Category: Author Interview

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Interview with author Megan Cianfaglione

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

Hi! I’m Megan Cianfaglione, an indie author who writes stories that live in the shadows—psychological thrillers, horror shorts, and dark, twisty fiction that isn’t afraid to go deep. I’m passionate about telling stories centered on survival, resilience, and the quiet kind of strength people don’t always see. I write with a cup of strong coffee nearby, a playlist full of haunting music, and a deep love for characters who feel just a little too real. My debut thriller, No Safe Place, is a story about reclaiming power when the world has tried to take it from you—and it means the world to me.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “No Safe Place”?

Emotionally, it was heavy. Writing from the perspective of a woman who survived abuse and is trying to rebuild her life while being hunted by her past wasn’t easy. I wanted the fear and trauma to feel authentic, but also leave space for moments of hope, humor, and humanity. Structurally, balancing the thriller pacing with emotional depth was tricky—I had to learn when to hold back and when to go full throttle. And then there was the self-doubt, of course. But I channeled all of that into Rayna’s voice.

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

Stephen King, Haruki Murakami, and Sarah J. Maas have all shaped the way I write in different ways. King taught me how to lean into fear and character psychology; Murakami opened my mind to surrealism and emotional complexity; and Maas inspired me to build immersive worlds and layered relationships. Books that have stuck with me over the years include The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon, 1Q84, Hamlet, and A Court of Thorns and Roses. Each one left a different kind of imprint—whether through atmosphere, emotion, or sheer literary beauty.

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

Northern California, hands down. The weather is perfect—cool, moody, a little mysterious—and the landscapes are just breathtaking. From the towering redwoods to the dramatic cliffs of Big Sur, it’s a place that feeds my soul creatively and emotionally. It feels ancient and wild, like the kind of place where stories are waiting to be told. Every time I visit, I feel reconnected to nature—and to myself.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘No Safe Place’?

Part of the inspiration came from my own experience in an abusive relationship. I wanted to write something that captured the emotional complexity of surviving—not just the trauma, but the vulnerability of trying to trust again, to rebuild a life, to let new people in. No Safe Place is about reclaiming your power in a world that doesn’t always make it easy. It’s raw, personal, and deeply human.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘No Safe Place’?

About a year from the first scene to the final draft—though the idea lived in my head for a lot longer than that. I wrote it in layers, revising as I went. It started as a short story and grew into something much deeper and more complex. I also took breaks to step back and make sure I was telling the story with the honesty and care it deserved.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

No Safe Place is available on Amazon as both an eBook and paperback! You can find it by searching my name—Megan Cianfaglione—or the book title. And stay tuned—more stories are coming soon, from twisted horror shorts to a romantasy series I’ve been quietly crafting in the background.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘No Safe Place’?

The title came first—it just felt right. Rayna is constantly trying to find a place where she’s truly safe, and every time she gets close, something rips it away. “No Safe Place” captures that claustrophobic fear. The cover was a labor of love. I knew I wanted it to feel chilling, lonely, and atmospheric. I ended up with a snowy backdrop, a shadowy figure, and a rusting water tower—a perfect symbol of how decay and danger can lurk even in quiet places.

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

I focus on character first. If I care about the people I’m writing, the story stays alive for me. I also let the darker or stranger ideas take the wheel—whether that’s playing with structure, weaving in unexpected humor, or writing scenes that make even me uncomfortable. And when I start feeling stuck, I write something completely different—flash fiction, a horror scene, or even a poetic journal entry—to reset my brain.

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

“Write the story only you can tell.” It sounds simple, but it changed everything for me. There will always be trends, but your voice—your weird, raw, true voice—is what people connect with. Don’t try to write like anyone else. Get honest. Get personal. That’s where the magic is.

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Interview with author Zeyad Kareem

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

A1. Hello, my name is Zeyad Kareem, though most of my friends and family call me Zee. I’m originally from Iraq and moved to the United States in 2009. Over the years, I’ve worn a few different hats, I’ve worked as a translator, I’m currently a flight attendant, and I’m also a student. But at the core of it all, I’m a writer. Storytelling has always been my passion, and I write in both English and Arabic. Traveling and working between cultures has shaped how I see the world, and those experiences often find their way into my writing.

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

A2. One of the biggest challenges I faced while writing Fur-Ever was balancing my time. Between working as a flight attendant, studying, and daily responsibilities, finding quiet hours to write wasn’t always easy. Another challenge was staying consistent with my characters’ emotions and personalities throughout the story. Because I write in both English and Arabic, I also found myself thinking carefully about word choice and how to make the story resonate across cultures. Despite these challenges, the process taught me discipline, patience, and how important it is to trust the story even when the writing feels tough.

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

A3. I’ve been influenced by a mix of authors in both English and Arabic literature. In English, I admire writers like J.K. Rowling for her world-building and the way she makes readers truly care about her characters. I’ve also been inspired by Paulo Coelho, especially The Alchemist, which taught me how a simple story can hold powerful, universal truths. In Arabic literature, I look up to Naguib Mahfouz and Ihsan Abdel Quddous. Mahfouz for the way he captures everyday life with depth and detail, and Abdel Quddous for his boldness in exploring emotions and social issues. Each of these authors showed me that writing can connect people across cultures and languages, which is something I always try to bring into my own stories.

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

A4. My favorite spot to visit in my country is Mutanabbi Street in Baghdad. It’s a place that has always been famous for bookselling, and to me, it feels like the heart of literature in Iraq. Walking down that street, surrounded by bookshops and stalls filled with stories, ideas, and history, always reminds me why I fell in love with writing in the first place. It’s not just about the books, it’s about the atmosphere, the conversations, and the sense of connection that comes from being among people who value words and knowledge.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘The Truth Half Naked’?

A5. The inspiration came from my own life and the realities I’ve witnessed growing up in the Middle East as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. I wanted to tell a story that reflects the struggles, fears, and resilience of people who are often silenced or forced to hide their truth. Writing The Truth Half Naked was both a personal release and a way to give a voice to those who can’t always speak for themselves. My hope is that readers not only connect with the raw honesty in the book but also see the universal themes of love, courage, and the search for freedom.

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

A6. The Truth Half Naked took me about six months to write. The process wasn’t just about putting words on the page, it also involved rewriting, refining, and making sure the story stayed true to what I wanted to express. Some parts came to me quickly, while others needed more patience and adjustment. Those six months taught me a lot about discipline and persistence, and by the end, I felt I had grown as both a writer and a storyteller.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Readers can find my books on Amazon in both paperback and Kindle editions. They’re also available through Barnes & Noble’s online store and a few other online retailers. I always recommend Amazon as the easiest option since it’s accessible worldwide, but I’m happy my books are available on multiple platforms so readers can choose what works best for them.

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

A8. Coming up with the title Fur-Ever was one of the most meaningful parts of the process. The book is based on my late cat, Figaro, who was my first pet and who I lost in 2023. He brought a big change to my life, and I wanted to honor his memory in a way that would last. The play on words with “forever” felt perfect, it captured both the love and loyalty pets bring into our lives, and it allowed me to keep his memory alive through the story.

For the cover, I wanted something that reflected that same warmth and bond. It needed to be simple yet powerful, something that would catch a reader’s eye but also hold a piece of the story’s heart. Seeing the final design come together felt very personal, because it wasn’t just about a book, it was also about celebrating Figaro’s place in my life.

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

A9. For me, keeping things fresh starts with curiosity. I try to approach each story as if I’m discovering it for the first time, even if I’ve been living with the idea for months. I like to challenge myself by exploring different themes, experimenting with new styles, or adding unexpected twists to the plot.

I also draw a lot of inspiration from real life, people I meet while traveling, places I’ve visited, or even small everyday moments. Bringing those real touches into my stories helps me stay engaged and, I hope, keeps the reading experience exciting and relatable. Most of all, I try to stay honest with my writing. If I’m emotionally invested in the story, then I know readers will feel that same freshness when they read it.

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

A10. The most valuable piece of advice I’ve been given about writing is simple: just keep writing. It’s easy to get caught up in perfection, waiting for the “right” words or the “right” time, but writing is really about persistence. The more you write, the more your voice grows and your style develops. I was also told not to be afraid of rewriting, because the first draft doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to exist. That advice has stayed with me and given me the courage to finish projects instead of leaving them unfinished out of fear.

Author’s profile on Amazon

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Interview with author Diamond Ice Minor

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

A1. Ice Brown is a stylist, street culture archivist, and creative entrepreneur based in Massachusetts. As the founder of HOUSE OF BLVCK ICE, she blends fashion, storytelling, and community to celebrate the power of style and culture. Ice is the creator of the beloved children’s book character Diamond Ice Minor, inspiring kids through stories rooted in dance, creativity, and real-life community events. My First Summer Jam Classic honors her hometown of Worcester, MA, and the spirit of youth sports, friendship, and local pride.

  1. What is the inspiration behind your book “My First Summer Jam Classic”

A2. Ice Brown was inspired to write My First Summer Jam Classic to capture the excitement, pride, and community spirit of Worcester’s beloved Summer Jam Classic event. Growing up around basketball culture alongside childhood friend and event founder Anthony Barbosa, she experienced firsthand the energy, camaraderie, and joy the game brings to the neighborhood. As a storyteller and cultural archivist, she wanted young readers—especially local kids—to see themselves, their city, and their traditions celebrated in a vibrant, lasting way. Through the joyful imagination of Diamond Ice Minor, the book preserves a real piece of Worcester’s history for future generations.

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

A3. Ice Brown never officially set out to “be an author.” She has always been open to storytelling, but creating a book was more about seeing an idea through to completion. It wasn’t until after writing My First Summer Jam Classic—and witnessing how it resonated with the city—that she realized the impact it could have. The Summer Jam Classic was already a local staple, but this book gave her a new way to educate and inspire kids beyond the classroom. Even now, calling herself an “author” feels a little strange, because growing up, that was never the plan. Then again anything she’s doing now was never the plan.

  1. Please tell us something about your book “My First Summer Jam Classic”

A4. My First Summer Jam Classic is a love letter to Worcester, featuring real people from our community—from childhood heroes to local businesses, friends, family, and staple spots in the city. Anthony Barbosa and I were practically raised by the Boys & Girls Club of Worcester, so including people like Ike McBride, Shauree Allottey, to mentioning Carlos Garcia outside of the initial story brought back memories of our own wild, carefree days. More than that, it reminded us of the care, guidance, and encouragement they gave us—lessons that shaped the way we create and live today. Worcester is full of gems like them, people who inspire the next generation to stay true to themselves and create boldly.

  1. For which age group is your book “My First Summer Jam Classic” suitable for?

A5. Ages 5-10 but all ages are welcomed to enjoy. It’s meant to be applied through lineage, as parents and guardians can tell their own stories on top of what’s mentioned in the book.

  1. What is your favorite Quote?

A6. “No one can do what you do, how you do it, so you might as well create anyways” idk who and if anyone said that but it resonates so deeply.

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

A7 The rich innovation in the black and “street-cultured” community. Our creativity comes from such a raw place with so many different perspectives, views, and angles. The brainpower it takes to develop new cultures and still thrive is motivation to keep creating not nobly for myself but as proof it can be done.

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

A8. As a street dance and art educator, I’d say make reading fun and make it something you do together. Those shared moments are what kids will remember, and they’re what can turn them into lifelong, curious, and joy-filled learners. Kids learn best through play—so bring stories to life, laugh with them, and let books be an adventure you take side by side.

  1. What does literary success look like to you?

A9. It looks like fun.
It’s the excitement for words, pictures, and the story itself.
It’s seeing students fully engaged—wanting to participate, eager to learn more.

It’s hearing them ask challenging questions because the story sparked their thinking.

It’s when they return the next week to tell their educators about the book they read—and how now their friends want to read it too.
It’s watching them take pride in their own books and collections.
It’s no longer hiding intelligence or feeling shy about knowing the answer, but standing tall in it.

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

A10. It’s all the small, smiling, and curious faces who meet Diamond Ice Minor—the little ones I’ve been blessed to teach, who always end up teaching me something in return. It’s the community that continues to grow and adapt, making space for a new wave of thinkers and creatives. And it’s the little girl I once was, drawing Hip Hop idols for hours on the floor, who never gave up her creativity.

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Interview with author James Snow

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

A1. I’m James Snow— I am a retired Sergeant from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department with over 28.5 years in law enforcement. I am a former SWAT sniper and Major Accident Investigation Team leader, and a guy who’s had to “pivot” more than once after injury, loss, and transition. I also spent over a decade as a college professor teaching criminal justice and running the extended police academy for the college. Today I build furniture and historic wood lighting in my small shop, Snow Woodworks, and I write and speak about how to move forward when the mission changes. My book, The Pivot, is a field guide for anyone who’s staring down a hard change and wondering what’s next.

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

A2. Three big ones:
Telling hard truths with respect. I had to protect people’s privacy while still being honest about the lessons learned.

Switching mindsets. After-action reports are one thing; writing a book people want to read is another. I learned to trade law enforcement jargon for plain English and story.

Indie publishing logistics. ISBNs, print specs, metadata, and distribution were a new world. Worth it—but a grind.

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

A3. Well I have been a voracious reader since I was a kid….I started on Louis L’Amour westerns and moved on to fiction (thrillers) Brad Thor, Vince Flynn, Jack Carr, etc. and non fiction – generally leadership stuff – Leaders Eat Last (Simon Sinek) for leadership strategies and the why, Extreme Ownership (Jocko Willink & Leif Babin) for accountability. Man’s Search for Meaning (Viktor Frankl) for purpose in suffering. The War of Art (Steven Pressfield) for beating resistance. And Jim Collins’ Good to Great—a reminder that excellence is a choice.

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

A4. Well with where I live in southern California, I can be in the mountains (Big Bear or Lake Arrowhead) in under an hour or I can drive to the beach within an hour. I grew up a couple miles from Huntington Beach and was able to ride my bike to surf before school every morning and that will always hold a special place for me.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book “The Pivot”?

A5. After decades in uniform and then a forced change, I watched too many good people stall out—isolated, angry, or stuck in the past and the final catalyst was when one of my friends stuck in this cycle with loss of purpose took his own life. It is a real thing in the world I come from – as well as other service related jobs and I wanted to do what I could to give people hope that there is more out there and their journey isn’t over just because a job ended. I wrote the book I needed: practical steps, straight talk, and stories that say, “You’re not done. Here’s how to re-aim your life.”

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book “The Pivot”?

A6. About a year of focused writing and revision—built on three decades of lived experience. The pages went faster once I treated it like training: daily reps, no excuses.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Hardback, Paperback and eBook are available on Amazon. You can also request it through your local bookstore via IngramSpark distribution. Easiest hub for links: my site, snow-woodworks.com.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title “The Pivot”.

A8. The title had to be simple and actionable—what you do when the path changes? When a lot of people think of a pivot, they think of basketball and pivoting back and forth to find the right direction to go….I liked that tie in and visual. The cover features a brass compass and woodworking tools—navigation and craftsmanship—because rebuilding a life is both: know where you’re headed and have the skill to make it. The subtitle, “A Guide to Moving Forward When the Mission Changes,” makes the promise clear.

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

A9. I pressure-tested every idea against the street: “Would this help someone at 2 a.m. on their worst day?” After I was basically done, I gave the manuscript to a few close friends who I trust – one of them a writer and filmmaker and then I rotated between story, step-by-step tools, and reflection prompts so the reader gets insight and action. For me, I reset in the woodshop—hands on tools keep the writing honest.

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

A10. “Serve the reader, not your ego.” Say it straight and cut what’s clever but not useful. Be honest, because you readers will see through B.S. My friend Chris Lee’s book is titled “The Story Comes First” and I think that is a great insight to have….serve the story – don’t try to steer it where you want it to go. Let it play out and just record it for others to read, see, and learn from and the rest will work itself out.

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Interview with author Adrienne Bender

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

A1. I am a registered psychiatric nurse working in children’s mental health for the past 20 years, I am also trained as a grief coach, and mother to 2 angel babies.

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

A2. Challenges in writing the book were bringing up the emotions that I had during my journey with my 2 kids who suffered very different but fatal afflictions, also what to include as there was much more that happened that i chose not to include.

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

A3. Elizabeth Gilbert and Brene Brown have inspired me to share real, authentic raw events from my life.

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

A4. Vancouver is my favourite place to visit, I love the mix of the big city combined with the lushness of Stanley Park and easy access to the sea wall, I also have great memories of spending time there with my kids.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘The Almost Miracle Years’?

A5. I experienced so much loss and death between 2018-2023 that I needed to find meaning and the hidden gifts of loss. I know my loved ones are living on in another realm and I wanted to share hope with anyone else who has experienced significant loss, also keep my children’s memory alive in the pages of my book.

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

A6. I started writing when my daughter passed away in 2018, it had been reinvented many times since I first started. I wrapped it up in April 2025.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. My book is available on amazon, barnes and noble, Lulu and Kobo.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘The Almost Miracle Years’?

A8. The title just came to me ! for many years with both my kids struggled and almost survived by a miracle, I wanted to capture the almost miraculous recovery that they both experienced and not dwell on the losses. My daughter comes to me as dragonflies and my son as eagles, the colour is my daughter’s favourite colour. The symbols came from various gifts people had given me with their symbols on it.

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

A9. I kept the writing fresh by being careful of what to include it was hard to do because there is so much content but I wanted the whole story out there.

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

A10. The best advice I got was to be real and raw and let my personality come through in my writing style.

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Interview with author William Tirre

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

A1. My name is William Tirre, but my friends and family call me Bill. I am an applied research psychologist who recently retired from the federal government after seventeen years with the Air Force in San Antonio, Texas and nineteen years with the U.S. Department of Education in Washington, DC. Today I am a self-published author of novels and other fiction. I can honestly say that writing stories is a lot more entertaining than writing dry research reports!

In 1983 I married the love of my life, and we are now empty nesters because our three adult sons are pursuing their own careers and living separately.  My oldest son, Matthew, is a trained illustrator who created all the wonderful pictures in Spunky and Leonard.

When I am not writing I read a lot of books, both fiction and non-fiction. I especially like historical fiction, Westerns, science fiction, and mystery/suspense. And I start each day with a Bible reading. In addition, I like to play contemporary Christian music and compose songs on my guitar. For exercise I play pickleball and basketball

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “The Adventures of Spunky and Leonard”?

A2. Honestly, I did not have any special challenges in writing Spunky and Leonard. I just tried to remember what kinds of adventures I would have liked to have had as a boy and then I let my imagination take control. It was a different situation for my historical fiction novels. To develop these stories, I had to do some research to make the story authentic with respect to the beliefs, customs, and language of people in the time period I had set the story in. 

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

A3. For Western novels my favorite authors are Elmer Kelton and Louis L’Amour. They have influenced my writing, but I would not say I deliberately tried to imitate them. These authors made the Old West come alive for me.  I really enjoy reading history and trying to understand the opinions and perspectives of people living in various points in history. Some of my favorite authors in this category are Diana Gabaldon (Outlander) and Margaret Mitchell (Gone with the Wind). Margaret Mitchell’s one book was a masterpiece that captured the zeitgeist of the Civil War and Reconstruction period in the old South. She had intimate knowledge of the South and conveyed it expertly in her novel.

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

A4. My favorite place to visit in the U.S. is the St. Louis Arch. In the early 1960s I could see it under construction from my parents’ neighborhood in St. Louis. It is still quite a thrill to stand at the base of this monument and look up to its zenith at 630 feet.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Love Lost and then Found in the Civil War’?

A5. I wanted to show how a person who suffers a romantic loss can be restored and fulfilled through finding a new love possibly deeper than the one lost. When one door is closed shut another door opens. The idea of a closed door leading to another opportunity encourages believers to trust in God’s plan, even when facing disappointment or setbacks. The main character in this story, a seminary graduate named Simon, lives out his faith by refusing to join the Confederate army and defend slavery, and by mentoring a young man, Josiah, who is escaping slavery. Simon’s deep faith sustains him through various trials.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘The Rescue of Minnie Engel’?

A6.  The Rescue of Minnie Engel was my first novel and naturally it took more time to write. And keep in mind that I was still a full-time employee of the Department of Education and so I could work on the novel only in evenings and on weekends. I submitted the first version of the book to a publisher in 2019. After I received some reviews, I revised the book and submitted it to a new publisher in late 2023. Thus, I was working on this book from 2018 to 2023.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. In addition to Amazon and Barnes and Noble, my eBooks are available at all the major sellers of eBooks.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘The Hand of the Ojibwa Maiden’?

A8. The title The Hand of the Ojibwa Maiden comes from the old-fashioned idea of winning the hand of a young woman in marriage. The story is set during the Sioux Rebellion of 1862 when war parties spread through southwestern Minnesota setting fire to fields, homes, and barns of white farmers. Robert Perault meets Little Fox at the Sioux village and the two teens fall in love. But the chief’s son wants Little Fox for himself.

The cover is intended to show the two young lovers embracing each other with a orange sky from the burning farms as a background.

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

A9. This is a hard question because I have found that when I am writing a story the characters come alive for me and it seems that they are telling me their story. So, it is not the case that I must deliberately  try to keep the story fresh, the story is unfolding for me through the thoughts and actions of my characters who seem to have become alive, at least in my mind. 

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

A10. I think it is that the writer should engage the reader’s interest at the very beginning of the book. If the book does not capture their interest from the very start, readers might not continue to stay with the book.

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Interview with author Alex Wolfe

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

A1. I am a middle aged British ex-military veteran (reluctantly medically discharged following injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident, much like the protagonist in my book!). I had a spell as a drummer in a band for a few years, and played numerous gigs on the British pub/bar circuit which was great fun. Finally settled into a career in the motor trade, which is enjoyable but can be pretty tedious.

Alex and Wolfe are two of my middle names, and I remember years ago saying that if I was ever to write a book, it would make a good pen name. Years later, here we are.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “A Broken Nail”?

A2. Given that I have no formal training, and have a pretty unspectacular education, I found writing the book surprisingly easy. It seemed to flow very naturally and seemingly with minimal effort. My mother was a bit of a wordsmith, and I guess I inherited some of this.

As a complete novice, once written, I involved a developmental editor who was incredibly encouraging and helpful, and was probably the best investment.

Working full-time, finding writing time was probably the main difficulty. A stolen hour here and there plus weekend afternoons were the mainstay.

By far the most challenging aspect has been getting my book published. As a complete novice, I trusted youtube for advice and guidance, only to find every contributor seemed to be giving different advice.

Currently I am traversing the minefield of 21st Century social media marketing, something on which only a short while ago I had zero presence and no knowledge!

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

A3. One of my favourite novels, Wuthering Heights (read at school) caught my imagination and I draw on it regularly with my passion for Dartmoor where Bronte set the scene. However it is difficult to say which other authors influenced me. There have been two or three whose books I read, and the style of writing and phrasing, and on occasions the basic structure of the book seemed to require more effort to read than necessary. So for me the take away from that is to try to make my writing flow. To me, a book should be easy to read, regardless of the intricacies or otherwise of the plot.

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

A4. By far my favourite spot to visit in the UK is Dartmoor, a bleak and hostile wilderness in the southwest of England, and a place where I spent many years on military exercises and so on. I have a basic outline for another book (this current series I’m writing is a trilogy), but my idea for my forth book is entirely different; based in Dartmoor. More on this is due course.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘A Broken Nail’?

A5. One day I found myself daydreaming in the office and started doodling then, spontaneously, a paragraph flowed. Then the more I wrote, the more I wanted to; eventually I had written a chapter, which then turned into two and so on.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘A Broken Nail’?

A6. The first draft of the book only took something like four months, and the editing maybe another month or two. Being new to this whole process, publishing was the real challenge.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. It’s currently available on Amazon, in either eBook or paperback formats. The short link is; https://amzn.eu/d/7jv3C74

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘A Broken Nail’?

A8. It’s a very interesting process choosing a book cover. Something that catches the eye, but also offers an insight into what lies within. As the book is partly set in Brighton town on the English south coast, (a favourite holiday destination of Queen Victoria) it HAD to feature the historic Brighton Pier. The magenta colour jumped out at me and screamed first novel to me!

I believe conventional boy meets girl love stories are ever more relevant today and this explains the male silhouette on the cover. My male protagonist will feature in all three books so he is central to the plot.

The title becomes self-explanatory in the first chapter.

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

A9. Introducing different settings and characters, and providing enough detail of those for the reader to be able to visualise them, but not so much as it detracts from the story line. Likewise, when describing somewhere of which I have limited knowledge, I research in the library and add my own slant to keep things interesting.

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

A10. Living in a quiet village, and this being my first literary venture, I haven’t really been exposed to those who might offer advise. As implied earlier, I have literally done this blind, and learnt along the way.

Buy Broken Nail on Amazon

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Interview with author Craig Marchant

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

A1. G’day, I’m Craig Marchant—mental health advocate, public speaker, tech nerd, and dad to five amazing (and occasionally exhausting) kids. I’ve lived with depression, anxiety, and schizoaffective disorder for most of my life, and Conquer Your Inner Demons is my way of turning pain into purpose. I’ve worked in IT, built businesses, trekked the Inca Trail for charity, and survived multiple suicide attempts. Now I spend my time helping others realise they’re not broken—they’re just battling inner demons like the rest of us.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book Conquer Your Inner Demons?

A2. Honestly, reliving some of those dark moments wasn’t easy. Writing about suicide attempts, psychosis, and hospitalisations brought up a lot of raw emotion. But I kept reminding myself that if sharing my story could help even one person feel less alone, it was worth it. Another challenge was figuring out how to balance the serious stuff with some lighter, more relatable moments, because mental illness isn’t just doom and gloom. It’s also about finding joy and meaning in the everyday.

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

A3. David Eddings and Robert Jordan gave me a lifelong love for storytelling. Their fantasy worlds were my escape when real life felt overwhelming. But in terms of raw honesty and voice, I’d say Stephen King showed me the power of vulnerability on the page. I also draw inspiration from memoirs and personal development books—anything that gets real about struggle and growth.

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

A4. The Inca Trail may have changed my life, but here in Australia, I’d say the Southern Highlands in New South Wales holds a special place in my heart. I lived there during some tough years, and it’s where I started my real journey toward healing. There’s something about the fresh air, rolling hills, and slower pace that helped me reconnect with myself. Plus, nothing beats a meat pie from a proper country bakery.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book Conquer Your Inner Demons?

A5. I wanted to write the book I wish I’d had when I was drowning in darkness. After years of battling schizoaffective disorder, depression, and anxiety—and surviving multiple suicide attempts—I knew I had something worth sharing. I wanted people to see that you can hit rock bottom and still come back stronger. The book is part memoir, part guide, and all heart.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book Conquer Your Inner Demons?

A6. It took me around three to four months to complete the full manuscript. Some parts poured out of me, while others… well, I had to step away and give myself space. Certain memories were just too heavy to face all at once. But once I found my rhythm, the words came with surprising clarity. Interestingly, the second half of the book—the practical, self-help side—ended up being just as therapeutic for me as I’d hoped it would be for my readers. Writing it was healing in more ways than one.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Conquer Your Inner Demons is available in both paperback and ebook formats. You can grab it on Amazon, Booktopia, or order it through most online retailers. If you’re in Australia, some local bookstores can also order it for you. I’m also working on getting it into more hands through my own website.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title Conquer Your Inner Demons?

A8. The title hit me during a moment of deep reflection. I realised my life had been a constant battle—not just against depression or schizoaffective disorder, but against the inner critic, the self-doubt, the lies my mind had whispered for years. I needed a title that felt strong, empowering, and real. Conquer Your Inner Demons was the perfect fit—both a personal declaration and an invitation for others to do the same.

As for the cover, it was designed by the incredible team at Ultimate World Publishing. But the image? That’s a photo I took myself while trekking the Inca Trail in Peru in 2016—a journey that became a turning point in my life. It felt only fitting to use that moment, captured in nature’s raw beauty, as the backdrop for a book about resilience and personal transformation.

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

A9. I mix it up—stories, humour, the occasional dad joke. Mental health can be a heavy topic, so I try to bring in light where I can. I’m also brutally honest in my writing. I think readers connect with that. If I’m laughing, crying, or questioning everything while writing, chances are the reader will feel something too. That’s the goal.

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

A10. Write like you’re having a conversation with one person—someone who really needs to hear what you have to say. Don’t worry about sounding fancy or perfect. Just be real. That advice freed me to write in my own voice, which is probably why the book resonates with people who have been through the trenches.

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Interview with author Lainey Miles

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

A1. Hi, my name is Lainey Miles. Welcome to The Lost Forest Trilogy: Legacy of the Golden Bird. This is my first book in the series and this is the first children’s book I have ever written. I grew up in Littleton, Colorado and currently reside in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Legacy of the Golden Bird”?

A2. The challenge in writing this book is making sure the storyline flows from one chapter to the next with all the different twists and turns and situations I put my characters in.

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

A3. My favorite series was Nancy Drew. I read all of her books. I also loved everything Disney growing up. Walt Disney was a true inspiration with all the wonderful characters and worlds he created so long ago and obviously still beloved today. The Lord of the Rings series is a big favorite of mine as well. I guess all the mystery and fantasy I loved growing up has influenced me in writing this trilogy.

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

A4. My favorite spot is Aspen, Colorado where I was born. I don’t get back there too often, but when I do, just being surrounded by the mountains and the smell of the mountain air, there is nothing like it. Also, in the fall when the leaves of the Aspen trees turn to gold, it is a sight to behold.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Legacy of the Golden Bird’?

A5. What inspired me to write this book was my sister’s hamster, believe it or not. She was always telling me funny stories about the silly things Chuck, her hamster did and I thought it would be fun to write about it, and here we are today, where Chuck is now a fierce warrior. I know it sounds crazy, but that is my imagination gone wild.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Legacy of the Golden Bird’?

A6. It has taken me quite a while to write this book as I would write and then not look at it for months and then pick it up again and write. Maybe eight years. The book has evolved over that period of time.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Readers can find me on my website at http://www.laineymiles.com and order from there or they can go to Amazon or Barnes and Noble. I am currently putting it out on Apple as well.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Legacy of the Golden Bird’?

A8. I wanted the book cover to be dramatic and capture the essence of the forest and waterfalls which is where Berra heralds from. If your book cover isn’t captivating, no one will want to even pick up your book. I have been told this a lot, so it had to be interesting. So I worked with a graphics person and went from there. As I kept writing, I realized I had to have a cut off point, so I decided it needed to be a trilogy. So I decided Berra had to be a legacy and since she was a golden bird, the title seemed appropriate at that point.

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

A9. I like putting my characters in situations that they have to figure out how to get out of so I think that keeps my interest as well as my readers.

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

A10. Don’t try to rush the story, make your characters come to life so your reader feels like they are a part of the adventure.

Buy book on Amazon

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Interview with author Jerry L. Woodbridge

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

A1. My name is Jerry L. Woodbridge. I am a Christian author and educator specializing in grief support and education. After experiencing the sudden loss of my husband, I guided my own children through grief, inspiring her to write books that offer hope and healing. My works include Trading My Sorrows: For the Joy of the Lord, which explores widowhood and faith-based healing. Joy Overcame Sorrow, a children’s book on grief and resilience and Joy’s Journal, which provides guided questions, thoughtful prompts, and space to write, as you explore Joy’s story while making sense of your own emotions.

As a dedicated 40-year educator, I have had an impact on countless lives, teaching students from K-9th grade and mentoring doctoral candidates in higher education. I currently serve as an assistant professor in the School of Education at Liberty University, where I am known for my caring, supportive, and inspirational teaching style.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Joy Overcame Sorrow”?

A2. I was challenged to write a children’s book on grief. I knew the book could not be a process book on grief strategies written for children. It needed to be in narrative form. Then, I figured out it needed to be a fictional story written from a child’s point of view. At the time, I did not understand the process of fiction writing so it was a lot to learn. There were many times, I shelved the book until inspiration took hold again. Last September, I signed up for self-publishing through Hope Books and that is when everything came together. Faith, hope, and love are woven through every chapter to help children understand their grief experiences but also encourage and offer the opportunity to embrace joy.

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

A3. Hannah Hunnard, the author of Hind’s feet on High Places is a big writing influence. It is an allegory written in narrative form. It tells the story of Much Afraid who is crippled and has a crooked smile, embraces the opportunity and invitation from the Great Shepherd to climb the high places. Much Afraid is distraught when she learns the Great Shepherd is providing two companions, Sorrow and Suffering as helpers for her journey and not the Great Shepherd. There are spiritual applications through every part of the journey but Much Afraid embraces the two companions who help her reach the high places and her name is changed to Grace & Glory. I wanted to write a book as beautiful and meaningful as this book was for me.

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

A4. I enjoy an ocean view whether it is on the Florida East coast or gulf-side or Central coast in California. I love to kayak when given the opportunity. I have always been a swimmer. So, I guess you could say I am a water girl!

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Joy Overcame Sorrow’?

A5. As a widow, educator, and single parent, I learned lessons not only about my own grief but the different ways in which my children grieved. I also ministered to children who were in my classroom who had lost a dad to cancer a few years before but were still grieving. I was challenged to write a book by a group of businesswomen at a TEDX speech meeting.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Joy Overcame Sorrow’?

A6. The idea occurred in November, 2019, and Joy Overcame Sorrow was published and launched in June 2025. Five years or so.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Joy Overcame Sorrow, Joy’s Journal, and Trading my Sorrows for the Joy of the Lord can all be purchased on Amazon. Joy Overcame Sorrow can also be purchased from B&N, BAM, Walmart, and the HopeBooks online bookstore.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Joy Overcame Sorrow’?

A8. The title encapsulates the message that readers do not have to remain stuck in their grief. There is grief because there is love. There is joy because there is love. Everyone must go through the grieving process but there is hope that it does not last forever. Sorrow fades and you can help others.

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

A9. Even though I have gone through the grieving process many times for a variety of losses, it was challenging to write a book where the child is actively grieving without reigniting feelings of grief personally. Yet, I think this process is what was needed to be written from the child’s point of view as someone who had lost a loved one. After several beta adult readers told me they cried through every chapter, I thought I should put out a disclaimer to have a box of Kleenex and chocolate on hand when it is read.

I also loved getting children’s feedback on the book as well. They are quite literal thinkers. One young man asked a person who had shared the book with him, “So, how do you know Joy?” That alone says the character Joy is real and relatable. Children inspire me.

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

A10. I was told by several authors to scale down my vocabulary usage so the book could be read and understood by children. I also learned through social media that adults who had lost loved ones when they were children and still had unresolved grief also found the book relatable. So, I think the book Joy Overcame Sorrow has several types of audiences: 1) children who have lost loved ones and children who want to support them, 2) the helpers for children who have lost loved ones, 3) Adults with unresolved grief or currently grieving, and 4) faith-based readers. There are universal and scriptural truths that can reach a varied audience.

Buy book on Amazon

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