago. But I never really considered myself an author back them. Several years ago my dream of becoming an author was born when God gave me a story that would not go away until I put it on paper. When my husband saw me using all my free to time write, he gifted me a writer’s conference registration for Christmas. The rest is history. That conference put me in community with other aspiring authors, gave me access to valuable teaching, and launched my writing career in a million other ways too awesome to describe in this limited space.

Franella: I was a very introverted and shy youngster. My sister and I both were avid readers from a young age. In writing, I found a voice to say and dream things I had never dared before. I started making up short stories in middle school as an escape, to cope, to understand the world. I wanted to study creative writing and photography in college, but well-meaning family members encouraged job-security in the medical field. I am grateful for that background, but when I had a chance at graduate school, I chose to follow my dream to pursue an MFA in creative writing.

4. Please tell us something about your book “The God Hunter”.

A4. The God Hunter is a adventure-driven book filled with vivid illustrations kids will love. Eight-year-old Simi is angry with God when His grandmother dies, so he uses his hunting skills to search for God and make him answer for the tragedy. Simi narrowly escapes danger in the deep, dark jungle. When he reaches the end of His journey, Simi discovers that the same God he was hunting was actually with him all along—closing the mouths of lions and guiding his every step.

Franella: The God Hunter shows how personal God is. Simi has heard about God from his parents, grandparents, and fellow villagers, but the loss of his father then grandmother lead him on a quest to meet God for himself. It shows that our God is not just a rule giver, but a personal God that we can have a relationship with. One who is always near, just waiting for us to seek Him and invite Him into our lives.

5. For which age group is your book “The God Hunter”?

A5. The God Hunter is written for children ages 4-8.

Franella: Yes, it’s written for ages 4-8 years of age, though I believe younger and older may enjoy the story, also.

6. What is your favorite Quote?

A6. “A good hunter claims his prize. And He has. I hunted God. But he also hunted me … until I was found.”

Franella: “Their words about God burn in my hunter’s heart. I cannot escape them.”

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

A7. I am so grateful we live in a country where we have the freedom to worship God and share His love with those who need Him.

Franella: I am grateful that we live in a country with a goal to do better. Our constitution is written to ensure that all persons are treated fairly, equally, and justly. That’s a high goal, but we need that accountability to remind us that, just as Jesus taught us to love one another, we are all created in the image of God.

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

A8. Pull your little ones onto your lap, open a book like it’s a big event, then READ to them. It doesn’t matter what you read. Just do it often. That will cause them to love reading, even before they can recognize their letters.

Franella: I cannot agree with Annette more. Cuddle those precious babies and read to them. You will create memories for them that last a lifetime and memories for yourself for when they are no longer able to curl up in your lap. Time flies so fast, savor those moments while you have them.

9. What does literary success look like to you?

A9. Literary success to me is reaching the heart of the reader with truth that helps ground them, excite them, and empower them.

Franella: Oh, I’d say creating a story that impacts someone’s heart for good. A story that will be remembered long after the book is put away. A story that sows seeds in its reader to want to make the world a little bit better.

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

A10. I realize this answer may come across as trite, but the only genuine answer I have for this question is Jesus. In today’s world Christianity has been given a bad rap. Trust me, I understand why—especially in this weird political climate. But oh, how I wish people could know the REAL God of all creation and His Son, who died to save us. He is my inspiration for my life and my writing.

Franella: I’d have to say my grandmother. I saw her as strong and confident and protective of us when we would visit her in Chicago. I am proud to have inherited a little bit of her fierceness, and blessed to be able to pair that with the love of Christ so that I can go boldly to serve others. A scripture quote that frequently crosses my mind is “seek justice, love mercy, walk humbly with our God.” I want to walk in that more each day.

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May 19, 2026

Interview with author Alan R. Warren

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

A1. Hi, my name is Alan R Warren and i have had 39 books published from three different publishers and some self-published. I write in non-fiction including True crime, Cults, and History. I have also hosted the ‘House of Mystery’ heard on several radio stations including KCAA 106.5 F.M. Los Angeles which we interview authors, producers, and film makers of all genres.

Q2. In your view, what distinguishes a writer from an author?

A2. I personally never think about them as being much different. Technically they both write anything from article to books. Only i believe the official difference is authors have published their writing, put it out to the public to read.

Q3. Which part of your book “Peace Love & Murder” proved to be the most challenging to write, and why?

A3. Well with any non-fiction book, it’s always hardest trying to find the truth. Not just what people think or that have heard, but the facts. When you have several witnesses to a crime such as what happened with Manson, who is telling the truth? Especially when several of the witnesses are those that were accused of the crimes. So, they all tend to make themselves be in a good light, or in the position where they had to go along with what was happening because they felt threatened or scared by the others they were with during the crimes.

Q4. How do you typically celebrate once you’ve completed a book?

A4. I really don’t. I mean there’s always different feelings about each book upon completion. There are times when you feel insecure or not sure about your book. While other times you feel completely satisfied and confident that it was a good book. There’s also a lag time from completing the book and having it published, especially by a publisher. So, by the time the book is actually going to be released, you have already been deeply involved in a new project probably about a year.

Q5. How do you leverage social media to connect with your audience as an author?

A5. I usually post things daily and about writing or radio shows. Keeping followers up to date in what’s going on in my professional life. It’s also a great place to tell readers about book shows or signing events that you are going to be at, so that you can come out and meet them.

Q6. On average, how many hours a day do you dedicate to writing?

A6. I really don’t dedicate or line up certain hours per day to writing. It happens more spur of the moment. A lot of my initial work is finding information. Going out and meeting witnesses, victims and the police who were involved. Then there’s also trying to set up meeting the criminal in the prison. There’s also several hours of going through the newspapers and learning about the setting where the crime took place. This all helps the story take shape. When i have most of the information and i am ready to write the story i still don’t plan dates and times to do it. I must be in the right mood. The feeling has to come over me, then i write.

Q7. What kinds of books did you enjoy reading during your childhood?

A7. Actually, i usually listened to crime or detective shows on radio most nights or read comic books usually in the ghost, strange stories, or detective categories.

Q8. Is there an author within your genre whom you particularly admire?

A8. There are quite a few great writers out there in the true crime field. I think it changes over time with me. I also find that each writer usually has something special that they give to their books, and often they are different from other writers and even myself. So, i really don’t ever choose one when interviewers ask me.

Q9. How has the experience of writing and publishing a book “Peace Love & Murder” influenced your perception of yourself?

A9. I don’t know that it has? At least not yet. Maybe over the next few years it will? That’s not to say that each book that i write doesn’t make some change in me, because they all do. Sometimes it’s not always the change that i wanted, but it’s there. So far, with Peace, Love & Murder, the main thing which i have noticed is that it’s the first book that i have written that i feel good about in a way that i don’t care who else likes it. Ido, and that’s enough.

Q10. If you had to describe yourself using just three words, which would you choose?

A10. Structured, Supportive, Satire

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May 19, 2026

Interview with author Patti Lee

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

A1. Hi! I’m Patti Lee and I started writing women’s fiction in my 50’s. I love to write about things that can happen to anyone while also taking the experience up a notch or two.

Q2. In your view, what distinguishes a writer from an author?

A2. So interesting that this is one your questions – when I first started writing, I wondered the same thing. I think a writer is someone who writes, journals, creates. An author writes with the intention of publishing.

Q3. Which part of your book “Tanya, We Have a Problem” proved to be the most challenging to write, and why?

A3. I thoroughly enjoyed writing just about every aspect of Tanya, We Have a Problem. The most challenging part was getting inside Tanya’s head to try and figure out how her character would act and respond to situations. I’m a very focused, organized, and thoughtful person who relies on lists and routines, where Tanya is more of a fly by the seat of her pants kind of girl.

Q4. How do you typically celebrate once you’ve completed a book?

A4. That’s kind of a trick question for an author and really depends on what ‘completed a book’ really means because there are so many phases in the process. I celebrate completing a book’s first draft by putting it away, not writing for a day or two, and basking in the relief that the first draft is finished. Completing a book after several drafts, edits, and rewrites calls for more celebration and I usually share with my circle of friends, and they send me congratulatory memes.

Q5. How do you leverage social media to connect with your audience as an author?

A5. I see social media as a way to connect authentically with readers and fellow book lovers. I tend to share moments from my writing journey, reflections on books and stories that have influenced me, and occasional personal experiences that connect back to storytelling and family.

For example, I recently shared about seeing The Outsiders on Broadway with my daughter and grandson, reflecting on how powerful it is that S.E. Hinton wrote a story at sixteen that still resonates generations later. Those are the kinds of conversations I enjoy having online, not just about promoting a book, but about the lasting impact stories can have.

While I’m naturally more reserved on social media, one of my favorite ways to connect is participating as “Author of the Day” with the Global Girls Online Book Club. I enjoy the opportunity to interact directly with readers and fellow writers in a more personal and meaningful way. For me, those conversations are the most rewarding part of being online as an author.

Q6. On average, how many hours a day do you dedicate to writing?

A6. My day job is full-time and pretty demanding and there are times where I just don’t want to look at a computer screen. Writing by hand is completely out of the question because I often write so quickly that the letters are incomplete, the words flow together, and two paragraphs later I have no idea what I wrote. Though I used to write for hours every day, now I tend to write in spurts. I love to dedicate a few hours at a time when the creativity is flowing.

Q7. What kinds of books did you enjoy reading during your childhood?

A7. I loved reading as a child. There was something magical about reading and imagining oneself in the relatable world of Judy Blume’s, Are You There God, It’s Me, Margaret, or Louisa May Alcott’s, Little House on the Prairie for the feel-good family moments.

Q8. Is there an author within your genre whom you particularly admire?

A8. There are a ton of authors I admire but Jennifer Weiner is probably my top pick. She has a way of writing that weaves relatable emotional truth with wit and humor that just lands with readers.

Q9. How has the experience of writing and publishing a book ” Tanya, We Have a Problem” influenced your perception of yourself?

A9. Writing and publishing Tanya, We Have a Problem has changed my perception of myself in ways I’m still processing. Like many writers, I carry some imposter syndrome, and I’ve learned it doesn’t necessarily go away just because you’ve published before. “Author” often feels like something other people are, not me.

What this experience has reinforced is that writing isn’t really about feeling fully qualified. It’s about persistence, vulnerability, and showing up for the story even when doubt shows up too.

Q10. If you had to describe yourself using just three words, which would you choose?

A10. Observant. Driven. Curious.

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May 18, 2026May 18, 2026

Interview with author Deborah Wilde

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

A1. Hi! I’m Deborah Wilde. I’m a bestselling author of funny, sexy urban fantasy. I’m also a proud Vancouverite, which is where I set my books, an avid traveller, and a former screenwriter.

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

A2. My years writing for television taught me the importance of creating a hook before a commercial break, so that people would tune back in. I’ve applied that to chapter endings. Another strength is my witty banter. It’s my happy place to write and, thankfully, readers enjoy it.

Q3 What is your favorite part from your book ‘Made in the Shade’?

A3. Since this is the second book in the series, my MC, Miri, isn’t dealing with the newness of her situation. She’s chosen to step full-on into the magic community and it’s great seeing how she brings all her life experiences—as a mom, as a librarian, and as a woman in her forties—to solve this murder case.

Q4 How do you handle literary criticism?

A4. I take all feedback from my editor and ARC team seriously. Even if I disagree with them, there’s a reason why they are reacting a certain way, so my job is to figure out how I can win them over to my POV. Can I make the story beat clearer? Funnier? Am I missing tension or stakes? That said, sometimes, I need to go off and have a pity party for a couple of days first if something I love really isn’t landing. Then I roll up my sleeves and dig into it.

Q5 What do you like about audiobooks?

A5. They’re an immersive experience in an entirely different way from ebooks or paperbacks. It’s great when I’m driving and can be surrounded by the story, especially if there’s heavy traffic. It takes my stress levels down.

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

A6. I have 25 books out now and it’s taught me that I can and will persevere, even when things get tough. It’s also taught me (though I still struggle with this part) that I have to protect my writing time because the million details involved in publishing can eat up all my time and energy.

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

A7. Strong characters, solid structure, and delivering on what I’m promising my readers, from humor to spiciness to twisty, clever mysteries.

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

A8. Back to the “protect my writing time,” I write in the morning. Nothing else happens until I’ve made my word count for the day. However, I don’t write every day. Thinking about the story also counts.

Q9 What is the significance of the title ‘’Made in the Shade’?

A9. That’s actually a riddle posed to Miri in the book that she has to figure out the answer to. So you’ll have to read it to learn what that is. ☺

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

A10. I wanted to be an ambassador and work at the United Nations.

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