Q1. Hello Sir, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
Of course! My name is Caleb Thornton and I’m an author from Warner Robins, GA. I love writing, I consider it my first love. I also love reading. It’s sort of my second love. If that’s a thing.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Tenacious’ book?
The key challenges were trying to include things that I’ve been through as a teenage boy in middle school and high school. Experiences that made me very sad. Things that made me feel as though I wasn’t in control or inferior perhaps.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
I read a lot of manga. There’s this manga artist named Harada. I love ANYTHING she writes. I’ve probably read all of her works.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
My favorite spot to visit is probably my room. My bed to be exact. I’m a Pisces, so anytime that I can rest my head and dream, I take it.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
With this book there wasn’t really anything that I felt the need to do. Once I shot the promo photos and everything, I just wanted to finish it.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Tenacious’ book?
I started a rough draft on August 13, 2020 and finished in the middle of May 2021. So, I’d say about 9 months?
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Tenacious’ book to buy?
Everyone can go find “Tenacious” on Amazon Kindle, Archive of Our Own, Wattpad, and Inkitt.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Tenacious’?
The bear that I’m always with is supposed to symbolize the guy that Matthew, the main character, is head over heels for. I don’t think a guy would let me blindfold him and stab him. That would be sort of traumatic I’d imagine. I was talking to my friend Diamond and an idea just sparked in my head to use a bear to take out all of my frustration.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I try to stay as true to the story as I can. Or as true to my feelings, I would say.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
I was once friends with this boy in middle school, and I was so happy because he was the first guy friend that I had. Word had got around that I was gay, and he stopped talking to me. At the time, “KIK” was very popular, and I use to always hit him up and he suddenly wouldn’t reply to me. That stuck with me for a while. I recently just saw him at my job and I acted like I didn’t know who he was. Our friendship could’ve been great. His loss, haha. Ethan, which is Matthew’s friend, is supposed to represent the guy I’m talking about.
Q1.Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.
My name is Shari Jonas, I’m a Mom to 2 incredible young adults. I’ve graduated from McGill University with a Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and a Masters degree in Human Relations and Family Life Education. I’m the author of Father Effects: How Your Father Influenced Who You Are & Who You Love. Last year, during Covid, I began creating content on social media to share my experiences and knowledge about family relationships and what I discovered is that parents are really concerned and very interested in learning how to help their children to thrive.
Q2. What is your inspiration behind your book “My Roots and My Wings”?
My Roots and My Wings was born out of an expression that I have always used to describe how I brought up my children. Raising my “little adults” was not just about teaching them to tie their shoes or ride a bike. I knew that they needed to develop a strong sense of self, to feel good in their own skin, and develop self-esteem. My philosophy has always been, if you know who you are and you like who you, then you’ll be less interested in being like everyone else.
Q3. When did you realize you want to be an author of Children’s Book?
The impetus behind writing this children’s book was to help parents talk to their children about what matters most in life. Building a strong foundation of self-awareness, self-expression, compassion, and respect, will enable children to better cope with life. The 24 lessons are designed to empower a child and build their self-confidence because that is truly the key to their personal and social happiness.
Q4. Are you planning to release your next book soon?
The research for my next book began before I wrote, My Roots and My Wings. I’ve been very concerned, almost obsessed with understanding how and why so many young people today are struggling with anxiety. What’s changed since I was a kid? Why aren’t they coping? If it’s because of social media, we must do better. Our children aren’t built to last anymore, emotionally of course, and I want to change that. But before I could delve into how to handle and overcome anxiety in adolescents, I thought that I should write a book geared towards very young children, a book that would lay the foundation for a healthy mindset, therefore preparing them for the social pressures and expectations that lead to anxiety. My Roots and My Wings puts the horse before the cart, but the cart or rather, my next book, is on the horizon. (I hope that makes sense!)
Q5. For which age group your books are suitable?
My Roots and My Wings should be for everyone because the lessons are truly universal. But it is geared towards children under the age of 10.
Q6. What is your favorite Quote?
So many to choose from! I have always love inspirational quotes, overcoming adversity quotes, empowering quotes…but for the purpose of this book, my favorite quote is by Frederick Douglas; “It’s easier to build strong children, than to repair broken adults.”
Q7. What do you like the most about your country?
I was born in Canada, but my father was an American citizen. So, I have spent my life travelling between both countries. In fact, I was born in Montreal and the culture there is very different than any other in North America. I love many aspects of both countries, but I can also admit that I’m not impressed with how our children are being affected by the social pressures and the lack of mental health resources that exist in both the US and Canada need to improve.
Q8. What suggestion you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?
Children should be introduced to books as early as possible. My children had books for the bath, books that smelled like strawberries and pinecones, books that popped up when you opened them. Children learn to read faster with books, they learn to concentrate, they develop their imagination and of course, it’s great bonding for parents, especially when communicating is not always easy. Introducing books early builds character and creates readers for life.
Q9. What does literary success look like to you?
When something that you’ve created touches the hearts and minds of as many people as possible, when lives are changed, attitudes are shifted and people feel empowered by the words I have written, that is literary success to me.
Q10. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?
There are so many people in my life who’ve inspired me. It’s one of the reasons why I feel so inspired to help others. We all learn from one another. But if I had to name a few, and these are definitely “dating me”, it would be people like Wayne Dyer, Abraham Hicks, Louise Hay and currently, Michael Singer, Gabrielle Bernstein and Glennon Doyle. But there are dozens of psychologists, spiritual teachers, motivational speakers, self-help gurus and even angels that have guided me my entire life. If you are truly a student of life, there are many teachers who will cross your path.
Book: Meglet And Seb Experience A Magical Christmas
Q1. Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.
My name is Meg Lester. I am a new author originally born in Philadelphia Pa and raised in the countryside. I have resided in Southeast England for almost 20 years after leaving my 2nd home of sunny Florida. I have a love of all animals especially cats and dogs. I enjoy walking in the countryside whilst using mindfulness to reconnect with nature which helps me to keep a check on my mental health.
Q2. What is your inspiration behind your book “Meg And Seb Experience A Magical Christmas”?
My inspiration behind my book was to remind me of a special relationship I had with my father. My story is based on a true family tradition as my family made Christmas so “Magical” when I was very little. My cat Sebastian “Seb” was one of a kind he was genuine and very loving. Over the years much of the world has become extremely materialistic So my little book represents you don’t need to have the biggest tree or 100’s of presents it’s about being with people you love and grateful for what you have.
Q3. When did you realize you want to be an author of Children’s Book?
I always enjoyed creative writing, unfortunately my teachers felt I wouldn’t going to amount to much of anything as I was clearly mediocre in all subjects. My real passion was to become a vet but never came to fruition. I started writing about my childhood memories after a 3rd accident which caused me to have grave mobility issues for years. When I was told by a physician “it’s time for a new career, something less physically demanding. Pick something you enjoy”. I knew this was my calling to begin writing; however it then took over 4 years to build up the confidence to have my book published.
Q4. Are you planning to release your next book soon?
The good news is I have 2 more books which should be published by 2023. I’m taking a pause in life so I can concentrate on my studies and volunteer work with those affected by substance misuse like myself.
Q5. For which age group your books are suitable?
My books are for early readers from age 3-5. I hope by reading with an adult they can learn the sometimes hidden moral of my story and feel the joy I express in my writing.
Q6. What is your favorite Quote?
Wow, to pick my favourite quote is very tricky. I have so many to chose from as I’ve created my own personal book of quotes I’ve collected over the years. I suppose it would be: Today live with grace. Exercise compassion. Practice empathy. Show love. Be kind. Have faith in the future. Allow emotions. Be Gentle. Rest in hope. By: Rachel Marie Martin So many people need to learn, understand and put to practice this quote. I try to embrace this daily.
Q7. What do you like the most about your country?
I am an American living in the U.K. I will always love and respect my home country. I’ve learned to love my new country and come to adjust to the weather to be honest. England has such beauty not only in the land but the people. Luckily, I’ve settled in the southeast where the weather can be less extreme. My children were very fortunate to have a wonderful education here. I’ve made my new “home” in a growing town not too far from London and only a short drive to the coast. I am very blessed.
Q8. What suggestion you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?
When I was young I truly enjoyed reading alone or with a loved one. There’s something about sharing a story with someone. To be able to unlock a door of dreams, excitement or even fantasy. One can get truly lost within a book. When I became a mother for the first time I made it a ritual to read with my child even before they could hold a book. Unfortunately my life changed dramatically in which I began to experience recurrent ill mental health and substance misuse. I wanted my children to have my love and the love of reading but sadly I was defeated and so my children did not continue my wish for them. I’d say to new parents of little readers, you have been blessed take the time and read with your child it will help enrich not only their life but yours as well.
Q9. What does literary success look like to you?
I believe literary success comes from within. Each author has their own views and ambitions. Although I’ve written 20 true children’s stories based on my childhood I’ve only had 1 published so far which means I do not see myself as having a form of literary success. For me it’s not about money, this is my hobby. I’ll begin to believe I’m successful when people begin to have a conversation on the “hidden” morals in my books and have more awareness of mental health issues.
Q10. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?
The inspiration in my life I’d have to say is my mother. She is such a strong and independent woman who taught me to believe in myself and do the best I can. Her morals and values were strong as she taught me about respecting and accepting all people no matter their race or religion. We are all human. When I lost myself to addiction she never lost HOPE in my ability to fight.
Q1. Hello Ma’am, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
Hello, my name is Cassandra Campbell-Kemp, I’m 66, British and I live in England in a 350 year old coAage with my rescue cat, Felix. For over 30 years of my life I lived and worked in Europe – Italy, Greece and Spain – where I learnt the languages, fell in love with the people and their cultures and lived happily alone; though more oMen than not I was adopted by stray cats! I am fiercely independent, unafraid of being alone and I absolutely loved travelling and discovering new things.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Tales from the Hamlet’?
I’d actually wriAen my first book (Cauliflowers through the CaRlap) during the first Lockdown so I sort of knew how to put a book together. Writing Tales from the Hamlet, I think the key challenge was trying to decide what to put in and what to leave out, there was so much to tell. I am retired so I had all the time in the world to write and I loved sitting at my desk reminiscing about my time in Italy. In fact my biggest challenge was realising that I couldn’t get the entire story into one book, so I am about to start writing the sequel, which will finish the narrative off nicely. It will be published in the Autumn next year!
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
Eric Newby’s wonderful books – particularly Love and War in the Appenines (which was set in an area bordering the one I wrote about). He is so good at narrative, at presenting his characters and his life has been absolutely fascinating. Peter Mayle and his A Year in Provence series, Frances Myles and her Under the Tuscan Sun series – the first of which was made into a movie. I like reading about the trials and tribulations of people living in a country that is not their own! Bill Bryson, whose Notes from a Small Island (about Britain) and subsequent books were very influential. I love his writing style.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
I think my favourite spot is actually the town where I live. We have a huge partly-ruined 11th century Abbey at the top of the High Street, which, in its time was a monastery and one of the greatest seats of learning in medieval Europe. I go and sit in the bit that’s still standing – which is now the church – and just chill. It’s so relaxing, so beautiful, so full of history and so inviting. I’m not religious but I certainly appreciate the sacredness of the space. The fact that it was also a monastery that produced some of the greatest thinkers of the early Middle Ages really appeals to me!
Q5. Are there lots to do before you start writing
Yes, I sit and stare out of the window a lot, I find my best ideas come from doing that. I then make many notes – I have notebooks full of usually indecipherable jottings. I also like researching the things that I write about so do a lot of fact-checking. Interestingly a number of people who have read Tales from the Hamlet have told me that they have fact-checked what I wrote, so it is important to get things right!
Q6. How long did it take you to write ”Tales from the Hamlet’ book?
About 5-6 months. I didn’t have a schedule, I just let it come. Sometimes my best ideas woke me at 3.00 in the morning. A particular event or word would reverberate around my brain, so I made sure to write it down as soon as I got up.
Q7. How did you decide to set the story in Italy?
I didn’t decide to set it there, I WAS there! The book is a Memoir. It is my story of my time inItaly.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title of your recentbook?
The book cover was illustrated by my very talented friend, Jill Bissenden. It is taken from a photograph of the Manor House where I lived. The title is as a result of how the book came about. While I was living in Italy I would write short blogs on my Facebook page called ‘Tales from….’ and it was my Facebook friends that encouraged me to turn them into a book. Blogs about my time in the Hamlet thus became Tales from the Hamlet. Though writing a blog and writing a book are very different things – as I soon found out!
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I think the main way of keeping things fresh is to stick to the rule ‘show, don’t tell’, to keep the chapters a manageable length and try to make each one interesting and where appropriate, amusing. Keeping it fresh for myself was more difficult, I’d lived it, so I had to make sure if it still interested me, then I could write about it.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
Book: Keep Pressin’ Pretty: A Guide On How To Slay From The Inside Out
Q1. Hello Ma’am, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
Hello, my name is Kisha Prince and I’m a person who loves life and is grateful for every moment I get to live and let live. I try to find the lessons and the goodness in the journey I have been allotted. I like to say that I am an empowerment enthusiast. I like to empower the people around me to be the best version of themselves. I am a child of God, mother, personal shopper and stylist, divorce coach, and a new author. I enjoy writing, listening to music, vacationing, relaxing next to a large body of water, good food and wine, decorating my house and spending time with family and friends.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Keep Pressin’ Pretty: A Guide On How To Slay From The Inside Out’ book?
One of the key challenges I faced while writing ‘Keep Pressin’ Pretty: A Guide on How to Slay from The Inside Out’ was having to channel and go back into the emotions and feelings I had while going through such a painful divorce to put it inside the book. It was exhausting and brought me to tears at times while writing it, but I wanted readers to feel what I felt in those moments. The process of writing this book was therapeutic for sure.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
Dr. Myles Monroe and Sarah Jakes Roberts influenced my writing. They are both phenomenal, thought-provoking teachers and writers that leaves you empowered and energized. The late great Dr. Myles Monroe has inspired his listeners/readers to find their purpose and operate in it unapologetically and relentlessly. His book ‘Understanding the Purpose and Power of Women’ is one of my favorites. In it, he encouraged women to know who they are (with or without a man), what their purpose is and find innovative ways to exist in a culture and society that presents women with many challenges and obstacles. I am also encouraged to be great and fearless after reading about and listening to Sarah Jakes Roberts. Her book ‘Lost and Found’ is a book full of hope and life lessons. Her testimony about having a child at a young age, her relationship with her father and growing up in the church is so relatable to me. Her testimony of overcoming and thriving after such difficult times in her journey, makes me want to never give up on myself. She also has a passion for fashion which is something we both have in common. It would be an absolute pleasure to style her one day.
Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
My favorite spot to visit in the United States is California. It has the perfect weather, wonderful sceneries, lots of activities, great shopping, beautiful beaches and was a dream vacation of mine as a kid. Its special to me because growing up in such humble beginnings, California was just a place to go to in my dreams. I would watch the ‘Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous’ as a kid, but never thought in my wildest dreams I could ever afford to go somewhere so fabulous and prestigious. In 2018, I was able to take my family on a trip there and to top it all off, we were able to sit on the front row in the audience of my favorite game show Family Feud. I can certainly say that dreams do come true.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
For me it was finding the courage to be vulnerable and tell my story. It took time, help from God and my therapist to find my voice and the strength to write about something so personal. I had to think about the women I wanted to encourage and empower through my testimony of healing and deliverance while going through the most painful time of my life.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Keep Pressin’ Pretty: A Guide On How To Slay From The Inside Out’ book?
It took me about a year to write this book after journaling off and on for years. The chapters about my self-esteem and my unhealthy relationship with shopping, were things I had realized and wrote about years ago, but never thought to put it in a book. It was only after going through my divorce I decided to write about my experiences, not only as a divorcee but as a multifaceted woman with many dimensions.
Q7. On what all platforms’ readers can find ‘Keep Pressin’ Pretty: A Guide On How To Slay From The Inside Out’ book to buy?
Readers can go to keeppressinpretty.com or Amazon.com for now.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Keep Pressin’ Pretty: A Guide On How To Slay From The Inside Out’?
Keep Pressin’ Pretty was an affirmation I came up with years ago to declare over myself when I was feeling less than and not good enough. While writing this book I thought Keep Pressin’ Pretty would be appropriate and indicative of the self-encouraging journey I was on. I wanted something to empower women to press pass what they are going through and remind them that they look better than what they been through. ‘A Guide on How to Slay from the Inside Out’ is the lesson I learned being a person who is a lover of styling and all things fashion. I was tired of slaying on the outside through clothing and accessories but feeling lonely and empty on the inside. As a woman trying to reinvent herself and be better (mind, body and spirit) while transitioning into this new chapter, God worked on me from the inside out. Now I not only dress the part, but more importantly I take pride in being the part.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I think a writer keep things fresh for the reader and for themselves by just being authentic and as transparent as possible. I believe readers want something that they can relate to and see themselves in, and writers want to write about something they can be proud of that resonates with the reader in some way.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
I pretty much put everything in the description (blurb) to synopsize the book. But I will say that although this book is about me overcoming divorce, it is not about me bashing my ex-husband. My healing and the process of my recovery had little to do with him, but everything to do with how I saw and see myself.
Q1. Hello Ma’am, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
Hello there, fellow soul traveler! My name is Jessi. I am an author, a poet, a wife, a mother, and simply a human being trying to find meaning in this world I live. I live in Olathe, KS, but am from a small town in Wyoming. I live with my husband and one year old son. I love the challenge life offers in that it gifts me experiences to become more and more kind and more and more loving. There are times I fall flat on my face and times I soar, but what inspires me is sharing my raw, heartfelt truth–even when it’s “broken” or “ugly”. I am not perfect and I am a mess-making machine, but aren’t we all?… and isn’t that what makes us all so beautiful? So I thank you for being interested in reading my book and extend the invitation for you to email me with any questions, suggestions, or comments at mayionlyleaverosepetals@gmail.com.
With gratitude,
Jessi (J.S. Drake)
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘May I Only Leave Rose Petals’ book?
Most of the challenges were my own “inner demons”. I had to face the wounds within me that said, “You are not good enough. You are a failure. You’re unworthy!” This process took me standing up to these negative belief systems with love and conviction over and over—I had to affirm: “No! I am worthy! I matter and I want others to feel they matter, too, so I’m writing this book and am going to publish it no matter how many times I have to face and overcome these doubts and fears.” It was one of the most healing inner journeys I’ve taken and it is my greatest hope my book acts as a catalyst for others’ inner healing as well.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
As a teen I read Oriah Mountain Dreamer’s book, “The Invitation”. It was so healing for me and I was greatly inspired by her and hoped one day to write like her. However, what created the catalyst for me to compose, “May I Only Leave Rose Petals” was reading “Milk and Honey” by Rupi Kaur.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
I love to be anywhere that’s in nature. I find nature so healing. One of my favorite places I’ve been is in Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. It is like being in a fairytale. 💗
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
Yes. Mostly it’s the mental battle for me…overcoming doubts, fears, and negative belief systems. Once that is taken care of, it flows.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘May I Only Leave Rose Petals’ book?
Many of the poems are from my teenage years and young adult life…I’d say it’s been in the works years before I was inspired to compose it into a book. Once I got the inspiration it took 6 months to a year from start to finish.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘May I Only Leave Rose Petals’ book to buy?
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘May I Only Leave Rose Petals’?
This process was very intuitive. I meditated on the title and heard it during one of my meditations and it comes from a concept taught by Louix Dor Dempriey—my Guru—who inspires each of us to only leave rose petals in every moment and circumstance in our lives (to bless everyone and everything especially when it’s most difficult to do so—i.e when someone cuts us off in traffic—instead of giving the finger—let us choose instead to bless that one).
The cover came to me in a meditation as well and I shared my thoughts with the book publisher and they created the image from what I shared.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
It’s important to be gentle with yourself when writing a book or doing a big project. “The energy you are in when you create is what you create”- Louix Dor Dempriey. When I found myself getting impatient or frustrated, I’d take a break and breather and return when I felt inspired and more centered. The energy that one is in when creating anything in life (a book, a meal, wrapping gifts, etc) is translated to the finished project and can be picked up on, consciously or unconsciously, by those who partake in the finished product.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
I simply want my readers to know, “You matter. I see you. And I hope and pray that by reading my journey through pain and darkness that you feel less alone. This journey on Earth can be so challenging, heartbreaking, and chaotic…May I only leave rose petals in your hearts and lives by you reading this book.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
I was born in Vermont but grew up primarily in Massachusetts. My parents were both teachers, and I developed an interest in literature at an early age. Although I aspired to be a writer, I put that ambition aside for a stable job, first in retailing, then in banking, and finally in the Federal government. I retired from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) in 2018 after a forty-year career that included nineteen years in SBA’s headquarters in Washington, D.C., and ten years as SBA’s Area Director for Government Contracting in Fort Worth, Texas. I began writing The First Robot President soon after I retired and published it in 2020. It is my first published novel.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘The First Robot President’ book?
I had a good outline before I started writing the novel and knew what the key events would be and how the story would end. However, since I had not done any creative writing in more than 50 years (I am turning 77 next month), I had to figure out how to connect the dots, so to speak, and move the story forward from one high point to the next. Fortunately, I read so many novels when I was young that storytelling is second nature to me now. I believed that the technique would come back to me quickly, and it did.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
Since The First Robot President is science fiction (science fiction and political satire), you may be surprised to learn that I didn’t read much science fiction prior to writing my own novel, other than a couple of novels by Jules Verne in my early teens: Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea and Journey to the Center of the Earth. During this period, I read many historical novels, including several by Thomas Costain (The Black Rose and The Silver Chalice), A.B. Guthrie, Jr. (The Way West and The Big Sky), and Kenneth Roberts (Northwest Passage, Arundel, and Rabble in Arms). In my late teens and early 20s, I read books by other famous American writers, including Mark Twain, Henry James, Thomas Wolfe, F. Scott Fitzgerald, John Steinbeck, Ernest Hemingway, and William Faulkner. I also read novels by some of the great European and Russian writers, including Charles Dickens, George Eliott, Thomas Hardy, D.H. Lawrence, Marcel Proust, James Joyce, Thomas Mann, and Fyodor Dostoevsky. Therefore, I would conclude that my writing has been influenced by dozens of writers, primarily American but some European and Russian writers as well.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
I love to visit Massachusetts, which is where I grew up from the age of 12. Along with Virginia, Massachusetts was one of the first places in North America that Europeans settled in the early 1600s, and some of the original buildings in Boston and Salem have been preserved to this day. I love to drive the highway known as Route 1A through the historic towns of Salem, Beverly, Wenham, Hamilton, Ipswich, Rowley, and Newburyport. Also, just a few miles off Route 1A are the famous fishing villages of Rockport, Gloucester, and Manchester-by-the Sea. Gloucester still serves a major seaport, and all of these towns have wonderful beaches on the Atlantic Ocean.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive dive in and start writing a book?
As I mentioned above, I prepared an outline of the entire book before I started writing the first chapter. I had finished the outline before I retired, so I was ready to start writing soon after I retired.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘The First Robot President’ book?
I started the novel in April 2018 and finished it in March 2020, so it was about two years; but I didn’t work on it continuously because of an operation and other interruptions during this period. I figure that I actually spent about 18 months writing, revising, and editing it.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can which platforms can readers find ‘The First Robot President’ book to buy?
Up until now, it was primarily available on Amazon, although the print editions could (and still can) be ordered from any bookstore in the United States. At this moment, I am in the process of “going wide,” which means that the eBook will soon be available through Apple Books, Barnes and Noble, Rakuten Kobo, and the Google Play Bookstore in addition to Amazon’s Kindle. I encourage readers who prefer a print edition to order it through a traditional brick-and-mortar bookstore rather than Amazon.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘The First Robot President’?
The title was a no-brainer based on the story, and it came to me soon after I came up with the idea. I hired a professional artist to do the cover.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I make extensive use of dialog. For example, in Chapter 8, “The Debate,” where the robot is debating the other candidates for the office of Vice President, I include comments from the robot’s husband, daughter, and mother-in-law, who are sitting in the audience, in addition to the dialog between the moderator, the panelists, and the three candidates. This breaks up the political discussion and allows me to interject an element of humor into the story.
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 spoil the plot by revealing too much, but I can mention one or two things that don’t touch on the plot. Although the story is set 500 years in the future, I was very careful to be accurate in my description of the White House and the U.S. Capitol, as well as restaurants, streets, and avenues in Washington, D.C., and Virginia, where the novel takes place. I even called the U.S. Congress to verify the name of the building and the room number where the Small Business Committee meets. This attention to detail may be the result of all the historical novels I read when I was young. Also, I originally named the robot Lucy, but I changed the name to Esmeralda before I finished the book because I think Esmeralda is a beautiful name—my favorite female name, actually.
Q1. Hello Sir, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
I live in New Zealand, a tiny country at the bottom of the world. There are two main Islands, the North and the South Island. My home town is a beautiful 9km beach location in the North Island of about four thousand people. From the top to the bottom of New Zealand there is amazing scenery, from beautiful sandy beaches to snowcapped mountains, bubbling hot mud pools and paddocks of green, green grass. A great environment for writing a book. I have two adult children, five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘The Gate In The Fence’ book?
I acquired an aggressive B cell lymphoma cancer when the book was only a few chapters old. I went through ten months of regular three weekly intravenous chemotherapy. I came out the other side but for three years I was very ill and never wrote at all during that time. Then I had a business failure and declined into serious depression. Once again there were long periods of no writing.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
To be honest, I hardly read at all. Maybe one book a year while I am on holiday. My wife is the big reader in our family. I have always been a bit of a story teller though and when I first went into the Airforce, I was asked to write an essay about my life to date. The comment from my instructor was that he had asked for an essay, not a book, so maybe I have always had one in me.
Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
We live in a pretty special place, so it is hard to find somewhere better to go on holiday. However, we have a timeshare in Fiji and have enjoyed many family holidays there over the years and plan to return to relax, play golf, swim and enjoy the fabulous Fijian hospitality as soon as the pandemic allows. We have also spent a lot of time traveling, working and holidaying all over beautiful New Zealand.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
As this was my first book, I didn’t have a clue where to start. My modus operandi was to start and see where it took me. I wanted to engage the reader right from the start and to draw them further into the story with each page read. I purposely wanted to be edgy, controversial, fast moving with lots of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing what was going to happen next. I was asked to describe the book in one sentence and I replied Fifty Shades of Grey on steroids. It also had to be something I would enjoy reading myself.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘The Gate In The Fence’ book?
Twelve years. There were many times when I thought I would never finish it. It is ironic that illness kept me from writing for long periods, but COVID helped me finish it. Being locked down was the perfect environment to create the discipline I needed to reach the 65,000 word target.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘The Gate In The Fence’ book to buy?
It is available in hardcopy, paperback, audio and ebook. You can buy it from the publisher, Austin Macauley, Amazon, Book Depository, Wheelers and more. https://www.austinmacauley.com/book/gate-fence
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘The Gate In The Fence’?
To be honest getting the cover right was harder than writing the book. With the publisher on the other side of the world and people working from home because of COVID it was really hard to convey what I wanted. I ended up doing a hand drawing myself. My objective was to keep it quite simple and plain while trying to convey a little of the mystery and dark side of the story. My perception was that there were not many white coloured covers so that a simple white cover with a black pencil drawing would stand out on the shelf. I can’t wait to see if that works. The title really picked itself. The fence between the neighboring properties in the story has a gate in it and is an integral part of the whole story.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I was conscious of trying to mix up the chapters. Some short, some a bit longer. I felt this allowed me to keep the story moving by taking the reader from place to place and situation to situation. While wanting to grow the characters, I didn’t spend too much time on this to ensure I didn’t loose the attention of the readers that wanted to know what was happening next, while giving the more intense readers enough information for them to grow each character themselves.
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 reveal any secrets, just maybe some advice. Settle in, buckle up make sure you have taken your medication and get ready to spend a lot of time with your nose in this book, because my prediction is you are going to find it hard to put down.
Q1. Hello Ma’am, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
Hi Sassy, thank you for interviewing me! I am trained as both a clinical and social psychologist. I have been in private practice for over 25 years. I have two adult daughters. Both are adopted from Central America. My challenge now is learning Italian! I love making pottery – being able to fully immerse my hands in clay and create something from mud. I live in Cincinnati, OH with my three dogs, Moca, Enzo and Frankie.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Fear Traps’ book?
Putting my thoughts into words. Describing how I have helped myself and my clients overcome past hurts, betrayals and past traumas that are both big and small. Fear Traps describes a dynamic process of how to heal yourself. By following the six steps in my book, healing occurs. Readers will learn to identify the source of their triggers, the impact they have on them today and how to respond in a healthy way. “Fear Traps” equips readers to heal trauma and take on new challenges with confidence and resilience. Fear is normal, but fear does not need to control you. If you’re feeling trapped in a cycle of coping mechanisms that just keep making things worse, there is a way out.
Q3. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
That is tough to pick just one place. I do love both the east and west coasts. For me nothing compares to Maine in the fall – I love the brilliance of the changing foliage and the beauty of the rocky sand beaches. I also love the sunshine of California, exploring the varied landscapes and terrains in the state.
Q4. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
For me, yes. After a shattering divorce, I found traditional therapeutic approaches wanting, so I developed the Courageous Brain Process (CBP) — an innovative, science-based method of therapy. Rooted in the most up-to-date neuroscience, it bypassed the shortcomings of traditional talk therapy to repattern the way our brains process fear. When the results proved to be undeniably effective. My clients have been able to break free of self-destructive patterns triggered by unresolved fear I was able to dive into writing the book.
Q5. How long did it take you to write ‘Fear Traps’ book?
A long time. Shortly after I started writing Fear Traps, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Treatment included surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. After a two year recovery I dived into the book again. Then my Editor was diagnosed with breast cancer that interrupted the process again for a year. Finally, as we neared completion, I was diagnosed with breast cancer again, a completely different kind from what I had before. Interrupted again from finishing the book. Finally, the book was finished during the COVID pandemic. Yay!
Q6. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Fear Traps’ book to buy?
At this point Amazon. We are working with Ingram for distribution to work with other sellers.
Q7. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Fear Traps’?
I would love to take credit for that, but I can’t. Carmen Berry @BerryPowell Publishing came up with the title and Becky Rickett @BigStarProductionGroup designed the cover. We were looking for something that captured the emotions of being stuck in fear and represented the brain as dynamic. I love what they have done!
Q8. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
Continuing my work as a clinical psychologist has allowed me to stay current with new developments and cultural trends. Fear is the root of stress and anxiety. Being human, this is our continual struggle to manage our rich emotional world.
Q9. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
Yes, chronologically we are one age, but developmentally we are a variety of ages. What this means is anytime we are triggered; our reactions take us back to a place where we have been wounded by others. If we have not worked through these old hurts, we will react at the age at with the original hurt occurred. For example, when I was 13, I was miserably pranked by peers. I was humiliated. Going to a gathering of peers then became an experience I avoided. I carried this strong dislike of going parties into adulthood. It made me feel like I was 13 again. The problem was I tried to problem solve like a 13 year old. What work at 13 did not work at 40. Using the techniques in my book, Fear Traps, I was able to work though this unresolved hurt. I am not the life of the party, but I can now enjoy them!
Q1. Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.
Gladly! My name is Tisha! Licensed through the DBPR in Florida, I work full time managing the day to day operations of numerous building structures. I am an alumni of Florida Atlantic University with a degree in Business Administration. I was originally born in Guyana, located in South America and was raised in an Indo-Guyanese/Hindu household. I have no children, but find peace and happiness in partaking in charities for children and the elderly.
Q2. What is your inspiration behind your book “Lead the Way, Hanuman”?
I was truly inspired by two things: the upcoming generation and my late Grandmother who passed away from Alzheimer’s almost a decade ago. My generation of friends and family have all embarked on the journey of starting a family. I have watched each and everyone of them do their best to implement God and the Hindu religion into their children’s lives. Why not try to simplify such a complex religion for younger developing minds? On top of that, watching an elderly one drift away due to Alzheimer’s or Dementia is a difficult thing to experience. My thoughts were fixated on how to prevent that bond between generations from withering away due to this disease. Then the old saying of “once a man, twice a child” hit me and this is how the book was born. Teach the young ones, but also keep the minds of grandma and grandpa going.
Q3. What are your hobbies apart from writing?
Apart from writing, I am keen on Bollywood Dancing and have a strong love for music and the arts. I love playing the Harmonium (Indian Organ) and continue to learn day by day how to master it. I love a good novel and of course, a Hallmark Christmas movie, regardless of the time of year!
Q4. Are you planning to write another religious book soon?
Of course! Part two is due to release early next year! This will be a great, much needed series for the upcoming generation, as well as the older folks.
Q5. For which age group your book “Lead the Way, Hanuman” is suitable?
Lead the Way, Hanuman is suitable for all ages! Children ages 2-13 may find it more enjoyable.
Q6. Do you have faith in Lord Hanuman?
Lord Shiva is my Ishta-Devataa (the personal deity with whom a devotee feels the greatest connection with). Therefore, his avatar, Hanuman protects me in every waking moment!
Q7. What makes your city special?
I live where everyone wants to vacation! Good ol’ sunny South Florida!
Q8. What suggestion do you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?
Buy your children more physical books. E-Books are great and convenient, but nothing can ever compare to holding a book in hand, turning the pages and hoping not to crease a page! Also, establish a daily or nightly story time with your little one. It’s a fantastic way to make reading habitual.
Q9. What does literary success look like to you?
Literary success is simple. Did your book leave a long lasting imprint on your reader? Did they smile? If so, that’s honestly all you need. Anything else you dream of in terms of “success” will follow after that.
Q10. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?
I am inspired by multiple people! I am so blessed to be surrounded by positive and successful individuals in life. These individuals inspire me daily. Anyone that can live humbly and simply, inspires me. Anyone that can go from having nothing to everything through hard work and dedication, those people inspire me. Anyone that has a positive outlook on life, that harnesses goodness and purity, they inspire me as well.
Sassy Reviews 