Category: Author Interview

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.

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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!

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Book: Mercenaries Of Destiny

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

I’m currently a student of Providence College going for a major in Literature. I’ve lived in Rhode Island and focused a good portion of my education into literature and history. My favorite thing to do is write Dungeons and Dragons campaigns that I could hopefully one day use with a group of friends.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Mercenaries Of Destiny ’ book?

A major challenge I faced when writing Mercenaries of Destiny was the continuity of everything and how every event and aspect work together to make an engaging and complex world. I find that elements like the rules of magic, different world wide organizations and the motivations of gods and mortals not only make the world more interesting but also make it believable. The story that I plan to write should feel like one of many that could happen in the world that I’ve created.

I’d also argue that another major challenge is description. The few who read my book in its early stages enjoyed the imagery I used. However, I felt that I needed to find the right words for everything, not just important plot points. If I did that, the story would have held the reader’s hand like a tourist only pointing out the important landmarks. I wanted my imagery to feel like a world trotting hike, letting the reader take in everything and marvel at what they saw was important.

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

I can’t say there are certain books and authors that have influenced me since there are so many that have shaped my mind and beliefs. I’d argue that one genre has done a lot for my writing style, philosophy. Although I’ve only read to enjoy it, philosophy has helped me create characters that evolve naturally and express ideas that make sense with each other. Since I can only be one kind of person, reading philosophy helps me understand how a pragmatist would think, or how an existentialist would argue. It makes my writing a good deal easier.

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

The best spot I’ve visited in the Lincoln Forest. Beside breathing fresh air and the open space, the best part about the area is the tranquility it offers. It’s nice and quiet when I visit and it helps bring in ideas so I can ponder on them and see what works and what doesn’t.

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

When I go to write my book, I like to have a clear idea of what the scene I want to work on is and how I want it to play out. I don’t like to see the book have every chapter be independent in what the focus is. Instead I write the arc that I’m working on and then see where it can be divided into chapters.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Mercenaries Of Destiny’ book?

It took me a good 3 months during my Senior year of high school to write my book. I didn’t want Seniroitis to hit me after all the stories I’ve heard from my older friends. So I decided to write for fun and see what I could come up with along the way. From there, the exercise started to turn into a full fledged book that I began to invest a lot of time in.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Mercenaries Of Destiny’ book to buy?

Mercenaries of Destiny can be found on Amazon but if you’d like to support the people who helped me get my work on paper, you could buy it from Stillwater Books.

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

The cover was easy, the people at Stillwater helped design the book cover and gave me ideas based on what the book was about. The title on the other hand was a real chore to come up with. I had to rewrite the title so many times I think Mercenaries of Destiny is the 10th revision that I settled on.

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

When I want to keep things fresh, I take a break and read about anything to help me reinvigorate my ideas. Sometimes I look back on some books I’ve read like Odyssey for refreshing my memory on how stories like those were written. However, diving into Wikipedia has introduced me to so many cool things about the cultures of the world that I would be lying if I haven’t incorporated some of the stuff I’ve learned into my own stories.

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

If there is one secret that I think will take readers time to warp and understand is The Oracle isn’t able to foretell the future or read the destiny of heroes.

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Mercenaries Of Destiny

Book: Late Night Might As Well Be Drunk Writing

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

Yes, I am from Dallas, Texas. I got my Bachelor’s degree in Literary Studies from the University of Texas at Dallas, but now work in the education field and hold my Master’s in Educational Administration from Tarleton State University. However, I still love writing and do it in my free time. I also advise for my sorority, Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Inc.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Late Night Might As Well Be Drunk Writing’ book?

I struggled a lot with the content and whether it was too mature to publish. There are a lot of explicit words and mature topics included and because I put a lot of my own emotions in my main character, at times I became very hesitant to publish the book.

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

Before I started writing the book, I read a book called “Constantly Constance” which is written in blog format. This inspired me to also write a book this way, so in this book, my main character is writing to her fanbase through a blog. I like the way it flows and how much of the her voice you can hear in her writing. Another book that influenced my writing is Stephen King’s “On Writing”. One big takeaway for me was to not be afraid to be explicit and just express yourself the way you need to. It gave me the push I needed to publish this book without cutting a lot of the mature content.

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

I’ve only been a couple of times, but I fell in love with New Orleans when I first went to visit. It has a very rich and unique history and culture. As a foodie, it’s also a lot of fun for me to try all the restaurants when I go.

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

No, normally when I get an idea, I just start writing immediately with very little planning. I have a horrible habit of not outlining my books before diving into them. It makes the process a lot of fun for me, but I do have to go back through and clean up a lot of plot holes and make sure the timeline of the story runs smoothly. I’m sure there are a few plot holes I missed (lol).

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Late Night Might As Well Be Drunk Writing’ book?

It took me about seven years to complete. I started writing the book while I was in college and took a break while I was starting my career and going to graduate school. Right before everything shut down due to COVID, I joked that if I had one more week at home I could finally finish. I ended up finishing the book during the first week of quarantine and spent the following months editing and putting the finishing touches on it.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Late Night Might As Well Be Drunk Writing’ book to buy?

Late Night Might As Well Be Drunk Writing is currently available through Barnes and Noble and Amazon. The audio version will be out by early 2021 and will be available through Amazon, Audible, and iTunes.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Late Night Might As Well Be Drunk Writing’?

I think the title is funny. I originally wrote a lot of the entries as a way to vent and explore my feelings, which often occurs late at night when I was so tired I almost felt drunk. It was a working title that I put as a joke. One of my friends actually liked the title, so I stuck with it. I worked with a friend and colleague of mine, DeMarcus Tucker, who took my very vague cover idea and turned it into a beautiful cover. I love it because it grasps the tone of the book and the juxtaposition of trying to work diligently under pressure while trying to hold onto your sanity.

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

When I’m writing, I like to harness how I’m feeling and pour that into my protagonists. As I learn and experience new things, my perspectives and feelings often change, so in many ways my characters mature as I do.

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

Since this book was so personal and special to me, I took some of my interest and made them interests of Leyna as well. They’re small details, so I think of them as little “Easter eggs”. People can stumble upon them and see the parts of me that I hid in the story.

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Late Night Might As Well Be Drunk Writing

Book: #Life

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

I am a 36 year old guy that lives in Peterborough in the UK. I am a University lecturer by trade and focus largely on coaching, development, psychology and education. I hold a BSc and an MSc and am currently a PhD researcher in ‘Epistemological Philosophy, Target Reflective Practice and the Development of Leadership’.
I have far too many hobbies, including art (I draw and have taken commissions), music ( I play the guitar), sport and exercise, and of course I read voraciously.

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

This book is me bringing together the two disciplines of psychology and philosophy, which ordinarily sit side by side. So I had to try and bring both together in a way that people would both understand and relate to. The fact that this is my first book provided more than enough challenge, but I also had to decide on what life-based topics to include and what to leave out.

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

There are almost too many to mention. Perhaps if I split them up that might help. Within the world of psychology the likes of Jordan Peterson, Jonathan Haidt and Carol Dweck. In philosophy I would probably say the eastern philosophers such as Lao Tzu and Confucius and the western philosophers such as Marcus Aurelius, Friedrich Nietzsche and Immanuel Kant.
In terms of general writing and rational inquiry, the likes of Thomas Sowell have been a huge influence.

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

This would probably be either the nature reserve that I am fortunate to live very near in Peterborough, or the small country villages of East Sussex which is where my family and I are originally from. Both are very natural places, with Sussex seeming like it is stuk in some sort of time warp. It reminds me of simple times and a simple life.

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

I think this depends on what kind of book you want to write. If you are looking to write a non-fiction booked that is well researched, then obviously a great deal of time is spent on conducting that research beforehand. If it is narrative non-fiction, then less so.
However, I think that everyone considering writing a book should contemplate what it means to try and produce something you are proud of and what level of work is associated with that goal. Having an understanding of the publishing process is definitely an advantage!

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

From start to finish it took 18 months, but that includes editing and re-writing. In terms of a first draft it was roughly 12 months, with the first 6 months mainly research-based. The editing process is actually very lengthy and combined with understanding how to publish takes longer than people generally think.

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

#Life is only available on Amazon, but can be purchased in paperback and kindle versions.

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

The title is a bit of a satirical take on modern life being so social media focused and hashtag driven. It is a reminder to actually live life rather than just view it on your phone. I am not trying to offend anyone of course, but I want people to realise the wisdom that exists in the words of these great philosophers and how valuable they can be for living life.

The book cover was a difficult thing to come up with. How do you encapsulate a book that uses move quotes, song lyrics and literary references along with ancient wisdom and modern psychological research? Or more importantly, how do you make a cover for a book that is about life? I just went with designs from other books that I liked and went from there. The circular design on the front then represents the cyclical nature of life, entropy etc, along with a metaphoric target of living a better life.

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

I have used an array of quotations from really unexpected sources (movie, TV and so on) in order to help people understand the content, but also break up the monotony of the same voices. I actually use Homer Simpson as my ‘anti-hero’, who regularly voice the opposite of what I am trying to say (in his usual comedic fashion). Hopefully this has helped add some humour and life to the text, lightening the mood on what are very deep topics.

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

That the wisdom we need in life is all around us. It is in our movies, in our TV shows and in our children’s books. It is even in the often simple but poignant words of our parents, children and friends. All we need do is pay attention and try to understand the deeper meanings of these words and how they bring value to our lives. #Life is an attempt to do that, by making the complex words of the greatest minds in history a little easier for everyone to absorb.

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Book Is Available On Amazon

#Life

Book: #Life

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

I am a 36 year old guy that lives in Peterborough in the UK. I am a University lecturer by trade and focus largely on coaching, development, psychology and education. I hold a BSc and an MSc and am currently a PhD researcher in ‘Epistemological Philosophy, Target Reflective Practice and the Development of Leadership’.
I have far too many hobbies, including art (I draw and have taken commissions), music ( I play the guitar), sport and exercise, and of course I read voraciously.

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

This book is me bringing together the two disciplines of psychology and philosophy, which ordinarily sit side by side. So I had to try and bring both together in a way that people would both understand and relate to. The fact that this is my first book provided more than enough challenge, but I also had to decide on what life-based topics to include and what to leave out.

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

There are almost too many to mention. Perhaps if I split them up that might help. Within the world of psychology the likes of Jordan Peterson, Jonathan Haidt and Carol Dweck. In philosophy I would probably say the eastern philosophers such as Lao Tzu and Confucius and the western philosophers such as Marcus Aurelius, Friedrich Nietzsche and Immanuel Kant.
In terms of general writing and rational inquiry, the likes of Thomas Sowell have been a huge influence.

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

This would probably be either the nature reserve that I am fortunate to live very near in Peterborough, or the small country villages of East Sussex which is where my family and I are originally from. Both are very natural places, with Sussex seeming like it is stuk in some sort of time warp. It reminds me of simple times and a simple life.

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

I think this depends on what kind of book you want to write. If you are looking to write a non-fiction booked that is well researched, then obviously a great deal of time is spent on conducting that research beforehand. If it is narrative non-fiction, then less so.
However, I think that everyone considering writing a book should contemplate what it means to try and produce something you are proud of and what level of work is associated with that goal. Having an understanding of the publishing process is definitely an advantage!

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

From start to finish it took 18 months, but that includes editing and re-writing. In terms of a first draft it was roughly 12 months, with the first 6 months mainly research-based. The editing process is actually very lengthy and combined with understanding how to publish takes longer than people generally think.

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

#Life is only available on Amazon, but can be purchased in paperback and kindle versions.

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

The title is a bit of a satirical take on modern life being so social media focused and hashtag driven. It is a reminder to actually live life rather than just view it on your phone. I am not trying to offend anyone of course, but I want people to realise the wisdom that exists in the words of these great philosophers and how valuable they can be for living life.

The book cover was a difficult thing to come up with. How do you encapsulate a book that uses move quotes, song lyrics and literary references along with ancient wisdom and modern psychological research? Or more importantly, how do you make a cover for a book that is about life? I just went with designs from other books that I liked and went from there. The circular design on the front then represents the cyclical nature of life, entropy etc, along with a metaphoric target of living a better life.

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

I have used an array of quotations from really unexpected sources (movie, TV and so on) in order to help people understand the content, but also break up the monotony of the same voices. I actually use Homer Simpson as my ‘anti-hero’, who regularly voice the opposite of what I am trying to say (in his usual comedic fashion). Hopefully this has helped add some humour and life to the text, lightening the mood on what are very deep topics.

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

That the wisdom we need in life is all around us. It is in our movies, in our TV shows and in our children’s books. It is even in the often simple but poignant words of our parents, children and friends. All we need do is pay attention and try to understand the deeper meanings of these words and how they bring value to our lives. #Life is an attempt to do that, by making the complex words of the greatest minds in history a little easier for everyone to absorb.

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#Life

Book: The Orgia Khronicles

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

Of Course.. Yet I would like to say I’m many people in One, but as for a basic introduction. My name is John Phillip Auletta also known as ‘Karneios’ by Dionysus and the gods. I am a distinguished Dionysian Pagan and initiate of The Way Of The Satyr. A modern Patron of the Technitai Dionysus and a original founder of ATD (Auric Of Transcendent Divinity ) which is now a small community of eclectic Witches, Wiccans and Dionysian Pagans whose Transcendence is based on Dance, Music, Psychedelic Ritual and Ecstatic Sex. My most widely known works include ‘Loyalty is Everything (an Amazon E-Book which was a fiction memoir based on some actual events of my youthful life). My aim in writing it was to teach of the dangerous manipulation and violence within gangs. To sum it up clearly, I am not who I use to be but yet have become what I aim to be. I am just ebbing and flowing.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘The Orgia Khronicles?’

The main key challenge I faced during the creation of ‘The Orgia Khronicles ‘ was MYSELF. This book is basically my spiritual and physical journey which are One in my eyes. And within any journey of life, the self becomes the main challenge. Where is your Self to be found is the question. In this book you’ll find my answer, ‘ within the deepest enchantment that you have experienced’. Is the answer you’ll find. However, the more indepth the enchantment, the more intense the challenge of Self becomes.

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

Those who truly inspired my writing were ancient Pagan philosophers. Those who were inspired by the gods and Mother Nature. But as for the ones who inspire me in these times, are mainly Dionysian authors ‘ Vikki Bradshaw’, ‘H. Jeremiah Lewis’, and ‘ Denise Major -Dodge ‘.

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

This may sound crazy but my favorite spot in my country are new lands I’ve yet to explore. My favorite thing is to go where I’ve never been. There is a peculiar pleasure in riding out into the unknown. A pleasure which no second journey on the same trail ever affords.

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

I wouldn’t say a lot to do however I do like to meditate before writing. I always make the most of every sense before writing, glorifying in all the pleasure and beauty which the world reveals to me.. That helps my writing to flow.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘The Orgia Khronicles’ book?

It took a total of 7 years. This project couldn’t be done quickly, the book is the manifestation of a journey.. That takes time, actually that is timeless.

Q7. On what platforms can readers find ‘The Orgia Khronicles’ book to buy?

The Orgia Khronicles E-Book is found on Amazon Kindle and the Paperback is available on Amazon.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title, ‘The Orgia Khronicles’?

As for the process of my book cover, I wanted to merge and blend the complexity of my Dionysian spirit into one cover. The grapes symbolize my god Dionysus, the wine being poured in the glass represents the many offerings I poured forth to Him. The hidden goat head itself within the image of my face symbolizes an experience that words cannot define. Mysterious initiates will understand.
Now as for the book title,’ THE ORGIA KHRONICLES (My Reminiscent Dionysian Journal )’.The word ‘Orgia’ is the name of an ancient celebration of the Greek god Dionysus. And the very essence of Dionysus represents the way a person seeks ecstacy through direct experience or passion through experience with Him, He shows us how to have blessed enthusiasm for life. And by reading my quotes, poetry, and adages, you will begin to understand my direct experience with my passion for Dionysus. These quotes and adages are an ecstatic journey towards my blessed enthusiasm of Him. Now as for the word ‘Resipiscent’, it means to be made wise by experience. My goal is to share the wisdom I gained by experience in hopes that your experience as you read it is one that evokes your own power and wisdom. And remember, experience is not what happens to you, it is what you do with what happens to you. Nothing ever becomes real until it is experienced-even a motto is no motto to you until Dionysus (Life) has illustrated it. And that is the wisdom of The Way Of The Satyr ….

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

How I keep things fresh between me and my readers is actually simple. I continuously give new births to old ideas yet with my own Dionysian twist. There’s nothing more fresh then a new birth..

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

There are many secrets within the book that I have yet to expose here. I’ll give you a good one, I am incarcerated… Yet prison hasn’t closed or incaged my mind and spirit.

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The Orgia Khronicles

Book: Ales, Agents And Alchemy

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

I’m a writer of heart-and-snark-filled fantasy and science fiction! Stories are the best way I know to help others, and books got me through the toughest times in my life. That’s one big reason I started writing. To give back. I earned my BA in English Literature from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, and I earned a 1st degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Ales, Agents And Alchemy?’

The two biggest challenges were representing LGBTQ characters with respect, and researching beer brewing to weave in with the alchemy. There are three LGBTQ characters in the novel. Kelly, Madison, and Ryne. I worked closely with several beta readers and critique group partners to make sure these characters were sincere and genuine. Research for the beer alchemy was fun, and required a lot of double-checking to make sure the right step of beer brewing was involved with the right piece of alchemy.

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

I can think of three authors who influenced my writings. Kevin Hearne because his writing has the action-packed pacing and snark I like. Victoria Schwab because she tells beautiful stories about characters of many gender identities (and her super-villains rock). John Scalzi because he is a master of dialogue and of writing stories that get you seeing the setting vividly with only a few descriptions.

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 State Street in Madison, Wisconsin. There are used book stores on that street downtown, as well as fantastic and eccentric restaurants. There’s a breakfast restaurant open 24hrs, and a smokeshop with silly action figures and college humor types of products. Always entertaining to walk in there and see how many products with puns are for sale. Plus – Wisconsin ice cream down on State Street is #1 for a reason.

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

Of course there is! I outline each chapter beforehand using one paragraph to represent a chapter. That way I can keep the story on track AND allow the characters to solve the problems I lay out in the outline in their own ways. It’s half-organized, half-improvisational.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Ales, Agents And Alchemy’ book?

The novel took two years to write and edit. I wrote it between other projects like writing short stories and converting a screenplay into a fantasy novel. That’s actually short for me. Usually it takes two-and-a-half or three years to write AND edit one novel.

Q7. On what platforms can readers find ‘Ales, Agents And Alchemy’ book to buy?

Ales, Agents And Alchemy is available on Amazon. Search the title and you’ll find it. The book is also available on Kyanite Publishing’s website under new releases. You can download the book there using code FAREWELL and get 40% off! The book’s available in e-book, paperback, and hardcover!

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title, ‘Ales, Agents And Alchemy’?

This was such a fun process! I showed my publisher examples of other book covers that did attractive things with the text and the images of characters, then we designed our own together using things like angled text, a smoky background, and characters with whiskey and slinky dresses. The book’s original title was ‘The Magician’s Ales’ but the publisher and I talked and felt the word ‘Magician’ is too common in book titles. So we mulled over about ten other titles and came up with the alliterative ‘Ales, Agents And Alchemy’ because it tells exactly what the book is.

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

It’s tough to do that, but there many ways to keep the pace and tension mounting. Each chapter starts with the character’s goal for that chapter on the first page or so. Then by the end of the chapter, I make sure the character has either failed, OR has succeeded and caused another problem or two because of that success. For example, the villain Lawrence Grant burns down a library in his first scene. He succeeds, but that gets Kelly the ATF agent involved because explosives are part of the ATF’s responsibility to investigate. Each chapter ends with something worse going wrong, and only SOME things get fixed before things go wrong even worse. You don’t have a story at all if everything goes right for the characters!

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

I can share two! First, the main characters’s sexuality is Asexual. (Ace) He notices when people are behaving in a flirty or sexual way, but he’s never interested. He doesn’t enjoy that kind of relationship. He would rather have connections that aren’t sexual in nature. He can still experience love, care, romance, etc. That kind of casual representation is important in story telling because people are people and their feelings and sexualities are relevant. The other secret is I’m writing a sequel with Kelly as the protagonist!

Thanks so much for interviewing me! I’m active on social media like Twitter (@OculusWriter), Instagram (OculusWriter) and Facebook (Jabe Stafford, Writer). You can find free downloadable stories and a monthly newsletter at my author webpage http://www.jabestafford.com

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Ales, Agents And Alchemy