Archives for 2024

Interview With Author Talia Lark

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Talia! I live in sunny Queensland, Australia, ironically only a couple of hours away from Margot Robbie’s hometown.

I have written about ten books and two novellas. Most recently I have written the Vestigial Series, a trilogy about…well, I encourage you to find out!

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The first of the Vestigial Series is called Primal Threats, published on Amazon as an eBook, and the two sequels will be available soon!

As for inspiration, I draw a lot from my own personal experiences and cacophony of thoughts and emotions as a way to process life. But for this particular trilogy, my two main inspirations were the thrill of Jurassic Park, and the majesty and underrepresentation of Australian natural history. I love this country, I am proud to live here, and I want to share the richness of it in a way that young adults will enjoy!

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My writing habits vary as I must fit it in between working in healthcare. They will swing between a carefully structured 1-2 hours an evening, to an intense week where I will write 12 hours a day, followed by an emotional breakdown, lots of comfort food and vegging in front of Friends. It can be chaotic, but it works for me!

Idiosyncrasy-wise, my desk must be free of clutter, and I have a small statue of a rooster that sits permanently on my lamp. He brings me good luck!

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Many authors influence me, especially those with unique writing styles. Stephen King is probably my greatest idol, as are Kathy Reichs, Roald Dahl, George R. R. Martin, and Stieg Larsson. I am also a huge fan of J. K. Rowling! And to feed my creativity, I love classic novels. The writing styles are pure poetry.

What are you working on now?
As well as completing the final proofread of Buried Horrors and Veiled Dangers (books 2-3 of the Vestigial Series), I am currently working on a young adult science fiction novel about our understanding of space and time. I won’t say anymore than that!

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have a Facebook page which I would love for you to like and follow! There I will post details of my writing, books and upcoming titles.
Link:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567145060908

I am also in the process of establishing an Author Profile Page on Amazon.
Link:
amazon.com/author/talialark_writer4life

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t give up. That’s all I can say. It can be so difficult to establish yourself, but if you love what you do, just keep writing and putting your work out there. If you can help one person through your writing in your lifetime, that is enough to make it worthwhile.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Work for the good of others, and trust in the universe for the rest. It will guide you in the right direction.

What are you reading now?
I always have a few books on the go! At the moment I am reading Terms of Endearment by Larry McMurtry (an amazing book!), Dune by Frank Herbert, and have a stack ready to go including Fairy Tale by Stephen King, Boy Swallows Universe by Trent Dalton, and Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I want to continue writing the young adult science fiction novel I am working on, as well as publishing the remainder of the Vestigial Series, promoting the trilogy, and connecting with my audience.

If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Tomorrow When the War Began by James Marsden (preferably the whole series!), Around the World in Eighty Days by Jules Verne, Bridget Jones Diary by Helen Fielding, and the Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien (again, preferably the whole trilogy, and The Hobbit if the desert island bookkeeper is lenient enough!).

Talia Lark’s Social Media Links

Facebook Profile

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Interview With Author Jo Ballantyne

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m an artist & writer and I’ve self published on Amazon the first two novels of an epic western trilogy, Alias Jeannie Delaney, Books 1 & 2. I also had many anecdotal articles published over the years in the UK, but then I concentrated on the novels.

The idea for this story started over 40 years ago. I’d watched 60s and 70s westerns as a teenager and was utterly disappointed with the lack of decent roles for women, much less the fastest gun! I had a fascination for the wild west developing, particularly the roles played by gritty cheroot chompin’, gun slingin’ gals. So I began to daydream about my heroine and began illustrating her. Eventually my husband told me to write the story, so I began doing that after our daughter was born in 1985. I wrote it sporadically until recent years when we decided it was time to finish it and self publish Book 1, which we did over a year ago. The second novel was published a year later. Alias Jeannie Delaney – Book 1 – Go West, Girl! and Book 2 – The Outlaw’s Return, have been exceptionally successful, I have over 820 readers and many 5* reviews and ratings. I’m delighted, particularly because I suffer from mental health issues.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The latest title is Alias Jeannie Delaney – Book 2 – The Outlaw’s Return, and it’s a continuation of the first book.

A devastating cowgirl comes of age on the wild frontier. Her gun is snake strike fast & her sexuality is as fluid as a miner’s whiskey.

Jeannie Morgan, the fastest gun west of the Mississippi, is a devastating and charismatic pants-wearing cowgirl who is also a magnificent lover to both men and women. As she navigates the unforgiving frontier, she must confront her own identity and desires, all while facing down deadly confrontations and personal tragedies. Will she find happiness or will her her tomboy beauty, her powerful persona and her lethal gun finally be the death of her?

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not that I’m aware of!

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I read Daphne Du Maurier, Alan Tichmarsh, The Time Traveller’s Wife, Girl on the Landing, and Mills & Boon novelettes.

What are you working on now?
I’m editing Book 3. The working title is Unfinished Business and it’s the final book in the series, although I will be writing about Jeannie, my protagonist, as an offshoot of this.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I share posts on my Jo B. Creative blog to Facebook and most social media platforms. As an artist, I create promotional graphic designs on Canva.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep writing and join writing groups wherever you can for constructive feedback.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Keep reading and writing.

What are you reading now?
I read art and interior magazines and blog posts.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I wrote an anthology of anecdotal articles in the past, but felt that they weren’t good enough to self-publish. I intend to illustrate it with cartoons, polish and publish it eventually.

If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
My trilogy for one. I haven’t read it in full for a long time and I understand that it’s very good! It’s the book I wanted to read when I was a teenager, but no-one had written it so I had to.

Author Websites and Profiles

Jo Ballantyne Website

Jo Ballantyne Amazon Profile

Jo Ballantyne’s Social Media Links

Goodreads Profile

Facebook Profile

Twitter Account

Pinterest Account

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Author Interview Series

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Interview With Author Brian Montgomery

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Brian S. Montgomery: A Journey of Resilience and Expertise
Brian S. Montgomery’s personal journey from the streets of South London is a testament to his unwavering resilience and determination. His narrative, shaped by his triumph over significant challenges from his early life, inspires all. His story, marked by his struggle with dyslexia and a challenging upbringing, illustrates the strength of perseverance and passion.
Professionally, Brian has honed his skills over a remarkable three decades as a Health, Safety, and Quality Consultant Specialist. His academic journey is equally impressive, with a master’s degree and graduate diploma in occupational health and safety and double diplomas in mental health and alcohol and other drug use. These achievements, coupled with his unwavering commitment to his field and his relentless pursuit of excellence, instil confidence in his expertise.

Brian’s career has been defined by his specialisation in mental health, homelessness, and drug and alcohol dependency. His extensive expertise is evident in his consultancy work and writings, which are marked by authenticity and insight drawn from real-world experiences. His self-published book, “Degsy Hay—A Juvenile Redeemed,” has garnered critical acclaim, exemplifying his ability to tackle complex themes with empathy and depth.

Brian’s influence extends far beyond his professional sphere. He has made a profound impact through community engagement, leading The Hay Patrollers, an innovative programme that has significantly reduced crime among young people and fostered inclusivity. This initiative, which has directly benefited numerous young participants, continues to inspire and educate a wider audience through platforms like YouTube. The Hay Patrollers programme, a beacon of hope, is a testament to his inspiring work.

Adding to his literary achievements, Brian’s book “Ty” is soon to be published by Blossom Spring Publishing, further cementing his reputation as a compelling storyteller. However, the TV Screenplay is still awaiting representation.

Additionally, he has completed “Percival Quill, A Detective Storybook and TV Series,” a promising project currently awaiting representation. Brian’s diverse projects underscore his multifaceted talents and his dedication to making a positive impact through both his professional and creative endeavours.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The latest book is called “Ty.” It was inspired by real-life experiences working with youth involved in crime prevention programs in Perth, Australia, which I developed and managed firsthand. Over the years, I’ve worked closely with young people caught in cycles of crime, violence, poverty, and systemic injustice—many of whom felt trapped in environments that offered little hope for change. These experiences motivated me to write Ty, a novel that explores the harsh realities of urban life but, more importantly, the potential for redemption and personal transformation.

The story follows Tyrone Lewis, a fourteen-year-old born into impossible circumstances—born in prison to a teenage mother struggling with addiction, thrust into a world shaped by neglect, violence, and gang culture. His journey reflects the lives of many young people I’ve encountered, who, despite their circumstances, carried the desire to change but often lacked the support to do so. Ty examines themes of redemption, resilience, and the power of second chances, showing how even the most troubled individuals can turn their lives around with the right opportunities and guidance.

What sets Ty apart is that it delves deep into the complexities of youth crime, mental health, gang violence, and systemic racism. It’s not just about survival on the streets but also about forging meaningful connections, as Ty’s unexpected alliances—both inside prison and beyond—transform him from an offender into a community leader. Inspired by real youth programs, Ty reflects the impact of initiatives that focus on rehabilitation, not just punishment.

Through Ty’s story, I wanted to spark conversations about youth crime, rehabilitation, and the importance of community-led solutions. This book aims to challenge stereotypes about at-risk youth and shine a light on the value of empathy, understanding, and collective support in breaking the cycle of violence.

Beyond entertainment, Ty is a call to action—a story that speaks to the need for change, not just within individuals but within the systems and communities that shape them. It’s about showing readers that even those written off by society can rise above their circumstances and make a lasting impact, not only in their own lives but also in the lives of those around them.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Yes, I do have a few unusual writing habits! For starters, I’m a bit of a night owl when it comes to writing. There’s something about the stillness of late-night hours that sparks creativity for me. It’s when my mind feels the freest, and ideas seem to flow more naturally—so you’ll often find me jotting down scenes or dialogue well past midnight.
I also tend to switch locations frequently. Sometimes I’ll start writing at my desk, but when I hit a block, I’ll move to a café, the library, or even sit outside. Changing my environment helps me shake things up mentally, almost like resetting my brain. I’ll sometimes play ambient noise or soundtracks that fit the mood of the scene I’m working on—whether that’s city sounds for urban settings or soft piano music when writing an emotional moment. It helps immerse me in the world of the story.
Another odd habit is that I often write scenes out of order. If I’m stuck on a particular part, I’ll skip ahead to a scene that feels clearer or more exciting to me. It’s like piecing together a puzzle—some scenes come naturally first, and then I go back to fill in the gaps.
I also keep a notebook by my bed because some of my best ideas arrive just before I fall asleep or right when I wake up. I’ve learned the hard way that if I don’t scribble them down immediately, they’ll vanish by morning!
Lastly, I sometimes speak my characters’ dialogue out loud, acting out their conversations to ensure the flow feels natural. I’ll pace around my room, talking to myself (or, technically, my characters), which can look odd if anyone walks in unexpectedly! But hearing the dialogue aloud helps me fine-tune it and make sure the conversations sound authentic.
These little quirks might seem strange, but they’re part of my process—and they help bring my stories to life in the way that feels right to me.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’ve drawn inspiration from a variety of authors and books that have shaped my storytelling style and the themes I explore in my writing. Some influences stand out not only for their narrative power but also for the way they address complex social issues and create compelling characters that stay with you long after the final page.

1. Charles Dickens – “Oliver Twist”
Dickens’ portrayal of poverty, crime, and redemption in Oliver Twist has deeply influenced my work. His ability to humanize people struggling at the margins of society and show both their hardships and resilience mirrors the themes I explore in Ty. Dickens’ characters, flawed but redeemable, reflect the same spirit of second chances that I aim to bring to life.

2. Victor Hugo – “Les Misérables”
Hugo’s masterpiece shaped my understanding of redemption and the complexities of justice. The story’s exploration of how circumstances push individuals toward crime—and how compassion can offer a way out—resonates with the themes in my work. Ty similarly examines how society shapes people’s choices and how transformation is possible, even from the darkest places.

3. Richard Wright – “Native Son”
Wright’s raw, unflinching portrayal of race, poverty, and systemic oppression in Native Son greatly influenced the way I approach social issues in my storytelling. His ability to dive into the psychology of characters, showing the emotional and societal pressures they face, has shaped how I write about youth crime, mental health, and racism in Ty.

4. Angie Thomas – “The Hate U Give”
Angie Thomas’s work showed me how to tell socially relevant stories through the eyes of young people. The Hate U Give is a powerful example of how fiction can open dialogues about racism, police violence, and injustice, which aligns with my goal of using Ty to spark conversations about youth crime, rehabilitation, and the power of community-driven solutions.

5. Irvine Welsh – “Trainspotting”
Welsh’s gritty, unapologetic storytelling style inspired me to write with rawness and authenticity. In Ty, I wanted to capture the harsh realities of street life and addiction in a way that feels real, not romanticized, much like Welsh did with his portrayal of Edinburgh’s drug culture. His bold use of dialect also encouraged me to experiment with authentic voices in my characters.

6. Benjamin Zephaniah – “Gangsta Rap”
Zephaniah’s exploration of youth, gang culture, and the redemptive power of music had a direct influence on Ty. His ability to blend tough realities with hope and creativity inspired my portrayal of Ty’s journey from crime to redemption through community work and personal growth.

7. Elmore Leonard – Dialogue Craft
Leonard’s mastery of sharp, realistic dialogue influenced how I write conversations in Ty. He once said, “If it sounds like writing, I rewrite it,” and that approach stuck with me. I aim to create dialogue that feels natural, helping readers connect deeply with my characters and their struggles.

Each of these authors has shaped my writing in unique ways—whether by inspiring me to tackle difficult topics, explore themes of justice and redemption, or push for authenticity in dialogue and character development. Their works remind me that stories have the power to not only entertain but also spark conversations, challenge assumptions, and offer new perspectives—something I strive to achieve with Ty.

What are you working on now?
Right now, I’m working on several exciting projects that build on the themes of resilience, redemption, and transformation that run through my work.

1. “Ty” – Novel and TV Drama
I’m in the final stages of polishing Ty, both as a novel and a three-part TV drama. This story follows the journey of Tyrone Lewis, a fourteen-year-old navigating the harsh realities of London’s streets. Born in prison to a heroin-addicted teenage mother, Ty faces struggles with gang violence, knife crime, and systemic injustice. It’s a raw and gripping tale of how even those from the toughest environments can find hope, redemption, and purpose. The accompanying TV drama is being developed to bring these themes to life on screen, reaching new audiences with the message that second chances are possible for everyone.

2. “The Play” – School Musical Project
I’m also developing The Play, a school-based musical inspired by real stories of youth overcoming struggles with crime, bullying, and mental health. This project is close to my heart, as it directly engages young people, offering them a creative platform to express themselves and share their journeys. The musical incorporates rap, spoken word, and dance, with the goal of encouraging conversations about mental health, forgiveness, and personal growth. What makes The Play even more special is the involvement of real individuals who have turned their lives around—just like the characters in Ty—sharing their stories through music and performance.

What’s Next?
These projects are designed to complement one another, sparking conversations not only through books and television but also through live performance. Ty provides the narrative foundation, while The Play takes those same themes into classrooms and communities, giving young people a chance to see that their voice matters. With both the novel and musical, I aim to inspire youth to break cycles of violence and take ownership of their futures.

It’s an exciting time, and I feel more committed than ever to creating stories that entertain, educate, and inspire change across multiple platforms.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
When it comes to promoting my books, I find that a multi-faceted approach works best. Here are the key methods and websites I rely on to build engagement and reach readers effectively:

1. Social Media Platforms
Social media allows me to connect directly with readers, build excitement, and foster discussions about the themes in my work. I regularly use:

Instagram – Perfect for sharing behind-the-scenes content, cover reveals, and quotes from my books. Visual storytelling through reels or stories helps engage with readers.
Facebook – Great for building communities through groups, live events, and discussions. I often create event pages for launches or updates on Ty and The Play.
X (formerly Twitter) – Ideal for engaging in literary conversations, sharing updates, and networking with other authors and readers in the publishing world.
TikTok (BookTok) – A growing platform where I post quick, creative videos about my books, including teaser trailers and character insights, which resonate with younger audiences.
2. Author Website & Newsletter
Having a professional author website serves as a hub for all things related to my work. It features updates on my books, TV projects, and the musical The Play. I also use a newsletter to engage with readers directly—offering exclusive content, sneak peeks, event announcements, and promotions. It helps build a dedicated readership over time.

3. Goodreads
Goodreads is one of the best platforms for engaging with avid readers. I create book pages, join discussions, participate in Q&As, and encourage early readers to leave reviews. This is especially effective when promoting upcoming releases, as it builds anticipation.

4. Amazon KDP & Promotions
If I’m self-publishing or launching digital versions, Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) is an essential tool. I use Amazon’s promotional tools, like free book days or countdown deals, to increase visibility and attract readers. Running Amazon Ads targeted at readers who enjoy similar books can also drive sales.

5. Blog Tours & Influencer Outreach
Organizing virtual book tours with bloggers and influencers has proven effective, especially for Ty. I collaborate with Bookstagrammers and BookTubers who review my books and share their thoughts with their followers. Their honest reviews help build trust and buzz.

6. Crowdfunding Campaigns for The Play
For The Play, I also explore crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter or GoFundMe to raise awareness and funding while engaging with supporters. These campaigns not only promote the musical but also offer early access and exclusive perks for donors.

7. Public Speaking and Events
Participating in school visits, book clubs, literary festivals, and panel discussions has been instrumental in promoting my work. These events allow me to engage with audiences in person, discussing the themes of Ty and The Play while spreading awareness about issues like youth crime and mental health.

8. Online Book Communities and Forums
I stay active in Reddit forums and other book-related communities where readers discuss relevant themes such as redemption, crime fiction, and young adult literature. Engaging with these communities helps me connect with readers who are passionate about the subjects I explore.

9. Press and Media Outreach
I also send press releases to relevant media outlets, blogs, and literary magazines to gain coverage for book launches or events. Getting featured interviews or articles in online publications can help generate buzz and reach a wider audience.

Using a combination of these methods ensures that my books, TV drama, and musical projects are visible across multiple channels, helping me connect with both current readers and new audiences. Each platform has its unique strengths, and when used strategically together, they create powerful momentum for promoting my work.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Yes, don’t give up.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
One of the best pieces of advice I’ve ever heard is: “Write the story only you can tell.”

This advice really resonated with me because it’s a reminder that every writer brings their own unique experiences, perspective, and voice to the page. No one else sees the world exactly the way you do, and that’s what makes your stories special. Rather than chasing trends or writing what you think will be popular, focus on the themes, characters, and stories that speak to you personally. Those are the ones that will resonate most deeply with readers.

Another great piece of advice is: “The only way to fail is to stop.” Writing is often a long and challenging journey. Whether you’re working on your first draft, facing rejection, or navigating writer’s block, persistence is the key to growth. Every small step, even on the hardest days, brings you closer to your goal.

Lastly, I love the reminder that: “Don’t get it right, get it written.” Too often, we get stuck trying to make the first draft perfect. But perfection isn’t the goal—progress is. The first draft is just the start, and you can always go back to polish and refine. What matters most is getting the words on the page so you have something to work with.

What are you reading now?
Not having the time at the moment

What’s next for you as a writer?
My primary focus moving forward is twofold: securing an agent and collaborating with a TV producer to bring my projects to life on both the page and screen.

1. Gaining Literary Representation
Finding the right literary agent is the next critical step. I want to work with someone who not only believes in the potential of Ty but also aligns with my long-term vision for multi-platform storytelling. With the novel already shaping up, an agent will help me navigate the publishing world, pitch to the right publishers, and secure the best opportunities. I’m also aiming to have someone who can guide me with future book projects and ensure a consistent, meaningful career as a writer.

2. Collaborating with a TV Producer
Since Ty is also developed as a three-part TV drama, finding the right producer or production company is a top priority. The TV adaptation adds depth to the narrative, showing the complexities of youth crime, redemption, and mental health on screen. A partnership with an experienced TV producer will open doors for development, production funding, and ultimately, getting the series aired on a major platform.

3. Launching “The Play” School Musical
Alongside the novel and TV drama, I’m continuing work on The Play—a school musical inspired by the themes in Ty. This project will involve collaborating with schools, educators, and young performers, using music, storytelling, and theatre to raise awareness about youth issues. My goal is to have The Play performed in schools and communities, encouraging young people to see that no matter where they come from, transformation is possible.

4. Expanding My Network
I’ll also be attending literary festivals, film festivals, and creative writing events to build connections within both the publishing and film industries. Meeting agents, producers, and other creatives face-to-face will hopefully accelerate the process of getting my work into the right hands.

The road ahead is exciting but challenging. Each step—whether it’s landing an agent, signing with a TV producer, or seeing The Play performed—is about expanding my creative reach and continuing to write stories that inspire change. My aim is not only to publish books but also to spark meaningful conversations about youth crime, redemption, and mental health on every possible platform.

If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
If I were stranded on a desert island and could only bring a few young adult gang-related books, I’d choose stories that are gripping, thought-provoking, and packed with emotional depth. Here’s my list:

1. “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas
This powerful novel dives into the world of gangs, police violence, and systemic racism, following Starr Carter as she navigates life in two conflicting communities. It’s not just a gripping story—it’s a call for change, and I’d reread it to stay inspired.
2. “Long Way Down” by Jason Reynolds
Written in free verse, this novel takes place over the course of 60 seconds inside an elevator, as a young boy contemplates revenge after his brother is killed. It captures the emotional struggle of life inside gang culture and the haunting effects of violence.
3. “Ghost Boys” by Jewell Parker Rhodes
This book explores the tragic consequences of gun violence and prejudice through the story of Jerome, a young Black boy killed by a police officer. It delves into themes of racism, injustice, and gang-related pressures on young people, making it a powerful, reflective read.
4. “Gangsta Rap” by Benjamin Zephaniah
Following a group of teenagers who form a rap group to escape the chaos of their lives, this book captures the raw reality of street life, gang culture, and the power of music as a form of expression and redemption.
These books would not only keep me engaged with their fast-paced, emotional storytelling, but they’d also inspire reflection on themes like justice, resilience, and change. They’d remind me that even in the darkest situations, there’s hope for transformation—something I’d need on a deserted island!

 

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Author Interview Series

To discover a new author, check out our Featured Authors page. We have some of the best authors around. They are just waiting for you to discover them. If you enjoyed this writer’s interview feel free to share it using the buttons below. Sharing is caring!

If you are an author and want to be interviewed just fill out out Author Interview page. After submitting we will send it out in our newsletters and social media channels that are filled with readers looking to discover new books to read.

If you are looking for a new book to read check out our Featured Books Page.