Awesome Author Interviews

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
“What a Girl to Do When Life Throws a Curveball?” is my first full-length novel. It is a mystery thriller. I have been writing about varied topics for as long as I can remember. I have published essays about life, love, relationship, and religion.

Being the CEO of a medical devices company that markets lifesaving devices—Automated External Defibrillators— Ive have written about the scourge of Sudden Cardiac Arrest. The SCA kills twice as many people every year as colon, breast & prostate cancers combined.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Well, the name of my book is: “What a Girl to Do When Life Throws a Curveball?” The compelling plot of the story and the fascinating facts behind it inspired me to complete this 700-page book. As I mentioned before, writing has been my passion for as long as I can remember. But in my ever-busy life, I never had enough hours in a day to complete the stories I started and left unfinished in my desk drawers.

Recently, during the COVID-19 pandemic, I found some spare time because I didn’t have to commute and go to the office. Since I work from home, I was able to complete the novel I had researched a while ago and was lying in my work-in-progress file, awaiting my attention.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Yes. Very much so. Since my responsibilities as CEO consume most of my day at work, I’ve developed a habit of writing at night. It’s a habit I love. After dinner with my family, I lock myself in my study and write. Of course, with the help of some java jolts spiked with a touch of cognac. Seriously.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I just cannot pinpoint any specific authors. In part because of the amalgamation of non-fiction and fiction genres, I have been reading sporadically.

What are you working on now?
I’ve started working on another novel which I had left semi-complete in my study a long time ago. Besides, I have two movie scripts I want to polish. One is for Hollywood, and the other is for Bollywood.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Yes, of course. Whatever happens, do not give up your dream. Sound editing and perseverance are the keys to success.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice that I remember came from my dear mother, an academic and a scholar. I can still hear her. She would say, “Stay focused, stay goal-oriented, Kumari. Always do your best in whatever you do.”

What are you reading now?
Recently, my husband bought me a copy of Fire and Fury from Amazon. It is a fascinating read about the Trump White House, written very lucidly by Michael Wolff. He reveals what happens daily in one of the most chaotic administrations he has ever witnessed.

What’s next for you as a writer?
From my friends and relatives who have read the manuscript, I am encouraged and very hopeful I will keep on writing. Whether my next book will be a fiction novel or a movie script, I am not sure yet—hopefully, both.

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?
This is an interesting question. Is there a caveat? In all sincerity, I would take a gallon of sunscreen and zero books with me. So I can concentrate on writing my memoir in seclusion. Who knows, I might not ever make it back to the mainland.

Author Websites and Profiles
Kumari Kanchanji Website
Kumari Kanchanji Amazon Profile
Kumari Kanchanji Author Profile on Smashwords

Kumari Kanchanji’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a journalist who was writing stories even as a child. It took me some years to get the gumption to write a book, but I have my first children’s book, Isasnora Snores, under my belt with more to come. I have a BS in Psychology and MA in Communication. I also write screenplays and children’s plays. Recently I’ve taken ideas from Isasnora Snores to create a YouTube channel to bring the story to life and to people who might not like to read.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Isasnora Snores. I snore, so thought it would be funny to create a character who snores. I write short stories for family and friends and created Snoring Beauty for my youngest daughter, Monica. She asked me to get it published. I resisted, but then tried without success. An agent on Twitter tweeted once that if people were interested in writing children’s books they should join the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI). I did. That changed everything. I learned (and still learn) so much about children’s books. I went back to the drawing board with Snoring Beauty. I changed the title and made the short story into a 10 chapter book. I started pitching it again, and fortunately, Black Rose Writing picked it up.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I like to chew gum when I write – is that unusual? I do not yodel or stand on my head when I’m writing. I guess I do not have unusual writing habits.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Charles Dickens, Dostoevsky, Tolstoy, John Grisham, Peggy Parish (Amelia Bedelia); E.B. White, Roald Dahl, J.K. Rowling, Eoin Colfer (Artemis Fowl), Richard Scary, Betty MacDonald (Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle). Parish and MacDonald strongly influenced the silliness found in Isasnora Snores.

What are you working on now?
I just sent off a young adult novel to an interested publisher. I have another young adult that I’m working on final edits before sending to a publisher. I am working on some picture books – The Doolie Sisters Series and Carl (the lost cat). I have some screenplays that I am also working on.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m trying to figure that out. Sorry I don’t have a great answer. I do think blogging and posting a YouTube episode monthly helps.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Once you figure out the genre you are interested in writing, join a professional group like I did when I joined the SCBWI. Also, there are great writing and critique groups on Facebook. Search them out. Finally, when you think your book is ready to send out to a publisher/agent, find a trusted editor (not your best friend) to read and edit. This is not cheap, but I believe it increases your chances of securing a publisher or agent.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The agent who told us to join SCBWI if we want to write children’s books.

What are you reading now?
I just finished Leo Buscaglia’s Seven Stories of Christmas.

What’s next for you as a writer?
Continue writing and try illustrating my picture books. I also like to create, produce, and direct children’s plays and create movies and television shows. I’m also excited about being part of Talkabook, an online platform connecting children to authors.

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?
A Tale of Two Cities; any Eoin Colfer – Artemis Fowl books; any John Grisham book; Bible

Author Websites and Profiles
Carol L Paur Website
Carol L Paur Amazon Profile

Carol L Paur’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m an American novelist and former award-winning travel writer. I was born in upstate New York and currently live in Greenville, South Carolina, with my wife and two dogs. My first novel released in August 2020.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My debut novel is titled ‘The Medina Device’ and was recently awarded the 2020 Maxy Award for Best Thriller, as well as the 2020 PenCraft Award for literary excellence. I think the inspiration really came from a lot of places; movies I’d seen as a kid, people I’ve met, characters from my favorite books. But I also wanted to explore fringe sciences and secret societies, so it all came together in this strange, heart-pounding story.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I’m not sure any of my writing habits fall into the “unusual” category, but I’m learning to complete projects much faster than I used to. Over time, I think writers develop a certain rhythm and fluidity to their process. For me, I go from outlining to drafting pretty quickly. I also flesh out a lot of the character profiles as I go, then refine them in editing. But the process itself doesn’t feel as clunky as it once did, and that’s pretty cool.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I think different authors can influence you in different ways. I used to read a lot of James Michener and Tom Clancy, so I think their attention to detail and the way they describe settings is something that’s always influenced me. Most recently, I’ve been getting into Olen Steinhauer’s novels and his pacing and tone has certainly rubbed off on me. I was between manuscripts when I finished ‘The Tourist’ and immediately sat down to start writing my next book. His energy is contagious.

What are you working on now?
Well, I’ve just delivered my latest manuscript, ‘Stars Over Syria’, to my agent, and I couldn’t be more excited. It’s more of a literary thriller and love story, which is completely out of my comfort zone, but I really enjoyed the challenge and I think people are going to like it. But right now, I’m working on this amazing new novel about a diamond thief who also happens to be FBI informant, and he sort of gets caught between these two worlds when he discovers the truth about his past. It’s my first stab at writing a series, so the wheels are turning pretty fast and I’m really pumped about it.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Social media is super important to new writers. It’s a way to become part of a community of other writers who support each other and help get the word out. I’ve also had success with BookBub readers as well as the exposure I get from Goodreads.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Hire an editor. Every creative profession requires some level of financial investment, and if you want to be taken seriously by agents, publishers and readers, you have to get an experienced editor. And not a friend or a cousin or a beta reader, and certainly don’t try it yourself. You need a professional set of eyes that can polish your work for publication.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I’ve ever heard was: “You can accomplish anything in life with meticulous timing and a sense of style.” I’m not exactly sure where it came from. I heard it once when I was young and I’ve lived by it ever since.

What are you reading now?
I just started ‘One Good Deed’ by David Baldacci. At the end of each chapter I’m mesmerized by how perfectly he writes in this 1940s American dialect; the narration, the dialogue, all of it. I can’t imagine the level of firsthand research he had to do for this one. It’s impressive.

What’s next for you as a writer?
Well, I have a feeling this new series is going to keep me busy for the next couple years (laughs). I’m also really looking forward to the release of ‘Stars Over Syria’ and everything that comes with that. I mean, my debut came out during the Pandemic and everything got canceled, so I’m ready to go all out in 2021 with the launch party and book tour and all that. It’s going to be a lot of fun.

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?
‘Deep Survival’ by Laurence Gonzales. ‘The Drifters’ by James Michener. ‘The Guide to Astrology’ by Lori Reid. ‘The Kybalion’ by Lao Tzu.

Author Websites and Profiles
T.J. Champitto Website
T.J. Champitto Amazon Profile

T.J. Champitto’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m the author of eight books. Most were about the outdoors. I’ve always enjoyed the outdoors as a way to uplift my spirits. To me there is no better way to relieve stress and anxiety in the forest or canoeing a lake.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest, “Being the Strong Man A Woman Wants: Timeless wisdom on being a man” is a relationship advice book that is striking a chord around the world. It has been translated into 24 languages by publishers in Europe, Asia, Latin America and Africa.
This book shares wisdom on being a man in a relationship that many men today were not taught but can make a big difference in saving relationships and avoiding divorce. It shares the wisdom that I was looking after my own divorce. My goal is to reduce divorce and the number of children from broken homes.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I often get up at 2 or 3 in the morning and write. I like to write in coffee shows and on picnic tables in parks and on the subway. I always carry a notebook with me to write down ideas.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I like to read books about leadership because they often have stories where someone was facing an impossible challenge — to which he responded, “Yes it’s impossible. Now let’s figure out how we are going to do it.” Many men often feel they’re in impossible situations in their marriages and blame their wives. I tell them, “Yes it may feel impossible, but now we have to figure out what we need to do to solve the problem and stop blaming your wife. Once I tell them this, they usually figure out what they need to do.

What are you working on now?
I am speaking to groups and coaching men to share the wisdom in the book and change the men of the world — one man at a time. This wisdom can help men avoid divorce and reduce the number of children from broken homes.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I found the best way to get the message out is to talk to men in groups and individually. A lot of men will tell me that they have never heard the wisdom about being a man that I teach them. They ask, “Why didn’t anyone tell me this before?”

Do you have any advice for new authors?
The most important thing is to write the best possible book you can. This mean rewriting your book many times. Keep rewriting until you’re satisfied with every sentence.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Humans are similar all over the world. If you book satisfies a human need in North America, it will probably be marketable in Europe and Asia.

What are you reading now?
How to Argue and Win Every Time by Gerry Spence. It’s about how to be persuasive.

What’s next for you as a writer?
Use more social media — particularly YouTube to share the wisdom on how to be a man in a relationship with as many people as possible.

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?
How to Win Friends and Influence and How to Stop Worrying and Start Living both by Dale Carnegie. I would also take my book, Being the Strong Man A Woman Wants — so I cold give it as a gift to the person who rescued me.

Author Websites and Profiles
Elliott Katz Website

Elliott Katz’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a screenwriter and have recently turned to self-publishing as a way to do something productive with the folders full of unproduced screenplays on my hard drive. I’ve written two books so far, the first is The Library of Lost Souls and is part of a series about a witch called Jenny Ringo. The second also features the same character but it’s a standalone side story called Christmas Chopping.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The book is Christmas Chopping. I’ve been writing a series of horror comedy novels about a witch and I thought it might be fun to write a one-off Christmas special. It stared as a NaNoWriMo challenge, I was struggling with the second book in the series and decided that just writing anything was better than staring at a blank page. As the story developed I realised it had some potential as a novella so I worked out the structure and made it into a complete story.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Because I work full time and have two young children I’ve taught myself to be able to write anywhere at anytime. I didn’t have a choice really, if I’d stuck to the romantic notion of a writer working at a lovely big desk I’d never finish anything. I used to do most of my writing on the train to and from work but now I’m working from home I either write really early in the morning or really late at night.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Clive Barker was a huge influence, although it’s maybe not apparent in my books, which are much lighter than his. He made me want to be a writer from an early age. David Wong was more of a direct influence because I’d never really read anything quite that chaotic before and I think it gave me permission to try something along similar lines.

What are you working on now?
I’m still working on the second book in the main series, which is really close to being finished. I’m trying to do something quite complicated with the structure so it’s taking longer than my other books but I think it will be quite unique when I finish it.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m still trying to figure that out really! I’ve had some good results from Facebook ads, more so than Amazon ads although I always have a couple of those running as well. I’ve used Christmas Chopping as a way to get more people reading the series so Book Funnel has been really useful for that.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Follow your own path and learn from your own mistakes. Basically, don’t listen to any advice from other authors!

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
To just go and make the art, not wait for permission.

What are you reading now?
Conjure Wife by Fritz Leiber. I watched three movies based on this book so thought I should probably read it.

What’s next for you as a writer?
My first horror feature film, Paintball Massacre, will be released in the US on 15th December and then in the UK next year, so I’m looking forward to seeing how that goes. Other than that I’ll be writing more Jenny Ringo books.

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?
Books of Blood by Clive Barker, Neuromancer by William Gibson, Catch-22 by Joseph Heller and House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski.

Author Websites and Profiles
Chris Regan Website
Chris Regan Amazon Profile

Chris Regan’s Social Media Links
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a medical doctor specialized in Haematology. I still practice though I have given up my private practice, so now I have more time to spend with my two great nephews Jack and Luke. This was my first attempt at novel writing. I’ve written a medical book and I‘ve written many papers that have been published in medical journals. Also I’m a reviewer for various scientific journals. I am a regular contributor to an influential blog covering political satire.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
” General Jack and the Battle of the Five Kingdoms”. It’s an anthropomorphic fantasy adventure along the lines of “The Chronicles of Narnia”.
I have always had a love for literature. Also I am an enthusiast for any type of DIY job. I am now spending plenty of time with my five year old nephew and amongst other things we enjoy ourselves with mutual story telling. These were the three reasons why I wrote the book. I wrote it for my nephew. He himself becomes a protagonist in the book. I thought that there was no better way to encourage a love of reading in such a young boy, than with an in-house, DIY novel.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My writing style is direct, probably a reflection of my medical note writing. I want readers to not only read the lines but also to read between the lines. That way the reading experience is more fulfilling and comprehensive. So, I aim to write entertaining tales rich in irony, which are also educational and thought provoking.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
The books that have most influenced me are “Animal Farm” for its humourous political satire, CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien for their allegorical imaginative world building, and Francois Mauriac who is the best author for narrating internal conflict within a protagonist.

What are you working on now?
At the moment, I’m working on the promotion and marketing of “General Jack and the Battle of the Five Kingdoms”. It’s taken up all my time and will continue to do so in the coming months. I’ve written another novel, the first book of the Jack trilogy ” The Joyous Adventures of Whizzojack”. The manuscript is ready but I’m still waiting for the illustrations.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have to target the industry and the consumers. For the industry, editorial reviews and (if the book is good enough) entering it into book award competitions. These are the best ways to attract their attention. It’s costly and may very well be unproductive. For the consumers, amazon AMS advertising. Here at least you’re in the driving seat and you can control the cost effectiveness of the initiative.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
It’s a very saturated business and it’s almost impossible to break through. There is an inherent bias against self-publishing and the statistics shows that only a handful succeed. Once you embark on a work, you have to do it for the love of writing, take pride in your effort and make it a cathartic experience by putting down your long pent- up creative ideas on paper. But at the same time, keep your feet on the ground. No matter how good and critically acclaimed the book is, the majority of books just won’t sell.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I found good advice from various web sites like Kindlepreneur, Reedsy Discovery and Dale Roberts. They have a soft spot for self-publishers and genuinely try to help out.

What are you reading now?
There’s much I’d like to read but I simply do not have the time. Once I retire though, I intend making up for lost time.

What’s next for you as a writer?
General Jack is the second of the Jack trilogy. In each, my nephew becomes a protagonist at different ages. The first book “The Joyous Adventures of Whizzojack” was written before “ General Jack” but it has got stuck with the illustrations and won’t be out for some time. It’s intended for middle grade readers. I’ll take the opportunity from the delay to polish up the manuscript further. I’ll tackle the third book of the trilogy in the years to come. It will be a collections of short historical fiction stories.

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?
AJ, Cronin” The stars look down”, Tolkien’s ” Lord of the Rings”, Sigrit Undset” The Master of Hestvikin” and the Bible.

Author Websites and Profiles
David Bush Amazon Profile

David Bush’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a 45 year old mother of three. I have actually written two books but I look at the first one as a practice one! It was a children’s book and about 10,000 words. I figured that if I had the discipline to sit down and write that whilst working, I could manage a longer one when I gave up my job.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
It is called Rosie’s Choice. The inspiration for it came from my own experience as a working mother and how hard it was to juggle both things. I had been working with older people so Winnie was inspired by some wonderful older ladies that I had met and worked with.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not really. I just sit and it all comes pouring out of me. When it comes to editing, that is more painful and harder for me. I have a lot of bad habits!

What authors, or books have influenced you?
When I was growing up I loved to read anything by Stephen King or James Herbert. I loved The Rats and Carrie. In my twenties (pre kids) I loved reading things like Steinbeck and Daphne Du Maurier. We Need to Talk about Kevin by Lionel Shriver was a stand out book for me when I read it many years ago and I’ve read it a few times since. Recently I’ve read The Binding by B.R Collins which took my breath away and I loved The Ballroom by Anna Hope.

What are you working on now?
I have an idea for a book and have started on it but I don’t know if I will be able to finish it. I’m setting up my own business at the moment and there is not a lot of time in the day.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m hoping that it will be Awesome Gang! This is all new to me, I’m just starting out and trying things for the first time.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Listen to that voice in your head that is telling you to write. If you have a great idea, get it down on paper!

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Rome wasn’t built in a day. Just keep chipping away. Even if you only manage an hour a day, you are making progress.

What are you reading now?
This Boy by Alan Johnson. My mum recommended it to me and I can’t put it down. It’s not normally something I would read but it was in the pile by my bed so I picked it up one day. I’m not half way through yet but I’m hooked.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m hoping that I will get some good reviews for Rosie’s Choice. That would make me happy!

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?
I think that I would take the Games of Thrones series. They are weighty tomes and would help the time pass quickly. I might need to bring We Need to Talk About Kevin so that I could read it one last time!

Author Websites and Profiles
Carole Reed Amazon Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a Canadian romance writer who writes highly romanticized everyday life love stories with over the top alpha heroes and introverted but weirdly spirited heroines…who have no business being together, yet have history, so can’t stay away from each other.

I thrive on visual inspiration so am a hopeless action movie junkie and romantic photography hound – both of which keep my imagination humming.

In private, I’m an introvert who will deny lusting after my own hero characters.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The SEAL’s Inconvenient Marriage.
Inspired by my love of the marriage of convenience genre.
The book is part of the my SEALs N Sorority Sisters series.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Well I don’t think they’re unusual per se, but….
I have to have hot coffee from the drive thru beside me.
My music video playlist (YouTube) going on my second monitor.
And I’m guaranteed to get distracted by sudden and random research inspirations every hour or so.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Diana Palmer aka Jayne Ann Krentz. I read all of her books when she wrote for Harlequin/Silhouette Desire many years ago.
I’m also inspired by and tend to read: Lisa Marie Rice, Jennifer Ashley, MN Forgey, A. Zaverelli, Alexa Riley, Anna Zaires, Lora Leigh, Joanna Wilde, Julie Garwood, Katy Evans, Sandra Brown, Kristin Ashley, Maya Banks, Nicole Jordan…. I could go on for days!

What are you working on now?
I’m finishing up my SEALs N Sorority Sisters series for launch in the new year.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Awesome Gang! I’m also trying out Topless Cowboy for the first time.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write alot of books first, edit them and then consistently put them out there.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Finish the book before thinking about all the other stuff.

What are you reading now?
The Untamed Makenzie by Jennifer Ashley via audio book.

What’s next for you as a writer?
Writing more books (have to get these stories out of my head) and getting them out there.

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 Lisa Marie Rice and Jayne Ann Krentz keepers.

Author Websites and Profiles
Alexandra Isobel Website
Alexandra Isobel Amazon Profile

Alexandra Isobel’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Welcome to the new debut series Friends & Lovers. Five smart successful woman, friends since school girls, closer than sisters, find love and adventure in these Romantic Suspense Tales of Intrigue and Love. Meet Genevieve, Lilliana, Moira, Arabella, and Adrianna the heroines. First up is this Book 1 – Dark Vendetta: Genevieve’s Story. Watch for Book 2 in the series coming soon In early 2021, Lilliana’s Story.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My first book in the series is Dark Vendetta: Genevieve’s Story. The book is inspired by a desire to create a suspenseful story, place the story in NYC, Paris and Mobile Bay so the reader can have a sense of adventure. I especially wanted the love story to develop in Paris and there’s a scene on a private island. The suspense is exciting but the settings add to the romance build that I wanted to feel unique and not rushed.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My creative self wars with my disciplined self and that really comes out in how I write. I outline my chapters at the beginning of the book and then often ignore them as the artist takes over the process and what flows out is often completely different than planned as the characters take on life. I think what emerges is authentic characters. I throw away the writing rule book and write what seems true to the characters.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Well, Nora Roberts is of course a big influence because she really developed the Romantic Suspense Genre and proved that her fans were willing to go on the adventure with her as she changed it up along the way. I love brooding historical romance and mystery myself and that, I’m sure, influences me. I also look to master story tellers such as Hemingway as I learn to make the scenes that hold the interest of the reader. Finally, I would have to say Dorothy Gillman, especially her Mrs. Pollifax series. She inspires me to want to create relatable characters who have fantastic journeys As they solve their mysteries and experience suspense. She Also wrote a hilarious stand alone called A Nun in the Closet, that has been a long time favorite for me.

What are you working on now?
Book 2 in the Friends & Lovers Series is well underway! Lilliana’s story will be very different from Genevieve’s but guaranties some exotic places, strong like-able lead characters and of course a bad guy or two to be found out. Book 2 continues the story learned in the first book but also stands on its own as a complete tale. Dr Lilliana Bradford is a strong, successful, and interesting heroine and I’m loving writing her story. I’ve also jumped a little ahead and written a couple scenes for Book 3 which is Moira’s Story. Readers who love to travel in the telling of a story will enjoy Moira’s home in Innisneill Island of the coast of Ireland, a magical place.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I use Twitter everyday and am developing a following. Readers will hear about my day to day writing journey and I often post cornie writing jokes of the day. I was excited to see Dark Vendetta: Genevieve’s story go on Goodreads also. I created an authors page and answered some Q&A while I work to learn how to develop a fan base. Just having to book there was a thrill. My facebook account is the other place where I post updates.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
I would say that it’s important to realize that success comes in small measures and is a journey. Take time to enjoy each little success along the way. The publishing industry is complex and filled with constantly changing and confusing developments. Relax and do a little more each day to learn this new world. Listen to your inner person and stay true to yourself.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Throw out the rulebook and write your own way. It’s not easy to do but definitely can be rewarding. Also, I once was told that the writers journey is a solitary one so you need to like yourself and take care of yourself. It’s very true. The

What are you reading now?
I am re-reading books by Deanna Raybourn and Anna Lee Huber which are historical romantic suspense written in the first person. I’m intrigued by how both authors build the readers‘ emotional investment in the story. When I read their books, I’m completely absorbed in that world. I want to bring that feeling of immersion to my readers too.

What’s next for you as a writer?
The 5 books in the Friends & Lovers series is going to keep me busy for a while but I’m also writing a new cozy mystery series about an Irish-American couple who inherit a castle inn and move to Ireland with their two young daughters. It will have the requisite mystery but also some fun characters such as a matchmaking ghost and eccentric villager neighbors. I write a lot so my new fans won’t have to wait long between books.

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?
Well the practical me would want some kind of survival guide. Then the spiritual me would want a Bible. I would want something about surviving the solitude like Gillman’s A New Kind of Country. I’d want something funny to make me smile and keep up my spirits. And finally, I’d want something with music and lyrics to remind me of the words to favorite songs such as Christmas Carols.

Author Websites and Profiles
Cristiona Clare Amazon Profile

Cristiona Clare’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I started writing in 1984 when I was 15. I enjoy reading and writing science fiction novels. I also enjoy graphic and web design, drumming, trains and listening to various subgenres of metal music. After a long hiatus in writing, I continue to capture the imagination of readers with new science fiction stories. As of December 2020, I’ve written six books. The first three are combined into one published trilogy.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The book I just finished writing—which is now in the editing phase—is called Feathers of Shardaa. It is book two of the Xeno Tryst Duology. The name is inspired by odd feather symbols that are discovered in the mysterious and uncharted Shardaa Sector of space, which have significant meaning in the story.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t think so. The Lightyears Trilogy was written pantser-style. On all books after that, I had switched to plotter-style, which I am more comfortable with.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Frank Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson. I have enjoyed the Dune series, some of the Star Wars series, and the classic Battlestar Galactica series by Glen A. Larson.

What are you working on now?
I have just finished Feathers of Shardaa. It is book two of the Xeno Tryst Duology, an erotic space opera.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My own website, www.WymerNovels.com is essential. Social media is helpful as well. I am currently on Goodreads, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and Vimeo. I make book trailers for each of my books, as I believe they are very important.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Stop doubting yourself. If you put an effort into getting published, you can do it.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The one thing that motivated me to get published was Steve Harvey’s Motivational Jump speech. It is so profound that I will share the link here.

What are you reading now?
I am currently editing Feathers of Shardaa. So, I am currently not reading any other material.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I plan to do a mystery space opera next, followed by a fantasy space opera.

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?
The Bible, an Almanac, a Survival Guide, and my own books.

Author Websites and Profiles
Troy D. Wymer Website
Troy D. Wymer Amazon Profile

Troy D. Wymer’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Aloha! I love writing and have 5 books on Amazon right now. My dream was to travel the world but I didn’t know how to kick myself to do it. Suddenly I noticed my son had grown up and was out in the world meeting holy men in Moroccan caves and riding camels, why can’t I do that? It should be easier for me; I’m older than him.
I loved my photography business that I founded in Silicon Valley, down the street from Steve Jobs, but something was missing. I didn’t know it until I was hitchhiking with my teenage son and flagging down a big rig in Nepal. The adventures I had in Nepal, teaching photography to the staff of the Nepal Youth Foundation, and discovering how to travel in the Himalayas ignited my world view and changed my life forever.
I’ll always be grateful to Nepal and my son who showed me how to travel slowly and deeply. I was off and running, drunk on my own freedom.
Now I’ve lived in and visited 35 countries and circumnavigated the planet 3 times buying one way tickets along the journey. I’ve learned about life, people, and myself and had many hilarious, horrible, and heavenly hours along the way!

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Around the World, What I Learned from 11 Years of Solo Travel is my new book. I was inspired to write this one as it’s been burning in my brain for a few years and its the newest 4th book in my series; Tales of a Travel Warrior. There are so many magical moments, profound people, and compelling dimensions I’ve lived in since writing my last book that I had to finally finish this one and I’m all ready working on the next one. The pandemic inspired me too as I escaped from Sicily after the lockdown, managed to get free, (this story is in the new book) and realized that we don’t know how much time left in this world so we have to live our dreams right now. Just do it!

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My secret to writing is to meditate first and then go jump in the ocean. It’s working right now here in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Comedians inspire me a lot! But the first book that truly opened my eyes was Simone de Beauvoir’s, The Second Sex. And books by Colette. I’d never read any books by independent women as a teenager. I realized this is how I wanted to live and who I was going to be when I grew up. I wasn’t sure I’d get married or have children but I did do both. You can change your life in a heartbeat. And I was inspired by the Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. I like to read this book every year, it has so many highlights underlined in the past 25 years, it’s dog eared and time to get a new one.

What are you working on now?
I’m working on a new book, a screenplay, and creating videos for my YouTube channel, it has over a million views and I love sharing where I am in the world and what I’m doing now.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I find that there are always new ways to promote yourself. With my first book I learned how to get on radio shows all across North America and Canada, to talk about my book. It was incredible and eye-opening to get up and be funny at 2:30AM for the drive time radio shows on the East Coast. Now with my new book I’m discovering things to do online to promote it and this is fun as you don’t have to leave home.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Yes keep going and finish your book, learn the business side of it too. I remember realizing a bit of wisdom after my first book was traditionally published at Celestial Arts, a division of TenSpeed Press which was bought later on by Random House. The truth is this: the publishers have other books to promote and even though my first book was a lead book, Everyday Naked, Sacred and Profound Morsels of Truth, I had to get out there and kick ass to do the marketing and get readers to take a look at it. It worked. The better you can do on the marketing and business side of being an author the more books you will probably sell.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Just finish it, you can always edit it later, get it down on paper! Or in your computer.

What are you reading now?
I’m reading Become a Successful Indie Author by Craig Martelle.

What’s next for you as a writer?
As soon as this pandemic is over I’m leading a workshop in Paris, France, and one in Rome, Italy.
And making more videos for my YouTube channel that has over a million views: https://youtube.com/MaryBartnikowski

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?
This is a great question. I’d take Julia Cameron’s book, The Artist’s Way, Elizabeth Gilbert’s, Big Magic, and something funny. I liked Trevor Noah’s last book. And Pema Chodron’s book, When Things Fall Apart.

Author Websites and Profiles
Mary Bartnikowski Website
Mary Bartnikowski Amazon Profile
Mary Bartnikowski Author Profile on Smashwords

Mary Bartnikowski’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I was born in a small town and volunteered at a library one summer when I was young. That summer I read so many books. My mother fostered a love of books in me since I was a child, but this summer gave me the opportunity to real grow into my own. Since then I had a desire to write, and now I am. I have written several books. Most unpublished. Some under a pseudonym that I’ll keep quiet for now.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Below the Dome is the name of my last book and to say there were many inspirations is an understatement. I feel as though every sentence every scene came from somewhere different but still linked together in the way I wanted. It was a blast writing and researching.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I wouldn’t say there are any unusual habits although I do go some periods of writing with music and some without. If I do listen to music, there is one song track I like to listen to over and over.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Neil Gaiman, C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, Andrzej Sapkowski, Stephen King, Stephen Chboski, Ted Dekker.

What are you working on now?
I am working on the sequel to Below the Dome as well as short stories that happen in the same universe as my main novels.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
So far Instagram has been great, but so has Facebook.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep writing. Read the greats.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The first draft will be garbage.

What are you reading now?
Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan

What’s next for you as a writer?
Hopefully transition to full time. Next may be many years away.

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?
Hatchet, Robinson Crusoe, Army Survival Guide, and The Horse and His Boy.

Author Websites and Profiles
Stephen Arnold Amazon Profile

Stephen Arnold’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hi! I’ve written nine books, and I love to mix historical fiction with romance, as you’ll see in four of my books. I also enjoy writing screenplays.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is “The Other Christmas List,” and it was inspired by a screenplay that I wrote. I love Hallmark movies, but it seemed all of the good ideas had already been taken. When I saw my mom struggling to connect with my nephew, I mixed that in with my most magical memory of Christmas – the Christmas markets in Germany. Voila, I had a story. The screenplay won an award at the Sherman Oaks Film Festival.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I used to believe that I could only write in my sunroom when I lived in Michigan. Fortunately, that was not true, as I learned when I moved to California. Whew! I feel I write best in the morning.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
One of my favorite books is “The House” by Danielle Steel. An amazing story I’ve read many times. I’m also a huge fan of Jack Canfield and other motivational speakers.

What are you working on now?
I’m working on the fourth book to the Harbor Secret Series. It’s taking me forever because there are so many facts to work into the historical fiction story.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’ve found my books are best promoted through my blog, Daterella.wordpress.com.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep writing, and don’t let criticism that is not constructive hold you back!

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“God would not have put the dream in your heart if he didn’t mean for you to achieve it.” -Steve Harvey

What are you reading now?
A book about positive affirmations.

What’s next for you as a writer?
Finding time to write everything I want to write.

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?
The House, Zoya, Save The Cat.

Author Websites and Profiles
Kristie Dickinson Website

Kristie Dickinson’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Christopher Link, I am a 47 year old male. I currently live in Jacksonville Florida. I am a Harwood Floor Technician by trade, sanding and finishing/installing hardwood floors. I have a passion for Spiritual creative writing and to be in service to others as an Author/writer. I am a newly published Author in 2020 with my first book out and available now. I am seeking and preparing to be a Spiritual life Coach and also pursuing music as a drummer.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My first book is titled, Coming out of the Illusion: Realizing the real you. – It was inspired after a personal Spiritual awakening and a new desire to use my writing talents to be in service to others.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My unusual writing habit would just be considered old school techniques. I write everything pen to paper, in rough draft form before typing up as a computer document.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Some influential Authors would be: Patricia Cori, Magenta Pixie, David Wilcock, Lee Carroll, Mark Hamilton and many more with all there writings and books.

What are you working on now?
I am working on Book 2. It is going to be longer with my now traditional format, more poems, special sections and just fun overall creative writing.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have a new blog site called: My Golden Nuggets of Wisdom. The articles go along with the book chapters, highlighting some of the material in each chapter, plus bringing the information from another perspective and adding new material as well. please see: https://mygoldennuggetsofwisdom.wordpress.com

Do you have any advice for new authors?
My advice for new/aspiring Authors is to just get started writing on what you are passionate about. Let your vibration attract the ideas as you go along. One does not need to see the full picture immediately, it will unfold as you go along.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I have ever heard/received would be to just simply believe in yourself and what you are doing, 100% and know that you are a Champion and Somebody from the start. You can do whatever you put your mind to and know that you are already more than good enough!

What are you reading now?
I am reading a book by Patricia Cori: The Sirian Revelations

What’s next for you as a writer?
Next as a writer, I plan on books 2 and 3 forming a trilogy of information and then my Autobiography.

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?
The books I would bring would be – Super Puzzle- By Mark Hamilton
The Only Answer to Success- By Dr. Leonard Coldwell
The Law of Success in Sixteen Lessons- By Napoleon Hill

Author Websites and Profiles
Christopher Link Website
Christopher Link Amazon Profile

 

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Rob and I write under RW Duder. I have 8 novels published. My very first novel was “Ryerson” which was a coming-of-age drama but two years later I published my first horror novel and have been writing in that genre ever since! I live in Ontario, Canada with my wife and daughter.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I’m actually releasing “Amy: Legacy” in just three short weeks on Christmas Day. It’s a sequel to my 2018 Novel “Amy.” The Amy series is an homage to the truly great 80’s and 90’s slasher flicks like Halloween, Scream and so on. The concept of “Amy” came to me in a subway tunnel in Toronto. Someone had written “Amy” on the subway wall and it looked like it was in crayon. That’s what ended up inspiring the series!

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t plan much of anything when it comes to writing. Some writers write plot and character outlines and storyboards. I don’t do any of that. I just get an idea and try to build on it. I’ve never had an issue organizing my thoughts and remembering a truly great idea.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Stephen. King.

Out of the top ten books I’ve ever read, he has five of them. I think he is brilliant and he completely shaped my writing. I’ve been absolutely honored to have my writing compared to King’s and I do appreciate that because he definitely inspires me with his work. Insomnia, IT, The Stand, On Writing … all books that absolutely must be read.

What are you working on now?
I guess this is my official announcement. I’m working on the third instalment of two different series. I am writing the third book in the Desolation series (called “Seclusion”) and I am working on the third instalment of “Amy” tentatively titled AMY III

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
The Facebook Group 20booksto50K is the greatest source of information as a writer I’ve ever come across. Their extensive files section on every aspect of writing and publishing is a treasure trove of information and has helped me become more successful

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Let people read what you’re writing!! Too many writers are “shy” about their stories. Get them out there! Get feedback! Be willing to hear the good, the bad, and the ugly because it will make you a better writer.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
It’s easy to bet on the horse when the race is over.

What are you reading now?
A friend of mine turned me on to horror writer “JA Konrath” and I’ve been working through one of his trilogies. It’s really helping me write in the genre too.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I don’t know?! And that’s kind of exciting. I’m working full time on sequels right now and I’d love to have a burst of original creativity and come up with a new concept. I’m not worried about writer’s block because I know new ideas are never far behind.

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?
Insomnia – Stephen King
The Stand – Stephen King
Great Expectations – Dickens

Author Websites and Profiles
Rob Duder Website
Rob Duder Amazon Profile
Rob Duder Author Profile on Smashwords

 

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I graduated from a magnet program that specialized in medical science and research. I was studying to be a psychologist, but a combination of not being able to afford school and the fear of what might happen to my sister, if she was left with our family made me decide to stay and not go to college. We figured it was only a matter of time before our parents were arrested again and I didn’t want her to go onto Defax since no one would have been able to take her. Basically you could say I went down the broke artist route, but hey! At least I don’t have student loans!😅👍

With all the time I spent alone, most of it I spent daydreaming. It was hard to actually focus on the world around me, as if it wasn’t real. Like I was waiting for something to come along and make it real.
To be completely honest I’ve struggled with depression for several years. Maybe it was because I was quiet because I kept to myself, that kids at school didn’t like me. I was bullied throughout most of middle school, even transferring after I got death threats from being queer. I tried making friends, but people scared me. High school was better, but I was still afraid of reaching out because I felt like I would be a burden to my friends.
My home life was kind of dysfunctional with my mom and her boyfriend being drug dealers/addicts and my stepbrothers were extremely hateful people who despised anyone not like them.

Dealing with the constant fear of the
cops raiding your house or being homeless or that you were going to be murdered if they find out who you are puts you on edge. We were living with convicted felons and yet my sister and I felt like we were the prisoners. We didn’t have much freedom even inside own house. School was the one place I got to get away. After graduating though & not going to college it felt like I was stuck in that place. Daydreaming and writing became the only way to survive, the only thing I could do to be happy.

To the day it’s still a big part of why I’m here. Writing helped save my life when I was trapped in some bad situations. It became my dream. I dream that my stories and poems can help people feel things when nothing else feels real. I want it to be something that makes them happy, even if it’s only for a little bit.

I’ve only written 4 books so far, but I plan on doing this for the rest of my life because it really is all I want from life.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Only one of my books is published so far, that book being If You Teach A Cat to Write. I wrote it about my cat Snug, who I lost a couple years ago. He was the sweetest little cloud and I wish I could’ve saved him. This story is my way of saying goodbye.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
When writing, especially in poetry, I feel this need to capitalize letters even when they’re in the middle of a sentence. It’s like I envision how it feels in my head when reading it and by capitalizing certain words you give them more meaning.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’ve only recently have started this, but social media definitely can help you. Sending links to your books to your friends and family who can share it on their Facebook or Instagram or Twitter will definitely help you reach a larger audience. Promote the book yourself on your own platform or try to pay for ads if you can.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
You are going to want to cry and probably scream. Do that. As long as you keep going. Sometimes formatting a book or learning new software can be frustrating, but even if it takes you hours or days keep trying to learn it. Do whatever it takes to get your book out there. If it doesn’t become a best seller immediately, don’t lose hope. These things take time.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Sort of off-topic but for me it would be:
“Someone will love you again. Just as much maybe even more.”
For me it felt kind of comforting hearing that. It’s a reminder that even when you lose the people you love or they leave that doesn’t mean that you’re not worth it. It doesn’t mean that you don’t deserve happiness. You will be loved again, even if that person to love you is You.

What are you reading now?
Little Women and Werewolves
Amerika
Heat Wave
Fanfiction
Wise Guy
The Jungle

What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m going to work on promoting my book and figuring out how to format the next one.

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?
Orange: one of my favorite mangas.

The Complete Fairytales of The Brothers Grimm: my Aunt got this for me before she passed away.

And one of the books I’m currently reading so that way I can actually sit down and finish it!

Author Websites and Profiles
Haley Quinn Website
Haley Quinn Amazon Profile

Haley Quinn’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
So far, I’ve written two books. One is a science fiction, romance titled, The Group. The second is a collection of poetry titled, Not by Chance: A Poetry Collection.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The name of my latest book is The Group.

Since I was a kid, I’ve loved all things science fiction, not to mention time travel. So, needless to say, I jumped at the opportunity to write a science fiction time travel novel. Of course, there’s a little romance added—at their core, who doesn’t love romance?

As for the inspiration for the title… This story focuses on a group of people who, at first glance, are different than the other but must use their differences to help one another. I’ve always loved stories and movies where people with different personalities and backgrounds come together and become a strong unit or team.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
As far as I know, I have no unusual writing habits. Though to some, writing, in general, is an unusual habit.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
The first book that truly captured my attention was Gone with the Wind. I was a kid in 8th grade reading this literary classic and thinking, “Wow, Scarlett O’hara is a phenomenal character.” But once I was older, though Scarlett was a strong woman, I realized she was not the hero of the story. The character, Melanie, was the true hero.

I guess you can say this is when I realized every character in a book matters, and the character that is underestimated at first glance can indeed be the most powerful one.

The second book that I fell in love with is Michael Grant’s Gone series. I was amazed at how he brought several perspectives together and created this wondrous and somewhat frightening world of children who possessed impossible powers.

Grant showed me that it doesn’t matter how many perspectives your book has, but what matters is if you can use every perspective to create a book your readers can’t put down.

What are you working on now?
My current work in progress is my baby book—the one I first began in high school, the one I want to be just right.

If you love supernatural fantasies, you’ll love this book!

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
To be honest, my best method for promoting my books is you, the readers. Share, share, share!

Do you have any advice for new authors?
This is my advice, writing is fun, but it is also a challenge. Find the joy in both.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I’ve ever received is “Know God for yourself.” This may not resonate with some but in this advice, I’ve come to know myself and even know my purpose for writing.

What are you reading now?
What I’m reading now is Jane Eyre. If you know anything about me, you know Jane Eyre is a favorite of mine!

What’s next for you as a writer?
What’s next is writing more books and sharing them with my readers. I love writing and am excited to hear from my readers on what they think of my work and how it has changed their lives for the better.

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?
Of course, Jane Eyre for literary entertainment.

The Bible for my spiritual sanity.

My first fictional publication, The Group, for a reminder of what I’m capable of.

And I’m going to take a creative leap here and say…a notebook—which should count because it has the word “book,” right?

Author Websites and Profiles
Octavia D. Mason Website
Octavia D. Mason Amazon Profile

Octavia D. Mason’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
“Sasha Fino has an incredible talent for living vicariously through the colorful and intriguing escapades of her strong female characters and successful leading men.”
Sasha Fino is an artist, writer, and author. She is striving to bring her hot novels to life. Sasha loves writing forbidden romance with steamy sex. When the bad guy gets the girl, her slogan says it all, “With Great Passion comes with Great Danger.”
Her latest book is her autobiography on her life tiled LIVING STRONG WITH CEREBRAL PALSY under her real name Amanda Forry-Fino

Sasha is a part of the DC Author’s Dinner Group that’s included some of the most significant bestselling authors of our time. Sasha lives with her family in Williamsburg, Virginia.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Happy Holidays! My Name is Amanda who lives life with Cerebral Palsy, in my new book, LIVING STRONG WITH CEREBRAL PALSY is coming out on January 23rd, 2021, self-published. I feel like there needs to be a book on adult matters of a full flesh woman that has Cerebral Palsy — expressing my deep inner emotions within myself. Having an unusual personal outlook on life, growing up as a victim of heavy abuse.

“The new edition has added more content coming straight from the heart! It has taken courage and strength to put this out to the world. I highly recommend that anyone check out the new edition even if you have read the first edition. So heartfelt and poignant this edition will truly inspire you!” – Miss US Pageantry’s Miss Tennessee Helping Hearts Heaven Ramsey

This is a redux of Cerebral Palsy Gal: A Novella. I have rewritten and improved it by putting more of my heart and soul into it. I hope you will all check it out and enjoy this newly added content. Living Strong with Cerebral Palsy is also available in audiobook form. Narrated by Lilly Canon.

What are you working on now?
Promoting Living Strong with Cerebral Palsy. My book, Living Strong with Cerebral Palsy will be released on Amazon on January 23rd, 2021. It’s my dream that this book in which I’ve poured so much of my heart to reach bestseller status on Amazon. Please consider making a purchase to help make my dream come true. #livingstrongCP

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Facebook all the way. So far, my best results are from helping other authors’ firends.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
New give up hope even if you have zero fan base, keep on going posting like you do have a huge fan base because you never know what one of your books stand out to others.

What’s next for you as a writer?
One shall never know from me. LOL

 

Author Websites and Profiles
Sasha Fino Website
Sasha Fino Amazon Profile

Sasha Fino’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
At age nineteen I wanted to write a book. I’m not sure why, but I was sure that no one would want to read a book by a nineteen year old, so I needed a hook. I had been bicycling as an adult for a year and in the enthusiasm of youth figured I was something of an expert, so I set out to write a bicycle touring guide. I used the maps and tour descriptions to sell the book, but added touring stories to satisfy my creative needs.
Sometimes the brashness of youth pays off, if the payoff you’re looking for is freedom, exploration and creativity, not income. That book, co-authored with Phil Van Valkenberg, lead to hundreds of low paying freelance opportunities, five more bicycle touring guides, dozens of bicycle maps and a career in the world of bicycling. The career paid the bills. Income from the books, maps and freelance opportunities fed my cycling habit and eventually allowed me to ratchet back my “career” to three days per week.
Those three days were spent in a cubicle. It was a good job, but I lived for the other four days when I could write, create maps, give talks and explore endlessly. My world expanded from the cubicle to the metro area of the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, then further afield across the states of Minnesota and Wisconsin and a bicycle tour that eventually crossed the breadth of the United States.
Wherever I went, and whatever I did, I felt compelled to write about it: opinion pieces, touring stories, interviews and observations. Some of the pieces elicited kudos, others derision, many a mix of both.
I never developed the tough skin of a hardened journalist. I winced and groaned when the response was negative and my stomach churned when I submitted a piece likely to generate backlash. The best protection was to reread the story multiple times before submitting it. Did it convey my real thoughts? Was it clearly written? Did I use the right words? If I could honestly say “yes,” then there was nothing more to do. I submitted the piece and waited for publication.
Like so many journalists, I felt that I had at least one novel in me. And like so many journalists, I had a wealth of experience to draw from. I’d interviewed folks from many walks of life, observed with a focused eye and a developing story line, lived an itinerant life for too many years and worked at the craft of writing.
I could tell a story, but could I write a novel? The biggest challenge, and the most enjoyable revelation, was that a novelist can lie. As a journalist, I worked hard to get an accurate story down on paper. As a novelist, I had to work hard to break those bonds of accuracy. Sure, I had to keep the story, down to minute details, believable, but beyond that I could lie, cheat, fib, fabricate, revise, prevaricate. Call it what you wish.
Sometimes those fabrications revealed a truth that ran so deep it shook me to the core. I’d stop, take a few deep breaths, wipe my eyes and walk away to regain my composure. I don’t expect the same impact on readers, because the act of writing can mine a deep vein that reading can only acknowledge.
Whether fiction or journalism, the same criteria applies to a story. Did it convey my real thoughts? Was it clearly written? Did I use the right words? I checked those boxes with “On His Own Terms” and published the story.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“On His Own Terms” has been bouncing around in my head for at least 30 years. At first I thought it would be a big picture look at bicycling and how it can lead down so many different paths. Not just riding, but the history of bicycling, its impact on society, especially during the Victorian era, the characters who populate that history, insights about politics, international relationships, that sort of thing. That idea died an ignoble death and the world is better for it.
Then it segued into an autobiography, a short lived fantasy, no one was hurt.
In the end the characters took over. They made it clear they knew who they were and how they would handle any situation, if I would just get out of the way. I threw situations at them and they handled them on their own terms, but a sharp eyed editor wasn’t impressed. With the MS Word equivalent of a red sharpie plus pithy comments and a summary letter, he suggested that I throw out the last third of the book and rewrite the first two thirds. The rest was OK. Three more readers who believed in tough love made additional demands.
The book finally made it to print, only to be panned by a couple of friends who were also schooled in the value of tough love. No option but to pull the book down and rework it.
I’d like to say that the novel is ready for the big tent now, but I’ve learned that verdict isn’t mine to make. Readers will decide, and I’ll have to handle the situation on my own terms.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Nope. I have a nice writing desk and office. I sit down and I write.
I’ve learned to throw out the first paragraph of most of my articles because they rarely reflect the rest of the story. In the case of “On His Own Terms” I tossed out the first chapter. Such is the nature of my writing that I have to jump in and flounder around for awhile before I get a rhythm. But I don’t throw out that first part until I finish the whole piece. Remember that comment about being panned by a couple of friends after the book was published? I took it down, threw out the first chapter and heavily edited the first hundred pages. It read so much better.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Among the classics Mark Twain, John Steinbeck and William Faulkner showed me how words should be used and stories unfold. Good, long form journalism, as practiced in The Atlantic, makes me envious. Breaking into that magazine, even with a letter to the editor, would be equivalent to winning the Pulitzer Prize for me. Ironically, if I ever did break into that magazine, I would question why they lowered their standards.

What are you working on now?
I’ve returned to freelance writing. I’d love to write an opinion piece on the overuse of metaphors.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I wish I knew

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write for publication. In other words, put your work out there for strangers to read. They don’t care about you, but they care a lot about what they are reading. Without that discipline, you’re writing a diary.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“I saw that.” Karma

What are you reading now?
“Travels with Charley” by John Steinbeck. With Covid shutting down most travel, I need an outlet for my wanderlust. Like Steinbeck, I’m more interested in the people than the tourist highlights.
“Shipping News” by Annie Proulx. This is a terrible book. The author’s extraordinary overuse of metaphors is beyond comprehension. I’m digging into it this time around for the sheer joy of finding the most egregious abuses of metaphors. There’s a story or opinion piece or something in there.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m not sure if I have another novel in me. I’ll have to let several ideas bounce around to see if anything comes out. Meanwhile, I love freelance writing and have several stories in mind.

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?
At least one book on how to survive on a desert island, preferably with hints on how to signal passing jets or ships.
One book on astronomy, so I can get lost in the cosmos every night.
One book on navigating the ocean because I would rather die trying to escape than live to read the same three or four books for the rest of my life.

Author Websites and Profiles
Doug Shidell Website
Doug Shidell Amazon Profile

Doug Shidell’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile