Category: Author Interview

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

I’ve lived in or near Chicago, Illinois all of my adult life. I have three daughters ranging in age from 26 to 31. I pay my bills as a lawyer; I have my own practice and work out of my home, focusing mostly on real estate matters. My hobbies are traveling, reading, baking, making ice cream, and cursing at my garden. I didn’t start writing my first book, Serendipity: Seemingly Random Events, Insignificant Discoveries, and Accidental Discoveries That Altered History until I was sixty years old. Heirs Apparent is my first novel.

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

Finding time to write was difficult at first until I found the discipline to set a couple of hours aside every day whether I felt like it or not. For the writing itself, there were issues with plotting. It wasn’t until I had lunch with an estate planning attorney and he told me a story about an unusual request from a client (that he turned down) that the key element came into focus. Finally, keeping all of the characters consistent in their behavior.

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

Unquestionably Rex Stout and his “Nero Wolfe” series has had the greatest influence, especially in his pure, simple, but effective use of words and his creation of memorable characters. Also Robert Crais and the fun he has with his books and the pacing and suspense of Harlan Coben.

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

I don’t know if I have one favorite spot, but I love being out in nature. I took a raft trip down the Grand Canyon and the majesty and beauty were incredible. I love the boundary waters up in Minnesota. My favorite places in general are a quiet cabin in the woods by a lake. Chicago itself has a wonderful array of things to do and one of the world’s best food scenes.

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

I don’t dive right in. I brainstorm and research a lot of different scenarios and settings before settling on one. Then I’ll do more research to get as many details as I can about the key plot points. I visit areas that will be settings for a scene in the book and take a lot of pictures. Then I write out a general plot progression by chapters, although the final book is very different from my initial thoughts. It goes off in unexpected directions as I write as if it has a mind of its own.

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

About six months writing part-time, not including the time to send it off to an editor and waiting for my beta readers to make suggestions.

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

It can be purchased on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and directly from Austin Macauley, the publisher. It’s available in hardcover, paperback, and ebook formats.

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

The title for this one was easy as it’s a phrase that’s both catchy and fits the plot of the book perfectly. I don’t remember having to sit down and think about it, it was always there. This is in contrast to the next book in the series, where I’ve spent hours trying to find the perfect title.
The cover art comes from the genius of Stephanie Rocha, my designer. I told her I wanted there to be a will and a pen with a drop of blood coming out of it, which survived. I had about a hundred other ideas which she thankfully ignored. The shadow of the tall man was her idea, as were the actual graphics used. I think it’s very eye-catching.

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

I appreciate you thinking that I do. My books aren’t overly long, which helps. I try to change the pace and insert humor among the tension. After spending so much time with the manuscript, both writing and editing, I got tired of it and set it aside for a month before going back to it with fresh eyes.

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

I won’t reveal any secrets—discovering them is part of the joy of reading. I will say that all of the characters are based at least in part on people I know or have met. Leo is actually very close to a man who owned a small Cuban restaurant two doors down from a former office of mine. He did claim that he was in witness protection for trying to assassinate Fidel Castro and his food was, well, not all that good. 
I also haven’t announced it yet, but the next book in the series is tentatively due to be released in early February 2021.

Author’s Profile

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Heirs Apparent

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

I was a tenured professor who took the leap of faith to follow my entrepreneurial dream. Now, I am the CEO of Inspiring Lives International, the Executive Director of the Global Sisterhood, the Editor in Chief of Inspiring Lives Magazine, a keynote speaker, and the author of 13 books such as Ball Gowns to Yoga Pants.

2. How do you think being a writer has helped you as a person?

Writing is a terrific outlet for me. When there is something that is on my heart to write, there is nothing that will stop me from getting to the goal of publishing! Being a writer has expanded my knowledge through research/interviews and has helped me to reflect on my own journey.

3. What do you hope your readers take away from your book “Ball Gowns to Yoga Pants”?

I hope that my readers come away from Ball Gowns to Yoga Pants with and action plan for creating their dream business and brand; also, that they take massive steps towards their goals!

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

I love doing fun things with my kids and working out. I also adore singing, dancing, and acting and I have been able to raise a great deal of money for important charities by performing at gala fundraisers!

5. How long did it take you to write your book?

Ball Gowns to Yoga Pants took about a year and a half to write. I have written books that took 6 months and one that was a Pearson college textbook that took 3 years.

6. What is your favorite Quote?

“Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.”
― Maya Angelou

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

I am really focused on my VIP 1:1 clients for my EmpowerU Master Class. I love to work to coach and guide women entrepreneurs towards their destiny of obtaining inspiration, empowerment, balance, and abundance in their life. I will release many more books in the future. Right now though, I am focused on Ball Gowns to Yoga Pants, my company, non-profit, and my family.

8. Any favorite writers that inspired you to write?

Maya Angelou, Jack Canfield, and Gloria Steinem.

9. How do you come up with the title of your book “Ball Gowns to Yoga Pants”?

My daughter noticed that when I was a professor I always wore power suits. Then once I was an entrepreneur, I was always either dressed in ball gowns for charity events or yoga pants running around making deals on my cell phone with my kids beside me!

10. Lastly, do you want to give any advice to someone wanting to write and publish book?

Yes. Extend yourself grace. Everyone writes differently and at different paces. You will develop a unique voice and that is a beautiful thing. Try not to compare yourself to other writers. You are one of a kind and your book will reflect that to your future readers! You can do it!

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Ball Gowns to Yoga Pants

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

I found my calling in content writing after trying out a myriad of occupations in life. A content writer by the day, I find solace in reading fiction works and comic books. I am a post graduate in Public Relations from Xavier Institute of Communications, Mumbai. I am the caregiver of beautiful Indian mixed breed dogs named Thimpoo Rani and Ole Kumar. They are my world! When I am not working, reading or tending after my canine babies, I am busy collecting action figures and sarees.
I live and work in Navi Mumbai.

Q2.  Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘The Odd One & Other Short Stories’?

The book cover is designed by my friend and an awesome designer Mandar Rao; the only input I gave was that the cover should show that one thing is not like the others. My maiden book is a collection of short stories, and one of the stories is named “The Odd One”, that’s how the name of the book came into being; The Odd One & Other Short Stories.

Q3. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

I chose to complete my manuscript in Goa, because of tranquillity and a fresh perspective. For me a change of pace, location and a fresh perspective helps.

Q4. What does success mean to you?

I would consider myself successful when I can safely call ‘being an author’ both – my passion and profession.

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

Not really. The availability of time or the lack of it is the only driving point here. I am a novice when it comes to being an author, I have the beginning of at least 3 to 4 books in my head, I just need the time to start writing them.

Q6. How long did it take you to write this book?

About two years to start 11 short stories.

Q7. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

There are so many places, each with a reason of fondness of its own, however, lately I am drawn towards old Goa, because I completed the manuscript of the first book there, and would like to visit again (maybe book the same Air B&B even) to complete my second manuscript too.

Q8. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘The Odd One & Other Short Stories’ book?

Time, or the lack of it, being the primary challenge; researching and narrowing down to a publisher was challenging too.

Q9. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

I am not sure about the influence part, but I have grown up reading and loving the short stories of O Henry, Bernard Shaw & Jeffrey Archer in English, while Satyajit Ray, Sunil Ganguli, Leela Majumdar, Shirshendu Mukhopahyay and the likes of them in Bengali. So maybe some of them have seeped into my ideas at one point or the other.

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

Its just a quirk but I have pets in almost of my stories and I am pretty sure, I will continue having them in my future stories too. Life is so much better with pets in them.

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The Odd One & Other Short Stories

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

I was raised on a farm on the prairies in Canada. I studied to become an accountant and moved to Ottawa, Canada where I spent 33 years working in various finance related capacities for the federal government. After I retired in 2004, our son and I decided to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. That led to my first book, written with our son, which was called Kilimanjaro and Beyond: A Life-Changing Journey. Writing the first book turned out to be such an enjoyable experience, I wrote a memoir about travel with my in-laws, called I Guess We Missed the Boat.  I turned to fiction after that and wrote The Vanishing Wife, which became the first in The Marcie Kane Thriller Collection. Three other books and a novella in the series followed. Each of the books stand alone, although the characters evolve. The Burden of Darkness is the latest in the series. Besides writing, I enjoy hiking, golf, reading, playing guitar and spending time with my three grandkids.

Q2.  What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘The Burden of Darkness’ book?

Like all the books in The Marcie Kane Thriller Collection, The Burden of Darkness takes on a subject of social significance. The story is built around a character with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) so I wanted to make sure the condition and treatment were portrayed accurately. It involved research and interviews with subject matter experts. I knew where I wanted the story to go, but it was important to me to ensure that those elements of the story were factually correct, so that was a challenge.

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

I think I’m an eclectic reader, but in the crime genre, I enjoy books by the likes of Jeffrey Deaver, Michael Connolly and Steve Berry. I’ve even started reading some books by Raymond Chandler who wrote crime fiction in the thirties. I don’t try to write like them because I think it’s important to have your own voice, but I’m always intrigued by what makes them so popular.

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

I can’t pick just one. Canada is a beautiful and diverse country. If I have to narrow it down, I love to visit the Rocky Mountains in the west because, in my opinion, they challenge mountains anywhere for scenery. I also love to go back to the prairies where I grew up because of the memories it brings back.

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

As mentioned above, each book in The Marcie Kane Thriller Collection has a socially relevant theme, so there is a lot of research that goes into them. I don’t know much about the theme going in, so I have to rely on research and interviews with subject matter experts to get it right.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘The Burden of Darkness’ book?

It took over a year from the time I started thinking about the subject to when it was edited, formatted and published.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘The Burden of Darkness’ book to buy?

Right now, the e-book is exclusive to Amazon so readers who subscribe to Kindle Unlimited can read it for free. The paperback version can be ordered from any retailer that sells books.

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

I find that the title and cover fall out of the book at some point. I don’t go in with a preconceived notion, but eventually, it comes to me.  The protagonist and antagonist are both suffering from life altering conditions, so they are both in a dark place and carrying a heavy burden. I wanted the cover to reflect the title obviously, so it is a scene of a (possibly) troubled individual watching the darkness fall. Part of the book takes place in Arizona, so the background is the desert.

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

I build the stories around different themes. The Vanishing Wife is about how far an ordinary person will go if their family is threatened. A Perilous Question is about human trafficking. Never So Alone is about the drug culture and Remote Access is a political thriller about computer hacking. I have learned a great deal about a number of subjects since I started writing, and that keeps it fresh for me, and hopefully, the readers.

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

The antagonist, Owen Strand, who has a terminal illness, wants to gain notoriety before he dies. He decides to seek revenge against those he deems to have wronged him, and he does so by traveling around North America picking them off one by one. I don’t think the blurb mentions that he does it with drones.

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The Burden Of Darkness

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

I am a 41 year old female American of African descent who writes fantasy and science fiction. I have been married to my husband for 20 years and we have six children, and a dog. My parents died when I was very young so I was raised by my grandparents (father’s parents). I have a half-sister by way of my mother. She and I were separated after our mother’s death.
I have three degrees (Associate of Science in Funeral Services, Bachelor of Science in Human Services Management, Masters of Elementary Education). Now you may be wondering, “What in the world?” I promise I will get to the how and why of my educational journey.
My story began in inner city New Orleans. You see, I was raised in those red line segregated neighbourhoods. “What do you mean segregated? Segregation ended in the 1960s, correct? You are partly correct. Yes segregation ended in the 60s but many of its practices did not.
At one point, my grandparents lived in a wonderful neighbourhood, but as many Americans of African descent moved in, many Americans of European descent were sold falsehoods. They were told having “Blacks” in the communities would bring down property value and bring in extraordinary levels of crime. They were told they would not be safe in their homes.
Redlining would see many Americans of European descent vacate cities and head for the suburbs. Those lines drawn would keep Americans of African descent out of certain areas. Those very lines caused property values in those communities to plummet. My grandfather’s dream would not come to pass. He had worked hard all his life (only a third grade education) to now see his property worth nothing.
Life was hard. Due to my grandmother’s many illness, she was unable to work so I did in her stead. My grandfather restarted his landscaping business so by age ten I was working. Not only was I working, but I had to be my grandparent’s eyes and ears because neither of them could read.
“I made decisions that I thought would matter. I made a mistake. Get your education. No man can take away what lies in your mind.” Those were my grandfather’s words. I took them to heart and tried my best in school. Sometimes my best was good enough and other times, it wasn’t.
As I grew, I realized I would one day have to leave my grandparents in order to make a better life for myself. The thought of it was excruciating. Who would help take care of them? Who would read for them? My grandmother did not want me to go, but my grandfather pushed me. Even in my darkest hours, he pushed me to try again. “As many times as you wake up. You have a chance to start over.” He would always say.
Soon, I began to write about my doubts, fears, and frustrations. After a while, I began to use my imagination to help me turns my doubts, fears, and frustrations into fantasy stories.
Before long I would become fascinated with the might of dragons. My grandfather would take me to the library to research dragons. What I found would later lead me down a path to discovery.
Of all the dragon myths, none were related to Africans. As my writings developed, so did my reading. I got to a point where all I wanted was to read fantasy.  I dived into the world of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R Tolkien. Again leaving me to wonder where were the people who looked like me in those stories?
By the time I was 17, I decided I wanted to work with disadvantaged children.  I wanted them to learn to use their imagination to escape worlds of pain.

Reaching college by the age of 19, I was able to leave New Orleans.  Many different majors later, including funeral services after a book I had written about the dead rising, I found my way back to my love for children. 

By 2007, nine years after graduating high school and four years after my Associates and Bachelor’s degrees, I entered a Masters of Elementary Education program at The University of Phoenix. 

By 2010 I found myself with three degrees and no job.

Continuing to write but never publishing, I began to take my writings to small presses. I was never picked up but I had finally become a special education teacher.

I began to wonder if what a college teacher back in Beaufort, South Carolina said of my writings might be true. “Your story is good. Your editing sucks but your story is good. I’m going to spare you future regret by telling you the truth. No one is going accept extraordinary black characters. They’re just not ready. Fantasy is not your realm.”

I remember telling myself, “You can’t just ignore the fact that you were not represented in fantasy. You and young people who look like you deserve to be represented in a realm of strength, magic, power, and rule. You’re a dragon!”

I sat down and had a conversation with my husband and older daughters about my desire to return to writing. This time, I would self-publish if I had to. With their blessing, I would write again.

Q2.  Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Dawn Of The Dragon’?

The cover was actually designed before the book was completed. The creative design took around four weeks to complete. My cover designer is Fiona Jayde @fionajaydemedia. The progress began with me completing a form that asked varies questions about the structure of the book. Then, I chose a series of images to send to Fiona. Next, Fiona designed different graphics based on the three act structure of my story including the setting, characters, and important plot points.  After another round of questions based on my vision, Fiona developed three sample designs. I chose the design then her creative process took over to develop the final product.

Q3. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

I use Wattpad, Reedsy Discovery, and my blog Realm of Writes to communicate with my readers. They are willing to offers suggestions, participate in polls, and read drafts.
Research is also important. I research historical places, past, and current events.

Q4. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?

Yes! The main task is researching the market to find out what’s hot and what’s not. It is also important to be a reader. Writers must be readers. I enjoy reading some of my favorite authors to build my own stamina in order to prepare for the ginormous task of writing a book.

Q5. How long did it take you to write ‘Palera Dawn’ book?

It took some time because of losses that occurred during the process. I lost my grandfather at the beginning of writing Palera Dawn. By the middle of the writing process, my brother from another mother, as he was called died of a heart attack one week before his college graduation. He was only 22. He had played basketball and ran track. He kept up with his yearly physicals. This was a devastating blow. His name is Warren Xavier Sales.
The dragon in Palera Dawn, Xavgon was renamed for him.

Q6. Congratulations for the Book2 ‘Dawn Of The Dragon’. What do you think your readers take away from both of your books?

My hope is that they see the importance of having not only a female protagonist, but a female protagonist of color. I hope they see that people of African descent/culture should continue to rise in epic fantasy.

Q7. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Dawn Of The Dragon’ book?

Time. Time was the enemy. I am the mother of six children and a special education teacher. My schedule is often laid out before I know it.

Q8. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

Evan Winters (The Rage of Dragons), The Lord of The Rings (J.R. Tolkien), A Song of Wraths and Ruin (Roseanne A. Brown), and Children of Blood and Bone (Tomi Adeyemi).

Q9. Are there any secrets from the books (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?

Well, secrets lead to spoilers. I don’t want to spoil the story, but I will say the relationship between Kalera, the main character, and Xavgon, her dragon, thrust the story forward.

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Palera Dawn

Dawn Of The Dragon

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

Hello, Parveen!
I am Priyanka Baranwal, an author, blogger, poet and a guitarist. Writing and music both are my passion. I primarily write novels and have written two – It’s Never Too Late… (to win the battle against your biggest enemy: fear) and “The Shadow of Darkness’. Third is a contribution in an anthology – Navratna – with a short story in Hindi named Sarla Pradhan.
Quite recently, I have started a series titled as ‘One-cup stories, please!’ In this series, I am writing short stories. The idea behind this series is to evoke love for reading over a cup of tea (or, coffee).
I am also fond of travelling, reading, watching (good) movies and a big fan of good conversations. To know more about me, try this link: https://linktr.ee/PriyankaBaranwal

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

First of all, it’s a short story, second in the series – One-cup stories, please! The series started with ‘The Girl Who Could Not Sleep’ released this year in June.
As I mentioned above, I am a novel writer. Writing in expanse is in my nature. So, when I began working on short stories, the first challenge was to convey more in less. A story has many aspects and tuning them aptly, in a short story, does not come easy.
Writing ‘Nakedness’ was more difficult than its predecessor, The Girl Who Could Not Sleep. ‘Nakedness’ deals with sensitive topics such as body shaming, sexual abuse, blackmailing, body image, societal views on women and more. I had little courage before beginning to draw Garima’s life but as it progressed, I became more and more confident. You can say I too evolved alongside Garima.
I am delighted and humbled to see that many readers can connect with her story. They do not only feel Garima’s pain and courage but they also see real life breathing into fiction. That’s one of the biggest compliments for my work.

Q3. Who inspires you the most in life?

I am my biggest inspiration.

Q4. Where do you see yourself in the next few years?

Given the current situation of Covid_19, anxiety shows up in more than one way. Therefore, I am trying to take one day at a time. Living in the present, I feel, is more important than planning the future.

Q5. How do you select the names of your characters?

It’s a good question, not often asked in interviews.
I pay a quite lot of attention to the names of my characters. I can’t just pick any and label them with it. The name has to be specific.
For example, for ‘The Girl Who Could Not Sleep’, I picked my female protagonist’s name Sonia Seth. She is suffering with Insomnia. I picked Sonia because it matches with her issue and I could use this tally to add a strong aspect to the story.
For Nakedness, do notice the meaning of the names of my protagonist and antagonist respectively – Garima and Manav. Does it make any sense? If yes then know that it is a deliberate move. It aligns with the story while presenting contrast to their personalities as well.
In short, I am careful and selective towards picking names.

Q6. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?

Of course! Even a two-line poem needs a lot of effort and here we are talking about writing a book.
You can begin with a story if you have an idea but then comes a lot of work. Kind of another mountain to carve into the shape you have envisioned. You do it not for the others but for yourself, and to justify with the story. As a writer, you have to be hungry for the details.

Q7. How long did it take you to write ‘The Girl Who Could Not Sleep’ book?

About a week. It is editing that is the stubborn guest of honour but worth paying time and attention to.

Q8. As an author, what does success means to you. What do you think your readers take away from your latest book ’Nakedness’?

Hey, that’s two questions at once.
For me, true success is to enjoy the process of writing and to touch the reader’s heart.
From my latest book – Nakedness – you can take many lessons. I will give my purview of the subject.
I believe that our body is our ally. The way you look at it, the same way it will respond. You feel proud of it, your body will be happy. You feel ashamed of it, your body will fell prickly and hateful to you.
Second message you can take away from the book is to never stop believing in love.
Third is, to have a faith into yourself. No matter how this world sees you and your actions, your own thoughts define the strength inside you.
Fourth would be, to have faith in humanity too. With evil lies good as well.
Last but not the least, do good things. Karma catches up eventually.

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

I don’t think about keeping the plot fresh. Such things are last in my list. I only write what the story demands and if it demands something unconventional then well, there goes the story. You cannot make the story work for you or the reader. It has to speak itself.

At the end, thank you so much for this opportunity. I am grateful to connect with you and your readers.
They can get in touch here: https://linktr.ee/PriyankaBaranwal

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Nakedness

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

Thank you for inviting me to this candid talk. I do not want to introduce myself as a boring Banker but rather as an artist who draws a connection between science, philosophy, art and literature showcasing in my work. I am a planning oriented person in general, and more so towards my work and career. Hindrances sometimes have constrained me in terms of time, to reach where I wanted to. But, I have never deviated from my goal. I am an artist – writing, reading, dancing, singing, even acting in dramas (performing arts) – I have done and love all. I love science and defying or understanding a theory with numbers. I can’t blindly take in any theory you tell me without reasoning and derivation. I believe in absorbing deep not in superficial read. 
Above all, I am a dreamer and I intend to live my dreams. 

Q2.  Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Marigold The Golden Memories’?

Marigold – The Golden Memories, is not just a random book title that was thought of at the last minute. Each and every story in the book is a reflection of the vulnerability yet the strength behind human emotions. The flower Marigold is a ceremonious symbol and a cherished flower that depicts happiness, freshness, beginnings. Simply put, it soothes our soul, bringing a sense of calmness. Humans are a rare race who can remember the past, bottling them in as memories and inhaling the essence whenever they reminisce. That’s what the title of the book conveys. The book is a medium for readers to reminisce their fondest or unforgettable memories. The book cover reflects the same.

Q3. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

It is an emotional process altogether. Writing is an art similar to a scientific invention or an innovative idea to bring a change. Hence, if what you write is innate, raw and resonate the sound of your soul, then it will always be fresh. I write what I feel, what comes to mind. And, what comes to my mind is as close to reality as you and I experience, every day. Creating a story around that will naturally come to you when you can feel that thought/idea deeply.

Q4. What does success means to you?

Mutually beneficial – me and the humankind. Success to me is the definition of being aesthetically happy. Materialism and being a parasite cannot make you live organically.

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

I believe in a holistic process. Reading a lot before starting to write helps you to get in the zone, where you find yourself more ready to start writing. I generally read a lot of different genre books. Reading different genres helps to build characters which are more realistic, even when you are writing fiction. I read philosophy, humanity, history, art, science, novels (fiction) to help me create my characters and story with more conviction. Even I should be able to pick up my book and read it. So, I need to think as a reader when I am writing a book.

Q6. How long did it take you to write this book?

More than 2 years. I believe in taking time rather than rushing into things, especially when it is creativity.

Q7. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

am an avid traveller. Travel helps me to connect with different places and beautiful people around the world. I learn from everywhere and everyone. But, if we talk about India, I love many places, undoubtedly. Our country is so beautiful – rich culture, finger-licking cuisine, beautiful nature and everything that calls to life. But to me special place is where my parents are. Whenever I visit my parents it is special. Both of them inspire me. It is the reality. They make me recall the essence of being grateful to life, the nuances of privileges that we all have – because we are still breathing – I am my positive best self when they are around.

Q8. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Marigold The Golden Memories’ book?

Anything, you do where you are putting your work out in the public sending a message and trying to connect with them is an effort. Writing is demanding since it reflects a part of you or your thought, be it short stories or a novel. I won’t say managing time was a problem because you definitely make time for something you love. I do not really see anything as an obstacle, rather I see it as an experience. You have to develop a new character each time you write a new story. To put it across to the readers in a coherent and comprehensible way, you require to see the story from the readers’ eyes. That requires a lot of concentration, will power and patience, needless to say, vivid and superlative imagination. Parallelly transporting yourself from writing fiction to come back to this breathing life is a piece of work. But it’s a terrific learning and you keep growing each day.

Q9. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

I am not very specific about a favourite genre. I love reading books, in general. I can’t really be that specific, I mean you have great fictions. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle took us into the world of solving mysteries with Sherlock Holmes, J K Rowling took us to a different land and what a journey it was with Harry Potter, Rabindra Nath Tagore poetically charms us, Jane Austen’s classic romance helps us to meet the reality, there are so many. And then non-fiction from Yuval Noah Harari and Jean-Paul Sartre helps you to understand humanity and its institution. I am influenced by all these geniuses because you learn so much.
I personally love Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari and Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen. 

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

Nothing that we don’t know about life. It bites back if we are vile, and equally giving when we are humane.

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Marigold The Golden Memories

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

My name is Dave and I currently live in the suburbs of Atlanta where I have resided for the last 18 years. Before moving to Atlanta I lived in Illinois. For the last 24 years I have taught high school social studies and I have coached high school baseball. Needless to say both my teaching and coaching have influenced me and my writing. 

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Blue And White’ book?

In the book Blue and White Julio and Jeremy moved to a town with a racist past. One of my biggest challenges was writing about racism. I was afraid to sugar coat any issues, while at the same time I was afraid it would come across as unrealistic, esp since I’m a 48 year old white guy which is one of the reasons I chose the narration that I did. I worked hard not to vere from the main story which I could have easily done. Blue and White was also my 1st ever book so needless to say that was a HUGE challenge in itself. 

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

Many of my students have read John Green books and I would like to be like him to name an author off the top of my head.  In all honesty my students have probably been the biggest influence on me. 

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

Well one of the great things about the U.S. is the large variety of scenery and climates so it’s tough to pick just one place. I love the beach so needless to say any place with a beach is a favorite of mine. Sadly I don’t have a favorite place in the country. 

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

Actually for me there hasn’t been alot of research involved because I have written what I have known. I love the idea of telling a story. My hope is that the reader loves the characters and feels something as they read the books. 

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

When I sat down to write Cherry Trees I was actually in a rhythm. I’d go to the local Starbucks each night and write a chapter or two. After a year it was finished. After discussion with my editor I decided to split Cherry Trees into two books. Sunset, Sunrise, which will be the 3rd book was sliced off of Cherry Trees. 

Q7. As an author, what does success means to you?

It means a variety of things. I would love for one of my stories to be picked up and made into a movie. That would be the ultimate. I plan on sending copies of all three actually to Tyler Perry and Oprah when the 3rd ones comes out. I didn’t go into writing to make money though that would be nice. I originally got into it because I felt I had a story to tell. I’m excited about my others that will be coming out. 

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

One thing I am very proud about is that my editor, cover, and back picture were done by former students. When I sat down and talked to my editor we went back and forth. After writing the book I looked up the symbolism for blue an white. Blue symbolizes trust, loyalty, and confidence which are a number of the characters attributes in the book. White of course symbolizes innocence which would sum up many of the characters. I chose the cover the way I did because I wanted something basic. 

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

This is a hard one. As a writer and a teacher I would often go back and forth with some of the words I chose but as a story teller I wanted the book to be as real as possible. I wanted the stories to be as relatable which is one of my biggest fears. For example, I cringe when I see or hear someone say Blue and White or Cherry Trees are sports books. I would say sports plays a role but really the books are about acceptance, friendship, and other issues we all deal with when growing up. Heck some of the issues are ones we have to deal with even after we have grown up. 

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

I won’t name the student but only Alexa’s character was taken from a past student I had. All of my other characters are blends of characteristics. I hope the readers pick up the symbolism as they read the books. For example not only are blue and white the colors for the school but they represent alot more. The same goes for the cherries and Cherry Trees which represent death and life but also the fragility of life which comes out in that book. 

Q11. On what all platforms readers can find your books to buy?

They can find my books on Amazon and The Southern Pen Bookshop which is found in Monroe, Georgia.

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The Franklin Boys’ Story: Blue and White

The Franklin Boys’ Story: Cherry and Trees

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

My name is Daniel Olcsvary and “Max The Magnet’s Magnificent Journey: A Shift From Negative To Positive” is my first children’s book.  I have been a teacher for over 18 years and a Behavioral Assistant providing in-home counselling to children with different challenges for over 12 years. I am a Taoist and am a huge fan of kung fu movies and golden-era hip hop!  I am blessed to be a father to my 6 year old daughter, Amilya, and I make the world’s best guacamole!

Q2.  What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Max the Magnet’s Magnificent Journey: A Shift From Negative to Positive’ book?

Like many authors and illustrators, I decided to go the self-publishing route; so I had a lot to learn! I met an amazing illustrator along the way (shout out to Connie Cabrina!) that was able to help bring my vision of Max to life. After that I had to learn about copywriting the book, obtaining an ISBN, formatting the book and then deciding how to get it out to the people! On paper that doesn’t seem like much, but when you have a career and a daughter that needs your attention, it was hard to get focused and get it done.
When the world was hit with the unfortunate COVID-19 pandemic, I decided to be like my character Max the Magnet and turn a negative into a positive! I was fortunate to be able to teach from home, and I used the extra free time to do what I had to do to finish the steps to publish my book.

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

When it comes to children’s books I would say the authors that I look up to the most are Mo Willems and Eric Carle.  I enjoy reading books on positive psychology, mindfulness, Taoism and the Law of Attraction, so these are huge influences on me in my personal and professional life.
For this book, I would have to say my biggest influence and inspiration were the kids that I work with  both as an educator and a Behavioral Assistant.  I have encountered so many young people who think their lives are horrible and full of negativity.  When I talk with them, I try to get them to do a paradigm shift and think about all the things in their lives they need to be grateful for. I would often use the analogy of a magnet, and tell them how they choose to act and feel will determine the type things they attract in their lives. This is what initially sparked the idea for this book. 

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

I love to go anywhere peaceful.  I really love to visit my mother.  She is my biggest supporter and lives in a beautiful community for people 55 years and older. I love going there and spending time with her and Amilya.  Within the community, there is a magnificent lake that I love to visit early in the morning.  My father passed away recently, and after a few laps around the lake I like to sit on a nearby bench and have a conversation with him.  These little morning conversations are special to me because I believe he is watching over my family, protecting and guiding us. 

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

There is a lot to do before you start writing a book,  so I think the best thing a person can do is establish a morning routine to get your writing done.  I like to wake up early, meditate, do some positive affirmations, read, exercise, and then work on my book for at least 30-60 minutes.  This way you have done all of these positive and beneficial things before the day starts and you can get easily distracted. When I am disciplined and follow this routine,  I feel inspired and a lot of creative ideas come to life.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Max the Magnet’s Magnificent Journey: A Shift From Negative to Positive”?

The first draft didn’t take that long. I think I probably finished it within a few hours.  I made a lot of revisions while I took the steps needed to self-publish the book; so I think it actually took about two or three years to get to the version that readers hold in their hands now.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Max the Magnet’s Magnificent Journey: A Shift From Negative to Positive’ book to buy?

Readers can go to my website http://www.mindwritepublishing.com or directly to Amazon and purchase the book. They can also follow me on Instagram at @max_the_magnet or on Facebook at @mindewritepublising.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Max the Magnet’s Magnificent Journey: A Shift From Negative to Positive’?

I came up with the title because I feel that Max, the main character in the book, makes a figurative journey. At the beginning of the book he is a pessimist who always thinks negatively and all of these bad things happen to him.  With the right guidance, he makes this “journey” to become someone who is full of gratitude and positivity!
I came up with the cover by using the final illustration in the story. I envisioned Max having the feeling like he had super powers when he began to think more positively.  On the last page and cover he is flying above the planet with a cape on!

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

Being a preschool teacher, I am constantly reading children’s books to my class. I also have a pretty extensive library of books that I read to Amilya at home.  Reading all of these great books have helped me see how a really good children’s book flows and keeps the reader engaged.  That helped a lot when I was writing this book. 

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

The only secrets I can share are: 1) I am currently working on my second book that is inspired by my love for hip hop and Amilya’s love for the playground ( and 2) The secret ingredient in my world famous guacamole is……..love!

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Max The Magnet’s Magnificent Journey: A Shift From Negative To Positive

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

My name is Dana McSwain. I am an author from Cleveland, Ohio, USA. I have written five books, including Winter Unscripted, Brennan’s Lament, Bangkok Vengeance, and Winter’s Gambit. Roseneath, my debut horror novel, is my fifth book. Roseneath is available for presale now and will be released October 6, 2020.

Q2.  Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Roseneath’?

Roseneath is the name of a magnificent mansion built by on the shores of Lake Erie, one of the Great Lakes, in the United States in 1903 by Scottish immigrant Alexander Winton. Roseneath burned down in 1962 and now all that remains is the walled entrance of the estate, giant stone gates capped with massive urns with Roseneath carved into them. I walk past these relics all the time and spent years daydreaming about this mysterious manor house. As for the cover, I wanted to reimagine the gates of Roseneath as they might have looked when the estate was new.

Q3. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

I like to take preconceptions about genre and common literary devises and throw them out the window. I am always interested in where it takes me as a writer and I think makes for a more enjoyable experience as a reader.

Q4. What does success means to you?

I measure success through hard work. Clicking “save” at the end of a long day of writing or editing is success. Everything else is a bonus.

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

I think for a writer, being able to write with confidence is key. And the key to confidence is research. I spend months researching anything and everything that I might call upon when I am writing. That could be architecture, clothing, music, food, literature, mythology. Research greatly aids the flow of writing.

Q6. How long did it take you to write this book?

Roseneath is the culmination of eight years of drafts and eighteen months of editing.

Q7. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

The Olympic Peninsula in Washington State is spectacular. The rainforest, the lakes, the mountains, and the ocean all conspire to create an otherworldly atmosphere. It’s primordial, tranquil and deeply quiet and I feel fortunate to have spent so much time there.

Q8. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Roseneath’ book?

It’s difficult from a point of view perspective to write about possession. I did a lot of research on the classical modes of demonic possession and ended up throwing them all out because they seemed to eliminate the possessed person from the experience. It forced me to be really creative to make sure the character of Nathan Pritchard, although possessed by an foreign entity, was still present enough to provide his point of view.

Q9. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

Anne Rice has been a huge influence on me as a reader and a writer. Rice luxuriates in the written word. She is in love with language and it is thrilling as a reader to spend time in the universes she creates with her prose. Rice takes her time, literarily speaking, and that immersive extravagant experience is one I try to keep in mind when I am working.

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

It’s a fresh take on the concept of ghosts. Something always bothered me about the classical portrayal of ghosts: rattling chains, ladies in white, frozen in time, that sort of thing.  Edith Harkness, the ghost in Roseneath, is a singular creation that breaks that classical mold and reimagines what an afterlife could be. The house she inhabits, Roseneath, is a microcosm of existence, where horror meets mythology and fantasy in an everyday battle between good and evil.

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Roseneath