Category: Author Interview

Book: Just Imagine

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

Hello, my name is Sharon Giannini and I am a wife, mother of two, and I live in a small town in New England. I grew up in the city of Danbury, CT right on the border of New York State. I was raised by a stay at home mom and my father is a musician. I guess you could say I inherited my love of writing from him. When I was little, I would spend time flipping through picture books. I loved the simplicity of the writing and the beautiful illustrations. I have always appreciated how children’s writers can communicate a concept so deeply using only a few words or sentences on each page. I can remember spending a lot of time writing my own short stories and poems. I still appreciate all of the wonderful picture books I have read and have in my kids collection at home.

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

I have to say the biggest challenges I faced while writing “Just Imagine” were coming up with the simplest way to communicate a very important concept (persistence), in order to accomplish ones goals/dreams. Also, trying to stay true to the conversation that inspired me to write this book in the first place.

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

I love books by Margaret Wise Brown, and Dr. Seuss. I feel they are two of the most brilliant story tellers. I just really love their style. I also love the series of picture books by Laura Numeroff. I love her characters and the flow of her books. I guess I would have to say her stories have influenced my style of “Just Imagine” the most. But the works of Margaret Wise Brown first made me fall in love with reading as a child.

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

It is hard for me to pick one spot in the United States that I love to visit. I love New England; it has been my home all my life and it is very beautiful, especially in the summer and fall. I love taking trips to Maine or Cape Cod in the summer, as well as Rhode Island. I also love Florida; Siesta Key Beach is beautiful and I have been there a few times. The biggest trip I have taken with my family so far was to Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, two years ago. It is one of the most beautiful and picturesque places I have ever been and I would recommend that everyone see it at least once in their lifetime.

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

I put in a lot of “research time” and what I like to call “research field trips” when I first have my story idea. I start with a “blurb” and brainstorm anything I can think of. Then I go online and research my topic. I make sure it is something unique enough that will stand out from all the rest. I also go to my local library and book stores and flip through picture books in the age range I intend to target. I look at how the stories are written, how many words are on each page, what sort of style illustrations would I like for my own book, etc… I take my time. With “Just Imagine” I took the initial idea and put it in the center of my final book. I built the rest of the story around it.

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

I had the initial idea for “Just Imagine” back in 2011. I actually wrote my first paragraph after a conversation I had with my son; he was five at the time. I wrote the first paragraph and I wasn’t sure I wanted to continue. I literally tucked it away at my desk and didn’t pick it up again. Several years later, I found it in a pile and took it as a sign. I decided to have the idea copyrighted in 2016… then after many failed attempts at putting something together that made sense, I will admit I stopped for a while. I was also very busy with other creative outlets; I attempted to start my own business on etsy.com which was fun for a while, but I was always pulled back to writing. In 2017 I decided to give it another try. The illustration process from start to finish took a year and after many edits and some rejections from traditional publishers, I decided to give self-publishing a try. I picked up a book by the amazing Eevi Jones who helped me through the process. I would recommend her to anyone thinking about self-publishing. She is an award-winning author in the self-publishing realm. She was very encouraging and extremely helpful through the entire process.

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

“Just Imagine” is available on Amazon in ebook, paperback and just recently a hardcover format. However, I am in the process of revising my hardcover version, and will announce it’s availability again soon.

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

The title was actually the easiest part for me. I just kept thinking what would grab someone’s attention quickly and also capture the concept I am trying to convey to readers. The subtitle came much later as a recommendation by an expert. As far as the look of the cover; that was a lot of fun. I had the great privilege of being able to sit down in person with my illustrator, as we live in the same state. I already had an idea of what I wanted, but while talking to her, we just started bouncing ideas off of each other and with each new idea we both came up with all the details. I knew I wanted it to be whimsical and hand drawn. When she suggested watercolors, I loved the idea right away.

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

How to keep things fresh.. hmm.. well I would have to say by researching..if I think of a topic that has already been done, I try and think what would be a much more unique way of doing this? I like to create a character/s kids can really relate to and they want to root for. Also one my younger self could’ve also related to… I like to put a little bit of myself in the story.

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

My son inspired my story idea. When he was five, I was tucking him into bed one night and he asked me while giggling if he could “taste the clouds”. I said what an interesting question and I immediately had a visual. That conversation is towards the middle of my book and I built the rest of the story around it.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Just Imagine

Book: Apex

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

Hello, I’m a film and video game enthusiast who has recently shifted to writing fiction. As an author, my goal is to great fast-paced stories that take readers for a ride. APEX is my debut novel, and is available on Amazon.

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

I think back to one of my favorite action film series, Die Hard. The first was a claustrophobic rescue romp through a building that had some implausible sequences, but also those that made the protagonist believable. Fast forward to 2007, and we had the same protagonist jumping onto a hovering fighter jet, and crashing it while clinging to the aircrafts tail. Long winded story short, I wanted to make sure APEX kept the suspension of disbelief in a reasonable place. I knew the story would require escalation, and some high-tension sequences, but I wanted to make sure their execution wasn’t egregious or relying on extremely unlikely conclusions.

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

My writing has been influenced by a number of authors – Crichton’s epic storytelling, Dan Brown’s pacing, Stieg Larsson’s sense of dread, and Andy Weir’s timely comedy – Just to name a few.

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

If I told you, then I’d have to kill you.

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

I spend more time in design and prep than writing. I have endless pages of notes, whiteboards, and scattered drawings of sequences throughout my office. I prefer not to write a single page of a book until I have every character fleshed out and every chapter mapped.

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

The end-to-end process was about five months – Storyboarding, Writing, Editing, Publishing. Truth be told, I wrote the initial manuscript for APEX in 17 days. Once I know what I want to write, and I have a blueprint, I go.

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

Paperback is available across a number of online retailers, Amazon and Barnes and Noble are the most notable. APEX is currently part of Amazon’s “Kindle Unlimited” program, so the eBook (right now) is exclusively available on Amazon.

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

I knew the cover had to reflect the setting of the book while not giving much away. The painted hills from the island provided a literal depiction from within the story, as well as an “APEX” allegory. The cover looks pretty simple from a distance, but if you look close, it’s actually brought together with strokes of white paint, which also ties back to a major event in the book. I don’t remember where the idea came from, but my cover designer, Astrid Burke, did an amazing job bringing it to life.
The title itself, comes from the main antagonist organization in the book. Also, plays into the notion that humans are the planet’s apex predators.

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

My secret sauce is limiting the amount of information readers have at certain spots in the book. Imperfect information creates tension. Additionally, though APEX is a violent book, I spent a ton of time working through when and how it would be used. I knew early on being careless with violence would create a numbing read, but if you’re strategic, it can be the most effective character (thank you, Quentin Tarantino).

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

I recommend reading the book. At face value, this is a “shoot from the hip” thriller, with the single goal of sending readers on a good time. That being said, I tried to layer in a few different themes and concepts that hopefully give readers pause to think twice.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Apex

Book: Born From A Wish

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

Well, hi there. I’m Dino Jones and ‘Born From A Wish’ is my debut novel. It was a dream of mine to write a novel and I accomplished that dream! Follow your dreams, readers. At times I didn’t think I could do it but now look at me.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Born From A Wish’ book?

I’d say the biggest challenge was motivating myself to write sometimes. I didn’t know if anyone would enjoy what I’d written. Other challenges I suppose I had were at the very beginning of the novel with deciding how things would begin. What’s interesting is the prologue I wrote came much later in the writing process. It came towards the end, actually!

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

I have been influenced by a fair number of people. All of them aren’t authors. I was influenced heavily by music and various other mediums throughout my writing process. The music of Droid Bishop, a synthwave artist, influenced me a great deal. I was also influenced quite heavily by the Genesis album ‘Duke’. If you want to know more of my influences in depth I’ve created an entire series devoted to that featured upon my Instagram!

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

There’s this walking track not far from my home that I quite like to visit. I tend to walk around the track four or five times, losing myself in my thoughts. That’s where I go to think about various upcoming scenes in my writing. It’s a pretty tranquil place on the edge of the woods so it offers a great place to think.

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

I tend to create an outline in my mind of what I want to do first. Once I’ve done that I usually just sit down and start typing and the words come to me. Sometimes it surprises me how things just flow. Of course another thing you must do is decide what the overall message of your story will be. What kind of lessons will your character learn and how will they grow, etc.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Born From A Wish’ book?

It took me about ten months. I wrote it between early January – late October 2019. I did have some breaks scattered about in that time where I didn’t write and I also wrote during my free time from my job. It’s physically/emotionally draining for me to write so I tended to only write about once or twice a week.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Born From A Wish’ book to buy?

You can find ‘Born From A Wish’ for sale on Amazon via Kindle/eBook ($7) or paperback ($10). I hope you’ll snag yourself a copy and please leave a review!

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Born From A Wish’?

I collaborated on the cover with a very talented local artist named Jalen Morris, (@osoamazingart). He was a co-worker of mine and I would see him on his breaks creating these awesome pieces of art. I got with him about the possibility of him creating the cover for my novel. I basically described to him what I wanted for the cover but allowed him artistic freedom to add elements he felt would add to it. The main elements I wanted were the three palms along with Albert & Elly on the beach at sunset. He came up with the rest and didn’t disappoint. I’m planning to work with him again on the next one. As for the title, I got it from a sub-scenario within the game Silent Hill 2. I loved the title and I felt it fit rather well with what occurs within the novel.

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

I keep things fresh I suppose by taking characters to places they hadn’t been before or expanding upon characters back stories. I also want to write in a way that the reader wouldn’t be able to guess how things would play out. That’s precisely what I’m doing now with my next novel. The next story will delve into a supporting character featured within ‘Born From A Wish’. It will be about their struggles and take the reader places they’d never see coming. I can guarantee that.

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

Secrets? I suppose the biggest secret of ‘Born From A Wish’ is whether or not Elly truly exists or not. The answer to that question is…I can’t reveal that! Haha! You’ll have to read the novel and find out yourself. I promise you’re in for a wild ride though!!

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Born From A Wish

Book: The Final Wielder

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

I go by The Creator Mal but my Real name is Jamal Charles. I chose the name The Creator Mal due to the Universe I have created via my business Artistic Realm Creations LLC.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘The Final Wielder’ book?

While writing I really didn’t face any challenges truthfully, but while putting it together I ran into issue with funding, getting the artwork, and printing of it. I did learn a lot but I expected it due to it being my first book, but Issue 2 will be a lot smoother.

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

May sound a little cliché but Stan Lee and Todd Mcfarlane; both for different reasons. I feel my writing kind of reflect that.

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

Again cliché but home, New Orleans. Its just in all my travel nothing compares.

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

Of course, some of the things I like to do is sit and think of what will make my story stand out. Some other things I like to plan out is my End Game. I truly like to plan an ending before having the beginning.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘The Final Wielder’ book?

Took about a week or 2. Mostly due to working and having a family. It took about 8 months though to get the art done and all the other bank end stuff.

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

Right now it’s available on Amazon in both paperback and kindle. I will be launching artisticrealmcreations.com really soon and you will be able to find it there as well among my other projects and merch on the website.

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

The title is usually the last thing I write, because how can you title something when you don’t know completely what it is. Same with the cover I got all the other art and tought whats the most iconic part.

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

I read a lot of other comic, but I think its my drive to stand out mainly. There’s a lot of superheroes, so I have to be interesting

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

I`m not going to say much but the holes in the story can be filled by other book under Artistic Realm Creations. Which will release before the sequel.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

The Final Wielder

Book: This Can’t Be Life

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

Inga R. Harrison is originally from Dallas, Tx and currently lives in the DMV area. She is a graduate
of the University of Oklahoma’s Gaylord School of Journalism and telling stories that uplift others
has always been her passion. Through comical and transparent storytelling she leads readers through dating and relationship disasters in “This Can’t Be Life”. She encourages women through
her own journey to share and learn from theirs, with the opportunity to journal after every heartbreak she details from her own life and others’. She is the owner and creator of Girl Say What, a conversational card game that is sure to keep your communications as fun and as real as
“This Can’t Be Life”.
Follow me @girl.say.what on IG
http://www.instagram.com/girl.say.what

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘This Can’t be Life’ book?

At first it was finding the time to write. Once I got furloughed from my job due to the pandemic, I had a lot of time to finish the book. I am a believer that everything happens for a reason and I finished one of my goals because of the pandemic.

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

One of my favorite writers is Toni Morrison. Her voice was so important and is truly missed.

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

Dallas, Texas. All of my family is there and that will always make it the most special place to me.

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

I would say the most important
thing is to just start writing!

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘This Can’t be Life’ book?

Once I really got focused it only took
me 4 months to finish writing the book.

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

Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/1647750822
My Website : https://girlsaywhat.org/prod…/girl-say-what-thiscantbelife

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

I had come from another trainwreck of a date. I got on the app Marco Polo to download the events of the disaster with my girlfriends. As I was talking I said I need to write a book because I
cannot make this stuff up! One of my girlfriends was like you should rename this group chat to This Can’t be Life and the rest is history. The cover of the book is a shattered glass slipper. As little girls we grow up reading fairy tales and thinking there is a Prince Charming coming to save us and make us into Queens or Princesses. The shattered slipper represents that myth and fairy tale as not always being true. Queens are not made, they are born and not because some man aka Prince Charming comes to save us and gives us that title…so I shattered Cinderella’s slipper on my cover. Being a Queen is a woman’s birthright.

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

We own every experience that happens to us. I tell my stories. I tell stories of the women around
me. Life in itself is an experience that should be shared, I keep it fresh by continuing to live the life I was given and sharing it with others.

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

The book is also a journal for women to reflect on their own journey through the dating gauntlet. I also shared one in why the cover is what it is. That is actually the last chapter of the book.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

This Can’t Be Life

Book: Thoughts From Mars: Down To Earth

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

Hi, my name is Michael Wilgar. I’m fifty years old, I live in Northern Ireland, I’m a father and a husband. I mainly work in the building trade; I’m a fifth-generation builder operating in and around our capital city, Belfast. I’m also into motorcycles and love to tour around the UK and Ireland taking in as many sights as I possibly can during free time. I started writing three years ago. I was researching my family tree when I started to wonder why my ancestors didn’t write anything down to tell of what their life was like. That’s when I decided to write stuff down about my life, and what we got up to as kids growing up in Northern Ireland during the troubles, we had fun, it wasn’t all guns and bombs.
My first two books ‘ Bikes Cars and Thoughts from Mars’, are novella size short chapter easy reads. I like to think that many years from now, my descendants will pick up one of my books and smile.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Thoughts From Mars: Down To Earth’ book?

Thoughts from Mars – Down to Earth was extremely challenging for me; anyone who reads it should understand why. On the 26th May 2019, my eldest boy died from drugs poisoning; he was just twenty-seven years old. I felt I had a responsibility to write this book to tell the story of how easy it is for a young life to be lost when a person gets involved in dangerous substances. I also like to reflect the fact that there are many uplifting things in life which will make you feel good, no drugs required. I know my writing style is quite random, but that’s the way I like to write, being myself. I guess everyone has their individual style, I think it’s important to hang onto that and don’t try and be somebody you’re not.

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

Everything from Robinson Crusoe to John Nichol’s ‘Return of the Dambusters. I love many different books, but I very much love to read motorcycle adventure books which give an accurate account of other countries and the people who live there.

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

There are so many stunning places that have left their mark on me, but, the old pier at Brompton that overlooks Belfast lough near Bangor town is the most special. It is the spot where I asked my wife to marry me, and the place where my ashes will be scattered when my time on this earth is up.

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

For me, It’s more about getting my thoughts in order, trying not to overthink the hell out of it and getting a flow going. I write because I enjoy it, if I didn’t, I wouldn’t bother.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Thoughts From Mars: Down To Earth’ book?

In and around a year. I wrote down a lot more than I published.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Thoughts From Mars: Down To Earth’ book to buy?

My book is available on Amazon in both paperback and Kindle format.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Thoughts From Mars: Down To Earth’?

I do the main design myself choosing images from the many hundreds of photographs I take when I’m travelling around.
I thought of the Thoughts from Mars when I was writing my first book, it’s a, men are from Mars, and I’m a bloke reference. The Down to Earth refers to staying grounded in life, and try not to lose focus on what’s most important.

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

I’m not sure I do. I just write what I feel like writing and hope someone might enjoy and get something from what I have to say, that’s it really.

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

Not that I know of, If someone finds any, please tell me. I wear my heart on my sleeve, what can I say!

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Thoughts From Mars: Down To Earth

Book: Awakening Of The Heart

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

My name is Jo Dawson I was born and raised in Wellsford, North of Auckland, on a dairy farm. I was a primary school teacher for more than 15 years in New Zealand and I also spent some time in the USA and Australia. I’m a committed Christian and my faith plays a pivotal role in my life and in my writing. I hope that my books encourage other Christians to turn to God in the good and bad times. To find our support networks and through it all chose joy.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Awakening Of The Heart’ book?

Self-belief was one of the biggest challenges. It took me some time to believe my story was actually one that people would actually want to read. I found a few passages tough to write because they were telling some of my own story of the battles I’ve faced in my life.

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

Laura Ingalls Wilder – Little House on the Prairie series.
Lucy M Montgomery’s – Anne of Green Gables series
Louisa May Alcott’s – Little Women series
Janette Oke, Christian Author
Francine Rivers
Pretty well any classical literature from Tolkien to Dickens, I have an extensive collection, poetry as well.

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

This might seem like a strange choice, but the little Waikato town of Matamata. I lived there for 13 years and it’s a fabulous little town with all the shops you need, plus plenty of cafes and easy travelling to three cities.

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

There wasn’t for me, it just sort of happened. I carried around the story in my head for some time so once I started to write it down it happened rather quickly. The rest of the series just flowed after that as I looked forward to developing more characters and finding out how they would respond to real situations.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Awakening Of The Heart’ book?

I started it around 11 years ago, got to chapter nine and just stopped. I shelved it until a couple of years ago when I showed it to a friend and she insisted I finish it. Then it happened very quickly over the space of a few months. Once I get the ideas I have to get them down on paper or they rattle around in my brain. Once I start writing it’s as if all the ideas just come tumbling out. It all comes together in a short time after that.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Awakening Of The Heart’ book to buy?

Amazon.com, Kobo.com, Koorong.com, Bookdepository.com, Sparklemoonpublishing.net. It’s available in Paperback and E-book.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Awakening Of The Heart’?

I actually had the name of the book before I even had the main idea. I just woke up with the idea one morning; I believe it was God-given.
My publisher’s brother Tony, was the designer for the cover. We met together for a brief time and talked about the vision. He really captured that and ran with it. He came up with a number of ideas and then we tweaked them until we had the final result, I was really happy with it, I wanted the right combination of love story and tragedy, some idea of the time period of the book without giving away too much. I really think what Tony did was excellent.

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

It wasn’t easy. I’ve read so widely in this genre and watched plenty of tv and movies from the same period so it was hard to come up with some new ideas but once I started writing about Abigail the ideas all came tumbling out. I often wonder how a character would respond to this situation or that event so I write it down and it’s as though I’m living the situation with them. It’s often very emotional for me.

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

I’m reluctant to give away too much but I can tell you there are some very lovable characters, like the Murphy’s and Declan O’Leary the rather eccentric Lighthouse Keeper. I can tell you that Motherhood doesn’t look quite the way Abigail expected it to, there are plenty of ups and downs as she navigates tragedy and joy with the help of her God, her friends and her precious baby.

Book Is Available On Amazon

Awakening Of The Heart

Book: Mirabelle

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

My name is Sandi Wilson, and I hail from a small-town north of Auckland, New Zealand. As a teenager, I was encouraged to write by my English teacher, but I didn’t take this up until in my forties. I am a Mother of three, Bonus Mother of two, a devoted Wife and also the Publisher at SparkleMoon Publishing, who produces this and other books.

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

Time. In the midst of writing, I had to put the book on hold for around six months, due to my elderly father’s illness. But once I came back to it, it flowed amazingly quickly. The other challenge was believing I had something worth publishing.

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

Of course, being a Christian, the Bible is first and foremost. However, most writings by Brock & Bodie Thoene have impacted me and given me a great love of history and fiction woven together.
William. P. Young, ‘The Shack’ – there was something within these pages that spoke to my soul so deeply, that I often refer back to it in challenging times.

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

Tutukaka, north of where we live. As a youngster, we spent many Christmas holidays up there, living in essentially a shack, with an outhouse and a small boat to use. Many days of happily playing in the sand and swimming in the ocean.

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

I believe that traditionally there are key things to do, but that isn’t how I write. I usually have words swirling in my head, or I will dream of a character or storyline. I know there are some who will want to outlay their plotline/storylines, but for some of us, it really is very organic and flowing.

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

Without the break in between, it took almost a year.

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

Our website: sparklemoonpublishing.net, amazon.com, fishpond.co.nz, koorong.com, waterstones.com, bookdepository.com and others.

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

The name Mirabelle came to me one morning when I was in my kitchen. It was that simple. The cover was something I got my brother Tony to come up with. He being a Creative Director, knows the market better than me, and with just three things I asked of him, I believe he delivered something outstanding.

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

I don’t write for the readers sorry! I write what I believe God gives me, and leave it at that. Having said that, I am influenced by people I meet, places I go and research that I am guided to do.

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

There are many parts of my own story and journey, woven into the fabric of this journey. There are also very real incidents that did happen. This isn’t a journey of self-discovery as much as it is a journey into the heart of Father God.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Mirabelle

Book: The [New] New Patriotism

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

Absolutely-Hello! My name is Jennifer Blackburn. My husband and I have raised a blended family of six children. I am an information junkie and enjoy a very active lifestyle. I have had some incredible and diverse experiences that have informed my path in life. I am drawn to stories that explore humanity, whether fiction or non-fiction and am fascinated by what makes humans ‘tick.’

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘The [New] New Patriotism’ book?

Great question. Once I had a clear outline for the book, I decided the 1st half would build (briefly) on America’s history and how patriotism evolved. The 2nd half would focus on recent history and present day. American’s have a unique history in many ways. Patriotism has an ebb and flow of strength as well as apathy. It became clearer as I wrote the book that the rote patriotic duty of our ancestors has had a very challenging history. Celebrating democracy and equality has lost its lustre for decades in a society that continues to struggle with inequities and injustices. I am not a politician, a historian or a sociologist—and that is exactly why I felt compelled to write this book from the perspective of an ‘every person.’ It was a tremendous amount of research (challenging) and then 2020 began to unfold (even more challenging) but the events of the new decade crystalized the tipping point we find ourselves in as Americans. American Democracy has been a benchmark for other countries. It is a pivotal time globally for Americans to get Democracy right—meaning all people treated equally and fairly. I’m not talking about socialism, there’s no reward for hard work in that model and socialism is a rerouted path to subjugation and government sovereignty. I’m talking about human rights, civil rights, and civil liberties.

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

I am influenced by authors who write with passion, honesty and create characters that truly explore the human condition-the human psyche. I just finished reading Glennon Doyle’s Untamed which blew me away with her commitment to authentic self and shattering the images that have defined women. Amor Towles’ A Gentleman in Moscow was another beautifully written story of entitlement and life challenges that can bring a positive person to the brink of blinding despair, and the redirect that finds acceptance and happiness.

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

This is a hard one! Virginia has been my home for many years. Virginia has a very natural beauty steeped in history. The mountains, streams and hiking trails are abundant. Virginia wine country has become a force in American winemaking amidst the green, rolling hills of the Virginia Piedmont. Sarasota, Florida and the gulf coast! The Gulf of Mexico is a spectacular turquoise color, the sand is baby powder soft, and the marine life is amazing. We literally swim with dolphins and manatees. It is a very active lifestyle. I love our cities too. New York has amazing culture and looking down from the observation deck of the Empire State Building at NYC’s man-made ‘canyons’ is awe-inspiring. It never gets old. Utah’s natural canyons and National Parks are another favorite. Nature is very humbling.

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

I’ve learned you have to develop a mindset and be all about that mindset. ‘The [New] New Patriotism’ is nonfiction and my next project will be fiction. Regardless of genre there must be some level of research to ensure credibility and veracity. An outline and a story arc are vital. These are the constants and the foundation work.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘The [New] New Patriotism’ book?

It took me about 18 months to write the book.

Q7. On what platforms can readers find ‘The [New] New Patriotism’ book to buy?

The book is available now on eBook and releases in paperback on Jan. 6th. Pre-order for paperback is available now. All major online book retailers are carrying the book: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple Books, Google Books, Kobo etc.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘The [New] New Patriotism’?

The cover and the title, interestingly enough, was something I plugged into almost immediately. The book opens with the evolution of American patriotism and the events that got us to the present day. It’s cause and effect—but more importantly, it’s the evolution of humanity. I feel like the new decade will not be the ‘Roaring Twenties’ that was oft the phrase on January 1st, 2020. In studying historical perspective along with current events, I see a more of a new ‘Enlightenment Era.’ So, with that—a new definition of patriotism within a democracy that struggles with systemic racism. The hope that a younger generation, famous for change-making and transparency will redirect bottom-up change to create real equality within a capitalistic democracy that speaks the truth of the intention of Democracy. Thus, the title—The [New] New Patriotism.
The cover art again, was something I has a vision for fairly quickly. I did not want an unfurling American flag. I felt flag covers were overdone, represent an obedient patriotism and did not speak to the spirit of my book. I did want to incorporate red, white and blue along with silhouettes of diverse people.

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

Perspective. I can find myself so entangled in what I am writing that if I go days on end rabidly writing (at some point) what seems brilliant the first several days … dissolves into babble. It loses focus and impact. I take breaks that could be the duration of a walk, a workout or a small tactile project—or breaks that last several days. I also try to read as much as I can. There is no question that reading the works of others makes you a better writer. Also—very important—we are not human in isolation. Writing is mostly solitary, so it is just as important to engage with others. Pay attention to relationships and personalities and all the subtleties that those interactions give to the richness of life. These diversions can alleviate writers block and infuse the kind of page turning reading every writer wants for their reader audience. That said, it is so important to have balance and a discipline that keeps a writer on course.

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

I think the biggest secret or surprise from the book is that it initially sets the stage for a rally around American patriotism—then it takes a sharp turn—with extensive research and ‘in your face’ realities related to the precipice American democracy is currently perched upon. Change in elected officials does not change dysfunctional culture. This applies to any country and any government system. In a democracy we continue to rely on elected officials who continue to forget the People’s business once elected. Democracy is ownership from the bottom up, not the other way around. I hope readers will be surprised (some have expressed astonishment) by the data and statistics found in the book in regard to racism, the environment, a communist superpower and the Millennial generation. The [New] New Patriotism is not just a wake up call for American democracy—it is relevant to global democracy and real unity.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

The [New] New Patriotism

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

My name is Deb Serani, and I’m a psychologist in the United States who’s written a number of award-winning books in different genres. My latest one is a suspense thriller titled “THE NINTH SESSION.”

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘The Ninth Session’ book?

“The Ninth Session” is a book about the power of psychotherapy – and what goes on in sessions with a secretive patient. I wanted to show the reader those textured experiences while also writing a compelling crime story. My biggest challenge was to craft a suspenseful narrative, but not make the aspects of mental illness stigmatizing.

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

I love reading all kinds of genres in Fiction and Non Fiction. And I especially love reading Poetry. As for authors, I count Nelson DeMille, Stephen King, Toni Morrison, Edgar Allen Poe, Thomas Ligotti, Conrad Aiken, Shirley Jackson, Dr. Kay Redfield Jamison and William Golding as author favourites.

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

I live on an island in New York, so my special place is being at the beach. The sun, sand and surf are instantly soothing and healing for me… making it a most cherished spot any time of year. One of my favourite beaches is featured in “The Ninth Session.” It’s part of the Gold Coast of Long Island.

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

Generally, my ideas percolate without any real organization. But once I land on an idea for a book, I do research. As I find all I need for the subject, character or story, my writing just flows freely thereafter. Two things are always certain, though. I always know my beginning and ending of my books even before I write a single word on the page.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘The Ninth Session’ book?

It took me about a year to write “The Ninth Session.” Took 5 years to find a publisher.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘The Ninth Session’ book to buy?

It’s available in paperback, ebook and audiobook. Readers can purchase it online book retailers, stores and via audible. And don’t forget your local library if money is tight.

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

I wanted a Rorschach-like image for the cover so readers would immediately know this was a psychological crime story. And since most people are familiar with the famous inkblots, I arranged for a bloody inkblot to be created. And as for the title, everything changes for Dr. Alicia Reese and Luke in the ninth session, so that become the grab-tag.

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

I write for the genres of suspense, self-help, memoir and children’s picture books. So, keeping things fresh seems to happen naturally. Because my writing and focus changes from book to book, it feels fresh and exciting for me. And as a result, interesting for readers. At least I hope so.

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

There are many secrets, twists and turns in “The Ninth Session.” Regrettably, I can’t share any with readers as it would spoil the suspense. And ruin the ending. Sorry!

Author’s Profile

Books Are Available On Amazon