Category: Author Interview

Book: Fire Line: Generational Burst

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

My name is Marques Bowden. I am a working Geologist who writes novels as a hobby. I’ve been married for 5 years, a stepfather to 3 children and a biological father to a 3-year-old little boy. I started writing books when I taught Middle school for one year, and was challenged by my students to practice what I was teaching in the classroom.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Fire Line: Generational Burst’ book?

When I wrote the first book, I had no idea about the process of story development, detail, and how to keep readers engaged. When I started writing Fire Line: Generational Burst, the Covid outbreak caused me to get laid off and I had to postpone writing it for nearly a year. Once I got a chance to finish it, I wanted to broaden the depth of the main characters, give them more flaws and obstacles to overcome, and not make the character arcs predictable.

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

I got most of my inspiration from authors Tariq Nasheed, Zo Williams, and the youtuber known as the Angryman. When Tariq came out with the documentary series Hidden Colors, that when I learned about the amazing history of the Moors. After viewing his films and reading his books, I began to research the many texts on the Moors and drew my inspiration for the characters.
Zo Williams is known as the Voice of Reason and has written several books, his latest being the Shrouded Lighthouse, which teaches us how the relationships that we have with ourselves influence the relationships we have with other people. Back in 2015, he did a show called Moors for dummies highlighting the hidden history of the Moors: how they came to be, the inventions they brought to Europe, their reign and their demise. That episode influenced my decision to one day create a character associated with the Moors.
The Angryman has always been adamant about creating super heroes that our children could relate to. So one day, he asked a rhetorical question, “Why don’t we create and promote our own heroes?” At that point, I said, challenge accepted, and decided to write Fire Line.

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

Out of all of my travels, I would probably say two places: the beaches of south Texas and the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. Attending Texas A&M University Corpus Christi was an escape from the perpetual boredom of small town living. My university is on an island and when I would look at the Gulf of Mexico, I can see how vast and boundless it was. It reminded me that there are no limits if you put your mind into something.
What makes the Rockies special to me is that when I was fresh out of college, I took a job that was based in Colorado. At the time, I’ve never lived outside of the state of Texas before, so to live (if briefly) in an area where you are close to nature and to see the actual Geology that was spent years in college studying is breath taking.

Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?

There’s usually a 3 step process before I write a book:
When brainstorming, I put it in my notes on my Samsung app so that I can refer back to it once I start writing the book.
I come up with a book list (usually between 3 to 5 books and or documentaries) to draw my inspiration from.
I determine the end goal for each of my characters to achieve, then try to write it according to that pathway plan. Even though certain concepts may change or pop up, I always make sure to have a definitive outcome for each character.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Fire Line Revival Of The Dracocernentia’ book?

Before the pandemic, I had about 14,000 words written which took me about a week. Then when I resumed writing, it took me 5 months to complete the manuscript and another 5 months to save up to pay for the editing and revising.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find your books to buy?

The kindle version is available on Amazon. The Hardcopy can be bought anywhere; however due to distribution issues it isn’t available on Amazon yet. The best place to order the book is on Barnes and Noble website. Type in the search bar, Fire Line Generational Burst and the book will be available for purchase.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the cover and the title of your books?

When I was thinking about writing the book, I knew that I wanted to create a cover that was eye popping and easy to gravitate to. Because of my inexperience with the first book, I wanted to simplify it so that it wouldn’t turn potential reader away. With this book, I wanted to include the 2 animals essential to the story: the dragon and the phoenix as well as the best representative of the lead character. I hired a graphic designer off Fiverr.com to bring what was once a sketch to life. I look at the concepts, asked her to do some modifications, and then ok the final product.

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

To do that, I would first make sure I’m listening to music while writing to keep my creative juices flowing. I would listen to Hip-Hop, R&B, Smooth Jazz, and even instrumentals that best associate with a particular chapter (such as Native American chants or flutes during the chapters that deal with the Seminoles). The other thing that I would do is incorporate some of my life experiences, then incorporate them into my stories. Writing is therapeutic, because often times we don’t know how to express in words how we feel or what makes us tick. By infusing my emotions into characters, I can visually see what I would do in those situations, how I would feel in those situations, then write them out in the best detail possible. Lastly, I never allow myself to sit on an idea (which is where my note app on my phone comes in). When ever I have a block or don’t know how to convey a story, I take a break for a few hours or a few days, draw any kind of inspiration, then proceed to write it out.

Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?

Fire Line is about the lineage of your ancestors, the events that influence the lives of the characters, and the choices they make because of them. One of the things I want the readers to get out of my books is that your well being and view of the world is a continuation of the pages already forged by your ancestors. Most people think that they have to be something else to succeed when in actuality, you just need to look within yourself. I have incorporated a character who has a mental disability who eventually becomes a hero by learning to accept themselves. You will question the motivations and the decisions by the main protagonist while empathizing and relating to the antagonist. I hope that the readers will be able to appreciate the character development, the pace, and the overall message of the book.

Book Is Available On Amazon

Fire Line: Generational Burst

Book: Candy Sky Tells A Lie

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

I’m a coffee-addicted writer with too many cats and too little space for any more books in my house. When I’m not reading and writing, I’m chasing around my two-year-old son.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Candy Sky Tells A Lie’?

The biggest challenge while writing ‘Candy Sky Tells A Lie’ was my sagging middle. For a while (and a couple of drafts), Act 2 was this boring middle grade drama that didn’t lead anywhere. In fact, it had nothing to do with lying! Even my first developmental editor wondered why the title was “Candy Sky Tells A Lie” if it was mostly about two girls doing horrible things to each other. After serious brainstorming and joining The 60 Day Novel Writing Challenge, I FINALLY realized how to fix my dragging plot. I scrapped 80% of my book and rewrote the middle and ending. Best decision ever!

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

Oh gosh, that’s a long list. I wanted to be an author since preschool, so every book I’ve read stroked that passion. If I had to narrow the scope of authors who influenced me, I would have to say Darren Shan, Christopher Paolini, Lisa Greenwald, and Jessica Brody. I’ve had the pleasure to meet each author, except Greenwald, in person. Jessica Brody even hung out in my high school creative writing class while on a book tour!

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

I read about the massive sequoia trees of the Redwood State and National Forest in a middle school science textbook. For years, it had been my dream to visit the colossal trees. When I was in college, my husband and I roadtripped to northern California, and we camped for a week among the giants. I felt like I was in a fantasy book! The forest was magical!

Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?

I’m a huge planner. I have to outline, research, flesh out characters, and find reading inspirations–all before committing to a story idea.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Candy Sky Tells A Lie’ book?

I forget when I started, but I’ve worked on Candy Sky Tells A Lie off and on for a few years now. Only in 2020 did I become serious about finishing and publishing my book.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Candy Sky Tells A Lie’ book to buy?

Candy Sky Tells A Lie is set for release on September 20, 2022. Readers can find my book on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and my website. It can also be found in bookstores local to my area.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Candy Sky Tells A Lie’?

I actually came up with the title before I fully fleshed out the idea of my book. Candice “Candy” Sky was inspired by someone I knew (as well as the lying phase we all go through in adolescence). I wanted readers to know what Candy’s flaw was right off the bat. The title itself evokes tension!

As for the cover, Angelique of the Tally Ink team brought to life my vision of Candy and her BFF Maggie. The girls are drawn with colored pencils, and the title was done with pen art. Fun fact–on the back cover is a friendship bracelet with charms symbolizing key moments and lies in my book.

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

I try to have some sort of twist or surprise at the end of each chapter. Knowing what I’m building up to definitely keeps writing exciting. I also write each scene using plot beats (setup, catalyst, break into Act 2, and so on). This compartmentalizes each scene into doable tidbits that I can accomplish each day even with my busy schedule.

Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?

This is a hard question because the answer would spoil the plot. The only thing I can say is there may or may not be magical creatures other than Mrs. Gulligan. Read and find out!

Book Is Available On Amazon

Candy Sky Tells A Lie

Book: A Time Of Reckoning

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

Hello, I am Michelle & am really happy to meet everyone!
I have been writing and reading for as long as I can remember. I adored story time in elementary school, and the library days where we sat choosing and reading books that we thought would be wonderful. I enjoyed Judy Blume back then, as well as the Anastasia Krupnik YA books growing up. When I started to write, I created short stories and passed to my classmates who always asked for more. It was fun, and I loved being creative, and thinking of all the twists and turns that could happen to my characters. I wrote my 1st book in High School and named it Fallen Angel and was so proud.
When I am not writing, I am an Operations Director at my job, and lead big teams. I am also a MA licensed optician, and spent a good amount of time in leadership roles within the Optical/Optometry industries. I have a “thing” for fashion eyewear. I am also a fitness lover, and need to move my body. I am currently enjoying Orange Theory classes, as well as hiking, biking, and golfing, although not so good there!
I love to cook and have no objection to a good TV binge on rainy, or relaxation days. Love Ted Lasso on Apple TV, as well as The Morning Show, and Terminal List on Amazon was fantastic!

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘A Time Of Reckoning’ book?

My main challenge was the middle. I knew I had the structure, and the story formed in my head, and had a pause moment when I tried to balance character development with the smaller ideas/things in a story that belong, or do not belong. How much is too much? Was a question I asked myself. I, personally, love a big, long book…but after talking with some literary agents, and others in the writing community, there was a shift to maybe shorter, “faster” story telling and I lingered there a bit, too. I also became focused on editing. So many iterations, and drafts, followed where I would tweak and tweak, until it was the finished version.

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

I really love Sharon Kay Penman for her historical fiction writing and time periods. I could get lost in her books, and her characters. I also adore Kate Quinn’s writing, and her Mistress of Rome series. I liked how she switched character voices in chapters, and I did adopt that style, too, for the multiple viewpoints.

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

I live in New England, just outside of Boston, and I love the city. I visit when I am able, to people watch, absorb the vibe, and find the quiets spots in the bustle to simply “be” and enjoy lunch. There is also a place called Thanksgiving Forest, in the suburbs, close to my home, that has miles of trails that open to hidden beaches, and small hills that I used to take my dog, Brady, too, when he was alive. We would walk for hours, enjoying the day, and one another. No matter the season, rain or snow, we were there weekly while I formed new ideas.

Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?

Yes. I think it is in the planning the structure process, get the bones of the book in place. I also tend to write my chapters not in a particular order.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘A Time Of Reckoning’ book?

From start to finish it took 8 years. And then I let it sit for another year because I was really shy about sharing.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘A Time Of Reckoning’ book to buy?

A Time of Reckoning is available on many platforms including; AmazonKindle.com, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble.com, Tolino, Scribd, Baker Taylor, Borrow Box, Bibliotheca, RakutenKobo & Overdrive

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘A Time Of Reckoning’?

I worked with a a great digital marketing group to develop the cover. I knew I wanted it simple, with one symbol that captured a key element of my story. And that became the Rowan Tree or “tree of life” as it is the place my heroine will go for solace and strength. It is also steeped in Celtic mythology and current customs.

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

To keep myself fresh, I just make sure I am writing, and it doesn’t necessarily have to be a book. I write my corporate communications bi-weekly newsletter, which keeps my writing muscles fresh. I also journal, which slows my mind down to focus on random gratitude or book ideas. I will definitely walk more, too, when actively writing to make sure I am taking breaks and getting fresh air.
For my readers, I hope I keep upping my game as far as not being predictable with the story, and seeking feedback from a writer’s group for their perspective, as well as a couple friends who will not just “yes” me, but challenge me with their thoughts on snippets of the story, or if something (a character) feels too tired or not “in character.” I want everyone to keep coming back, and to share feedback and what they might want to. I read all messages, and hear all ideas, as communication is key.

Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?

Hmmm, no real secrets but Book 2, The Reckoning, is ready to be released in the Fall, probably around Halloween. And I am working on a 3rd book now, to complete the story. Book 3 “spoiler” would be featuring some Scandinavian characters. The time period in my story is just before the Vikings invade and I am so excited to tell this story, and add some more conflict to Devin’s already hectic, and precarious position as a woman ruling in a world of men.

Book Is Available On Amazon

A Time Of Reckoning

Book: Wise Up Stand Up

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

I’m a relentless writer and Canadian bestselling author from Toronto. You can always find me jotting down ideas, reading books, and being creative. I release book and music projects where all my books are accompanied with music. I’m the author of bestselling novel, ‘Hold on please, Emily,’ and my latest release is a quotebook called ‘Wise Up, Stand Up.’

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Wise Up Stand Up’ book?

My book is a collection of 101 life lessons, written as quotes. If you read quotes before, you’ll notice that they are usually witty, short, and memorable. One of the biggest challenges in writing my book was packing everything I needed to say in as little words as possible (and still be witty and eloquent).

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

John Green is a legend in my books. He has a way of writing that transports the reader into the novel immediately. Readers emotionally connect with his characters and in many of his books, his protagonists are very real—people with imperfections and relatable issues. His book, The Fault in Our Stars, inspired me to write my debut novel, Hold on please, Emily.

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

The Toronto Islands has a special place in my heart. It’s the perfect urban getaway. You hop on a short ferry ride and you’re instantly in a completely different world. Every summer as a child, I used to visit with my family. We would rent bikes, have a BBQ, and enjoy the mini amusement park attractions with my siblings. Plus, what a view of the skyline from the island.

Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?

Brainstorming. Lots of it! It can take weeks or maybe months, depending on the book’s complexity. I usually need to mind map everything out before I dive into a book. Although I don’t always follow my notes, it helps me visualize my story better.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Wise Up Stand Up’ book?

I had the idea for this project last summer. I grew up reading the “Quotable Quotes” section in Reader’s Digest. I always dreamed of having my own collection of quoteworthy thoughts one day. The whole project took about a year to complete, but it took about half a year to write it all out.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Wise Up Stand Up’ book to buy?

My book is available in e-book, paperback, and hardcover on Amazon and major online retailers, like Barnes & Noble and Walmart. You can also read it for free via Kindle Unlimited. The accompanying music, Sonder, is available on all music streaming platforms, like Spotify, and there’s a QR code you can scan to easily connect to the album.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Wise Up Stand Up’?

The cover for my book took over 2-months to create and the first design looked very different from what you see today. The tree is a symbol of wisdom and the fall colours represent how our perspectives can change with the right words (just like the colours of leaves). The title was inspired by the song “My Shot” from the Broadway Hamilton.

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

I feel that merging literature and music together in my projects is what keeps things fresh for my readers. It introduces a unique reading experience and helps readers emotionally engage with my content. When I create the accompanying music for my books, I collaborate with other creatives. This experience helps keep things fresh for me too.

Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?

Each quote has its own story attached to it that wasn’t written in length in my book. Readers got a preview of these stories from the 12 book trailers I released to promote the different themes in my book. You can find these story videos on Instagram and YouTube. Also, the final quote in my book is my favourite in the collection. It was actually the first quote I wrote down when I started the manuscript.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Wise Up Stand Up

Book: Hard Love: A California Memoir

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

I am second generation Cuban, Spanish, Mexican Indian, born in Brooklyn and raised on Long Island, New York. My father was a renowned electrical engineer, and my mother was an ER RN. I am the second of four children with an older sister and two younger brothers. Alcohol was abundant in the family home and I became an alcoholic by the age of 10. I was raised in a predominantly white community and faced fierce racism while attending school, first Catholic, then public school. I fell in with the wrong crowd as I approached adolescence and started smoking marijuana in junior high school, then abusing amphetamines in high school. My first arrest for possession of marijuana occurred when I was only 13. I became a gang member in high school and ended up in jail at 18, then a psychiatric hospital at 19. I was convicted of theft and placed on probation. Ironically, this is where I first thought about becoming a probation officer. I always loved reading and writing. I was an all-conference football player in high school, which is when I first set my eyes on my future wife, Paula, who I followed to California when I was 21. We were married on the beach. I stated working as a juvenile probation officer in Southern California. After several years we moved to the San Francisco Bay Area where Paula and I attended graduate school at U.C. Berkely. In 1987 I obtained my masters degree in English. I studied James Joyce with John Bishop and poetry with Robert Pinsky and Gary Soto. I became a federal probation officer in 1990. Our daughter Tebben was born in 1991. After Paula completer her PHd in School Psychology, we moved to Connecticut to be closer to family. I continued to work as a federal probation officer and Paula is still a professor at Fairfield University. I retired in 2016 and began working as a mitigation specialist in federal death penalty cases. I wrote my three memoirs during the Pandemic and I am excited about my first work of fiction, a novella titled The Painter, which is being released this summer.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Hard Faith’ book?

Preparing an outline and deciding which stories to tell. Also obtaining input and perspective from my family and friends.

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

When I set out to write memoirs, I looked for authors who have written memoirs who had a similar background as myself. I discovered James Brown, author of The Los Angeles Diaries, This River, and Apology to a Young Addict. He became a friend and mentor and wrote endorsements for Hard Knocks and Hard Faith. I’ve been strongly influenced by the classics, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and Moby Dick in particular. I wrote my masters thesis on Ulysses by James Joyce and was influence by Jack Kerouac. I’ve embraced a stream of consciousness style. One of my latest readers, Frederick Block, the author of Disrobed: Memoir of a Trial Court Judge and Race to Judgment, said my writing reminds him of Kerouac. Judge Block is writing an endorsement for The Painter.

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

That would be Southern California, specifically San Clemente, where Paula and I were married in 1981 and lived near the beach until we moved to Berkeley in 1986.

Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?

Yes. The primary thing is putting together and outline for both non-fiction and fiction. In fiction, character development and vivid description of people, places and events is key. I loved writing The Painter. I came to know my characters but not always what they would do or say. This came through the writing.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Hard Love’ book?

Hard Love was fast. I thing I wrote the first draft in a couple of weeks Again, I wrote all three memoirs during the Pandemic

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Hard Knocks’ book to buy?

All my books are available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, other online sellers and through my publisher, Wipf and Stock.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the cover and the title of your books?

My daughter, Tebben Gill Lopez, is a talented artist and designed the covers for my memoirs. She read the books and responded by what moved her. She is also one of my most important critical readers, as is my wife, Dr. Paula Gill Lopez, who wrote the forwards for all three memoirs.

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

Well first you just must write and not worry about your first draft. Writing The Painter was so different than the memoirs. Writing the memoirs was therapeutic, wherein writing The Painter was an adventure. I came to love and care about my characters and some of the emotional scenes that I wrote made me cry. The novella is based on true stories and characters. The main character, Giordano Bruno, the painter, is based on my close friend, Gaitano, who was a capo in the Patriarca Family who was convicted of murdering another mobster in the late 80s. I worked on his case when I was a federal probation officer. He now teaches art therapy at a residential drug treatment facility!

Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?

Yes! The secrets of redemption and salvation.!

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Hard Love: A California Memoir

Book: Barbed: A Memoir

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

I am a writer, author, and poet, each of which defines me a little differently and compels me into different places physically and artistically. What they have in common is a love for stories: when I meet people, I love to learn why they are where they are, where they were before, why they do what they do. In my case, the short answer to those questions is that ranching made me a writer, and readers can learn more about why as they travel through the stories in ‘Barbed’.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Barbed’ book?

The book version of ‘Barbed’ that is now published represents about seven years of writing and re-writing. Not wanting to forget the people who helped me as a rancher, I wrote down what happened—what we all did. The story around those events wasn’t clear at first because I was still living it, and it hadn’t reached its end, which was to be a publication offer, but I didn’t know that at the time I was working on the manuscript. I thought the story started and ended with my coming to and leaving the ranch. The story, and my publisher, felt otherwise.

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

Deborah Ledford was the first published author to work with me to make my writing into a manuscript. As a mystery author, she knows what puzzles readers will and won’t accept: whodunit? Yes. What ‘it’ means without an antecedent? No.
Lisa Schnebly Heidinger was the one who said I had to finish ‘Barbed,’ a great honor and huge push at the time because she had literally written the book on Arizona (“Arizona: 100 Years Grand 1912-2012”), the state where ‘Barbed’ takes place.
I listen to Craig Johnson’s Longmire books over and over because he is a master of weaving description into the narrative without having to stop for it. I aspire to that level of craft.
I also revere Barbara Kingsolver, Alberto Ríos, Fredrik Backman, Neil Gaiman, Sherman Alexie, Ivan Doig, and others I cannot hope to emulate yet, and once I had written ‘Barbed,’ I felt that the very best I could with what I had learned about writing up to that point, I decided to go get an MFA to give me more facility for future books I hope to write.

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

In the saddle of a beloved horse is a place like no other; probably the spot most likely to bring out my best self. I like who I am when I am simply in that moment with my trusted friend, and I am most disgusted with myself when I feel I messed up and ruined that moment for both of us. Thankfully, my horse friends have been very forgiving, which is part of why being with them is so precious.

Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?

Thankfully, to start writing, all we have to do is start writing, which is a frequent blessing for me, as writing is my second most favorite place in the world. To start turning that writing into a book, oh, yes, there is lots of editing, re-writing, and other re-visioning to make that story into the best version of itself. I often say ‘Barbed’ needed both Julies to make it work: the publisher who worked me from Soulstice, Julie Hammonds, and me.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Barbed’ book?

I wrote the first draft in 2014. I revised it in 2016, then again, massively, in 2019 when Soulstice expressed an interest in it. I stopped work on it, telling Soulstice I couldn’t do it, in 2020 when I was also trying to run the ranch for a second time, then told them I wanted to try again when I realized coming back to the ranch was what the book needed to end on. Soulstice sent me an editorial letter about what I needed to fix in late 2020, and Julie Hammonds and I worked almost daily to bring ‘Barbed’ to a print version through spring 2021. In October 2021, we had an actual book in hand.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Barbed’ book to buy?

Barbed is in print and an e-book. I’d like to read it to make it an audiobook, but I haven’t figured out how to voice the male characters…yet.

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

‘Barbed’ was always part of the title. Julie at Soulstice pushed to add ‘A Memoir,’ hoping to interest memoir readers, a very dedicated market. I fought with myself, going several rounds, over whether I was allowed to have a memoir as a non-famous person in my forties. I had hoped to someday, but I didn’t think I’d start a writing career with one. Besides which, I wasn’t quite evolved enough to believe Sherman Alexie when he told an audience I was part of years prior that “you had an epic day today. You have stories to tell.”
Ultimately I decided that if it were a friend of mine who was asking me, I would say ‘Of course you get to have a memoir! Everyone gets to have a memoir!’ I would never limit a friend, so why would I limit myself?
The cover came from Lindy Martin of Faceout Studio. Soulstice wanted a Flagstaff connection if they could find one, and Faceout is run by a graduate of Northern Arizona University, which is right in town. Lindy had designed for Christopher Paolini, and since I had devoured the ‘Eragon’ books and she had a unique way of making a cover look like a gateway into a world I wanted to be in, I was quick to say ‘Lindy! Yes, Lindy!’ when Soulstice presented her as an option.

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

Because the events that comprise ‘Barbed’ have a ‘you’ll never believe this’ quality that made me want to record them in the first place, I didn’t worry much about a fresh approach.

Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?

I did a lot of living between the events recorded in the Bootstraps and Begats sections of ‘Barbed.’ I went back to Spain to help my horse farm owner friend write his memoir, became fascinated with and visited every one of the (Alta) California missions, danced on both a rooftop and a stage in Las Vegas, and performed and got published as a poet. Most otherworldly of all, I accepted myself as a writer. These are all adventures I may write about someday, that added to the perspective I needed to revise and finish ‘Barbed,’ but they will remain unpublished stories for the time being.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Barbed: A Memoir

Book: The Adventures of Mr. Brightside.

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

My name is Ryan Jacobson and I have been a middle school English and Geography teacher for the past 17 years. I live in the beautiful coastal town of Westerly, Rhode Island and in the summer months I bartend on the beach. Back in 2018-2019 I took a year off of teaching and bartending to travel around the world and write my first travel memoir, “The Adventures of Mr. Brightside.”

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing “The Adventure Of Mr. Brightside?”

The biggest challenges when writing “The Adventures of Mr. Brightside” was narrowing down all of the memorable moments I experienced when traveling around the world to just 36 short stories. Also, another challenge was accurately portraying just how beautiful the world can be. Sometimes there are literally no words to describe some of the wonders of the world.

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

“The Catcher in the Rye” by JD Salinger has always been my favorite book, and Salinger’s use of hyperbole, sarcasm and exaggeration has always made me laugh, even after reading it dozens of times. More recently, David Sedaris is the level of humor I strive for. Also, of course, I would be remiss if I did not mention the late, great, Anthony Bourdain, and my all time favorite author, Ernest Hemingway.

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

My favorite spot in the United States to visit is Key West, Florida. I love how laid back it is, how friendly the people are, and how much it is intertwined with the life of Hemingway. There is a solid chance I may end up going to Key West to write the sequel to “The Adventures of Mr. Brightside.”

Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?

Specifically with a travel memoir, the obvious first step is to actually get the travel experiences and make sure the stories are there to write about. Planning a year of traveling around the world on three very different budgets is almost, itself, a year’s worth of work.

Q6. How long did it take you to write “The Adventures of Mr. Brightside?”

After the year of travel was complete, it took me about six months to write the actual book, and about three months of editing and re-editing.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find “The Adventures of Mr. Brightside” book to buy?

I sell exclusively with Amazon (both the hard copy and the Kindle version.)

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

The title is two-fold. First, when traveling around the world on very specific budgets for an entire year, things can occasionally get a little stressful… plans fall through, transportation delays and cancellations, traffic, language barriers, and getting lost are things that you come to expect when long-term traveling. Getting frustrated and/or panicking about these unfortunate situations only escalates the problems and causes additional problems in the process.

I have learned to take (the vast majority) of travel mishaps in stride, and look on the bright side of things.. That I am fortunate enough to be traveling around this beautiful world.

Secondly, the song “Mr. Brightside,” by the band The Killers, is my anthem.

On the cover I wanted to portray the three budget levels I traveled in, so I included an example of each accommodation type that represented each budget.

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

While writing “The Adventures of Mr. Brightside,” I kept things fresh for the reader and myself but trying to include fun or interesting tidbits of information I discovered while researching each destination… also humor, and the “mystery” of how each chapter ends, and how I somehow miraculously survive each encounter tends to keep the reader on their toes.

Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?

The theme of the book ends up being much more of a how to avoid traveling the world, than a how to travel the world reference. I basically sacrifice my body in more ways than one to help the reader learn what they should NOT do when visiting each of the countries. It’s more of a “do as I say, not as I do,” memoir.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

The Adventures Of Mr. Brightside

Book: Grandma Saved A Bumble Bee

Q1. Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.

My name is Martin, I am a secondary school teacher, Governor of an SEN school, Chairman of a National Charity and now a published Author/Illustrator from Cheshire, England.

Q2. What is your inspiration behind your book “Grandma Saved A Bumble Bee”?

It’s based on a real story. Back in the summer of 2020, when we were allowed to have a visitor during the Covid19 lockdown, my mum came to visit. We all sat in the garden chatting away when this bumble dropped in front of us. So this book tells the story of how my mum brought the bumble bee to life. The kids were shouting “Grandma saved a bumble bee” and I made up a little rhyme on the spot and they liked it and told me to publish it. So here we are!

Q3. When did you realize you want to be an author of Children’s Book?

I’ve wanted to write a book for a long time but didn’t know to write about and I didn’t have the confidence to write. My creativity came in the way of making up stories but not writing them down. In 2014 I had this idea for a book and starting to make notes. Eventually it was typed up and I kept adding to it. Then I stopped as my creativity dried up. Then the bumble bee, affectionately known as Barry, entered our lives and I shifted from a novel to a picture book and I’ve been enjoying that much more.

Q4. Are you planning to release your next book soon?

Yes, I have two more planned for Christmas. One with Grandma again and one with a new main character, Grandad. Then I have a couple more ready for next year if these become popular.

Q5. For which age group your books are suitable?

It’s tailored for 0–6-year-olds but children as old as 10 have enjoyed it too. Two of my children have additional needs so I illustrate in a way that is simple with bold colours so that even they can see the images and read the text. That’s become popular and my style seems to be enjoyed by my targetted age range.

Q6. What is your favorite Quote?

I have a two quotes that stick me with.
“Stay faithful to the stories in your head” by Paula Hawkins, author of Into the Water.
“Success in not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage the continue that counts” by Winston S. Churchill.

Q7. What do you like the most about your country?

My family. I’ve been fortunate enough to work and live in many countries. Parts of Europe, Russia, USA, Nicaragua for example. But whenever I’ve come home I feel more complete when I have my family around me. Plus, I am a big Everton FC fan, so being able to get to the games is important to me.

Q8. What suggestion you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?

Research shows us that reading to and with young children develops intelligent and creative thought, a love of learning and increased literacy. Reading to little ones helps create a bond between parent/carers and their child. It’s lovely to curl up with your little one on your knee with a book and read and explore the pages with them. They do grow up and those moments become less frequent until they’re eventually gone and you will miss doing, or regret not doing, those daily reading moments.

Q9. What does literary success look like to you?

Success for me is that every child, no matter what country they live in or how much money they have, can read and enjoy stories. The feeling of holding and reading a paper version of a book sets of a different type of hormone than reading a book on a tablet, but they can both lead to a happier child. I love creativity and imagination and I think it is ok to dream about an alternative reality, I think it’s ok to live in an alternative reality. Good literacy can lead to all that and that then opens up the opportunity to be more successful at school and in life.

Q10. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?

I enjoy the work, and the backgrounds of; Julia Donaldson and J.K. Rowling. I admire their determination to get their stories read and out there. I appreciate their honesty and charitable nature. Knowing these people started with just an idea, a spark of creativity, and have been able to become recognisable people and millions enjoy their writing, inspires me.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Grandma Saved A Bumble Bee

Book: Letters To The Woman Who Never Loved Me, My Mom

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

My name is Angelica Rockford. I am an entrepreneur and new Author. I am educated in mental health behaviors for young adults, and I am a big follower of authors and philosophers such as Louise Hay, Eckhart Tolle, and Lao Tzu. I also practice Buddhism and I have an interest in Neuroscience. I am a strong believer in spirituality.
She uses aspects of her Friend‘s past painful childhood. to help teenagers and young adults experiencing similar issues. She helps to heal their inner child so they can find answers to problems they couldn’t find before. She helps uncover their unconscious, destructive behaviors, and helps them to discover their own identity and eliminate negative thoughts. Her goal is to help them move forward with their lives despite their painful or traumatic pasts.
Currently, she has 4 books in progress, and she just released her first Book, Letters to the women who never loved me, my mom.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Letters To The Woman Who Never Loved Me, My Mom’ Book?

It constantly reminds me of my Friend and many people that are in this situation that
need help. And I hope this Book helps you guys. To release all toxic feelings from the past and Forgive. Holding grudges is not taking you anywhere; holding grudges cause you more stress & anxiety.

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

-Think like A Monk by Jay Shetty
-Unshakable by Tony Robbins

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

Nature makes me feel free and powerful; the fresh air and beauty of nature increase my creativity and give me great ideas.

Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?

Not really. The experience of my Friend pushes me to write the Book, so I can help more people. The main reason I wrote the book is to help people to free themself from their past. No more living in the past and start living in the present. How? By forgiving, Forgiving means, you accept things that happened, you forgive the person and yourself for holding grudges that were hurting you, and you let it go, so now you are ready to live in the present and move on.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Letters To The Woman Who Never Loved Me, My Mom’ Book?

9 months

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Letters To The Woman Who Never Loved Me, My Mom’ book to buy?

-On Amazon, just tiped “ Powerful Healing Poems” by Angelica Rockford and it will show up.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Letters To The Woman Who Never Loved Me, My Mom’?

Well, since there is many poeple who suffered this traumatic violence from their mom on their childhood, I think the cover say Everything for itself.

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

Half of my day is writing and the other half is for my personal life. However I love writing.

Q10. Are there any secrets from the Book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?

Yes- Saying bitter, painful thoughts to take it out all pain you have inside you. Can Heal your life because you freeing yourself from all those negative emotions.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Letters To The Woman Who Never Loved Me, My Mom

Book: The Male Nurse Survival Guide

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

I grew up in a small town outside Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I started nursing school at eighteen years-old and graduated with my Registered Nurse Degree at twenty years-old. I have been a nurse for over fifteen years now. I have worked all over the United States and love to travel. I now live in Park City, Utah. I love snowboarding, golfing, hiking with my dog, spending time with my wife and sharing my new book.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘The Male Nurse Survival Guide’ book?

The hardest part for me was the constant re-reads and edits. I didn’t have a problem getting on the computer and just typing out what was on my mind. Reading it over and over getting to sound the way I wanted after was harder. I would often step away for a week or so and then come back to it with fresh eyes. I didn’t have any deadline so it really took self discipline to get it finished. I was lucky to find a great editor, formatter and cover artist online in my first attempts.

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

I have read a lot of personal development books over the past ten years. Probably read hundreds of books which influenced me wanting this book to be humorous, but also educate the reader and help them be better nurses. A favorite influence I got from Joe Vitale in Hypnotic Writing was that readers want to hear your voice in the writing. They want to relate to you, so you don’t have to be an expert writer. Just write and be yourself. Seth Godin taught me it’s ok if some people don’t like you or your book. That means it just wasn’t for them. Create your art anyway and get it out there.

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

That is a really tough answer. I love to snowboard so many of the ski resorts have a special place to me. I love visiting all the national parks when I travel. They are so beautiful. I also love American history so places like Gettysburg National Battlefield and Mount Vernon which was George Washington’s home are must visits. Very beautiful and full of great history.

Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?

No, you just need to start. I brain stormed an outline of chapters and then just started typing away. Don’t get caught up trying to work out the whole process before you start. Just start writing. I didn’t write my chapters in order, many times I just would write what chapter I felt like that day. Sometimes, I would set a timer for 90 minutes if I needed to focus and just type away for those 90 minutes. I would then go back and read what I wrote and add things. The re-write part is harder, but if you want to start writing a book, sit down on your computer and just start unloading.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘The Male Nurse Survival Guide’ book?

It took me a year and a half from outline to published book. The idea started in December of 2020 where I began with an outline and began writing January 2021. The book was finished up in 2021 and then most of the past five months of 2022 was editing, formatting, design and finally publishing.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘The Male Nurse Survival Guide’ book to buy?

It is available on Amazon, Kindle and Apple Bookstore. Working on some book stores now.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘The Male Nurse Survival Guide’?

The title was the first thing I thought of before I even started writing the book. It was originally a joke that I should write a book titled “The Male Nurse Survival Guide”. As that idea sat there in my brain, I began to really believe in the book and that I could write it. The cover art was something I thought about a good bit, and somehow came up with this Rambo person. I loved the idea of a ripped macho dude holding a med cup and water pitcher with a little nursing hat. The tattoos were also funny to me, and putting Florence on his arm in a heart for his love for “Florence Nightingale” the famous nurse still cracks me up. I was lucky to find an artist on Fiverr who translated what was in my brain beautifully to the cover. I went to the book stores and really liked that blue color for the book and that is how I picked mine. I wanted something that stood out on the shelves.

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

I really tried to put myself in the readers eyes when I was going through my book. I wrote it where someone with no experience could enjoy this book and learn as well as a seasoned pro. For myself, I would step away for a few days or a week and come back to my book. It would allow me some fresh eyes. I also was still in the mix working as a nurse when I was finishing my book. This helped me think about ideas for my book in real time.

Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?

Yes, the first is that anyone will enjoy this book. You don’t need to be a male or a nurse to love it and learn new things. Even if you aren’t a nurse you can gain a lot of understanding and appreciation for the nursing profession after reading. The second secret is from the first look of the cover and blurb it shows this is going to be a book full of funny stories and anecdotes associated with nursing. What you will find when you get to the meat of the book there is really solid tips and lessons for nurses of all kinds. A fellow male nurse with over ten years of experience after reading my book said it like this, “The middle is filled with so many “pearls” that every nurse needs to hear. Great job man. You could rename this book the practicalities of nursing”. That was what I was going for. I wanted the reader to have fun while they learn.

Book Is Available On Amazon

The Male Nurse Survival Guide