Category: Author Interview

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Interview with author Joe Woodley

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

Thank you for the opportunity to introduce myself to your audience and my new book, The Great Christmas Heist, which is illustrated by Syd Hutchison. My name is Joe Woodley. I am a husband and a father. I was a single-dad for nearly twenty years and my wife and I have five children in common. I have been a public speaker for nearly fifteen years and authored more than sixteen books for children and adults on topics that promote positive messages on character, family, faith and community. I am passionate about inspiring and equipping people to reach their fullest potential.

  1. What is your inspiration behind your book “The Great Christmas Heist”?

I wrote the draft for The Great Christmas Heist nearly ten years ago and felt strongly that this was the time to partner with an illustrator and publish this story. The themes interwoven throughout this book are more relevant than ever. There is a massive hope deficit in the world today. Our children and families are fearful, confused and more anxious about the challenges they face in the world that exists today. At the center of this story is a message about the value, hope and love that comes from family. The stories I read as a young child from authors like Dr. Seuss, and Roald Dahl celebrated those themes in unique ways. This book honors the great authors of the past in a colorful and joy filled way, It is inspired by what family was, is and can be. I believe the world is increasingly hungry for these sorts of messages.

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

I wrote my first book in my late 20s. I am not sure if I ever considered myself an author. My high school English teacher, Mr. Valenti encouraged me to look into writing as a career. I am highly observant and I love to inspire people, regardless of their age, race or economic status to dream bigger, live a little bit more, and fulfill their God-given potential. I share my experiences and what I see in the world and about the world using various genres to speak to diverse groups. Someway and somehow along the way it impacts people’s lives for the better.

  1. Please tell us something about your book “The Great Christmas Heist”?

“Thomas and Claire devise a diabolical scheme that leads to a fantastical adventure discovering the Christmas spirit.” In the story, the spoiled children come to believe that Christmas is all about what they can get because their parents never say “no” to their ever increasing requests. They value things over family and relationships. They believe that the more they have the happier they will be. So, they come up with a plan to get more and end up on a fantastical journey. This book has a great message for the entire family, any time of the year.

The book can be found at http://www.agreatchristmasbook.com and Barnes and Nobles.

  1. For which age group is your book “The Great Christmas Heist” suitable for?

The Great Christmas Heist is written primarily for children ages 3 -11, although there have been many adults who read the story and loved it as well.

  1. What is your favorite Quote?

“It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.”
― Frederick Douglass

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

The freedom to express our thoughts, feelings and beliefs is what I value most about the United States. Without that freedom every other right in the Constitution falls.

  1. What does literary success look like to you?

Literary success looks like the people that come up to me and share how one of my books positively impacted their lives. Make no mistake about it, I would love for this book to become an international best-seller. But what is most important to me is that someone is a bit more hopeful, a bit more gracious, giving, loving and caring. It is important that someone is inspired to pursue greats and their life is changed for the better.

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

Parents inspire me. They face a lot of challenges raising children in a very unpredictable world. Children inspire me. They still have hope.

Buy The Great Christmas Heist on BarnesandNoble.com and www.agreatchristmasbook.com

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Interview with author Sara Ann Key

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

I was born in Hendon, London. An Author, writer, armchair psychologist, Reiki practitioner self taught healer and professional nanny.

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

I was working full time as a nanny doing a 60 hour working week when I wrote” The Journey” but when lockdown hit due to the corona virus I took furlough for two months which helped me find more time. I was obsessed with editing and revisiting to improve the overall quality of my writing.

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

Louise Hay – You can Heal your Life

Scott Peck – The Road less Travelled

Elkhart Tolle- The Power of Now

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

I love walking in the East Sussex countryside amongst nature and there is an place I visit regularly called Mayfield which is located in The High Weald Area of the UK which has a lovely atmosphere of woods and open fields set in an area of outstanding natural beauty.I go there regularly to think and process my thoughts.

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

I wanted to tell my story so that it would help others, especially supporting women going through the same challenges as I had.

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

It took me about a year. 

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

Amazon UK

WHSmith

Foyles 

Thrift Books 

Bol.com

Buchhaus

eBook.de

product.kyobobook.co.kr

Bookline.hu

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

I wanted two roads diverging in a wood as a metaphor as to our choice in which route we choose to take in life. I took the route less traveled and my story is a depictions this. The title “The Journey” came about because it is my journey through this life .

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

By surprising the reader by incorporating plots and twists that keep them guessing. My book is certainly a page turner. The characters have depth, flaws and evolving motivations.Varying and pacing of high tension moments and slower introspection. There is a rhythm that keeps the story engaging.

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

Stay connected to your passion and remember why you started writing in the first place ☺

Buy The Journey on Amazon

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Interview with author P.D. Blackwell

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

My early years were chaotic. We moved to many places, and had to deal with difficult situations. Things settled down by my early teens, and life became more normal. My relatives were always close, and that was a welcome support. I studied theology and physics. My first two books, Chaos Rising, and The Rhysu Alternative, are in The Erstallius Chronicles, the sci-fi series I began in 2015. I enjoy hiking, playing the guitar, and a good game of chess.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Lawless Tradition”?

I have never found writing to be a challenge. Writing is hard work, but I have always enjoyed the process, and the joy that comes from a phrase well stated.

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

I read mostly Science Fiction in grade school; Frank Herbert, Isaac Asimov, Ray Bradbury, Robert Heinlein, with an occasional foray into Early American literature; Stephen Crane’s The Red Badge of Courage is still fresh in my memory. In the Non-fiction arena, Paul A. Laviolette’s, Genesis of the Cosmos, and Secrets of Anti-gravity Propulsion, pulled me into the deep investigation of things not commonly known.

My journey through the Bible has been mostly academic, but I found the popular works of Michael S. Heiser and Gary DeMar very insightful. Two books that helped change my path in life were The Genesis Flood: The Biblical Record and its Scientific Implications, by John C. Whitcomb and Henry M. Morris, and Evolution: A Theory in Crisis, by Dr. Michael Denton.

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

Any place less traveled, surrounded by trees, where birds sing, and grizzly bears prefer not to visit.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Lawless Tradition’?

When a man is unjustly slandered, loyal friends who know the reality of the situation defend him. The Almighty God is the best friend anyone could ever have. I found it necessary to do more than just stand by his side.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Lawless Tradition’?

I began February 4th, 2023

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

Currently, worldwide on Amazon. Lawless Tradition will be published later this August.

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

I had created the cloud scene in Vue for another project a few years ago, and thought it would fit well on the cover. The title was influenced by the premise of the book. The muck of lawlessness that has overwhelmed Christendom throughout its turbulent history has polluted the traditions established by Jesus and the Apostles.

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

With fiction, the key is to create an intriguing plot, with enough well-defined characters to keep each chapter engaging. With non-fiction, the key is evidence; always support your premise with hard facts; facts that may not be clear to your readers.

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

Keep writing. The result may differ from what you expected, but will be better than you ever thought possible.

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Interview with author Daniela Bumann

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

I am a Swiss native Life adventure spirit, based in California, and am a corporate consultant, international teacher and transformational speaker, life coach, and evolutionary consciousness guide. I help high-performers (or those aspiring to be) overcome achievers’ burnout, repair challenge relationships, and boost productivity. With expertise in performance and positive psychology and communication, I maximize individual and team performance in a way that creates whole-life success. My unorthodox approach blends wit and reflection, enabling personal and spiritual growth through new habits, next-level mindset, and boundaries. In my new groundbreaking book, “Gliding You Home: A Dolphins Dream of a New Earth,” we explore unlocking spiritual potential for fulfillment. As an evolutionary guide, I help individuals from all walks of life. Shared insights and teachings open new pathways for change and help individuals tap into their spiritual potential, creating greater unity on Earth.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “GLIDING YOU HOME – A Dolphins Dream of A New Earth”?

Once I was able to get out of the way, the book and Dolphin’s wisdom pretty much flowed through me like a wave, and sometimes what felt like a gush of water. LOL. The Dolphins’ energy is very loving and playful, but simultaneously quite directive. With that said, taking consistent time to become meditatively still and let go of the intellectual chatter and corrections thereof, but simply surrender and trust the process became a daily practice, and leaped to another level I had not known before.

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

The teachings of Jesus Christ.
Eckhart Tolle, in The Power Of Now, Barbara Marciniak, in The Bringers of the Dawn, and Earth, Abraham Hicks, Jeff Foster, in The Deepest Acceptance, Oriah, in The Invitation, and Celestine Prophecy during my early beginnings, by James Redfield. Khalil Gibran, in The Prophet etc.. And all those who chose to speak up, and whose written and spoken words became the action of their teaching, including my own parents.

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

I’m very fortunate where I grew up, as there is lots of variety and a place for nearly every mood. Nature’s earthy and vibrant landscape shines through the entirety of Switzerland. Lucerne is a very beautiful city, and Bern, the capital of Switzerland, still has the aura of ancient times, with its cobblestone streets, going back to when it was founded in 1191, and joining the Swiss Confederation in 1353. The internationally known village of Zermatt, and home of the Matterhorn, has amazing hiking trails, and offers a paradise for those enjoying skiing and outdoor adventures, with gastronomy and nightlife to match. In my early teens, I found my first moments of connection and belonging, peace and stillness, overlooking the mountains, in the forest right above where I grew up in Brig-Glis.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘GLIDING YOU HOME – A Dolphins Dream of A New Earth’?

This journey has been solely guided through the profound love and wisdom of the dolphin consciousness (and my willingness to surrender to ego constraints), whereby spiraling-me-open to another dimension and become their vessel during a time of debilitating symptoms, feeling that I had reached my physical limits, and the dolphins’ resonance had picked me up and glided me to the other side returning to never be the same. Still connected to the joyful dolphin consciousness, and despite hesitation but their persistence, I agreed to help them share their wisdom and secret knowledge with you, too.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘GLIDING YOU HOME – A Dolphins Dream of A New Earth’?

From start to publishing, it was about a year. Just as soon as I was able to hold their energy and become the funnel for their dynamic and vast energetics to come through. The outline and topic titles appeared immediately. They were very clear about what they needed to say, and that it was a book about evolution and unity consciousness, desiring to reach as many as possible.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Audible, Awesound etc., and http://www.vibrantlivingnow.org

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘GLIDING YOU HOME – A Dolphins Dream of A New Earth’?

The dolphins gave me the title from the get-go. The book cover itself needed to encompass color and vibration (including all the illustrations on the inside of the book, closely working with an artist depicting the words, energetic activations, movement, and flow). Including the feeling of the world as One, belonging, and feeding on the premise of interconnected, interrelated, and interwoven communication and unity consciousness among all sentient beings.

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

Relatability, despite the subject matter, is always very important, and the ability to draw in the reader to become part of the “story,” instead of staying on the outside while reading it. The invitation, to dive deep into the calling of one’s own soul and evolution (your own and humanities evolution), for the greater good of your own life and all those whom you serve. Taking breaks and being easy about it, while creating a certain playfulness (meaning, not taking it all too seriously), allows it to elevate to a higher plane without getting too heady.

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

Trust What comes forth or pours out effortlessly and easily through The voice of your higher and intuitive-self and gut wisdom.

Buy Gliding You Home on Amazon

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Interview with author Faith Spencer

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

Hello, my name is Faith Spencer. I have authored multiple children’s books, however, “CLUCK THAT” holds a special place in my heart. From a young age, I have been passionate about storytelling and art. In fact, during fourth grade, I even attended art classes at the University of Irvine. Despite earning an associate degree in Graphic Design and a Ph.D. in Marketing, I never imagined myself becoming a children’s book author. However, as a grandmother and homeschool teacher, my perspective on life has changed. It has always been a dream of mine to write books, although I originally envisioned myself writing a novel. ha ha .. In 2018, I wrote “Discover the Power of “I Am”: Children’s Mantras” and from that moment, I realized that my passion lies in both writing and art.

  1. What is your inspiration behind your book “Cluck That”?

The book Cluck That features several sources of inspiration. The character of Sassy was influenced by my daughter Ashley’s attitude, while the idea of raising a chicken came from my son and daughter-in-law. There’s even a point in the book where a sign reading WPFRD appears, which stands for the fire department where my son works. The Polakof House mentioned on the sign is the direction of their home, and Kona is their German shepherd who appears at the end of the story with my daughter-in-law. The motivation to bring the story to life is my granddaughter’s love for chickens and her strong sense of self at just four years old. I wanted to address the issue of bullying after my son with autism was attacked by his aggressor and had to be pulled from public school to be homeschooled. It was enjoyable to draw inspiration from my family for this book.

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

As a child, I had a fascination with writing that I didn’t fully understand until later. I recall being on a movie set with my parents, watching as my dad explained the reasoning behind the lines he had written for the actors. It was then that I realized how much vision he had for his work. Despite this, I never considered writing seriously because my sister and I would act out our elaborate storylines while playing with Barbie dolls. That was our outlet for creative thinking. Looking back, I wish I had kept some of those stories as inspiration.

  1. Please tell us something about your book “Cluck That”?

“Cluck That” is an empowering story that aims to help readers realize that it’s okay to be different in our own unique ways. We should always stay true to ourselves and be authentic, as this will help others appreciate and like us for who we truly are.

  1. For which age group is your book “Cluck That” suitable for?

Initially, I wrote the book for children between the ages of 5-10. However, it seems that people of all ages are finding it enjoyable. I had the pleasure of reading it to a teenage boy who was kind enough to listen. As I read, I observed his face lighting up with giggles and smiles. My husband also shared it with his coworkers, who appreciated my choice of words.

  1. What is your favorite Quote?

Wow, that’s a tough question. I thoroughly enjoyed writing this book and had a lot of fun doing it. However, if I had to choose one that I believe would resonate with readers of all ages, it would be “I love this farm and I am ok to be me!”

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

I am grateful to live in a country where women are given the freedom to express their opinions. I appreciate the existence of laws that protect our right to free speech. Unlike Mary Ann Evans, who had to conceal her identity as George Eliot, I’m fortunate to feel comfortable using my own name.

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

A great way to promote reading skills in children is by inviting them to read with you every day. When reading a book with a large print, it can be helpful to point out each word as you read. Repeating a child’s favorite book can also be beneficial, as well as reading stories with rhyming words and repeating lines. Discussing new vocabulary words can also help expand their knowledge. Books that include bright pictures can help keep your child interested. LASTLY Take your time with them because they won’t be small forever. You’ll miss these moments one day.

  1. What does literary success look like to you?

Success, to me, is receiving a copy of my book in the mail and reading it to my beloved grandchildren. It’s a moment of pure joy when they exclaim, “You wrote this for me!” and I get to reply with confidence, “You Betcha!”

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

Wow, this is a tough question. Although my parents have always been a great support for me, I have to admit that it is Judy Garland who has helped me through all the ups and downs of life. It’s her quote “Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else.”

Buy Cluck That on Amazon

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Interview with author Hannah Gaudette

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

My name is Hannah Gaudette. I am a homeschool graduate from the northeastern United States. I started writing at age eight, and, well, never stopped! Aside from writing, I enjoy video editing, creating ambience videos, and working on my family’s farm.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Fate of a Prince”?

Right away, when inspiration struck for the novel, I knew something was missing. A big piece of the puzzle, which didn’t come into place until several weeks later when the true protagonist of the story, Kyden, popped into my head. Finally, the story began to take shape.

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

Early on in my writing, I was hugely influenced by Jaye L Knight’s Ilyon Chronicles. I soaked up her work like a sponge and it greatly improved my craft. I was also positively influenced by Nadine Brandes’ novels and Tricia Mingerink’s Blades of Acktar series.

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

The ocean! I don’t live very close to it, but I visit it whenever I can. It is the place on earth that makes my heart sing. The salty smell in the air, the energy, and the beautiful ambient ocean sounds are soothing and beautiful.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Fate of a Prince’?

The Christmas song “Forevermore” by Chris Tomlin sparked the initial inspiration, ironically, since the novel is a YA fantasy and has nothing to do with Christmas. Nevertheless, that is where it began. It was then influenced by BBC’s Merlin, as fans of that show might be able to tell.

Finally, I felt that the story had a unique opportunity to explore traits like honor and loyalty, and feature a beautiful friendship.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Fate of a Prince’?

I actually wrote the first draft in five or six weeks, which I was very excited about. The rest of the process, however, took close to two years.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

Both my books are available on Amazon, and the sequel to Fate of a Prince will be there as well!

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Fate of a Prince’?

The title actually came about as a working title only, but it stuck! The cover was originally designed by an individual I hired, but events conspired to prevent the completion of the project. I had to find a new designer and come up with a slightly different concept. I found Miblart, thanks to another author’s recommendation, and I could not have been happier with their work!

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

Pacing the flow of the story is very important. Every scene has to matter, either to the plot, character development, or both. For myself, I benefit greatly by writing in multiple POVs (alternating between characters in different chapters). Fate has just two POV characters, but switching between them was very refreshing each time because of their distinct internal voices.

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

I think the most valuable piece of writing advice I’ve been given was quite recent. In short, art should provoke an emotional response. And if that response is negative, it’s okay. Writing, and art in general, should not be a vessel by which we try to please other people. It should be a vessel by which we tell the truth: expose darkness, share light, and not shy away from things that are hard to talk about.

Buy Fate of a Prince on Amazon

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Interview with author Erich Hartung

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

A: I work as a high school English teacher and am also a member of the Navy Reserve with over twenty years of service, including time spent in Iraq and Afghanistan. Writing has always been a passion of mine, and I frequently come up with story ideas. I have been writing since my own days in high school. My personal life is fulfilling as well – I am happily married and have two children.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Terror in the Woods”?

A: In mid-2021, I began this project and faced two major challenges. Firstly, I struggled to find time between my two jobs and family commitments. Secondly, I had to deal with writer’s block.

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

A: I am a huge fan of Tom Clancy (The Hunt for Red October), Jeff Shaara (Gods and Generals), and Jack Carr (The Terminal List). Each of those authors is extremely gifted in telling a story and painting a picture to the reader’s imagination. While I try to use my own ideas to create a story, I find myself using many of their styles in my writing.

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

A: As a child, I enjoyed visiting Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, because of the rich heritage that place has. Our nation was plagued with a Civil War from 1861-1865, leaving the future of our country doubting if we could remain a unified nation. The battle of Gettysburg was a turning point for the Union during the war, which many historians believe was the beginning of the end for the Confederacy. Even now when I get the chance to take my kids to the battlefield, I find it important for them to have fun at the National Park and learn our country’s history.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Terror in the Woods’?

A: I am intrigued by mysterious phenomena that are not yet fully understood. One such topic that has caught my attention is the existence of Bigfoot or Sasquatch, which has been reported by numerous eyewitnesses and featured in documentaries on YouTube and the Travel Channel. Although I am somewhat skeptical of some of the accounts, I remain open-minded and have developed my own theories about these creatures. Recently, I wrote a story about military veterans facing a terrifying ordeal in the woods, which I found to be a compelling and entertaining concept.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Terror in the Woods’?

A: From start to finish, it took about two years.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A: Right now, Terror in the Woods is exclusively on Amazon. It is available as a Kindle eBook and paperback.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Terror in the Woods’?

A: I wished to utilize cover art that could capture the audience’s attention without revealing the nature of the terror. The woods have the ability to be both calming and eerie, as we relish the seclusion of the natural world while simultaneously being haunted by the concept of the unknown.

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

A: In 2017, I wrote a lengthy novel that I was very proud of. However, I soon realized that the storyline was too complex with too many characters, spanning nearly 600 pages. Reflecting on this, I realized that it may have been too overwhelming for readers. I wanted my next book to be different – fun and easy to read, with a limited cast of just four or five characters. To keep it fresh and exciting, I aimed for suspense, action, and a quick pace. So far, the feedback I’ve received has been more positive than my previous book. I have already received questions asking if I was going to do a sequel.

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

A: Interestingly, my English teacher in high school always encouraged me to tap into my imagination and write. Now that I am an English teacher myself, I continually inspire my students to utilize their creative talents and writing skills. I have integrated writing assignments into my curriculum, and the majority of my students find it enjoyable.

Terror in the Woods: When Nightmares Become Reality on Amazon

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Interview with author Bob Kelly

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

Hello Readers! My name is Bob Kelly. I grew up in the great city of Chicago living on the city’s West Side until age 13. At that time we moved to the North Shore suburb of Glencoe where I attended New Trier East High School.. I have always loved sports and as a kid via played youth football and basketball. I carried that on to New Trier where I played basketball and was voted Captain my senior year.

I attended the University of Wisconsin earning a degree in English Literature and then Chicago-Kent School of Law graduating with a J.D. Before beginning law school I worked several different jobs including selling athletic apparel, bartending and coaching professional basketball in Austria.

In 1985 I had a child with my live in girlfriend and seven weeks later we moved from Evanston to Upstate New York to be near her family because her father was about to undergo quadruple bypass surgery. My expectation was that we would return to the Chicago area but when she decided to stay in New York I stayed with her. I was not about to leave my infant son, Morgan. Since I did not have a law license in New York, my choice of jobs in rural Upstate included substitute teaching, coaching junior high basketball and bartending. Throughout this time I wrote several novels and a couple of screen plays.

Just before my son turned seven I became a single father. We moved into a one bedroom apartment and while I kept working as a server at night and began preparing to take the New York Bar Exam. I couldn’t afford the classes but was able to purchase the basic outlines. So, thirteen years after graduating fro law school I sat for the two day New York Bar Exam.

Fortunately, I passed and was able to begin a solo practice after being sworn in on June 21, 1994. The fastest way for me to get started was to jump into criminal defense representing indigent defendants and representing children in Family Court. I continued to do that until June 1, 2023.

However, in May of 2020 while the courts were closed due to COVI and my son no longer with me I decided it was now ornerier to pursue my dream of becoming a writer.

I had developed my focus which was to write about my hometown of Chicago was like currently while touching on its essence that had made me love it as a child and young man. my idea was to use young vibrant contemporary people involved with the most basic and dynamic inner workings of the city. Thus Jack Fallon and Elaina Rodriguez were born.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Chicago Detective Jack Fallon in the Mystery of the Exotic Escort Murders”?

Since I had not lived in Chicago in such a long time and only visited a couple of times a year I decide that I needed to spend more time in the city and keep up with current events daily. So, I subscribed to the Chicago Tribune and began visiting four and then six and now eight times a year. My actual physical presence in Chicago has been crucial to my ability to write about it.

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

Honestly, I was a voracious reader since around 5th grade when my reading level was already that of a 12th grader. I think it was the “Adventures of Marco Polo” that first got me hooked. I then started ready every adventure and mystery story I could find.

In college my exposure to the great novelists such as William Faulkner, F. Scott Fitzgerald and many others was challenging and enriching. Everything from Shakespeare to James Joyce to Kurt Vonnegut was fascinating to me. I never stopped enjoying the stories of Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and during one winter spent in Denmark without a television I read more than 40 Nero Wolfe mysteries, Lord of the Rings and several historical fictions my Morgan Llywelyn among others.

More recently, I have particularly enjoyed reading stories by John Grisham and Stephen King. But, during much of my time as a single parent and lawyer I did not read or write much for fun.

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

Right now my favorite place to visit in America is Chicago. The city is so dynamic and diverse that there are always new things to discover. However, I am always drawn to Lake Michigan. I love to be near it in the parks and on the beaches.During the summer I swim in the lake whenever I can.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Chicago Detective Jack Fallon in the Mystery of the Exotic Escort Murders’?

My desire to connect with Chicago as it currently lives and breathes inspired me to create characters who express the particular qualities of the people experiencing it every day. My feeling is that while so many things have changed over the years there are intrinsic characteristics of Chicago people that have remained the same.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Chicago Detective Jack Fallon in the Mystery of the Exotic Escort Murders’?

The writing of the first full draft of the story of “Chicago Detective Jack Fallon in the Mystery of the Exotic Escort Murders” took three and a half months. The editing process added another six months.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

My first book the Mystery of the Exotic Escort Murders was published by Austin Macauley and is available o Amazon and Barnes&Noble in print and ebook. Amazon Audibles offers an audiobook.

My next book due out some time in August titled “Chicago Detective Jack Fallon in the Mystery of the Egg of Chaos” will be self published and will be available in print and ebook at Amazon and Barnes&Noble. The audio book will be available on Amazon Audibles in September.

My third book, “Chicago Detective Jack Fallon in the Mystery of the Legally Dead” should be out in November.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Chicago Detective Jack Fallon in the Mystery of the Exotic Escort Murders’?

The titles for my books so far have all been solely my ideas. I told Austin Macauley what I wanted asa cover and they did a great job with it.

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

I have a concept for the story and then it develops over time even while I am still working on another story. When I am finished with the previous one and have a clear idea of the first chapter and general direction of the ending I begin writing. So much of the story is created during the writing that everything is always fresh and fun.

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

I really do not have one specific teacher, mentor or piece of advice to refer to. For me the single most important thing that changed from when I began writing to when I started up again in 2020 was that I had lived and experienced a lot more. I purposely have not tried to copy any other writer or writing style.

Buy Chicago Detective Jack Fallon in the Mystery of the Exotic Escort Murders on Amazon

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Interview with author Marcus Hurst

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

It was in 1992 that my story began,
And the title of Marcus Hurst filled the naming demand.
Pennsylvania was the place where our family was raised, And milking the cows is how we spent our days.
Eight siblings I have, which has brought many joys, Two sisters I’ve got—the rest us are all boys.

While in my early teens 80 songs that I knew I stuck in my brain where they all stood in queue,
And then I would sing them while doing my chores And driving the tractors in fields out of doors.

My first job I got at the age of nineteen, And teaching at school had become my routine. Grades seventh and sixth I had taught from my stool, There at West Cocalico Mennonite School.

Then, at a bicycle shop, I had started, To work on those bikes was the course to be charted.
And Red Rock Refuge became my career, To help teenage boys their bad habits to clear.

The framing of houses I did for a year, And then I went back to my teaching career. At a small country school called Limestone Valley,
I helped fourteen students, their numbers to tally. For the last four years I run a workshop for boys
Who are blind or are mentally handicapped joys. As much as I can, I work at my writing, Right now I find poems especially exciting.

(It was during the shutdown, in 2020, A change came over me that puzzled me plenty; It was one morning, from the minute I woke
That rhymes did appear in the things that I spoke. A spontaneous poet I have been ever since,
Though that fact never made me any more of a prince. And now that I find myself being a poet, I decided I might as well practice to grow it.
So, with rhymes I cope, and I haven’t lost hope For it is quite amazing, I find, To tune ears and brain, whether dry or in rain, And behold what rolls out of my mind.
[When I mention this rhyming, I do not mean to boast;
I’m just sharing the story of my recent diagnose.])

Additionally, if folks do not bristle too soon, I often instinctively whistle a tune. I’m also a singer, of low parts and high, And composing of music is something I try.
I find it hard to believe, but it’s true now I say. There are 40 some songs I’ve helped write in some way.

My passion in life, that I refuse now to waive, Is to help other people find the fulfillment they crave. (And whether or not it may sound rather funny, Lasting satisfaction is not found in money. Although monetarily I am actually quite poor
I find I am satisfied, of that I am sure.)

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

Well, my mind goes to a paragraph from the 2nd chapter of the book, that address that question:
“I have ample evidence that Satan despises this book. He did his best to distract and discourage me from completing it by instigating a horrible mental sensation that used to bother me when I worked on my writing projects. Satan would have gotten me to give up writing if God had not heard my cry for deliverance and made him stop it.”
Besides that, God has been very faithful at helping me write the book. My greatest challenges have been with getting the book published.

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

The Holy Bible has been my greatest influencer.
Other books that have helped shape this book are: Mere Christianity, by C. S. Lewis; Impressions, by Martin Wells Knapp; Surprised by Faith, by Dr. Don Bierle; and The Case for Faith, by Lee Strobel

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

Upon some thinking I have concluded that my favorite spot in America is my home in Buffalo Valley. I have traveled throughout the lower 48 states, and the best part of each trip had always been getting home again.
Besides that, I enjoy camping in the wilds of north central Pennsylvania with my friends. I have many precious memories of star gazing, seeing bear, and kayaking the West Branch Susquehanna River.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘The Contentment Dilemma’?

It was God that got after me to write this book and coached me through the numerous phases of its creation. My personal experience,. of locating peace of mind when I surrendered my life to God, has also been a motivator for me to get this book published and aid others at locating that peace of mind.

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

The book started as an article that I wrote as a teenager, and at the age of 24 I added a few chapters to it and got the idea of making a book out of it. It took another seven years till this fourth edition of the manuscript got published.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

This book is currently available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and bookshop.org, among other places books are sold.

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

For the title, I made a list of all the potential titles I could think of, over the course of a few months. Then I crossed out the ones that I didn’t like, and narrowed it down to two or three different ones. I got opinions from friends and kept thinking about it for a few weeks till it finally became obvious that The Contentment Dilemma was going to be the one.
The book cover was professionally designed by Jude Mag-asin, and was the obvious choose of the two options he presented to me; and he sure did an amazing job.

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

I spent hours upon hours contemplating about the book in God’s presence, and He provided untold amounts of encouragement and advice. Many times when I came across a specific issue with how to word something, a phenomenal solution suddenly came to mind as soon as I prayed about it; and there where times it happen the very second I decided I will need to seek God’s advice. (I share a few of these stories in the book.)
Of a surety, without God’s divine aid this manuscript would not be worth reading.

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

“Don’t give up. If it is worth writing it will be hard work, but it certainly will be worth the effort.”

Buy The Contentment Dilemma on Amazon

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Interview with author Elijah Lewis

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

My name is Elijah Lewis. I am from Baltimore, MD. In addition to being an author and motivational speaker, I am an engineer with NAVSEA in Indian Head, MD. I am also a graduate of Tuskegee and Morgan State University. Some of my hobbies would be playing basketball, meditation, and spending time with family and friends, just to name a few.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Your Jewels are in your journey”?

Honestly, there weren’t too many key challenges that I faced in writing “Your Jewels are in Your Journey”. When my publisher and I met to begin the process of writing “Your Jewels are in Your Journey”, he laid out the outline of how to write my book that was very simple to follow. I really thought that was beneficial for a first-time author and I had the benefit of having someone who’s written seven books himself give me excellent advice in the writing process. Thankfully, I didn’t have to go through too much writer’s block.

However, I would say that real key challenges in writing my book would be having to write about certain life experiences that I haven’t shared with a lot of people. I say that because sometimes when you go through painful experiences, you think as time goes on, those experiences don’t affect you anymore. You kind of get the attitude of “well, that happened a long time ago, I’m good. That doesn’t bother me anymore.” However, when you sit down and write about those experiences, you realize those experiences played a big role in where you are today and actually you realize that maybe I haven’t fully healed from those experiences as I thought I did. In fact, writing about certain experiences in my book, such as having your heart broken from someone you care about, or the challenges I went through in high school made me realize that. However, I would say that writing my book was very therapeutic because it allowed me to release the pain of those experiences and put them on paper. Although I felt as though I had to go back to the place of pain to write the book, I do believe the best art can come from pain because pain is something we all have to go through. In the end, I would say chapters 4 and 5 were the most difficult to write for me and I’m sure anyone who reads my book, will understand why.

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

I would say the books or authors that have most influenced my writing are “The Autobiography of Malcolm X” and the Bible. I say “The Autobiography of Malcolm X” because when you study Malcolm X’s life, you see a how a person can evolve from the absolute worst to the absolute best. If I had to sum up Malcolm’s life in one sentence, it would be it’s not how you start, it’s how you finish. In fact, I remember when my father first made read his autobiography and it was very inspiring actually. The timing actually couldn’t have been better as I was going through my own struggles in high school. I admire the fact that Malcolm could go from a high school dropout and a life of crime to one of the greatest leaders in human history. In the end, we all love a good comeback story. Now I would never compare myself to Malcolm, nor my book to his autobiography, but I could make the argument that his life was the original “Your Jewels are in Your Journey” if you will. He definitely had to go through a lot of life lessons to be his optimal self. If you haven’t read his autobiography, I would recommend it.

I say the Bible because of the wisdom that is in it. In fact, I reference quite a few scriptures in my book to highlight certain chapters. Of course, I am not trying to promote any particular religious path, but my goal is that regardless of the reader’s beliefs, he or she can take in the wisdom and apply it to the journey of their spiritual path, whatever that looks like to him or her. Plus, I will say growing up I spent a lot of time reading the Bible and I actually dive into my religious upbringing, which I think readers will find very interesting and surprising. So, you definitely want to get your copy of my book and check that out for yourself.

Finally, I will say music has influenced my writing because there are certain artists, in which I quote their music to emphasize the jewel that I want to bring out in my book. While writing the book I listened to a lot of music. It helps the writing process along the way and gets the creative juices flowing.

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

My favorite place to visit in the United States would have to be Orlando, FL. What makes Orlando special to me is that there are so many activities you can do there. For me, I love adventure and theme parks. Orlando allows you to do both, whether it’s going to Icon Park, Universal Studios, or Disney World, etc. It sort of brings out the inner child in me. I’ve been there three times and have enjoyed every trip, especially the last two because I went with my best friend since elementary school. Hopefully, I’ll be able to visit Orlando again soon! Plus, they’re going to have some new rides at some of their amusement parks and they have built a lot of property down there too.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Your Jewels are in your journey’?

It’s funny because prior to me writing “Your Jewels are in Your Journey”, I had no intention of being an author. I honestly didn’t think I had what it took to write a book. What led to me being an author was that in September 2022, I went to the Level Up Black Empowerment Expo in Waldorf, MD and there I met my publisher, Matthew C. Horne. I bought two of his books and the lady who was at his table told me to come back and he’ll sign my book. So, I came back and Matthew signed my two books. Then he asks me, “Brother, you ever think about writing a book? You look like you got something on your mind.”

Honestly, the answer in my head was no, but I said I would consider it. We exchanged numbers and followed each other on Instagram. I said I would let him know by Wednesday, my decision. I kept thinking about my life experiences and the lessons that I have learned from them and I figured that this opportunity would be great for me and other people. So, I let him know Wednesday, we met that Friday and signed the contract. It’s one of those scenarios where someone sees more in you than you do yourself. For me, just the opportunity to give guidance to people is the ultimate inspiration. Booker T. Washington said it best, “If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else.” That’s what led to “Your Jewels are in Your Journey”.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Your Jewels are in your journey’?

6 months, I started in October 2022 and finished in March 2023.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

Readers can buy my book on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and my website (www.yourjewelsareinyourjourney.com).

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Your Jewels are in your journey’?

For the book cover, I knew I wanted to put a jewel on the cover to grab the reader’s attention. Of course, a diamond is arguably the best jewel of all. Whenever you find a jewel, it usually grabs your attention. The road on book cover represents the journey that we all take in life and on the road of life, we usually find many jewels along the way. The sign “JOURNEY 1,000 miles” is an ode to the saying, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step” by Lao Tzu. In the end, I wanted a book cover that encapsulates that message of the reader finding jewels along his/her journey because after all, a picture is worth a thousand words. Like I always tell everyone, we all have a journey to travel on in this thing called life.

As far as coming up with the title “Your Jewels Are in Your Journey”, I have to give credit to Matthew on that. I had thought of thirteen book titles on my own, but to be honest, none of them really stood out to capture the interest of the reader. When Matthew and I met, he wrote the title on a piece of paper and asked my opinion of the title. Soon as I saw it, I knew that was the perfect title. In fact, the title of the book, made the book cover a lot easier to make. In the end, as you go through life, you’re going to find many life lessons along the way.

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

To keep things fresh for both my readers and myself, I trying to write my book as if we’re having a conversation with each other. My goal of writing my book is to talk to my reader and not down on my reader. I ultimately want to mention life experiences that are relatable and capture the readers’ interest to the point where they don’t want to put the book down. Ultimately, I want my book to different from other self-help books by balancing being serious and humor about my life and the lessons we all need to learn.

I also try to keep things fresh by quoting various sources and people. So, on one hand, I can quote a different book to summarize the jewel I want to highlight and on the other hand, I may use lyrics from a song to do the same thing. When it comes to people, I may quote historical figures, but also celebrities. The bottom line it shows the reader that they can get inspiration from anyone or anything.

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

The most valuable piece of advice I’ve been given about writing is “Don’t consider your reader, consider yourself” by Matthew. The way that I interpret that piece of advice is that you should write something that you would want to read. In other words, if you’re writing something just to sound good to your readers, but in reality, you have no interest in it yourself, then you shouldn’t write about it. Smart people know when a person is just throwing something against the wall, hoping that it sticks. They also know when the writer took genuine time and effort in his/her work to display the message they want to convey. That’s my advice to anyone getting into writing, find something that you’re passionate about that you want to write. It doesn’t matter if it’s fiction, non-fiction, a children’s book, etc. If you have an interest in it, go for it. If not, don’t waste your time. In the end, the right people will show up to read your book because if you build they will come or in this case, if you write it, they will read it.

Your Jewels Are in Your Journey on Amazon

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