Category: Author Interview

Book: I Am Me

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

Hi Angie! My name is Angelica Clark, I am 34, I have two beautiful girls, a toy poodle named Teddy P. and I am a children’s book author focusing on mindfulness and positive mindsets! I was born and raised in Monroe, Louisiana. I received a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from the University of Louisiana at Monroe. I moved to Dallas, GA in 2012 and found my way back home to Louisiana in 2015. I’ve lived here since then.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘I Am Me’ book?

The most challenging aspect was choosing the affirmations and only choosing twenty! I had a total of about 200 positive affirmations to choose from and I loved them all! I put into consideration of my audience’s age range and that helped a lot with choosing the affirmations that are in the journal.

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

No particular author or book. I got into journaling about six years ago. It became an outlet for me.

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

I love the beach! Any beach of the Atlantic Ocean will do just fine. It’s so calming for my overactive mind! It the one place I don’t have to force my mind to shut down. The sound of the ocean waves hitting shore just washes my thoughts away.

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

No, not really! I always brainstorm before writing and jot down ideas as they come to me. I definitely have to be in the mood to write, so it can flow out of me easily and authentically. I typically meditate and clear my mind. If there is something pressing to do, I HAVE to finish that or I will think about it during writing.

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Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘I Am Me’ book?

4 months! I paced myself so I wouldn’t get overwhelmed with the idea of completing.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘I Am Me’ book to buy?

I Am Me is available for purchase online on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. I will have a book signing in Baton Rouge, LA June. 19th and the Journal will be available in store on that day!

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

I wanted something that was unique but represented me. I was initially thinking of something dealing with DNA strands to represent identity but my sister suggested my thumbprint and I ran with it! I bought colored pen markers and a black ink pad. I pressed my thumb in the pad, and placed it on a blank sheet of paper. I then blew it up and traced affirmations onto tracing paper along the ridges of my thumb pattern! I had a blast! I had such a hard time choosing the 20 affirmations that I couldn’t let go of the affirmations that I did not chose! I ended up putting them (along with the chosen affirmations) into my thumbprint! That beautiful handwriting you see is mine as well! LOL!

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

I have nieces and nephews that keep me updated on the new trends. I’m and old soul but I’m also young at heart. With all the negativity we face every day in the world, I figured I would make my “Tik Tok” scene in the form of a book! You’re never too old to learn something new, so I embrace the youth’s view on life, mix it up with my own and what I’ve learned and make something of it!

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I Am Me

Book: Kachina

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

My name is Alexandra Lopez. I was born in Ecuador and spent my childhood in Venezuela. I lived in Switzerland for a year to study French and then moved to the United States for my undergraduate and masters degrees. I combined my passion for education and my love for languages by opening an English speaking preschool in Venezuela.  I am now living in Miami with my husband and four adult children. I love writing children books that inspire children to reach their highest potential.  

Q2. What is your inspiration behind your book “Kachina”?

I was inspired to write Kachina by looking at the stars and imagining what they think of us humans and our beautiful Earth when they are gazing down at us.

Q3. What are your hobbies apart from writing?

Apart from writing I love spending time in nature and doing yoga and bicycle riding.

Q4. Have you authored any other book too?

The first book I wrote was in Spanish, Golpe de Suerte, Stroke of Luck. It is the story of a man who helped care for macaws and helped them fly freely through the skies of Caracas.

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

Kachina can be read by 4 year olds and will also be enjoyed by adults.

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Q6. What is your favorite Quote?

I don’t have a favorite quote but one I recently read that I loved was “the secret of getting ahead is getting started” by Mark Twain.

Q7. What is your favorite country to live in?

I loved living in Venezuela but now I am very happy to be living in the U.S. Traveling and seeing other cultures and points of view is important to me.

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

My suggestion would be to make story time fun and exciting and make a routine that you and your child look forward to doing together.

Q9. What does literary success look like to you?

Literary success to me is writing a book that inspires children to identify their feelings and and assert their self esteem.

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

I am inspired by people who have overcome hardships and become more compassionate and are able to help others.  
Sent from my iPhone

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Kachina

Book: Brothers in Arms

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

Born in Northern India, Punjab in 1965. I am the youngest in the family of four kids. At the age of 5, I arrived in the UK with my mum with my three elder sisters. I grew up in the 70’s and 80’s. The world landscape was changing in every design. The music, the air, the people, and the acceptance of who we are.

Now turning 56, I have three adult children and I have taught them to be free, be honest with yourselves, be who you are and don’t forget your culture.

Q2. When did you first realize you wanted to be an author?

At the age of 15, I was in a special class for English at school. This made me work harder to prove myself. I struggle with mt English because I write what I think.

Q3. From where did you have the idea to write your book “Brothers in Arms”?

I used to work in London Bridge and on the fateful day that the twin towers were hit, we were in a meeting with the BBC. That changed my life and the idea formed over the next so many years.

Q4. What do you like to do when you’re not writing?

a. Playing and watching golf
b. Going for long walks
c. Reading, books are our wealth.

Q5. Please tell the readers something about your book Deliverance?

Deliverance was my redemption and my deliverance. It was a man on a journey to learn who he was. A man given a second chance to live his life by god. Go back to earth and safe lives. In the process he was healing himself and realized that within us is god and bad. God and Satan are one, but we need to accept this as human beings. We need essentially to love ourselves. This book is very personal journey of me because I was that character. It took me out of a dark place and back into the light.

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Q6. How is life in UK? Do you miss India? Which country you actually love more and why?

Leaving India at 5 years old was a new adventure. For me I could not miss it. Now as a grown adult, I do miss it and I have two homes. I will always be Indian at heart and my kids will call me a freshie. I live in the UK and this is my home.

Q7. What are you working on next? Are you planning to release another book soon?

A few years ago, I was in Barcelona for a meeting. On the way back , sitting on a train, I was watching a young couple , around 18 /19 years old so much in love. They were travelling to the airport, first holiday, journey. So, a book formed in my head about these two young kids. A book essentially about LOVE. I am fascinated by love and its my first chance to really explore it in a sensitive manner.

Q8. What do you hope your readers take away from your books?

A sense of love, compassion, laughter. I want them to immerse themselves into the characters and feel their love, be in there shoes.

Q9. Your book “Brothers in Arms” has a character that joined army. Do you belong to a military family?

My father and his brother tried to join the Indian army before we came to the UK, but they were not accepted on medical grounds.

For me I have always loved history and the forces resonate in my heart and I feel them and I cry. I had to write this story.

Q10. Lastly, do you want to give any advice to readers and aspiring writers?

Just be you, words are like musical notes on a music script. Let those notes flow, play and hum in your mind. Don’t be afraid of what people will think and say, just be you

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Book Is Available On Amazon

Brothers in Arms

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

Thanks for inviting me to chat with you! I’m Dianne Greenlay and I am a physiotherapist (and retired EMT) by day, and by night, I write award-winning action adventure novels for older teens and adults (The Quintspinner series), as well as a brand new children’s picture book series for kids ages 4-8, ( The Grooty Fledermau Series, written in the pen name of D.L.Kruse) and I have also dabbled in the comedy genre with a short story adapted from a one act play I wrote, called “The Camping Guy”.

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

Being a prairie girl, I had to do a tremendous amount of research about the workings of eighteenth century sailing ships, (what did sailors do when they needed the bathroom??) and the lives of the pirates, navy men, and privateers (What was a Queen Anne pistol anyway and why was it a favourite weapon?). I even boarded a real three masted tall ship and sailed on it for an afternoon, to “haul sail” to get an idea for what it felt like. And … I even went so far as to make and sample a pint o’ sailor’s grog – just for research purposes you understand! I also had a lot to learn about the 1700’s lifestyle right down to what they ate, wore, and how people behaved. In the end, it was worth it, as the first book in the series won several awards for best historical.

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

I love Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander books, and Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry. I was fortunate enough to have Diana Gabaldon do a blue pencil (editing) session, in person, of Quintspinner’s opening chapters.

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

I live In Canada, which is one of the largest countries in the world. It takes many days to travel from one coast to the other! However, I really enjoy visiting the city of Vancouver, which is a west coastal city with a very temperate climate. It is lush and green year round, and sits on the edge of the Pacific ocean which laps at its shores.

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

I used to be a pantser – one who writes by the seat of her pants, but in writing books in a series, I soon found that both plotting and using an outline became an absolute necessity so that all the loose ends could be finished up and also so that many twists and turn could be developed in the plots.

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

Deadly Misfortune didn’t take nearly as long to write as Quintspinner did, because I had already done all of the research, and I used a bare bones outline to keep me steering towards the climax of the story. I write only for an hour or so a day so it took about 4 months.

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

Because Amazon is by far, the largest book selling platform in the world, and I am so short on administrative time for my writing, I have chosen to have the Quintspinner series available only on Amazon for now. There was a period of about a year that it was also available on a worldwide reading platform called Wattpad, where it quickly amassed well over a million reads, but once I wanted to put it into KDP’s Kindle Unlimited program, I had to make it exclusive to Amazon.

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

The Quintspinner story has a major plotline about Spinner rings with paranormal powers. I have travelled throughout the Caribbean where there is often a strong belief in magic, voodoo, and superstitions, and spinner rings are very prevalent. It is said that the spinning of an object produces a meditative or trance state during which a person can have desires for good health, love, revinge, or good luck given to them. I couldn’t decide which ‘gift’ a spinner ring in the book should have, so I modified my story to include 5 rings, each with its own special power. Quint ( for ‘five”) sounded a lot more exciting and mysterious than ‘Five spinner” so the title was born. I have since changed the title to ‘Pirates of Blood Bay Island” hoping that it would help fans of pirate books find it more easily. The cover for Book One has been changed 4 times as well, as I try to find an image that will draw readers in.

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

I really enjoy developing surprises and twists and turns in the plot and in the character’s motivations. That keeps up my own interest in developing the story line and I think it keeps readers turning the pages, too.

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

Why yes, so glad you asked! (evil laughter comes from me as I release the sound of the drums and ominous deep notes from the background music of cello ….) One of the favorite characters doesn’t make it and I’ve had readers say that brought them to tears … can you guess who?

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Deadly Misfortune

Pirates Of Blood Bay Island

Book: Outlanders: Malefactor, The First Of The Fallen

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

My name is David. I was born on the 4th of July in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. After graduating from High School, I set out to college. However, after three years, I dropped out to secure a full-time job to help my family in light of economic struggles. But in those three years of college, I was able to flesh out the plot and characters that would be the protagonist of my first book. After working many years in the retail industry, I retook my studies. By luck, two of my professors were caring enough to notice errors in my work and suggested a list of possible learning impairments that had been previously undiagnosed. While working three jobs, and studying I was lucky to pen several comic books, including revisiting characters that were creations of my own. A position as a book store manager piqued my interest in pursuing a career as a book writer. My passion for science fiction, dark fantasy, suspense, and horror continues to be an outlet for my creativity. Although I consider myself introverted, I love to talk and encourage other people to pursue their dreams.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Outlanders: Malefactor, The First Of The Fallen’ book?

There are significant differences between writing a book and writing a comic book. When writing a comic, there are different approaches; you can give a plot to an experienced artist, and he or she will flesh out the book in a predetermined number of pages. Once the pencils are layout, you can begin to work on the dialog. The comic book panels establish the amount of space you have to include dialogue. In a way, half of the narrative rests on the artist’s shoulder. Creating a book changes your writing style as a whole. In comics, you avoid writing about the action the artist already portrayed, using the limited space provided by exploring the character’s mindset or something not featured on the page, whereas, in books, you need to create a clear portrait in the head of the reader using carefully crafted words. For me, the most challenging was writing about cosmic beings, which is entering the state of consciousness of creatures that are vastly superior to what a mortal being can comprehend. You will inevitably assign them flaws of the human condition so readers can establish a connection with them throughout the story. But in my mind, the interacting banter between them had to be professorial. I couldn’t fathom the idea that deities talk in a jargon akin to ours. You risk alienating some readers when you use that type of vernacular; however, introducing a character that surmises each chapter in a down-to-earth language that anyone can understand helped with that aspect.

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

H.P. Lovecraft, Edgar Allan Poe, Orwell, Kahlil Gibran, Tolkien, etc.

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

I’ve been fortunate to live in a town that is near the beach. Taking a stroll near the shore is where I usually come up with ideas.

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

Definitely. It depends on many factors, mostly the type of book you are writing. If your story develops in an existing place, fact-checking and an accurate depiction of said place is pivotal. If it is a made-up place, world-building is also essential. “Who are you, and why should I care?” So are often questions the reader asks when reading a book. There is no such thing as a throwaway character. It is important to add details to that character to make your story more solid, even if that character will interact briefly with your protagonist. Nothing occurs by happenstance. A well-developed character will not only resonate with the reader, but it will open an opportunity if you ever run out of ideas. Pay close attention to the people of your community. Chances are their quirks, the way they talk, what makes them who they are, might serve as an early draft of one of your protagonists.

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Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Malefactor #0: Malefactor’ book?

Fourteen months.

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

For now, you can find the book in Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08VVW1BMY

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

It helps a lot when you have experience as a graphic designer and had worked in retail for as long as I have. Marketing is crucial to move a product. Some color combinations may not appeal to the demographic you are trying to reach. Sometimes a well intricate design can catch the eye of an unsuspected buyer, and sometimes a bit goes a long way. Most people are very picky when choosing a product. I should know because I’m one of them. As far as titles go, I like to choose one that apply to several of the characters involved. Those who had read the book might find that the title “First of the Fallen” could be bestowed upon “The Traveller”, “Daystar”, “Logos” “The aspect of Wrath”, and so on.

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

Death is an aspect of life that is unavoidable. I have no qualms as far as removing a popular character that I feel has overstayed their time. Both the corruption and redemption of characters are fascinating aspects of the human condition to me. Moreover, introducing different characters that are interconnected to a story and yet bring something different to the said plot is always refreshing to see in a sequel.

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

I wrote the book with the purpose to be open to interpretations. That way readers will have the chance to discuss it and give their respected interpretation of the events, incentivizing an urge to revisit it once more. There are several mentions to characters from books that I love and easter eggs of factual events that will seem outlandish. One event in particular place the character of Ru-Vi -Flo” (which is an amalgamation of the three names of the witches in Macbeth) on trial for murder. The judge put the pigs that cause the stampede to testify on trial. This was based on a reported actual trial recorded as having taken place in Europe in the thirteenth century.

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Outlanders: Malefactor, The First Of The Fallen

Book: Carful What You Prey For

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

I am a registered nurse by trade and have self-published three novels and currently working on my fourth project. I am a cross genre author of romantic suspense, crime, and mystery/thrillers. I got into writing while going through a difficult time in my life and found that not only was it cathartic, but it was also something I was good at!

Q2. How do you come up with names of characters for your books?

I picture the character in my mind then I start going through names until I come up with one that fits what I feel matches with the character’s appearance and personality. I used to use exotic names but found that readers often mispronounce them when they meet me in person and have questions about my characters. Now, I stick to easy to pronounce names.

Q3. What are your favorite part and least favorite part of the publishing journey?

I think my least favorite part of publishing is the dreaded editing process! It’s a beast. I was once told not to hold onto my words too tight because if things have to be changed for the book to read better it will be hard to let them go. I found this to be very true and useful advice. My favorite part of publishing is doing the book’s layouts and graphics. This is where I can really let my creativity shine!

Q4. What are your hobbies apart from reading or writing?

My favorite hobby is photography. I’ve been a shutterbug since the age of 12. I learned from watching my best friend’s father in their home studio. From there, I learned lighting, backgrounds, settings, etc. I just continued to hone the craft from there and was even able to do my daughter’s senior pictures! Now, I have started studying cinematography and learning more about film.

Q5. Which is your favorite season to write in and why?

My favorite season is Fall. I love to watch the fall foliage and taking in the cool, crisp air of the season! It also gives the most nature has to offer when it comes to outdoor photography especially in the mountains of Charlottesville, Virginia.

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Q6. What is your favorite Quote?

“Excuses are tools of the weak and incompetent. They build bridges to nothingness and those who use them seldom amount to much.” – Paul Adefrasin

Q7. How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?

I have authored three novels and two short stories. I would have to say my favorite would have to be CAREFUL WHAT YOU PREY FOR.

Q8. Please tell readers something about your book “Carful What You Prey For”.

CAREFUL WHAT YOU PREY FOR is a story about a young woman who uses her beauty as a weapon on a young man who is battling his own mental, inner demons. This story speaks to the consequences of abuses of power and the effects of unacknowledged/untreated mental traumas in the Black community. We all walk a thin line of sanity vs. insanity every day and all it takes is one minor happenstance to push us over either side.

Q9. Can you share something your readers don’t know about you?

I write my stories backwards. I write from climax to prologue. Then, I write the epilogue and afterword. I don’t use an outline and I write my stories long hand then I type them up!

10. Lastly, who inspires you the most and why?

My husband inspires me the most. He doesn’t let me quit even when I want to. He’s very honest and frank. If it doesn’t read right, he’ll let me know. If it’s reading too fast, he’ll tell me to slow it down. If it’s all wrong, he’ll say “dig deeper”. My husband is my biggest cheerleader. He wants what I want for me and pushes me to my goals.

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Book Is Available On Amazon

Carful What You Prey For

Book: Mongo

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

Jeff Gard grew up in a small rural town in the Midwest in a placed called Dubuque, IA and always had a passion for art and creating things. Ever since he was a kid, he had a mission to travel and see the world. He lived in Alaska for 6 years and got to explore much of that beautiful state. He now resides in Oregon and enjoys the beautiful Pacific Northwest with his family.

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

I created this character a long time ago and always wanted to publish but never thought I had the tools to accomplish this task. With the technology that we have today and to fill time during COVID-19, I thought what better time to start and accomplish what I have wanted to do from the past. Though my character was created a while ago, I wrote the book for my kids (Kai, Everest, and Byron). Friends and family liked the book and the message the book offered that it encouraged me to seek out how I can get this book out to audiences. I started researching on how to publish and found many ways about how to complete a manuscript and utilizing tools that allowed me to create the book through Amazon. Mongo is an easy-to-read book and geared towards 2 to 8 age ranges for kids. Kids will enjoy Mongo’s adventure and the illustrations. The hope is if the book does well, it will allow me to continue with a series of more adventures for this character.

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

Dr. Seuss

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

For now, it would either be Seward, AK or Homer, AK. These are two small quaint fishing towns in Alaska that are surrounded by mountains and the ocean. My family and I visited those areas many times for camping trips. Pictures can’t do the beauty of these two places justice.
Also, I live in my favourite spot in my country. The Pacific Northwest is the most beautiful place where I get to call home and feel fortunate to be here. Being able to be close to the ocean, mountains, desert, amazing hiking trails, wineries, etc. you cannot go wrong.

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

I created the character a long time ago, but when I start writing I like to dive in and finish.

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

I would estimate about a week to write; however, editing, designing the book, and working with the artist took a considerable amount of time.

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

Mongo is a unique creature who lives on a remote island in the middle of the sea. Though surrounded by friends and family, he often feels left out and different. By chance, Mongo gets the opportunity to change himself… does he please others or does he be himself?
The link to the book is below. This is offered in the formats of Kindle and Paperback. One can get a free sample to see if the book will suit their kids.
Mongo
by Amazon.com Services LLC
Learn more: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08WN7ZCP3/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_YYG34V1N373WCY9J9AY3
https://readersfavorite.com/book-review/mongo

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

Mongo can be a slang term for “huge” or “extremely.” If you read the book, Mongo, is far from extreme or huge but quite the opposite but he learns a valuable lesson in loving yourself but also being curious about all those “extras” others seem to have. In the end, we are all created imperfectly perfect.

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

I think creating a character that will interest kids and the story is paramount. Mongo conveys the messages of self-acceptance and self-love. Children will learn to be happy with what they have instead of wishing to have something else or be someone else once they finish reading the story. The message conveyed through the story is positive and uplifting, and is the best way to teach children to accept themselves and be happy with what they have by appreciating their imperfections.

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Book Is Available On Amazon

Mongo

Book: Journey of 8: New Beginnings

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

My name is Charlotte Sun, a mother of three daughters and entrepreneur. I began my journey through community outreach and started my event planning business Jade Earth Events. We began hosting open mics , poetry events, and community events.

Q2. What is the most surprising thing you discovered while writing a book?

I discovered that whatever your mind is set to do that you can achieve anything. I manifested that I was going to write this book in 8 weeks and published. I ended up finishing in 6 weeks and published the book 2 weeks later.

Q3. What is your favorite quote?

My favorite quote is from the Bible “Death and Life are the Power in the Tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits” Proverbs 18:21

Q4. What are your hobbies apart from reading or writing?

I enjoy giving back to the community as well cooking and baking. I love all of these hobbies but baking has been a passion of mines. I started a online bakery specializing brownies called Veez Decadent Brownies.

Q5. Please tell the readers something about your book “Journey of 8: New Beginnings”?

The book is about how life goes through seasons such as despair, disappointments, love, faith, and all the emotions that happen through your life phases.

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Q6. Are you from a literary background?

I have been writing poetry and short stories since I was a teenager. I began to enter several poetry contests and from then on wrote for my high school news paper.

Q7. When did you realize you wanted to be an author?

I began to realize by reading inspirational poetry books that I wanted to be an author. I also, read inspirational stories of authors that influenced me. It was always in my spirit to write and touch people.

Q8. Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

I see a fruitful life through the Journey of 8 poetry book, a national motivational speaking, and a becoming an owner of poetry cafe’. I want to touch people all over the world through my inspirational poetry.

Q9. Are you planning to publish next book soon?

Yes, the plan is to release the new book in Jan 2022

Q10. Lastly, who inspires you the most and why?

I would say everyday people who have testimonies of how they prevailed in life. These people are the most inspiring because they give you hope and help you through a your life phases.

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Journey of 8: New Beginnings

Book: Blood In The Water

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

I’ve owned and published an alt-weekly newspaper, Inweekly, in Pensacola, Florida, since July 1, 1999. I’ve won awards for investigative reporting over the years, covering sensational murder cases, corruption, civil rights and the BP oil spill. I’ve been fortunate to be profiled by The New York Times and have been featured on Dateline NBC and the Investigation Discovery channel. I love Tito’s and soda, dive bars and swapping tales.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Blood In The Water’ book?

Carving time out for writing was the biggest challenge. Most of the writing was done early in the morning or late at night. I also had to take an event that actually took place, a jail explosion, and add fictional layers that would attract a reader. Researching the Ku Klux Klan and Dixie Mafia took time and deep dives into historical archives to pin down.

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

I attended Ole Miss when John Grisham was in law school there and got to know his younger brother, Jimmy. “A Time to Kill” had a significant impact on me because I could picture the people and places in the book. Fellow Floridan Carl Hiaasen’s zany characters and storylines also impacted me. I wanted to do for Northwest Florida what he accomplished for Miami and the Keys. Another influential author is the late Dick Francis, whose books were brilliantly written in first person.

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

I enjoy New Orleans—its food, music, history and people. And it’s only a three-hour drive from Pensacola. There’s nothing better than jogging through the French Quarter on a foggy morning and stopping for coffee and beignets at Café Du Monde.

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

I’m not much for outlines, maybe because of my journalism background. I figure out how I want my characters to grow and develop in the book and what will be the primary catalyst that will bring about change in their lives. I only have a general idea of how I want it to end. Meanwhile, I’m constantly jotting down bits of dialogue I hear on the streets and in bars and stories that people share.

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Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘City Of Grudges’ book?

A lifetime. No, it started as a series of short stories I wrote for my blog ten years ago. Friends suggested I write a book based on them. The first draft took six months. Editing and rewrites took another nine.

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

Amazon is the best platform to find my books.

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

“City of Grudges” started as simply “Grudges,” but my publisher, SelectBooks, thankfully pushed for something better. He also came up with the cover. I started with “Blood in the Water” for the second book, and it stuck. I probably should have spent more time on that title since I didn’t realize how many other authors have used it. A lesson learned.

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

My protagonist, Walker Holmes, is so imperfect that he is always throwing himself into new situations. Plus, Pensacola has a rich history that provides plenty of fodder for storytelling.

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

Walker Holmes will never get the girl. Big Boy will.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Blood In The Water

Book: Stinky Binky

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Q1. All, please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.

Hi, I’m Lisa Olmstead. I’m a mother of four wonderful children, wife to Steve Olmstead for 34 years & Grandmaw to six amazing Grandbabies. I reside in Shawboro NC.

I’m Korey Olmstead, I am a stay at home mom of 2 and reside in Coinjock, NC with my amazing husband.

I’m Nicole Diaz, I am a mom of 2 wonderful children and reside in Elizabeth City, NC with my loving husband.

Q2. What is your inspiration behind your book “Stinky Binky”?

Korey’s daughter, Scarlett, had a tough time getting rid of her pacifier when she was younger. It would upset her greatly whenever she lost it. Lisa Olmstead came up with a silly rhyme to help her get through it. She would sing “Oh no, it can’t be so! Where did Stinky Binky go?” Nicole Diaz thought the rhyme and the missing pacifier could make for a good children’s story and made the suggestion to create a story about it!

Q3. When did you realize that you and your daughters want to be an author?

We never realized it until we turned our little joke about “Stinky Binky” into a serious consideration for a book!

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

We have a storyline for another book in the making!

Q5. For which age group your book “Stinky Binky” is suitable?

We think “Stinky Binky” is suitable for ages 0-7. It’s short, and is a simple rhyming story that relates to any young child who is growing out of the pacifier, or learning how to read.

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Q6. What is your favorite Quote?

“Oh no! It can’t be so! Where did Stinky Binky go?” The quote that started it all!

Q7. How is life in North Carolina?

It’s great! Right now it’s summer time, so we enjoy going out on the boat, going to the beach and spending time with friends and family!

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

Do enough reading to make it a habit!

Q9. What does literary success look like to you?

Being able to reach an audience through our message and creativity!

Q10. How did you come up with the idea to do a family project?

Scarlett was the inspiration, and the love she had for her pacifier. Our mom came up with the limerick, and we all had a hand in writing the story. When it came time to think of an illustrator, Nicole’s husband suggested his brother, Hector Diaz, who is a talented artist in Idaho.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Stinky Binky