Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
Hello! I am not an author by any means; I’m just a guy with a long story to tell. I’m hoping the writing will be more professional by the end of the series. Until then, I rely heavily on my editor! In “real life,” I am a CPA (Certified Public Accountant), which is someone who prepares income tax returns (for those who don’t know). I own a CPA practice in a small town in Virginia (USA) and am a single parent to two adult boys.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘A Witch Is Born’ book?
Working too much!! In tax season, I work 60-90 hours per week. That leaves little time to write. Of course, being a single dad makes finding time to write especially difficult.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
Stephen King is my all-time favorite author, but RA Salvatore is a close second. Salvatore writes in the same genre I do and is the most inspirational to my writing.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
I don’t travel much, but I like to visit a few local cabins (and write some while there). I also enjoy traveling to Ocean Isle Beach (in North Carolina) once a year if possible. The mother of my children loved that beach, and therefore my kids have also fallen in love with it.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
No, my book series is all in my head, so I simply need to sit down and write! But, again, finding the time to do so is hard.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘A Witch Is Born’ book?
The first two books were written together (about 300,000 words), and when I approached my publisher, they advised me to split them. That epic writing took about ten years to complete, but that was technically for two books. So again, I write on the side as I have time, and at first, I allocated precious little time to writing. However, the process snowballed as I got closer to finishing. Now a book takes me about a year to write.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘A Witch Is Born’ book to buy?
My book is on the following platforms (and possibly more that I’m not aware of): My website: cassandra-rho.com My publisher’s website: iUniverse.com Amazon Barnes and Noble
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘A Witch Is Born’?
I know a local tattoo artist whom I have talked into developing all my covers. The cover of ‘A Witch Is Born’ is the opening scene in the book, and I knew from the start that is what I wanted the cover to be. Unfortunately, the way it turned out, some have misperceived it to be a kid’s book. Please note: the book is NOT for kids.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
Well, I have a story in my head that will span at least eight books, and I think it has a lot of original elements. I’m hoping there will be enough twists and unexpected turns along the way that it will keep readers interested. My only skill as a writer is my imagination, and I’m hoping it shines through enough to make the series worth reading.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
I don’t want to give away any surprises, but I don’t want readers to get too comfortable with the main characters (including Cassandra) and not fear that they may die. I am currently writing book four, and I can honestly say that so far, either a prominent character or someone close to Cassandra has died in each book, including ‘A Witch Is Born’.
Book: Changed: You Will Never Look At Cheating The Same Way Again
Q1. Hello Sir, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
I’m Author Jay Welsby, and I wrote the series Changed. I’m an artist and barber who became a writer later on in life. I’m from Overtown, Miami, Fl. It’s a historically Black area in Miami. I left my family and friends in the sunshine state to move to Georgia to become a writer. I wanted to get away from poverty and violence. I felt like isolating myself would be the best way to start my writing career. Thus far, I have written 3 books since moving to Atlanta. My first book Changed-You’ll Never Look at Cheating the Same Way Again is leading the charge.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Changed: You will never look at cheating the same way again’ book?
The biggest challenge I had was staying on task and not being so great at grammar. I suffer from ADHD as well. It’s very hard for me to focus on one thing at a time. My mind tends to wander for whatever reason. I taught myself how to deal with it by only writing two pages a day. Understanding my limitations helped me write Changed. Furthermore, I was born with a learning disability which could have hindered my writing career, but I wouldn’t let it. I knew if I could get through a story, an editor would help me finish it.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
For Changed, I would say John Grisham and Zane. I have read many different authors, but those two helped me write Changed. I like John Grisham’s style of writing. He is a very clever and sarcastic writer. I was disappointed to find out he was or still is a racist. It doesn’t take away from him as a writer but it does take away from him as a person. Zane has a way to bring erotica to light. I’ve never read a whole book by her but from the parts I’ve read, I almost became aroused. That is good writing in my opinion.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
I love going to Sweetwater Creek state park. It’s a trail that is surrounded by water. I take a hike down a path that has a manmade river on the side of it. The scenery is so beautiful. The small wildlife that is a part of its ecosystem brings another aspect to Sweetwater Creek state park. I see ducks floating and turtles crawling on the top of logs.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
I don’t do much before writing other than open up my laptop. I don’t need anything to push me other than my ambitions as a writer. Writing for me is therapy. So, to keep me mentally sharp, I write.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Changed: You will never look at cheating the same way again’ book?
It took me 8 years to write the total series. The first book, Changed-You’ll Never Look at Cheating the Same Way Again took 4 years. It was so many ups and downs with this book. My momma was diagnosed with cancer. At the same time, I was dealing with her well-being, and I was in a bad relationship. To top it off, I lost my laptop for 2 months. Luckily, I found it later. I honestly thought I wouldn’t finish Changed. It felt like forever to complete it, but when I did, it was like having a baby. I was so proud of myself. My momma breast cancer around the time I published my book.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Changed: You will never look at cheating the same way again’ book to buy?
You can get my series on Amazon and my website http://www.JayWelsbyAuthor.com. My social media handles are Facebook Jay Welsby and Instagram Jay.Welsby
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Changed: You will never look at cheating the same way again’?
The book cover is an interesting story. I didn’t want to show color on my cover but when I saw the book cover from the publisher, I couldn’t resist it. I knew I could brand it. It represented everything I wanted to say for Changed. I knew the title before I wrote the book. I came up with the subtitle after reading the book over and over again. I thought You’ll Never Look at Cheating the Same Way Again would make the book more sellable.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I keep things fresh by writing the next book. The interesting part about being a self-published author is I choose what I want to write about without a publishing company dictating to me. I tend to like to write about subjects that I can turn into a story. I like to write with an unorthodox style to keep my readers wanting more. I hear from readers all the time that they couldn’t stop turning the pages.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
I can’t tell you the secrets of my book because I will give too much away. Let’s put it this way, every male character in my book has a piece of me. And I wrote most of my books while in the barbershop. So, if you know how the barbershops operate, you will know there’re so many interesting conversations that can help an author create a story.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
My name is Dawn M. Blair and I’m a Registered Nurse Case Manager with Hospice of Virginia. I have been a registered nurse for 10 years and a hospice nurse for 3 years. I am also a new author.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Me and Mr. Monks’ book?
Finding the time to write was the biggest challenge as I have a full-time job. I made though and was pretty surprised at how efficient I became when writing this book. I guess when you really want something, you find the time.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
I can’t really think of a whole lot of them right off but I’d have to say Jim Gorant who wrote “The Lost Dogs” a book about the rescue and rehab of the Michael Vick fighting ring dogs and Larry Levin who wrote “Oogy” also a story about a rescue dog. My favorite poet is Maya Angelou.
Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
Definitely the Outer Banks of North Carolina. It’s such a beautiful and peaceful place plus I love the ocean. It’s now even more special because Mr. Monks and I used to make yearly to OBX. I cherish those memories.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
There really isn’t for me. I have an idea about a story, usually a true story and then I come up with a plan and start writing.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Me and Mr. Monks’ book?
The book took me 6 months to complete.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Me and Mr. Monks’ book to buy?
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
My name is Suzka. I am an artist, a painter and now an author. I look at things differently than most. I love everything irreverent, imaginative, delightfully manic and brimming with color. It is the other side in every scenario that interests me the most. So it goes without saying, my take on dementia is going to show that other side – the magical cockeyed world that exists a step outside reality. From the book, to a podcast to a movie in the mix, everything Dementialand™ in my new love.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Dementialand’ book?
The challenge came after I wrote the book. The word dementia, even the word ‘Dementialand’, ignited a fear and negative response to a subject no one wanted to talk about. Part of me understood. When my mother got dementia I searched all other for a book that was not depressing. I ended up writing the book I was looking for. I loved living it, writing it and reading it… again and again.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
I love story’s that are written beautifully and character driven. Faulkner, Steinbeck, Salinger, Kurt Vonnegut, Lawrence Durrell, Harper Lee’s ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ and everything Fellini. I sleep with the books of Picasso, Giacometti, Rauschenberg, DeKooning and Joyce Cary. We are all so close. I use words like they’re paint. Gully Jimson from Cary’s ‘The Horse’s Mouth’ is one of the strong visiting characters in Dementialand.
Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
My favorite place is where I am and where I dream to be.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you dive in and start writing a book?
Play pool. Wash my kitchen floor. Cartwheels… whatever works at that moment.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Wonders In Dementialand’ book?
Four years. I had cancer and was going through treatment. I was unable to paint or move around much. About all I could do was lift my iPad and write. For four years I walked to a coffee shop at the corner and wrote every morning from 7 am to noon. Some days I wrote only one sentence. It was the routine that saved me.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Wonders In Dementia Land’ book to buy?
Physical book and kindle available on Amazon. Audio book on: Audible, Google Play, chirp, kobo and Spotify. Check out Dementialand’s storyline podcasts on YouTube. In the works: Dementialand’s first short film in its new episode series (check Dementialand’s Instagram for updates).
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Wonders In Dementialand’
I am constantly creating images of Dementialand. The whimsical topsy-turvy persona appears on the cover and in my paintings as well as Dementialand’s storyline podcast on YouTube. Dementialand for me exists a step beyond reality. It’s an artists’s playground.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
Movement keeps things fresh for me. From the book to a podcast to making a movie. The American Film Market selected Wonders In Dementialand to be pitched to producers at their book-to-movie session. It was Dementialand’s first introduction to the film industry and received an overwhelming response as well as a full movie producer contract. The script’s first draft was written, a trailer was in the works… then came the pandemic, Covid and the return of my cancer. Everything was canceled. I was devastated but not broken. The AFM experience made me realize the enormity of the subject and how important it is to tell this story.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
I loved living in Dementialand. There were no more expectations of who or what I was suppose to be. It was scary at first. My entire daughter-hood was colored by issues I had with my mother. It was who I am for God’s sake. My rebellious, my insecurities, my defensiveness was all part of my makeup. And if my mother cannot remember our issues, then who am I. Her memory loss was changing my identity not hers. Under that canvas I created, I saw someone I hardly knew. I believe Dementia was my mother’s last gift she gave to me.
Q1. Hello Ma’am, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
Well, I’m a fairly new writer. I started writing in 2020 when I couldn’t stop having the most vivid dreams. Instead of just letting the stories go, I started writing them. The first book I wrote, Meet Virginia, was entirely from a dream I had after watching one too many episodes of Outlander. I read up about Scotland, and I wanted to know more. Writing became an outlet and as a friend of mine said – a writer was born. I’ve always had a love of the arts. It was why I became an actress. I used my acting skills to help me write better. It also helped me with character development. I used to write about the characters I would play on stage. My backstory for them could be books in themselves. On a personal note, my husband George and I will celebrate our 22nd wedding anniversary this December. The first day I met him, I knew I was gonna marry him. Love at first sight, I guess. Similar to my romance books. We live in Palm Beach County, Florida with our dachshund, Hoagie. Oh and yeah, I’m in love with those wiener dogs. Over the past 20 years, George and I have had multiple doxies. Hoagie is our 4th, and hopefully not our last. Writing is a wonderful outlet for me, but I do have a 9-5 job as well. I’m a Research Director for a TV station group (my 2nd love – TV). When you watch TV as much as I do, it gives you so many ideas to write about!
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘One Way Out: Saddle Key Mysteries’ book?
My mother gave me the idea to start this mystery series. She asked me to write a story about the Florida Keys. That was all she said. I had to come up with the story. I thought it might be fun to create an entire small town where these mysteries occur. So, yeah creating a town out of nowhere was pretty hard. Plus, since this was the first book in the series, I had to make sure the world was vast enough to create multiple books.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
My favorite author is Janet Evanovich. When I first started reading her Stephanie Plum books, I loved her humor. Plus, who wouldn’t love it that two guys were falling for you. Stephanie was a down to earth character. She was far from a billionaire. Heck, she isn’t even a thousandaire. But you fall in love with her and how she solves crimes. She has a heart of gold. That is one of the best traits for a character. I used that for a few of my heroines. Solve crimes, fall in love with the guy (or guys in her case), and love your family.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
I love two places. And I wrote about each of them. When I was a kid, my parents took me to Niagara Falls. I loved the waterfalls. They were so beautiful. I loved seeing the rainbows. As a kid, the colors always fascinated me. My other favorite place is the Florida Keys. My husband and I had our honeymoon in Key Largo. It was a perfect time of the year – December. Not too many tourists, the water was perfect, hardly any waves. And the two of us had the most romantic time there. He caught fish off the dock, and I cooked it later that night. Key Largo and the Florida Keys will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s why I love to write about both locations. To show people how much I love those places.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
Yes. I have the idea for the book before I start writing it. I even do some role-playing trying to get into the heads of my characters. Again back to my acting days. Then I start writing.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Royal Entanglements’ book?
I’ve been writing this story for over a year now. I changed the story about three times before I finally finished it.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find your books to buy?
I’m exclusively available on Amazon.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the cover and the title of your books?
The title comes almost right away for me. After I find out what the story is about, I start going through what sounds like a good title. I knew when I started writing the Saddle Key Mysteries that it would be multiple stories. So each book starts with a number – One Way Out, Two Hands to Hold, Three Piece Suit, Four of a Kind, Five Diamond Resort. The next book will be titled Six Shooter. Each book is about the Keys and the beach, so that’s why each picture is of a sunrise or sunset. I looked over Florida Sunset pictures and these pictures looked like my little island in the Florida Keys.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I read a lot of books, so I know what I like and don’t like in a book. But, I also love to create people you don’t normally see in a book. I also put a little bit of me in every character. Sometimes you have to put yourself out there. It’s more real that way.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
In One Way Out, I flipped the script. My male character, Mike, was the one who needed saving. He was abused by his ex-wife. Physically, mentally, and sexually. It’s nto something I’ve seen in any other book I read before.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
My name is Vaughn J Samuel. I am a writer and businesswoman from Antigua & Barbuda in the Caribbean. I am an accountant by day and a cake designer by night. I am a diligent worker, and I am not afraid to take charge. As a survivor of sexual abuse as a child, I found solace in the church and school. I took on leadership position in the church from a tender age. I also found solace in writing about my experience from the heart. I do hope that my personal story of survival and perseverance will inspire and provide hope to readers around the world. In my free time I enjoy gardening in my backyard and reading psychology and self-improvement books. Check out my memoir The story of my Life.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘The Story of My Life’ book?
My biggest challenge was not the writing of this book, since I was drafting my story for over 30 years, but the challenge was correcting the grammatical error and edited of the book. I hired two editors and there were still significant errors.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
The books that influence my writing most were Building Great Sentence by Landon Brooks. The element of writing word, word, words and sentences and paragraph by Charles Euchner I probably read those books a thousand times. I also admire Author Coleen Hoover and the power of your subconscious mind by Dr. Joseph Murphy.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
My favourite spot to visit in my own country Antigua Barbuda is the Beaches, we have three hundred and sixty-five white sandy beaches, and the water are crystal clear.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
I am usually a busy person. I do not have a fixed routine, but I find time to sit and write. I also dedicate my weekend to writing when I feel the urge.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘The Story of My Life’ book?
In three months, I completed the book but the most time was spent on correcting the errors and edited.
Q7. On what all platforms’ readers can find ‘The Story of My Life’ book to buy?
Amazon both paperback and kindle and on Lulu.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘The Story of My Life’?
When the thought came to me to write a book, I knew my it was my story a true story. I was at the point of my life where I realize my past had fashion my present I was at a happy place, I was no longer ashamed, so I was happy to share. The cover was from a designer on 99 designs.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I hate to read a boring book, so I assume my readers are the same in sentence and paragraph it talks about following the golden rule every sentence is a journey. I am trying to work with that idea.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
I created a happy home for my daughter. I had created and nurtured a friendly yet respectful relationship with my daughter where we could talk about everything which includes sex, boyfriend, church. We were admired by most people who came in contact with us.
Book: Of Courage And Sacrifice: Bot Trilogy Book One
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
My name is Matt Hartle. I’m a creative director and partner with a visual effects company, Baked Studios, based out of LA and NY. My family and I live in Northern Montana. Long ago, my wife and I lived in LA, but after we got our careers going, we wanted to get back to where we grew up! Previous to working in visual effects, I was in theatrical advertising for about twenty years, working as a creative director/ designer and 3d director. I’ve worked with many of the big studios and on lots of exciting projects, including several Harry Potter Films, Star Wars, The Force Awakens, a few of the Pirates of the Caribbean movies, and many others. ‘Of Courage And Sacrifice: Bot Trilogy Book One’ is my first novel. Previous to this, I have written several screenplays and directed a number of shorts, including my latest, ‘Agent,’ which has won many awards on the festival circuit!
When I’m not writing or working, my family and I enjoy biking, skiing, swimming–anything to be outside! I also enjoy woodworking, painting, and racking up meters on our rower!
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Of Courage And Sacrifice: Bot Trilogy Book One’ book?
The biggest challenge by far was that this was my first novel. Writing this many pages is a huge obstacle when you haven’t done it before. It takes a lot of discipline and focus, but as I found those, it has become one of the most enjoyable things I do. Every part of the process has been a significant learning experience. I went to school for figure painting and illustration, not English composition and creative writing, so it’s been lots of research, reading, and just putting in the time to learn! I’ve taken a self-publishing route, at least for this book, and handled all aspects except editing. For that, I found a fantastic, highly experienced editor to help me get the manuscript over the finish line. Otherwise, figuring out how to format, layout, and design the cover–it’s all been a considerable learning experience!
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
I love to read–there are so many! Michael Crichton is probably the most significant influence/ the person I look up to as an author. His constant focus on finding new, creative storylines is inspiring. Also, his books, in many cases, were directly translated to film properties. I don’t know that I want that for everything I write, but as a visual person first, I tend to have a strong visual sense of everything I am writing, so the connection is always there!
One of my favorite books is ‘Silence Of The Lambs’ by Thomas Harris–not necessarily for the content but the execution. In my opinion, in this novel, more than any of his others, he is a master storyteller, not focusing on the plot but on allowing the story to grow and blossom, filling your imagination as you meet the characters and fall deeper and deeper into the world he creates.
Another book I love is The Secret History by Donna Tartt, for many of the same reasons. How she renders her characters and explores their emotions and the world they occupy is masterfully done. I feel this book is as much about the air in the room as it is about the characters themselves if that makes sense.
The last two books I’ll mention are A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens and Lord Of The Flies by William Golding. Each of the books has such a sense of place; whether it’s Dickens describing the foggy, soot-filled streets 1800’s London or Golding discussing the oppressive heat of the jungle and the restorative pool of fresh water the children bath in, its as though you can feel and touch their worlds. Also, the economy of their words and the structure of their prose always draw me in!
Each of the books I mentioned is a yearly read for me!
Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
Probably the place I enjoy the most is where we live in Montana. My wife and I were very fortunate to be able to return to our childhood town after we established our careers. We have lived in big cities and although we always enjoy a visit, city life never really suited us. We prefer the open space and rugged beauty Montana provides and the many opportunities to get outside to enjoy the majestic scenery here. We feel very blessed to be able to raise our children in a place like this, but we also want them to get out into the world and find their own way!
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
I supposed it really depends on your approach. Because I wrote screenplays before attempting a novel, I started by creating an outline. I was struggling with this step–I had a high-level view of where the story was headed but felt stumped on details. So, I decided to dive in and see how it went. Since doing that, I have realized this is my best approach. So much of the book was never planned or outlined before I wrote it. Being available to the creative process and allowing the characters and situations to grow and live in my imagination unlocked a new world of creativity. It can be a little scary when you feel like you may have written yourself into a corner, but as I finish my second novel, I am slowly learning to trust the process and believe the story will find its way! Regarding research, I do an amount beforehand, depending on the topic, and continue as I write. Frequently, I’ll have ideas and will take a beat to make sure the research/ logic makes sense and supports the story.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Of Courage And Sacrifice: Bot Trilogy Book One’ book?
The entire process, from my first Scrivener file to when I published the book on Amazon, was about three years! I didn’t realize until answering this question that it had taken that long. As I’ve said, it’s quite a process, and while working on this first book, I was still finding the discipline and the recipe of time management that would give me the space to write. With the book I’m writing now, by the time I’m done with the first draft, it will have been about 13-14 months, so it’s getting faster! Because this is not my full-time job, the time I have each day is about an hour in the morning, often early–between 5-6am or 6-7am. My dream is to make writing my primary focus; then, I should really be able to crank out the books!
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Of Courage And Sacrifice: Bot Trilogy Book One” book to buy?
This book is available on Amazon for Kindle and is part of the Kindle Plus program. It is also available on Amazon in soft cover and hard cover! Additionally, I wrote a series of short stories set in the Bot Trilogy universe, developing back-stories and exploring more of the world. The book is called ‘Bot Trilogy: Anthology’ and is available in the same formats as ‘Of Courage and Sacrifice’, but also on Audible! I recorded/ produced the audio for this book myself.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Of Courage And Sacrifice: Bot Trilogy Book One’?
The title, Of Courage And Sacrifice, came about after several others were tried and abandoned. Despite the science fiction/ fantasy setting, the story deals with some fairly sobering realities–survival, sacrifice, and loyalty. Each of the characters faces significant challenges they must overcome–sometimes that means putting others first, other times it means sacrificing principles. I wanted a title that communicated the story’s gravity while contrasting with the fantasy of the cover.
As for designing the cover, I had an idea of the visuals I was interested in–something to do with a robot, a city in ruins, and a captured moment in time. My background is in creative directing and 3d animations, so I knew I would utilize those toolsets to realize the artwork.
I began with thumb-nail sketches to explore composition and how various elements might stack up. Next, I worked on the typography, searching for a font I felt embodied the high-tech world but also communicated the humanity of the struggles the characters face.
Then I began developing the cover in 3d. My software of choice for this is Maya. I built out the city, designing the lighting and textures to evoke an apocalyptic vibe. As for the robot, this was something I had previously developed while making a trailer for the book. If anyone is interested, the trailer is available on my website and on Amazon on my author’s page. I placed the robot into the scene and designed the pose to be menacing and provocative, as if challenging the viewer to a fight!
Once the 3d work is done, images and passes are rendered and composited in Nuke. Compositing is really where I build the image. I look at 3d as asset generation and compositing as image making.
From there, everything goes into photoshop to be formatted and polished for publishing. Something else I did for the book was to create a “living cover.” I built an animated version of the cover with a camera move, moving smoke, light, and whatever I could to bring life. This has been a tremendous asset on social media and reaching out to my readers!
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I focus on writing what interests me and keep myself open to inspiration. Also, I always remind myself that this is writing; I can do anything! My background in filmmaking has me always considering the logistical underpinnings of a concept or idea, but when writing, there is literally no limit to what I can create. I focus on making everything believable and germane to the story’s world–from there, everything is on limits! Whenever I present a new concept or situation, I ask myself if this has been pushed as far as it can be, have I found the best solution to a given challenge? Finally, I’m always on alert for cliches and retreading previously traveled material.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
Hmm– maybe something not many people know is that I grew up during the 80s–a lot of the technology and settings in the story were drawn directly from my own personal experiences: modems, BBSs, underground tunnels! There were elements of these things in my childhood! Also, the whole opening scene of the characters camping up in the mountains was something my brother and I did!
Q1 Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
I am a positive, energetic breast cancer survivor and certified life coach with a purpose-driven passion for helping women live their best lives. I am grateful and love what I do. Every day is a blessing that I get a chance to help others. I believe in giving back and will help anyone that needs it. I believe in God and have hope, faith, belief and pray that I can make a difference.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Just L.E.A.P’ book?
While writing, I wanted desperately to be able to empower others that may be stuck or need permission to move forward and live life for themselves. So, although my goal is to encourage others, I also want to be empathetic because I know what it feels like to be stuck.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
I enjoy inspirational and motivational books, and there are various authors and books that I enjoy. However, my go-to favorites are, The Little Engine That Could and Dream Giver, the Alchemist, and anything by Wayne Dyer.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
Although I live in Chicago, it is my favorite spot. The city Is vibrant, full of energy, and diverse, and each community supports its own. It has an excellent transportation system, sports enthusiasts, restaurants, theatre, lots of free activity, and so on. I think Chicago is one of the best-kept secrets in the country.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
Yes! I didn’t set out to write this book. I wrote the material a year before I started thinking about a book. I share weekly inspiring messages in my Facebook group and use this material for the book. It takes time to select the messages and organize my thoughts and material to present them in a way that will touch the reader so they can relate to the material. There is also mental preparation. I must prepare myself to be still and engaged during the writing phase.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Just L.E.A.P’ book?
Although it only took about a month to write the book, the material was written long before. I have a Facebook Group, https://www.facebook.com/groups/uhavethepower that I go live in every Sunday morning with a powerful and inspiring message, and I used those messages to write Just L.E.A.P.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Just L.E.A.P’ book to buy?
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Just L.E.A.P’?
I knew in my spirit that I wanted to speak to women putting off living life for themselves while putting everyone else first. Research shows that less than ten percent of people pursue their dreams, and only half of the women in the world pursue them. Especially after COVID. It provided an opportunity to be still and reflect on life, and I wanted to write this book as a resource to help women decide to go for it and pursue their dreams. That’s how I came up with the idea for the book cover. The book cover shows a diverse group of women leaping, and the colors are in my logo.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I am always evolving and creating. I pursue professional development not only for myself but to be the best coach for my clients. I also learn from my clients and am very much in tuned with my inner being.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
Hi, I’m an independent author from Australia. My day job is working as a doctor in A & E. I am also completing a master’s degree in forensic medicine. I have recently become a new mum, which has been the best thing ever. I have a love for all things fantasy and science fiction, growing up reading fantasy series after fantasy series. I also have a love for creative drawing and painting, though this has taken the back foot as I have been so busy with other things going on in my life.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Angel Of Darkness’ book?
The main challenges I had was in keeping the story moving forward but without missing out on the back stories of the characters and the more slow, intimate moments necessary to the story. One of the main criticisms I received for Elite Nation Book One was that the pace was fast and action-packed but this did detract from the story a bit.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
I would say I’ve drawn inspiration from various authors and book, as well as other forms of media and entertainment. As a kid I loved reading the ‘Deltora Quest’ series, and the ‘Harry Potter’ books by J.K. Rowling. I also love the ‘Throne of Glass’ series by Sarah. J. Maas, although I am yet to complete the final book in the series. Other inspirational authors include Tahera Mafi and Shelby Mahurin.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
Australia is a beautiful country. Whilst I haven’t travelled to every state and territory, Tasmania has to be my favourite state to have travelled, outside of Western Australia. Tasmania has lush rainforests, dense bush and mountainous climbs in alpine climate with amazing animals in the wild, such as echidnas (so cute to see them walking across the road), and Tasmanian Devils. In WA, we have pristine beaches and beautiful parks.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
Other authors probably have a system they use to map out their story and manuscript with notes about every character and event. I have never been able to do this and have preferred to just let things flow. I have had to ensure I keep continuity with the characters and events from book one, but I haven’t been one to plan ahead a lot prior to writing.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Angel Of Darkness’ book?
The first draft for Angel of Darkness didn’t take long – maybe a month or so. The second draft took longer, then after sending the book for editing, this took more months to reach the final polished product of the manuscript.
Q7. On what platforms can readers find ‘Angel Of Darkness’ book to buy?
Angel of Darkness is available from Amazon.com, as a paperback and kindle epub version. And can be purchased from Barnes and Noble. For an author signed copy with a special edition hardcover, the book can be purchased through my website: https://www.harockley.com.au
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Angel Of Darkness’?
The book cover design has been adapted from the first book cover, to keep continuity in the series. The crown of thorns and feathers hold symbolism in the book and refer to the title character: ‘The Angel of Darkness’. I did initially call my book ‘Angel of Death’, but thought it might come across as a bit too harsh and morbid, so I changed it.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I try to keep the pace fast and action packed, as this is what I love about books, myself.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
Certain characters who have gone missing at the end of Elite Nation Book One, come back with certain fates forced on to them.
Q1. Hello Sir, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
As a champion for the inner child in all of us, I am a believer that the road to happiness lies within our younger selves. I am a Star Trek junkie, former high performance rower, former actor, and a former Chippendale that has amassed quite a lot of life lessons which can be found in my memoir.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘All In With Love’ book?
Self-growth happens when we let go of insecurities and become transparent with the good, bad, and the ugly. In my life journey I have had many successes and as many failures, of which many have been very devastating. Learning to accept these and share with others was a key obstacle to face.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
Honestly, my writing was more influenced by the films of Terrence Malick, Darren Aronofsky, Scorsese, and Spielberg. Being in the industry for years, my love of movies spurred on a creative landscape when writing.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
Beavertail Lighthouse in Rhode Island. Sitting on the rocky bluffs gazing out at the Atlantic Ocean has always been my muse and my oracle when I needed inspiration or guidance.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you dive in and start writing a book?
Every author is different. For me, I knew exactly where I wanted to take this journey of a middle aged man who was on a road to reconnect to his younger self. Because of my film background, I had a story board of the book in my head as I sat down to write. When it was go time, I went.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘All In With Love’ book?
Just shy of two years. And with that, I wrote for the first 459 days straight without skipping a day.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘All In With Love’ book to buy?
It will be available at over 50,000 book sellers worldwide including: FriesenPress Bookstore, Amazon, Ingram Spark, ITunes Bookstore, Kobo Bookstore, Nook, Barnes and Nobles, Chapters, and Indigo. It is available in paperback, hardcover, and e-book formats.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘All In With Love’?
Well, the book cover was something I had envisioned based on my life and the journey within the book’s pages. To me, it made sense that my younger self would come and join me as we stood together at the only home we have ever known, the water’s edge. The title itself was something that is a common theme in the book: all my life I have gone all in on the things that I wanted but there was always a price to pay. Now, it is about going all in with love each and every day moving forward.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
Life is a rhythm. And writing a book is no different. I think the freshness comes in understanding the ebb and flow of storytelling, knowing when to surprise, when to go into specific detail, when to sprinkle in some humor or lightness, and when to allow the audience to breathe. Each author has their own brush with which to paint freshness to the reader and to themselves.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
Hahaha. Oh, there are lots truthfully. Living in New York and Los Angeles has allowed me to meet some pretty cool people and be in some unexpected situations. This book contains a lot of celebrity interactions and friendships as well as an interesting insight into the world of filmmaking, Chippendales, and murder.
Sassy Reviews 