Category: Author Interview

Book: May I Only Leave Rose Petals

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?

It can be found on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/May-Only-Leave-Rose-Petals/dp/1945026499/ref=nodl_

Or anywhere books are sold online. 😍

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. 

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

May I Only Leave Rose Petals

Book: The First Robot President

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.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

The First Robot President

Book: The Gate In The Fence

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.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

The Gate In The Fence

Book: Fear Traps

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!

Book Is Available On Amazon

Fear Traps

Book: Lead The Way, Hanuman

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.

Book Is Available On Amazon

Lead The Way, Hanuman

Book: Pat Randolph Mysteries: The Case Of Lori Larkin

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

My name is Brian Foster, and I am a first-time published author. I was born and raised in Chicago prior to moving to Florida. I have a bachelors and master’s degree in business administration. Outside of writing, I do love to travel, sing in a chorus, and bowl. I was inspired to write by my father who was an avid reader and encouraged me to do the same. The love of my life, Rose, was also a big inspiration to me becoming a writer.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Pat Randolph Mysteries: The Case of Lori Larkin’ book?

Since this is my first published book, my biggest challenge was coming up with a story line that can be made into a series. I was not sure if the book was long enough for an engaging story.

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

James Patterson was a big inspiration for my writing, especially his Alex Cross series of books. I also enjoy Tom Clancy and Michael Crichton.

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 is Chicago. Chicago is special to me because I have a lot of memories growing up there. I also enjoy the people, sports, and food from the city. There are many restaurants to choose from in the city.

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

The first part to writing a book is coming up with the story line. You need to determine the setting, central characters, and a central theme. In addition, you also need to make time to write your book. I recommend creating a schedule for yourself to keep you on track and ensure you have the time allotted to write your book.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Pat Randolph Mysteries: The Case of Lori Larkin’ book?

It took me 1.5 months to write it

Q7. On what all platforms’ readers can find ‘Pat Randolph Mysteries: The Case of Lori Larkin’ book to buy?

You can find my book at dorrancebookstore.com, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Google Play, and Kobo

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Pat Randolph Mysteries: The Case of Lori Larkin’?

I wanted to keep the book cover simple and add to the mystery of my book. The title of my book is an interesting story. The central character’s name is derived from a mixture of my fathers and great grandfather’s names. The title was based on an actual girl I knew who disappeared in my youth.

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

You need immerse yourself into the story line and think about how the central character would react to events in your own life.

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

I set up the story line for a series of books revolving around the central character, Pat Randolph. I am, currently, in the process of writing the 2nd book in the series. My goal is to have it ready for release in 2022.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Pat Randolph Mysteries: The Case Of Lori Larkin

Book: Solar Flare

• 

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

I am a father to two lovely children, Sophia (14) and Theo (11), and married to my beautiful wife Caroline. We live in Hertfordshire and have done for 14 years although before that I lived all over the UK as well as Switzerland and Australia.

Q2. What is your inspiration behind your book “Solar Flare”?

My two children. I wrote Solar Flare when they were younger and because they were fascinated by space. I honestly didn’t think the book was that good so sat on it for ages but then my kids encouraged me to get it illustrated and try and get it published.

Q3. What are your hobbies apart from writing?

I’m an outdoors person so I love most sports, walking the dog in the countryside, just being out and about in the fresh air.

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

It’s strange because I’m actually a songwriter first and foremost and had never really thought of writing a book. The words kind of came to me for Solar Flare when I was thinking about space and the passion the kids had for the universe. I’m convinced the songwriting was a trigger for the book so guess I’ll be hoping for a similar flash of inspiration because I’ll keep writing songs.

Q5. For which age group your book “Solar Flare” is suitable?

I think 4-7 is the perfect age but my kids still enjoy it now….although I know they are a little biased! I tried to write a book that parents would enjoy reading again and again since we’ve all been there at bedtime reading the same book when we’re tired and losing the will 😊.

• 

Q6. What is your favorite Quote?

“Friendly people have friends”. Some simple but so true and all you need in life really.

Q7. What makes your city special?

Well I don’t live in a city now but the closest main city would be London. What makes it great? Diversity!

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

Find books they enjoy reading and that tap into their real life passions. That will help them develop the reading bug and they’ll open to expanding their literary horiozns from there.

Q9. What does literary success look like to you?

Writing something I’m proud to share with family and friends

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

I don’t really have an individual, but I have huge admiration and humility when I think our about our World War 1 and 2 heroes. I am a keen historian particularly when it comes to the World Wars and I think it’s good for our minds and souls to always remember the suffering and sacrifice that these generations went through. When I think about some of the modern human and societal “issues” we face into, they really pale into insignificance to what soldiers and civilians experienced for the freedoms we enjoy today. And it was only 100 years ago or less! We would do well to remember that sometimes.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Solar Flare

Book: Strawberries Under Skin

• 

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

Hi, I’m Niharika. I’m 21, studying at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, graduating with a double major in Economics and English & Creative Writing. I’m originally from Kolkata, India, but have moved several cities and homes, which has invariably influenced my art and writing.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Strawberries Under Skin’ book?

Strawberries Under Skin is a compilation of some of my best pieces, dating back to 2017. The biggest challenge while putting together this manuscript was revisiting my oldest poems and getting in touch with the person I was then. Revision is always the most tedious part of publishing because a writer wants their final product to be the most perfect version of itself, and that requires constant revision, polishing and looking at it with a fresh set of eyes. So that kept me busy throughout the majority of the pandemic, and though it was hard work, it was definitely enjoyable and exciting because I knew that I was working towards a larger purpose.

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

Ocean Vuong and Fatimah Asghar have influenced my writing style, and voice, in the deepest sense. Each of them, in their own unique manner, use their contemporary voices to talk about deep-rooted issues regarding families, native lands, relationships, and cultural and physical stereotypes, and I find myself in complete awe of that. Night Sky With Exit Wounds by Vuong and If They Come For Us by Asghar are therefore my top two favorites, but I also have immense appreciation for classics like Audre Lorde and Lucille Clifton.

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

Home for me is not as standard a concept as it may be for others. It’s almost bizarre because I’ve moved so many houses, ‘home’ now refers to the people I surround myself with. I think it’s not so much a singular spot in the whole country that holds sentimental value for me, but it’s a little more scattered. There’s a little bakery called Kookie Jar in Park Street, Calcutta, that was a go-to for my family for all birthdays and anniversaries and celebratory events for almost eleven years. I particularly enjoy their Chocolate Pyramids, and always get a box of those every time I visit the city. Then there’s a couple lake-side spots in Vadodara, Gujarat, that my friends and I often drove to. They were always very peaceful, breezy and an excellent picnic spot. I have special memories attached to all of these different locations and I think that’s what makes the spot so nostalgic and unique to my experiences.

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

Absolutely. The biggest lesson that I learnt was not to rush the publishing process. I’ve had this dream since I was 12 and I remember feeling so desperate to find a publisher that would push their stamp on my very childish, pre-mature collection of poems. But I didn’t go through with it. I grew a little older, and let my post-pubescent years drive my thought-processes and personal philosophies of love and life and growth. I also decided to start attending more workshops and seminars, studied under world-class professors and then pooled in all of the knowledge and skills and craftsmanship I’d learnt so far, and directed that towards creating a manuscript that would finally qualify as a well-written piece of literary work.

• 

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Strawberries Under Skin’ book?

I never really know how to answer that question, because there are several poems in the book that I first wrote when I was seventeen years old, but only slightly re-worked them during revision. But more generally speaking, it was a year long journey, from August 2020 to August 2021, to go from drafting a rough word document with thirty poems, to a 120-paged paperback, with a unique cover design and a real ISBN code and everything.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Strawberries Under Skin’ book to buy?

Strawberries Under Skin is available as a paperback on Amazon across the US, UK, Canada, Germany, Australia, Spain, France and Italy and as a Kindle version world-wide. Both versions are also available on IngramSpark and Kobo. I am currently in Atlanta, GA and talking to local bookstores like Barnes & Noble and Eagle Eye Books to display my book on their shelves.

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

I always knew that I wanted ‘skin’ to be part of the title because so much of my work is inspired by the way I perceive my personal relationship with my body, the way that my body feels and the way it makes me feel. When I think about one word that describes me best, as a human being, the word ‘soft’ comes to mind. And a strawberry is a fruit that screams sensual, soft, and elegance along with a bold pop of color and juices. So the idea behind strawberries under your skin is essentially discovering the life that lies beneath your exterior, and the frailty and deep passion that you are really made of. I therefore wanted the cover design to reflect all of these notions, and I wanted the heart, the most important organ pumping blood to the rest of your body, to be infused with the red, porous structures of a strawberry.

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

I try to read as much as I can, and as frequently as I can. Being in college doesn’t allow you too much time to immerse yourself in novel after novel, but poetry books are easier and quicker to get through so I’ve actually gathered a pretty good collection of poetry books in the last two years, that constantly make me think from new perspectives, and make me write about experiences and people in a way I wouldn’t have considered before. I also often look out for online contests and writing prompts (the Instagram community of poets is an extensive and talented group of people) that challenge my comfort zone and push me to explore new styles.

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

I wouldn’t want to give away too many of my secrets, but I think one very cool thing about the book is I knew I wanted to have three or four chapters in the book; I just didn’t know what they would be called. Initially, the first ever edition of Strawberries Under Skin has three chapters called The Caterpillar, The Cocoon, and The Butterfly, to parallel the metamorphosis a caterpillar goes through before it can spread its wings and soar high. But that idea seemed almost cliché, overworked and a little stale, so I scratched that and decided to dedicate the three sections to the entities that pushed or provoked me into write that particular poem, which would find its place under that section. It’s funny how many times you rethink your title of the book, your subtitle or chapter titles before settling on one because you want it to be absolutely perfect without leaving much room for ambiguity, but I feel like a writer has their instincts that they must have faith in, and it’s usually a pretty incredible choice.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Strawberries Under Skin

Book: Freckle Face From Outer Space

• 

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

My name is Margaret Montavon and I am so excited to be featured here today! I am an actor, producer, writer, and educator who believes in harnessing the transformative power of the arts to tell meaningful stories, spark crucial dialogues, incite curiosity, and inspire creativity and positive social change. I earned a BA in Theatre Performance from Marymount Manhattan College, a Master’s in Education from Northeastern University, and have worked as both a performer and a teacher all over New York City. Now, I am currently executive producing several forthcoming television series, as well as promoting my first published children’s book, Freckle Face From Outer Space!

Q2. What is your inspiration behind your book “Freckle Face From Outer Space”?

I was a new student at a new school in first grade, where a classmate nicknamed me “freckle face from outer space” because of my freckles. I’d never felt self-conscious about my appearance like that before, and it began my journey of overly scrutinizing myself. Years later, I thought- what if I take that story, turn it into something more joyful, and use my experience to talk to children about inclusivity amidst uniqueness? So… I did just that!

Q3. When did you realize you wanted to be an author of children’s book?

I was feeling hugely depressed while in the throes of COVID lockdown in May 2020. Something was tapping at the inside of my brain, so I sat down one day at my computer, and out came this book. I did it because I felt I had to, but it wasn’t until I really lingered with and tweaked the project that I realized how much joy it brought me, too.

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

I hope to release at least 9 more standalone books featuring the same characters found in Freckle Face From Outer Space. If all goes well, hopefully my next book will be released in spring/summer 2022!

Q5. For which age group are your books suitable?

This book is a great classroom read-aloud (and independent reading book) for children ages 5-8. The book’s vivid illustrations and lyric rhyme scheme make it an excellent book for reading to younger children as well.

• 

Q6. What is your favorite Quote?

I have MANY quotes that I savor, but one that has really resonated with me in recent days is actually a line from a poem by Erin Hanson. I have it framed at my desk, and it reads: “There is freedom waiting for you on the breezes of the sky, And you ask, ‘What if I fall?’ Oh but my darling, what if you fly?”

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

It’s certainly flawed, but having independence and accessibility to opportunities is something I try to never take for granted.

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

Make it a family endeavor- if your child sees you taking the time to read (both with or without them), they’ll pick up on that and make it more of a priority. It also should be FUN, so approaching reading and sharing stories with a sense of wonder (instead of a chore-like mindset) is hugely helpful.

Q9. What does literary success look like to you?

For me, this project was never about making money- it was about getting a special passion project into the hands of young readers and loved ones, and that has been achieved. Seeing young readers hold and enjoy this book has brought joy to my life beyond compare, and if this book continues to succeed and more people can find something meaningful in this story, that, in my mind, is success.

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

I feel fortunate to have an incredible support system of my husband, family, and friends, all of whom inspire me daily with their love, kindness, and accomplishments. I think if we’ve learned anything over the last 18 months in this topsy-turvy world, it’s that time is precious and our loved ones are, too, so being able to witness their growing families, respective successes, and enjoyment of life in all of its facets is, to me, a huge inspiration in and of itself every single day.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Freckle Face From Outer Space

Book: Jon B: Are You Still Down?

• 

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

Hello, everyone, my name is Dominique Carson. I am a freelance journalist, author, researcher, and massage therapist.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Jon B: Are You Still Down?’ book?

Some of the key challenges I’ve faced while writing the book is overcoming writing block due to my loss of income as a massage therapist during the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic. Secondly, I had to really think about the artistic direction for the book and started brainstorming on ideas for my next book since I had a book before but it was unpublished due to finalizing legal matters. I was moving to Virginia after leaving my hometown of New York of 29 years. Therefore, I needed the motivation to write the book and my fiancé, Jeffrey encouraged me to utilize my down time to write the book.

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

Wow, there are so many authors who influenced my writing. I would have to say my cousin, Niani, the late Maya Angelou, Sonia Sanchez, E. Lynn Harris, the late Eric Jerome Dickey, Gwendolyn Brooks, Ernest Gaines, Judy Blume, V.C Andrews, and Connie Briscoe.

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 my own country will always be my hometown, NYC. Although I moved out of NY 1.5 year ago, it will always be home. You can take the woman out of NYC but NYC still lives within my soul. I have family and friends back in NY so it’s such an exciting feeling that you can attend home for a few days.

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

I wouldn’t say there is a lot to do; you have to figure out what you want to write about, genre, number of pages, and what is the overall purpose for writing the book. I am pretty sure every writer would like to receive a substantial amount of revenue for their book but money can not be your motivation.

• 

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Jon B: Are You Still Down?’ book?

Once I decided I was going to self-publish my book, it was game time. I wanted more creative control over my manuscript. I started the research process for my subject matter four months before I started writing the book. Then, I reached out to my editor and friend, Emily Timmerman about the concept for the book. We worked remotely since we didn’t live in NYC anymore but we still met the deadline. In six months, my book was edited, reviewed immensely, and designed because I really took my time to work on the book.

Q7. On what all platforms’ readers can find ‘Jon B: Are You Still Down?’ book to buy?

Readers can purchase the book on Amazon.com and Goodreads.com.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Jon B: Are You Still Down?’

I knew an attractive cover to captivate people’s attention and my end goal worked out successfully. I reached out to my former high school classmate, Stephen Davis because he is a phenomenal illustrator. He was truly honored and emailed a contract, stating his price and what I should expect when the illustration will be completed. We worked together remotely since it was the pandemic and it turned out to be one of his best illustrations. The title of the book is a song track from Jon B’s sophomore album, Cool Relax. The title was metamorphic because it was my way of asking the readers if they are still listening to Jon B’s music after 25 years. As a result, people are still listening to his music and attending his live performances across the United States and internationally.

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

I strive to keep things fresh by realizing writing is more of a spiritual practice and it’s my voice. Yes, writing has been a therapeutic outlet in my life since I was a child. It is still the fire in my belly. In order to keep the writing fresh, you must believe in your work and remain passionate. After two decades, I am still eager to write, remain efficient, learn new tricks along the way, and inspire others to leave a mark in people’s lives like a pen.

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

Jon B was the last person to physically work in the studio with the late rap legend, Tupac Shakur and produced for the English pop quartet, Spice Girls.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Jon B: Are You Still Down?