Category: Author Interview

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Interview with author Ike Triplett

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

A1. Thank you for having me! Writing has a sentimental value to me. I have a speech impediment, and that led me to not speaking much due to anxiety. I would have trouble getting my words out properly. That led me to write. To put my thoughts, my opinions, my passion, etc onto paper.

Looking back, that was a blessing in disguise. I do not think that I would have a joy for writing, much less publishing a book!

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “A Change in the Dark”?

A2. I had some trouble in organizing the flow of the work. I want to reflect the gradual change from negative beginnings to a positive finish.

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

A3. Fyodor Dostoevsky is the first person who comes to mind. He had such a way of developing characters and diving into their psyche. It inspires me to dig deep into the emotions in my work as well.

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

A4. Panama City, Florida. My family and I sometimes visit my aunt who lives there. She and her husband own a good portion of land with a plethora of animals. I remember we stayed there for an extended period of time evacuating from Hurricane Katrina. I am eternally grateful to them for that.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘A Change in the Dark’?

A5. My faith in God served a primary inspiration for this work. I believe that He gives me the words to write down. There are plenty of times in which I look over what I wrote, and I think to myself “Did I really write that? How could I have written something like this?” That is no exception here.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘A Change in the Dark’?

A6. When I am really inspired, it does not take me long to truly start writing. For this book in particular, it took me no more than a couple of weeks to complete.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Anywhere books are sold really. Barnes And Nobles, Books a Million, Amazon, etc.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘A Change in the Dark’?

A8. The title is based on a poem of the same name within the book. That poem in particular stood out to me, and I wanted to expound on the meaning of it. That led to me to theme the book from the concept of looking outside of yourself to seek meaningful change.

The book cover was all my publisher’s doing. I supplied them with the title and the meaning. That was all they needed to produce such a beautiful cover. I am still floored by how amazing it is!

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

A9. When I write, I want to picture myself as a reader at the same time. When I write a stanza / verse, I would think to myself “How would I view this if someone else wrote this?”

I am not simply writing a book for myself. I am writing for others to read. I always try keep that in mind.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A10. That actually ties into the previous question. My uncle gave me great advice the other day. He suggested that I write with my audience in mind. At first, I did not get it. In fact, I thought that I would “dumb down” my work to please the masses.

But I thought about it some more. What’s the point in publishing a book when my audience does not understand the message I am trying to convey? To reiterate from before, I am not simply writing “for” myself “to” myself. I am writing for other people to read.

Buy A Change in the Dark on Amazon

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Interview with author Peter Pappas

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

A1. Hello my name is Peter Pappas and this is my first published work! When I’m not writing I love: yoga, working out, jogging, playing with my cat and dog, traveling, going to theme parks, hitting up the beach, and playing with legos!

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “The Wizard of Starz”?

A2. Organizing my ideas. Especially since TWOS is book 1 in what will be a series, I wanted to keep writing but knew that I had to stop somewhere and save content for book #2. When you have the whole story in your head, it can be hard to break it down into one book at a time! Another challenge I faced was editing, and having to re-read 357 pages, dozens of times. After a while, my eyes began to play tricks on me 🙂

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

A3. First and foremost I am a huge Stephen King fan. I was definitely very inspired by both ‘The Shining’ and ‘Doctor Sleep’. Growing up, the first series that got me into reading was-Harry Potter and that will forever be in my heart and soul. Thank you J.K. Rowling!

Most recently I became a fan of Sarah J. Maas and ‘A Court of Thorns and Roses’ series. I really like the way she writes and her attention to detail was what I channeled when writing TWOS. I wanted to make the reader feel like they were in another world by stimulating their senses.

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

A4. I know this is cheesy but I absolutely love going to Universal Studios and spending time at ‘The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’. I have a collection of Wands and enjoy casting spells in the park. The rides are incredible, too!

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘The Wizard of Starz’?

A5. I think it’s a story I’ve been writing my whole life. I’ve had so many journals and diaries and I’m constantly writing my inner feelings. I think I traveled to Starland In my dreams or maybe even a past life, too. Writing the book felt natural and real because , in a sense, it’s a piece of my personal journey.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘The Wizard of Starz’?

A6. About a year and 1/2 .

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Readers can purchase TWOS off of my website http://www.peter-pappas.com. They can also find it directly on Amazon.comand direct-download on Kindle too.

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

A8. I came up with several mock covers – almost a collage of what I wanted, based on what I felt were key elements in the story that I wanted to showcase. I went into the forest and took pictures of trees and myself standing in the forest pretending to be the main character. Then I took my ideas to the graphic designer at my publishing company (Native Publishing- ASP) and we worked together to make it happen. I love how the colors turned out and how spooky the cover is. Once you read the book you will understand everything about it too. I love when books have a cover that allows you to just glance at it and get a snapshot of the most exciting elements of the story!

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

A9. I keep things fresh by using dialogue that will resonate with today’s generation. Using Words like: “Sus” and “Totes” and giving readers characters that they feel like they have met in real life, based on how people act and talk in today’s world.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A10. Don’t overthink it. Nothing will ever be “Perfect” or “Right” and to stay true to your idea and not stray. Don’t second guess yourself.

Book is available on Amazon

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Interview with author William Grace

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

A1. William Grace has been a busboy, a bank messenger, an editor, a trial lawyer, and a United States Marine. A lifelong martial artist, he holds the rank of 4th Degree Black Belt in Okinawa Shorin-Ryu Karate. He lives in the Pacific Northwest, where he is currently at work on the Omniverse Chronicles.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Bloodline”?

A2. The greatest challenge was bringing Charley Floyd into the late 20th Century. How would a man who died in 1934 cope with the world as it was in 1998? Charley was truly “a stranger in a strange land.”

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

A3. To name just a few: Andersonville, by Mackinlay Kantor; Something of Value and The Old Man and the Boy, by Robert Ruark; The Grapes of Wrath and Tortilla Flat, by John Steinbeck; the late Dewey Lambdin’s Alan Lewrie novels; The King Must Die, by Mary Renault; The Flashman novels, and Quartered Safe Out Here, by George McDonald Fraser; Robert A. Heinlein’s Starship Troopers; and The Long Ships, by Franz G. Bengtsson.

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

A4. Northern California’s Wine Country, where I lived until my family moved to San Francisco.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Bloodline’?

A5. I wanted a change from the characters and story line of my first novels, and Bloodline was born.

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

A6. Bloodline went through five drafts before I was reasonably satisfied with it. From start to finish, the book took slightly more than fourteen months. I am a perfectionist, and I do a great deal of research. I am always searching for le bon mot juste.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Only Amazon at present.

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

A8. The book cover was a collaboration between a very talented Australian artist, a gorgeous model, and myself. Jackie Thornton is Jack Thornton’s niece, and she is mentioned in Eternal Hero. They share the same dark heritage: hence the title, Bloodline.

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

A9. I am always learning and open to new ideas. I also find that having other interests is of great benefit. Doing something like Karate clears out the cobwebs and allows me to stay focused.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A10. Write, then write some more. Keep writing. Keep writing. Keep writing. Never stop writing.

Buy Bloodline on Amazon

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Interview with author Sarah Pachter

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

A1. Hello! I’m Sarah Pachter, an author and speaker passionate about helping people create meaningful, joyful lives. My work focuses on how we can experience deeper fulfillment, find balance, and live authentically. Through my writing and speaking, I aim to guide individuals toward self-awareness, self-compassion, and the understanding that joy is something we can cultivate, not just something that happens by chance. I provide practical tools to help you live your best life!

I live in Los Angeles with my wonderful husband and five amazing kids. I also speak to audiences around the world, sharing my insights and experiences.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book Is It Ever Enough: A Journey Toward Joyful Living?

A2. One of the biggest challenges I faced while writing this book was finding a balance between my writing time and caring for my family. I did most of the editing during COVID, when my kids were home due to school closures, and I was dealing with pregnancy-related nausea. Despite the chaos, the beautiful outcome was the birth of our daughter, Tiffy, and the completion of my book! But it wasn’t easy.

The most significant challenge, however, was facing myself and confronting my own beliefs about success and fulfillment. It took vulnerability to open up about my personal struggles, experiences, and insights. I had to stay true to the core message of the book—that joy is found in the present moment and isn’t reliant on external circumstances. Writing about something so personal yet universal was both intimidating and transformative.

To overcome this, I centered each section of the book around the word “enough.” Each chapter begins with that word: “Enough. I am enough. I have enough,” and so on. It became a powerful anchor for my message.

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

A3. I’ve been deeply influenced by authors like Brené Brown, whose work on vulnerability and courage shaped my understanding of living authentically. Mel Robbins has inspired me with her words on motivation, and Esther Perel’s teachings on relationships have had a lasting impact as well. However, the greatest influence on my writing comes from ancient Jewish wisdom. Authors like Hanoch Teller, Lawrence Kelemen, and Tziporah Heller-Gottlieb were my teachers, and their books and teachings helped me find clarity on how to share my message in a way that resonates deeply with readers.

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

A4. I know this might sound cheesy, literally mozzarella, but one of my favorite places to “visit” is anywhere, as long as I’m with my family. When we’re all together, it doesn’t really matter where we are. We could be biking along the beach, hiking in Hawaii, or just cozied up on the couch in our living room while it’s raining outside. It doesn’t mean we’re perfect or that we never fight or bicker, but family truly is everything.

I have a quote hanging in my office that says, “With you, I am home.” This lesson really hit home, especially after the fires broke out here in California, just a few miles away from us. People we know lost everything, but they still had each other. There’s nothing more comforting than a hug from any of my family members.

The first thing I do every morning is give each family member a hug. I learned this from my husband’s aunt, who made this suggestion. She had recently been diagnosed with cancer and passed away just a few days later. Her lesson has stayed with me, and it’s something I will carry with me forever.

Q5. What inspired you to write Is It Ever Enough: A Journey Toward Joyful Living?

A5. The inspiration for Is It Ever Enough came from my own journey of self-discovery. I had reached a point where I felt disconnected from my true self, constantly striving for “more” without ever feeling fulfilled. I realized I wasn’t alone in this—many others were on the same path. I wanted to write a book that would help people step off the treadmill of perfectionism and find a life rooted in meaning and joy. It was my way of offering a roadmap to others seeking peace.

Q6. How long did it take you to write Is It Ever Enough: A Journey Toward Joyful Living?

A6. Writing Is It Ever Enough took about five years. I started it before my first book, Small Choices, Big Changes, was about to be published. The process wasn’t just about writing—it was about reflecting on my own life, discovering deeper layers of meaning, and figuring out how to present those insights in a way that would resonate with readers. It was both a personal and professional journey, and I’m grateful for the time I spent on it.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Readers can purchase Is It Ever Enough on a variety of platforms, including Amazon and through my own website.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title Is It Ever Enough: A Journey Toward Joyful Living.

A8. The title Is It Ever Enough came from my own reflections on how often we chase something outside ourselves—success, approval, validation—and yet, when we reach for “more,” we often end up feeling empty. The title reflects that internal struggle.

As for the cover, there’s an amusing story behind it. The publisher initially suggested a cover with cookies and milk as the imagery, which felt completely off-brand for the message I wanted to convey. I politely asked if we could create something more symbolic, something that invoked meaning without relying on imagery. I envisioned a design that was simple yet powerful, and I felt the gold lettering evoked a sense of balance and calm—perfectly representing the journey toward joyful living.

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

A9. I focus on writing from a place of authenticity. When I feel disconnected from my own emotions or experiences, it’s harder to keep the writing fresh. I also engage with my readers through feedback and conversations, which helps me understand what resonates with them. I’m always researching and incorporating new insights from science and psychology to keep the material relevant. Being open-minded and willing to evolve with my readers is what keeps my work exciting and meaningful.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A10. I never saw myself as a writer—my natural talent lies in speaking. But as my family grew, I started declining speaking engagements and shifted my focus to writing. I quickly realized that writing and speaking are two different skill sets, and I had a steep learning curve ahead of me.

Some quick tips I’ve learned: write concisely, stick to the word count, avoid repetition, and always write in the active voice.

What I love about writing is that you can do it anywhere: at home, on vacation, or even in your PJs. But the best advice I’ve received is to “write from your heart, not your head.” It’s about sharing what truly matters to you, even if it feels uncomfortable or imperfect. Writing with authenticity creates a deep connection with readers. Don’t worry about crafting the perfect sentence—just get your thoughts down, and the magic happens in the editing process.

Buy Is It Ever Enough? on Amazon

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Interview with author Esma Heart

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

A1. My name is Esma Heart. I am a registered nurse by education but a contemporary romance author is my passion. I have always been a writer at heart. I started my college career as an English major with a minor in communications, but changed to nursing after a professor recommended me for the nursing program at school. I was an adult learner and needed to make money quickly to support my family so I went into the healthcare field. I have been a nurse for 20 years and I have 8 children and 5 grandchildren. My husband and I, along with our twin daughters, live on our sailboat. So I write in between nursing contracts and sailing adventures. Other than writing and sailing, my hobbies are reading, grooming my dogs, Blossom (Havanese) and Ember (Cockapoo), and watching movies

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Love in Abstract”?

A2. Keeping the readers engaged in the storyline is always a challenge. I like to ensure that each of my books has more dialogue between each character versus monologues. While individual monologues help set the scenes at times, I find that it is important the characters interact with each other frequently. My hope is that the readers can visualize the characters acting out each scene as they read them.

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

A3. I have always been influenced by William Shakespeare. As current authors and readers like to have the happily ever after (HEA), there is something to be said for keeping the reader wanting more out of the characters. Also, I find that it is important that there is suspense and intrigue in each storyline. While it is also nice to have predictable endings, an unpredictable ending keeps the storyline going and gives some reality to the characters.

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

A4. My favorite spot to visit is Napa Valley, California. This is where my husband and I fell in love, but like in my books, we were unable to come together at that time. Our love has always had some suspense and intrigue because of life situations, but Napa is where it all began.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Love in Abstract’?

A5. My mother and father were both diagnosed with cancer in 2024. They have both been cancer free after their treatments. While this was a very stressful and scary time in all of our lives, it brought my parents closer together. So I wanted to write a book that incorporated overcoming a medical diagnosis by finding a new love.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Love in Abstract’?

A6. Love in Abstract was written in about 6 weeks. From conception, outlining chapters, actual writing, editing, and re-writing.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. All of my books are available on Amazon.

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

A8. This is an interesting story. The first book cover was an original from my daughter who is in college for Graphic Design. She hand drew the painting in the background of the main character, Rachel. We then added the male character as an overlay on the cover. This did not draw in as many readers so we changed the cover completely to just have the male character on the front as the distressed, but sexy, artist. These sexy male characters sell more books.

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

A9. When I am writing the outline I pull from some of my own experiences and melt in some of the fantasies that I wish I could have lived when I was a much younger single woman.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A10. Be true to yourself. When trying to write, do not write about a topic that causes more stress than a passion for. In my opinion, writing stories should inspire something in readers and in yourself. Also, for me, it should not feel like a job. If it feels too much like a job and it is no longer fun, then it’s time to take a break. Come back with fresh eyes and try again.

Buy Love in Abstract on Amazon

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Interview with author Nico Pisanti

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

A1. I’m Nico Pisanti, a passionate Neuro Fitness Trainer, born in Italy 48 years ago. Married with 2 children, a 10yo boy and 5yo girl. Family man, handyman and big football (soccer) fan, played and watched!

Over 25 years working with children and adults with any brain/body disorders.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Cerebral Body”?

A2. The key challenges I faced writing my books was how to put in accessible, written words what I have in my mind and what I do.

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

A3. Most of the influence came from my little clients but if I have to pinpoint one author that I like is Norman Doidge.

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

A4. My favorite spot to visit ever is Napoli, Italy! Is in the region I was born and raised and is a magical city!

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Cerebral Body’?

A5. The book and everything I do is strongly and intensively inspired by the little special clients I get to help everyday. They are the real superhero!

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Cerebral Body’?

A6. About a year. My schedule doesn’t allow me much spare time for writing…but I did it!

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

On Amazon worldwide.

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

A8. The cover represents brain connection activities which is a key process of our approach. The name Cerebral Body is the name of the company and pillar concept of what we try to harmonize.

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

A9. Well, feeling good about what I write Is a must for me! Delivering what is in my mind and heart is the only way to keep things fresh…like telling a story to my own kids!

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A10. “Be yourself” is the most valuable advice that everyone who crossed my path while writing gave me!

Buy Cerebral Body on Amazon

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Interview with author Lisa Anne Rooney

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

A1. I am a spiritual medium, who has struggled with my abilities since I was a child. As I got older I started to hone my abilities, and became passionate about helping others to be the best version of themselves, in all areas of their lives – not just spiritual abilities. I am a wife, mom to two amazing kids and mom to two crazy labs. My passions are all things paranormal, plus helping empaths balance themselves and of course with an Executive Chef as a husband I’m a complete foodie!

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Ghost Stories 2”?

A2. My challenges with writing this book is balancing writing and doing my sessions. My sessions with my clients can get really busy and it is hard sometimes to find the time to write. I also had a hard time with this book because I decided to really open up and reveal what I truly see. I tend to sugar coat my interactions with ghosts and spirits but this time I didn’t. A few of the chapters I relived a few of the scariest interactions I had as a child and reveal how it really affected my life. Those were tough to write.

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

A3. I don’t have a favourite author I read all genres; I just love to read. I do admire a few authors and their careers. As a Canadian I really admire Margaret Atwood, and her writing. I also enjoy the journey and writing of Stephen King. And recently I’ve started reading Harlan Corben, his twists and turns are a lot of fun to read.

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

A4. That is a hard question to answer, so much of Canada is beautiful. I grew up spending a lot of time in Nova Scotia, I have lived in the Rocky Mountains in Lake Louise and I grew up and currently live just outside of Toronto…they all have their benefits. But right now one of my favourite places in Niagara on the Lake, Ontario. I write about it in a few of my chapters. It is a very haunted town, a quaint beautiful town and wine country….it has everything.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Ghost Stories 2’?

A5. I truly love sharing my stories with people. I get so many questions about what it is like to be a medium and what I see.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Ghost Stories 2’?

A6. It took me just over a year. I was traveling in order to get more stories for the book.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Right now you can get the book on Amazon and my website. But I am currently in discussions to have it available in stores and other online stores.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Ghost Stories 2’?

A8. This is the second book in the series. When I wrote the first Ghost Stories book it was all about sharing how my life really is. My very first book A Survival Guide for those who have Physic Abilities was written to really help people who were struggling the way I did in my youth.

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

A9. For me it is about writing in my voice. I want my books to feel like I’m talking directly to you, that we are sitting across from each other having a coffee and I’m telling you about things that have happened in my life.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A10. To just start and to write every day. We can get stuck in the fear of how the book should start or planning the book out and not just writing it. As an author you can add and take things away, rearrange things, so it is important to just start writing! I am a pantsy writer – someone who goes with the flow, rather than planning each thing out. I start with an idea and just write!

Buy Ghost Stories 2 on Amazon

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Interview with author Howard Gimple

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

A1. I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York and spent my twenties and early thirties living and working in Manhattan. Then fell in love with a woman who lived on Long Island and moved out there when we got married. We moved to Southern California a few years ago to be closer to my daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter. Every job I’ve ever had involved writing in one form or another, whether it was ad copy, press releases, book and movie reviews, cartoon dialogue, sports stories, documentaries, videos or web content. I believe that all writing tells a story, and writing fiction is the ultimate in storytelling. That’s why I devoted the past few years to writing novels full time.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Hard Headed Woman”?

A2. Hannah, the main character, as well as many of the other major characters in the story, are women. Keeping ‘in character’ and not letting my masculine biases influence the writing was both challenging and invigorating.

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

A3. My mother loved reading mysteries and there were always many books by Agatha Christie, Rex Stout, Ellery Queen and other great mystery writers of the day scattered around the house. Those were the first ‘grown-up’ books that I read and it led to my lifelong love of that genre. Other writers who have influenced me include Mark Twain, Ernest Hemingway, Philip Roth, Jack Higgins, Donald E. Westlake and Lawrence Block.

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

A4. I love the beach. Walking on the sand, inhaling the sea air, listening the rhythm of the waves crashing on the shore, knowing that for thousands of years before and for thousands more to come, that rhythm, like the beating heart of the earth, will endure. That’s why the beach, any beach, is my go-to spot.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Hard Headed Woman’?

A5. It was actually the location that sparked my inspiration. Much of the action in Hard Headed Woman takes place at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, a large wilderness area devoted to the preservation of birds and nature, located across the bay from JFK Airport. The juxtaposition of that oasis of tranquility and one of the world’s busiest and most frenetic transportation and commercial hubs presents a lot of interesting dramatic possibilities. Also, the main character, Hannah, is very loosely based on my wife, who grew up on the Jamaica Bay Refuge when her father was the superintendent there.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Hard Headed Woman’?

A6. The concept for the book had been mulling around in my head from the first time I visited the Jamaica Bay Refuge many years ago. The actual time from my first scribbled notes to the final draft was a little over two years.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Google Books and Kobo.

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

A8. One of my closest friends is an accomplished artist. After he read the book we worked together brainstorming visual concepts for the cover. Like me, Hannah loves the beach and several important scenes take place there. Though the scene is dark, there is a sliver of light in the distance. As for the title, Hannah keeps doggedly pushing forward to find that light in spite of many dangerour and even lige-threatening obstacles in her path, and everyone in her life telling her to stop. Also as a lifelong rock & roll fan, I knew there were two hit songs titled Hard Headed Woman, one by Elvis portraying her in a negative light, the other by Cat Stevens who views hardheadedness very positively. Throughout the novel, Hannah embodies aspects of both songs.

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

A9. I’ve found that as a book progresses and characters develop, they say and do things, that actually surprise me. There were several times in Hard Headed Woman where something happened and I thought, ‘Wow, I didn’t see that coming.’ I figure that if I could surprise myself, it would also be pretty surprising for readers.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A10. It’s actually something I read by the great historical novelist Robert Graves. ‘There is no such thing as good writing, only good rewriting.’

Buy Hard Headed Woman on Amazon

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Interview with author Phil Leighton-Daly

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

I am Phil Leighton-Daly. I have taught primary school and survival swimming for the NSW Education Department for 45 years.

I have been writing books for the last 25 years, roughly one for each year. I have 13 local histories and 12 young adult fiction. Wednesdays Child is my most renowned non-fiction. It details the sad plight of an asylum or as it was later known, a mental hospital. Sixteen of my books are featured on Goodreads. My most well known fiction is the Fisherman and his Foundlings (4000 words) This Foundlings and the Fisherman is a larger revision of the above (18000 words). The 4000-word version has received dozens of 4-star commendations from the Online Book Club.

My wife and I have been married for 45 years. We have two children and a wolf hound. My son teaches law, my daughter is a school teacher. I taught both my children for seven years in small schools.

I am actively involved in bushwalking tennis, kayaking and swimming. Karaoke and singing in a choir are enjoyable. I attend a small Christian church and assist with the morale of the less fortunate.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “The Foundlings and the Fisherman from Tumby”?

The writing of my original 4000- word Fisherman story was largely a reflection of my philosophy on life, to help others. My writing emanates primarily from my experiences in the bush, in the ocean and on the rivers and lakes.
Difficulties arose when I thought publishers could do a better job than me. Cost was a restraint, dishonesty, proximity to publishers, and classification (young adult). They marketed my work as a nursery rhyme because of the illustrations!

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

Oscar Wilde, Ernest Hemmingway and Mark Twain were literary giants for me. My extensive experiences in the rugged mountains, extensive waterways and with a range of different personalities have shaped the excitement. My earnest interest in history has added to that.

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

I spent much time in isolated little schools nearby historic waterways and treacherous mountainous ranges. The mighty Hawkesbury River, near Sydney, so rich and resplendent with flora and fauna is featured in my story along with the desolate Bungonia Recreation Area near Goulburn in NSW.

Q5. How long did it take you to write your book ‘The Foundlings and the Fisherman from Tumby’?

One year altogether for both books. It was truly a labour of love. I accompanied my characters through their successes and tragedies.

Q6. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

Barnes and Noble, Amazon and a plethora of book sellers advertise the book. It is largely overpriced. I have had nil control over that. If interested I suggest you research around.

Q7. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘The Foundlings and the Fisherman from Tumby’?

ExLibris did a great job with the cover and illustrations. Not so in several other areas however. I was meticulous in prompting them with the details for each illustration. The same illustrations were used in both books The Foundlings and The Fisherman was printed by Prime Seven Media in 2024, the shorter version, 5 years before. An hour documentary on the Fisherman and his Foundlings is available on the internet. I was interviewed by the renowned American actor and interviewer, Logan Crawford.

Q8. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

Here are several ways I maintained interest throughout. A plethora of life experiences woven into the storyline. The regular introduction of peculiar characters exhibiting a range of curious behaviour.

Consistent behaviour in protagonists and antagonists. An immediate complication (reason to keep reading) in the first few paragraphs. Each new chapter, and there are about 40 short chapters, readers are faced with further complications. These fester into a final escalation followed by a final resolution. The book is rich in figurative speech, irony, karma, humour, and moral orientations.

Q9. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

Patience, modelling, imagination, lateral thought, utilize life’s experiences and look for characters for your books wherever you go.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my 25 years writing, so much so, I don’t know where those years have gone. But then I glance up on my bookshelves and I proudly note my 25 publications. My time has not been wasted. Thank you for your time and happy writing.

Buy The Foundlings and the Fisherman from Tumby

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Interview with author Sophia Mitchell

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

A1. My name is Sophia Mitchell, I am married and I have two grown up sons ; and we live in the United Kingdom. I am an evangelist , and also an author and I am also working with the NHS as a health professional.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Total Obedience”?

A2. During the period I was writing this book TOTAL OBEDIENCE, the enemies tried several times to attack me, there was a day I was writing and my left hand just became paralyzed, I knew it was the devil, so I just prayed and anointed my hands, and few hours later my hand became normal, sometimes my laptop will refuse to work, and the difficult part was that, I will get home from work tired in the night and start writing till past midnight, sometimes till 2 am before going to sleep and I have to wake up early at 5 am to pray and get ready for work. It was hard but I thank God, the Holy Spirit was there for me and He never left me alone for a minute.

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

A3. Billy Graham- The Holy Spirit
The price of Victory
Nearing home

John Mark Comer – practicing the way

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

A4. I live in Manchester United Kingdom, so football is the most popular sport in Manchester, England to visit.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Total Obedience’?

A5. It was the Holy Spirit that inspired me to write this book TOTAL OBEDIENCE, it wasn’t my idea at all, it was His idea, He was the one who asked me to write this book, He gave the title and all the chapters and the scriptures, everything written in this book is from God, and this is why I know that whoever read this book will never be deceived again by the devil, and that person’s life will never remain the same again because this book is loaded with God’s word and explanation.

So many evil things are happening in the world today and most especially in the church of Christ, and that is why the Holy Spirit gave me this assignment to write this book so that His children will repent and come back to Him.

So if we do not change our ways and obey His commands; so many people will perish and go to hell. Everything the Bible prophesied about are all coming to pass in this generation, the words of God in the Bible is the only truth we can trust and rely upon. Christ is coming back soon, and it’s only a foolish person that will still be doubting if the Bible is true or not.

I thank God for giving me this opportunity and grace to enable me write this book for Him to pass this message to the entire world.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Total Obedience’?

A6. It took me three months to finish this book TOTAL OBEDIENCE because I was working as a healthcare professional in the NHS alongside writing this book.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Everyone can purchase my book TOTAL OBEDIENCE on Amazon.

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

A8. Like I said earlier, the title of the book was given to me by the Holy Spirit. One day one of my sons asked me to preach to him because the next day was on Sunday and he won’t be able to attend church, therefore, he will like me to preach to him that Saturday, he has never asked me to preach to him before, this was the first time after 20 years; I am the one that would always invite them whenever I want to share the gospel with them, so when he asked me to share the message to him I was shocked and a bit disappointed because I wanted him to attend church service the next day.

As I was thinking whether to do it or not because I wasn’t prepared for it, the Holy Spirit immediately spoke to me “do it” so immediately I told him yes I will do it, so I asked the Holy Spirit what does He want me to preach to my family, He said Total obedience, so I prayed about it and he gave me some scriptures to use and in the evening, my family all came to the living room and I shared with them the message.

After I finished, my family said that was really good we were blessed by the message; I said thanks; as I was praying and thanking God, the Holy Spirit spoke to me again and said now I want you to write a book on this topic TOTAL OBEDIENCE; I was like no way, I never wrote a book before, I don’t have any idea on how to write a book not to mention this title TOTAL OBEDIENCE, He said this is the reason I want you to write it, and immediately I knew that it was the Holy Spirit that compel my son to asked me to preach to him so that through this way this book will be written.

So I accepted and I asked Him to help me start and finish it and that was what he did. Everything written in this book is from Him, most times in my dreams He will speak to me what to write, sometimes in the shower, sometimes when I am driving, so I always record everything down as soon as He speaks because I might forget it.

And this is why this book is so important to me because it’s very important to God, this is His words , His book, His message, it’s not mine. I remembered the first time I held this book in my hands because a friend of mine bought it, as I was praying holding this book, the presence of God came and filled me with my friend and we were shaking. The atmosphere was filled with His presence just because of this book.

When I ask Him about the book cover, He gave me this picture , this picture is how we are with the Almighty God Yahweh when we walk with Him in total obedience, live is spiritual, we are all created to obey Him, to worship Him and honor Him, that is why He created us, on one created himself or herself, it’s Jesus Christ and the Father that created the whole world.

So as He gave me this picture of the cover I quickly sent it to the guy to design it, I explained it clearly to him the way I wanted the cover to look like and he came up with this fantastic cover for the book.

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

A9. I keep things fresh by always listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit, and obey His commands; I read books that would inspire me to walk closer each day with Jesus Christ. And that is why this book would be a blessing to everyone who wants to walk with God and be fulfilled in life. Fulfillment is not based on the amount of Wealth or Power or fame we possess, it is based on our relationship with God to walk with Him and be His friend. John 15:14-15

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A10. Be truthful, patient, focused, persistent and persevere in achieving your assignment here on earth. And always have a positive mindset.

Buy Total Obedience on Amazon

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