Awesome Author Interviews

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
If we don’t count the novels I cranked out in college, “What Survives of Us” is my first book. (In fact, let’s just forget I mentioned those college efforts, shall we? Wince!) I’ve called myself a writer since I was 8 years old, but in the many years that have intervened since them, I’ve learned that there’s no greater writing teacher than life itself. I’m also a mom, and spent quite a few years as a high school English teacher, which I loved.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“What Survives of Us” is the name of my most recent novel. I know it sounds cliched, but I dreamed about the main character, then started asking questions about her. What could have happened to a plump, Martha-Stewart-ish housewife, to transform her into the edgy, broken, driven character I dreamed about? Those questions became the events in my book.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I’m a HUGE believer in the power of ritual to put you into a certain mindset, and I use that when I prep to write every day. I light my candle. I burn some incense (I used to smoke when I wrote, and this is my substitute). I chew gum compulsively – when I’m really in the zone, my family says I sound like a teenager on speed gnawing away on that piece of Trident Bubblegum.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’ve read Nora Roberts since she started out in category romance years ago – reading one of her books is like having a conversation with an old friend, her style is so familiar to me. I love Alice Hoffman’s “Practical Magic,” J.K. Rowling’s everything, Suzanne Collins, and Barbara Kingsolver, just to name a few. Linda Howard’s “Son of the Morning” is one of my all-time favorite books. I loved teaching “To Kill a Mockingbird,” and am anxiously awaiting Harper Lee’s new book. Laura Ingalls Wilder shaped my childhood. I deeply admire Stephen King, though the only books of his I’ve managed to finish are “The Stand” and his most excellent memoir on writing. He scares the bejeebers out of me.

What are you working on now?
I am nearly finished with the sequel to “What Survives of Us” – I took a break from writing it to complete this questionnaire, in fact! This series will have at least 3 books, maybe more – I have so many ideas!

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Facebook has had tremendous power for me. I’ve also come to appreciate the power of smaller newsletters and book blogs – word of mouth is VERY powerful!

Do you have any advice for new authors?
I always get a groan when I give this advice, but I think it can’t be said enough: Study your craft! Good mechanics, proper grammar (and how stuffy does that make me sound??) and sound structure should be the very basis of ALL published writing. If you’re struggling with these elements, you’ve got two choices (IMHO) – either study and bring your skills up to snuff, or hire a really good editor. For me, I don’t care how compelling or interesting the story is – I won’t read on after I’ve found the second error. Mistakes pull me out of the story – my brain pauses to say, “Hey, wait…is that word used correctly? I don’t think that word is being used correctly…” If that happens more than once, I’m done.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Stephen King: “If you want to be a writer, you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot.” I was also told long ago to remember that my characters are not my children – I can’t shield them from trouble, nor should I. They must be allowed to suffer, terribly sometimes. “And they lived happily ever after” is a pretty boring story…

What are you reading now?
“A Sudden Light” by Garth Stein. Really moody and atmospheric – I’m enjoying it very much!

What’s next for you as a writer?
I’ll be finishing the sequel to my first book, then moving on to the third in the series.

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 collected works of Shakespeare (that’s not cheating, is it?); “The Tale of Despereaux” by Kate DiCamillo, so I could memorize long passages; and a blank journal so I could write my own stories!

Author Websites and Profiles
Kathy Miner Website
Kathy Miner Amazon Profile

Kathy Miner’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am an author writing to support the expansion of human consciousness.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The latest release on Amazon is the award winning WE ARE ALL ONE in e-book format. It was originally published a few years ago in paperback only, but now in 2015, it has been released on Kindle.
It was inspired by a ‘mystical death experience’ and written in the six days which followed.
What is intended to be shared is the fundamental Reality which underlies all our lives, and the real benefits we receive from seeing this.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I tend to write from the Heart, so writing can be several thousand words a day – sometimes I will write all day and create 10,000 words – just learning to write when the creative impulse is present is key to this type of book.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Ram Dass, Eckhart Tolle and Gary Zukav – and all pioneers of consciousness.

What are you working on now?
Presently working on several titles, and have just completed my first novel entitled THE SOUL WHISPERER, a spiritual thriller with something for everyone.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My website: www.AuthorJMHarrison.com and Facebook.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write about something you know and love – in this way you will fully contribute to the world and those around you.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Never give up.
Be true to Yourself.

What are you reading now?
I don’t get much time to write, but I am presently trying to find time to read
ACTIVE HOPE by Joanna Macy & Chris Johnstone.

What’s next for you as a writer?
Meeting the deadlines for forthcoming publications, developing my website and enjoying life!

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 Gnostic Gospels.
A new Earth by Tolle.
Be As You Are – Ramana Maharshi.
The Little Prince.

Author Websites and Profiles
Jonathan Harrison Website
Jonathan Harrison Amazon Profile

Jonathan Harrison’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I actually began as an independent film maker, about 12 years ago. My first movie, Night of the Snakehead Fish, was very low budget, but has become something of a cult hit. I spent a number of years writing scripts that I couldn’t afford to film. I also had a few projects that fell apart halfway through. (It’s rough out there for us little guys!) When I got the idea that became The Check Out, I decided to try my hand at writing it as a novel. You need far fewer resources to release a book, and I thought it would be an interesting challenge. I had written some short stories before, so I thought “why not?”

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The Check Out is my latest book. It’s a crazy tale of a group of people who work at a failing grocery story. Each of them gets caught up in strange circumstances that put them deep in debt. When the store announces a $10,000 cash giveaway, each of the characters decide to steal it on the same night. As you can imagine, it doesn’t go so well for some of them.

I had worked at a grocery store before, and would keep myself entertained by imagining insane things that could happen. I kept a list of all these ideas, and one day, it all clicked together. Those flights of fancy became The Check Out.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t think so! When I’m actually working on a project, I try to schedule time several days a week to write. I spend a long time working out the details in my head before I write a word. Once I sit down to type, it’s pretty much gushes forth.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Carl Hiaasen has been a big influence. I just love how he takes outlandish scenarios and grounds them with human protagonists. I get excited and laugh at the same time.

What are you working on now?
I am putting the finishing touches on a short that I directed in December. It’s a film noir look at a man who owes a gambling debt he can’t afford to pay off.

I am also working on my second novel. I spent nearly two years piecing it all together. Now, it’s time for it to finally spill onto the page.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have had a lot of luck selling physical copies. I have a good relationship with a local bookstore, and they have helped me immensely. I have also looked for unconventional outlets. There is a store in an arts district that sells locally made goods. I talked to the owners and got my book in there. I was lucky to get in before Christmas and had some great results.

I think you have to constantly be on the lookout for opportunities. Sitting back and hoping Amazon does the work for you isn’t going to move any copies. There’s too many people doing the same thing.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Make sure your book is a complete package before trying to sell it. Hire an editor, a graphic artist, and, if you need one, a person to format your ebook.

All of that takes time, but it gives you the opportunity to research the marketing aspect in the meantime. Find out what sites are worth advertising on and which ones to avoid. There’s no sense in spending money on places that offer little return.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
There’s so much that I’ve heard. I think it’s important to pay attention to the fine details in setting up your book on Amazon. Keywords, categories, and all that can have a huge impact on your sales. I would also talk to other writers to see what’s worked for them.

What are you reading now?
I am in the middle of All The President’s Men. After that, I plan on reading a book on the Black Panthers. Somewhere in there, I want to read Stephen King’s IT.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I am working on my next novel. It’s still in the early stages, so that’s about all I can say right now. I don’t even want to mention the title, yet!

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?

Author Websites and Profiles
Richard Lester Website
Richard Lester Amazon Profile
Richard Lester Author Profile on Smashwords

Richard Lester’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I just released by debut novella Grey Areas a couple of weeks ago. It is the first of four in a serial of books.

I live in Kansas City, Missouri with my wife and daughter. I used to be in radio and I still do voiceover work. I also have a full time job that keeps me busy.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Grey Areas takes place in a small town in Iowa. I am from Iowa and have always appreciated the values of a small Midwest community. I don’t want to say much more about the inspiration due to possible “spoilers” from saying too much.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I’m not sure if they are unusual, but I do have some. I have found the best place for me to write is away from home. Because of this I end up in coffee shops a lot. For me, there are less distractions here than at my house, even when I’m alone. I also prefer to not write sitting up in a hard back chair or on a computer. I tend to write on my iPad (believe it or not) and fight other customers for one of the comfortable chairs at Starbucks.

Earphones and music are a necessity, too. What I listen to varies.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
When I was young the first book series I got into was the Hardy Boys mysteries. I loved them so much that I started to “write” my own Hardy Boys books. Unfortunately, no one in my third grade class bought them.

My Side Of The Mountain by Jean Craighead George is another book I remember quite distinctly. It more than likely influenced the creation of Grey Areas.

When I was older I read Midnight In The Garden Of Good Evil by John Berendt for a taste of what a strong character-driven story reads like. Eventually I grew partial to books by John Grisham, David Baldacci, and Clive Cussler.

What are you working on now?
I am currently editing Grey Areas 2 (Spring 2015). In addition, I have already started writing Grey Areas 3 (TBD).

I also plan to release two books about classic pop and rock hit music in 2015. The first drafts of both have already been written.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m so new to this it’s not right for me to say much. I was skeptical at first about Goodreads but must say I have been pleasantly surprised by it so far. There are so many out there, though. I am more in the trial and error phase of marketing my book(s) right now.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write. Write. Write. I have had many friends and colleagues tell me they are “writing a book” over the years. But do you know how many of those books have been published? Zero. Writing a book is like losing weight. It takes a strong commitment to see results. But once you put in the time and begin to witness yourself succeeding it becomes addicting. Talk is cheap. Results are priceless. Do it!

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Get an editor. No matter how good of a writer you think you are, you’re not THAT good. A good editor will do wonders for your book. Keep in mind, there WILL be people out there who want you to fail. They will be combing your book for mistakes. Minimize the mistakes and you will sell more books.

Also love this Tom Clancy quote: “The difference between fiction and reality? Fiction has to make sense.”

What are you reading now?
Stateline: A Dan Reno Novel by Dave Stanton

What’s next for you as a writer?
I plan to finish the Grey Areas serial and from there I am so excited because the possibilities are endless. I love writing fiction and constructing story lines, but I also enjoy the non-fiction side of writing. I have a few things to say there, too. So I’m guessing – regardless of it being somewhat taboo for authors – that I will be doing a little bit of both over the next couple of years.

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 Art Of War for the Sales Warrior

Rolling Stone Album Guide

Tasting Beer by Randy Mosher

A long fiction book I have not read

Author Websites and Profiles
Brad Carl Website
Brad Carl Amazon Profile
Brad Carl Author Profile on Smashwords

Brad Carl’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Nicki J Markus, and I was born in Kent, South-East England in 1982. In 2007 I went on a backpacking holiday, met my husband on a bus journey while visiting a pen pal in Adelaide, South Australia, and never went home! I married in 2011 and was granted Australian Citizenship in 2013, so here I am, a British-Australian. I currently work from home as a freelance editor and proofreader.

My background is languages, and I still try to pursue that as much as I can; although, now I live in Australia I no longer get my long weekends in Prague or Paris to practise like I used to. I am interested in all forms of the arts: theatre, cinema, music (I sing and play several instruments), sketching, photography etc. And I have a great love of history and folklore and mythology. Many of these hobbies find a way to seep through into my writing either through the storyline or characters.

I loved books from a very young age. When we were children, my mother would ask me and my sister what we wanted to do with her for the afternoon. Invariably, my sister would want to play with dolls and I would ask to read a book. So, you can see books and reading have been a lifelong habit—one I have no intention of trying to break (unlike my tendency to bite my nails, which I really should try to crack).

I said for many years I wanted to be a writer, but never did anything about it. It was only after my move to Australia that I decided enough was enough: if I wanted it, I should do it. My first publications were several short stories that were released through Wicked Nights Publishing. From there, I released two novellas with Silver Publishing in 2011 and 2012. When both those publishers closed their doors, I rather found myself back at square one.

I had done a lot of editing work in the M/M genre, and when Wayward Ink Publishing opened and I started to edit for them, I decided to try my hand at something new and submitted to one of their anthologies. That story, The Raider, was accepted and was published under my M/M alternate pen name, Asta Idonea. Since then I’ve had several more short stories accepted by them, and I just sent in a novella for their consideration, which I hope to hear back on later this month.

Meanwhile, I did not neglect my mainstream writing and commenced my first novel, as well as deciding to re-edit/rework my two older novellas for self-publication. One of those, Time-Keepers, came out in January, and the other, Day-Walker, will release in May. My novel, The Ragnarök Chronicles, has just come out this month. You can read a little more about my novel later in this interview.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The Ragnarök Chronicles is really my baby. It’s the book I love most of everything I’ve written so far. I started work on this tale in late June/early July 2014, inspired by my rereading of the Norse myths. At first I planned the book as a trilogy, but when I decided to self-publish, I changed my mind and combined the three books into a single volume. The novel is around 220,000 words in length and took me six months to write and edit, and then a further two and a half months to prepare for publication. So it’s been a long journey. The story is very dear to me and I hope readers will enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it. I couldn’t ask for anything more than that!

The Ragnarök Chronicles takes the figures from Norse mythology and places them in a modern setting. It will appeal to paranormal/fantasy readers, mythology buffs, and fans of re-imagined myths such as the Marvel Thor comics and films. It is a blend of fantasy action and paranormal romance, so it has a little something for everyone. Here is the blurb to give you a little hint:

For Ragnarök will be completed….

Nothing marks Cassandra out—except her visions. She’d only ever seen small, insignificant things. That is until the strange frost arrives.

With her normal life turned upside down, Cassandra is plunged into an extraordinary and terrifying world of Norse gods and rampaging giants, ancient feuds and broken prophecies.

A handsome stranger offers aid. But can Cassandra really trust him? More importantly, can she trust her own judgement when his slightest touch sets her heart and her body aflame?

You can also hear me read some excerpts from the book, and find out more via my blog:

http://www.nickijmarkus.com/p/the-ragnarok-chronicles.html

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t believe I have anything particularly per se, but I do have my little preferences. Although I normally love music, I prefer complete silence when I write, to the point where I prefer to work on my stories when I have the house to myself. I type in the study, but I always edit with a printed off copy in my library/music room. I also like to drink lots of tea—my British heritage coming through, I guess!

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Wow, so many it’s always hard to decide who to list for these questions. I read widely (pretty much anything apart from true crime and chick lit) but my favourite genres are literary fiction and paranormal/fantasy. Some of my favourite authors include: Dante, Shakespeare, Pushkin, Jane Austen, Thomas Hardy, Victor Hugo, Milan Kundera, Haruki Murakami, Chelsea Quinn Yarbro, Charlaine Harris, Anne Rice, Clay & Susan Griffith, Deborah Harkness… the list could go on and on!

My writing is inspired by anything and everything I read, but if I had to pick one author whom I hope I will write as well as one day it would be Chelsea Quinn Yarbro. Her vampire hero, Saint Germain, is an amazing character, and she manages to blend paranormal with meticulously-researched history and a wonderful prose style.

What are you working on now?
Well, I am just writing a couple more M/M short stories under my Asta Idonea pen name to submit for anthologies coming out later this year. I expect to finish those by the end of the month. After that, I will be concentrating on my next work writing as Nicki J Markus: a gothic tale set during the English Regency, featuring a haunted house, vampires and restless spirits. I am currently undertaking some period research and drafting character profiles etc. and I plan to start writing very soon. Look out for more news during the year as I progress with the first draft.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
To be honest, this is something I struggle with. I’m not good at putting myself out there. I have a blog and social media, but it’s been a matter of trial and error when it comes to how and when to promote. For The Ragnarök Chronicles I engaged the services of Eyes on Books to organise my cover reveal, release day blitz and blog tour, so I am hoping that will help me spread the word about this release… along with interviews and other features such as this one! With luck, I can gradually build up a fan base and tailor my promotion from there.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just to keep writing, and don’t be afraid to follow your dreams. I put it off for years, and I’m glad I finally plucked up the courage to submit my work. I adore writing, and it’s worth the rejection and disappointments to be able to get your work out there and share your stories and characters with readers.

Also, read… lots… all of the time. The more widely you read, the more you can improve you own writing by learning from the best.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Probably the ‘show don’t tell’ mantra. It seems a little clichéd, but it’s really great advice and adds vibrancy to your writing.

What are you reading now?
At present, I am reading a book of Icelandic Sagas, continuing my studies of Norse mythology and Viking culture. I’m really enjoying the tales, and it’s been a pleasant break from both heavy literary fiction and paranormal stories I’d been reading a far bit recently. I also like to practise my languages whenever I can, and my aim in 2015 was to always have a foreign-language book on the go at the same time as my English-language reading, so right now I am reading Krabat by Otfried Preußler in the original German.

What’s next for you as a writer?
Aside from continuing to write on my new projects, I would like to take time in 2015–2016 to try to connect more with readers, getting my books known and helping to establish my author ‘brand’. Also I’d like to connect more with other authors to help each other out, and, naturally, I’ll keep reading, reading, reading, always looking for ways I can continue to grow as a writer and share my stories with others.

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 hate being set a limit; it’s always so hard to narrow it down and have to make a choice, especially when my choice can change according to my mood. But my picks at this moment would be:

1) Les Misérables by Victor Hugo (I get something from it new every time I read it)

2) The Poetic Edda (I’d better take my main religious text with me)

3) Richard II by William Shakespeare (My favourite Shakespeare play—gorgeous verse!)

4) The Ragnarök Chronicles by… me (Perhaps it’s odd to choose my own book, but I love my characters so much, I just have to have them with me!)

Author Websites and Profiles
Nicki J Markus Website
Nicki J Markus Amazon Profile

Nicki J Markus’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I was born in the UK but age 12 emigrated to France, and fiound myself in the perculiar position of learning English as a second language. I was to sit at the back and be quiet. and her mother suggested I practice my french.

So I found myself with the perfect excuse to spend 3 hours each week writing fiction. I have never looked back.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Guy Erma and the Son of Empire is a YA Science Fiction Thriller adventure. It was not inspired by any one incident, except there was the fascinating story of Mark Thatcher who while Mrs Thatcher was Prime Minister went missing while racing the Paris Dakkar car rally. There were rumours that MI5 was despatched to find him in the Sahara desert and at th same time terrorists from Algeria and other places were also looking for him. When he was found three days later any real danger was played down, and the actual facts never revealed. What is true is that during this brief period news journalists and politicians again and again whether Mrs Thatcher step down, that she could not rule while her only son was in so much danger.

The kidnapping of Prince Teodor leaving his mother with a tenuous grip on power is a retelling of sorts of that story.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write all my textx long-hand and hate using a computer.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Passions: SF&F movies, all-time favourite movie: Armageddon.

Principle influences: Star Wars, Terminator, Game of Thrones and Dune.

Favourite UK authors: Iain M Banks and Peter Hamilton.

Favourite US Author: George RR Martin and Suzanne Collins

Soundtrack to novels: Supertramp, Meatloaf, Bonnie Tyler

What are you working on now?
Guy Erma and the Araneidae Dome the sequel to Guy Erma and the Son of Empire.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I love Twitter. Follow me here: https://twitter.com/Sally_Ann_Melia

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t do it?

First write the very best book you can. And spend a long time making sure you are happy, and try not to hurt anyone…

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Matt Cutt’s 30 day challenge Ted Talks has helped me change my life in msall ways and my perspectve .

See it here:

Matt Cutts SEO advice is good as well.

What are you reading now?
The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I am going into a sudio this month to create my first audio book.

I have experience working as a Radio DJ and as a storyteler, but tis a new challenge I hope I can do a good job.

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?
Iain M Banks The Players of Games

Iain Banks The Business

Suzanne Collins The Hunger Games

JK Rowling Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

Author Websites and Profiles
Sally Ann Melia Website
Sally Ann Melia Amazon Profile
Sally Ann Melia Author Profile on Smashwords

Sally Ann Melia’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I write romances — I’ve published three – and I have written a mystery, two creative non-fiction books (the latest will be published in 2015.) I live in France, I’m also a photographer and an amateur musician (I play baroque music.)

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
A Swan’s Sweet Song

Years ago, I worked in a local (French) radio station and had a country music program (something quite unusual in France at the time.) My job wasn’t just to play music: I had to talk about the origins of country music, present different musicians and talk about their musical styles. I had to do considerable research, and all that information has stayed with me. I did sometimes think about using it in a story, but I wasn’t quite sure how.

Around a year and a half ago, I decided to write a romance with a hero and heroine who were complete opposites. For some reason, I remembered those long ago days at the radio station, and how exciting it was to see new people walk through the door every day — some were very charming. I was single at the time, and I wondered if, one day, I’d fall madly in love with one of them… And remembering that, gave me the beginning of my book, A Swan’s Sweet Song.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I probably do, but I’d never think they were unusual.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I wouldn’t know where to begin. I’ve been reading all my life — history, travel, romance, mystery, mainstream novels, biographies — and I’ve re-read many books so many times, they’ve become part of me.

What are you working on now?
I’m finishing up the latest creative non-fiction book, but I’ve also started a romantic suspense that takes place in Turkey.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I suppose giving interviews is the best way of reaching new people.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
To polish every phrase. To never be discouraged. To strive for originality. To challenge yourself, never get too comfortable, and never be smug.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Be yourself. Don’t follow trends. Never, ever, watch television. Never eat junk food. And, most important: Be nice.

What are you reading now?
Patrick Leigh Fermor

What’s next for you as a writer?
If only I knew… I think I’ll be setting to to give book talks in the near future – and I love doing those. I love meeting people, travelling from place to place on buses and trains, hearing 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?
The encyclopedia. That’ll keep me busy for a while.

Author Websites and Profiles
J. Arlene Culiner Website
J. Arlene Culiner Amazon Profile

J. Arlene Culiner’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Myself Surakri I alias S.Rama krishnan Iyer, a student of the institution known as creativity.I am professionally a non-linear video editor.But as matter of writing books,it comes to me very naturally.From the very starting i was a daily diary writer.Soon this habit turned out to be a passion which made me to write some fiction works as crime stories,poetry,social based short stories etc.Also I shot some short movies with my friends on the subjects as “SAFE DRIVING”,’SELF AWAKENING’ .In the field of education I am an Arts Graduate in BA ENGLISH LITERATURE.Also I had done my masters in MBA IT.

Some of the books I had written are “Super Human Brains” Which turned out to be the Best Seller in Amazon Kindle Stores then followed with another Best Seller “Twists & Turns”.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is “How to have a good relationship with your partner”.The people around me,My friends,My Parents and also some married couples who had experienced same problems and also the situation which I mentioned in my book had inspired me in writing this book.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not really.Just prefer to write on the balcony with some fresh air coming in.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Mahabharata the very great ancient epic has a very powerful influence in my life as i find it a complete script in itself.

What are you working on now?
My next book.Also in a short movie which I am making.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Liking all the pages on facebook or any other social networking sites and then posting the books link on them.

Through Newspaper,Tv Ads,through websites like yours.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just be you.Listen to everyone but follow your own instincts.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The more you try to hide yourself from the people around you of what you are,The less aura you will stock in you.As you are what you hide and not what you show.

What are you reading now?
I am researching on internet for my next book.

What’s next for you as a writer?
“The adventure of an Informer”

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 escape from desert island”
“How to survive on desert island”

If ever written

“Some mystery novels”

For passing time

Author Websites and Profiles
Surakri I Amazon Profile

Surakri I’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am Ana, Author & Artist, and I´ve been working in publishing and communications for over 30 years, traveling around the world. I graduated in Translation and Interpretation in English, also in French at Alliance Francaise with the “Certificat Superieur de la Langue Française”. I also hold a Bachelor of Arts with License in Artistic Education, I studied Literature at the University Paris IV (Sorbonne in building), Theatre and Literature also in the Maison de la Culture du Monde and Meditation & Dance in the WAC (World Arts & Culture) from UCLA in Los Angeles, California. My passion for other cultures lead me to seek out different perspectives and ways of life. I went to Australia, Tahiti, Hawaii, Bora Bora, Easter Island, Peru, Venezuela, Argentina, Paraguay, Canada, Switzerland, Italy, Malta, Croatia, Corfu (Greece), Bahamas, Turks & Caicos, Virgin Islands, Brussels, Portugal and Spain. I lived in England, France (Paris), United States, Chile, but I am originally fromBrazil. I specialized in Arts and all things related to multimedia features. (Did I already mention that I also love to travel and experience cultures from around the world? Well, very much indeed!) I write from different genres, so I can easily go from one genre to another being very eclectic and flexible (oh, those years as a Ballet dancer gave me longevity). My short-stories and poems were first published in my sweet sixteen by Mackenzie Publisher. I translated and illustrated many books, magazines, such as Magie by Editora Ondas, a book by Sebrae: on crafts for the Chilean Council for Handicrafts. Books translated into Portuguese, such as How to Break In TV Writing, with Gray Jones, Writing the Heart of Your Story (Escrevendo o coração da sua historia) and Filme Sua Novela both with CS Lakin, “Think like a Genius”(Pense como um genio) with Raimon Samso, “A Esperança do Tibete” and “Dicas de Autodefesa”. I wrote more than twenty books for adults. including three trilogies, “Memoirs of an Amazon”, The Pierrot´s Love” and “Interestelar Series” from my first sci-fi book “Out of Thin Air” which I wrote way before the movie was actually released. I also wrote book series for children such as “Sing-a-long”, educational books as “How-to” and “The Enchanted Valley” Series that teach children about natural environment and the magic surrounding it.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book will be the one I´m working now in Portuguese, translated from English “The Mysterious Murder of Marilyn Monroe” which is already available for pre-order on Amazon.com. I decided to write this book more than three years ago when I heard about the way Miss Marilyn Monroe died and I thought to myself, “Well, that´s fishy!” Also it was the year 2011, tne years after the September Eleven and the next year it would turn out to be fifty years without her grace. And I kind of channelled her thoughts and then… well, you might as well read it, for it´s already done!

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I take little pieces of paper where I write my thoughts at any given time, which could be very unexpected indeed and in many odd places. For example, two days ago, I was riding a bus with my mother and I had to ask her paper and pen (I know as a writer I should carry it everywhere, such an essential material) and then I wrote down some words that just came into my head. My mother didn´t even ask me anything. She knew I was in my writing process. As I woke up or even in the middle of the night I have to jump off the bed to write down my thougths. Some may even come from a dream I just have. I just feel like that if I don´t do it right away the train of thought will simply run over me and it will be lost forever… and that´s usually how it ends up to be, anyway.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Oh so many, but I can easily name by heart, literally, Charles Dickens, especially with his David Copperfield, Agatha Christie and all of her books were sensational for a young reader going through the adventures of middle school, Arthur Conan Doyle, Andre Gide, Richard Bach (One), Paulo Coelho and his Diary of a Magus,

What are you working on now?
As I mentioned before, I am working on the translation of my Mystery/Suspense hybrid fiction/nonfiction which I originally wrote in English to Portuguese. I am also working in anew book for children in my How-to Series. So keep an eye on it for there is more creative stuff coming up.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I usually advertise it to my dear friends and fans on facebook, I also add the links on to my Twitter account and I keep updates as much as I can. But what I found out is that it doesn´t matter much how or where I promote my books, I guess that people often get my books through google search or other means that I´m oblivious. For there is time that I promote too much and I hear crickets. And some books that I even take the time and effort to promote at all that gain visibility God knows from where and bingo!… There are other ways to promote that I´m not even aware of, but I insist on those two platforms I referred above for at least this way people know what I´m doing even if there is no much effectiveness towards them.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Please, please, don´t go publish until you are one hundred percent sure you are doing a great job, the best that you may deliver. For in this publishing media it´s easy to get it all wrong when you are just starting. Then you will regret later on for not having a good editor to go through your writing, or having a great artist to do the best cover for your book. Because if there is something I learned during these years in the publishing market it is to never ever understimate the power of good editing. And plus, the saying “never judge a book by its cover” was created by a lazy author who didn´t give much thought to what really works in the marketing of both fiction and nonfiction.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Working so many years doing TV commercials had its toll on me. The best advice I ever heard came from an ad of a famous brand (and I am not even giving the name of the product, and you will know what I mean): “Just do it!”

And from another one (and again I´m not saying it, I have my mouth shut): “Keep Walking!”

What are you reading now?
I´m reading “Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus” in French. But then again, I prefer it in the original language which I read twenty years ago. I´m also reading ” The Zebra Network” which I had also read such a long time that I don´t even remember the plot. I enjoy rereading books that I forgot how the story goes, the same with movies. It helps me keep my brain from having literal “paraphrasia”.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I guess with time we accept concepts and ideas that we did´t conceive before. Now I´m not giving more to high ideals, and just keep my two feet on the ground. Of course, I still have some aspiring dreams such as becoming recognized for doing a great job. But then again, I already became a bestseller, as I longed to become so long ago, and I also get recognition for my good work in so many differnet venues that it´s hard to keep track. So once I decided to let it go and let it flow, now I´m just enjoying the ride. Not that it was an easy task to do so, it took me more than twenty years to realize that, to reach out to the position I´m in and to improve my ways. It´s not that I lack ambitions. It´s just that after a while, we kind of sorted out what works and what don´t, we stop sweating the small stuff and see that some things are just not our cup of tea and we excuse ourselves for not bringing us about to so much rustle. We become soft, but in a good way, not sloppy or lazy, but comfortable with who we are. Ok, I guess I didn´t even give you an answer but I´m sure I get to a soft point there by simply implying that I will keep writing. (Remember: Keep walking!)

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?
“Letters to Theo” by Van Gogh, which I read fifteen years ago and I would read it again and again until someone would find me in the island. The other three books would have to be some that I didn´t read yet, perhaps something about how to survive in a desert island, how to build a hut or similar interesting topics that would help me get it through and along the way. Maybe a book about meditation (I will need to not get crazy such as Tom Hanks in the movie “Cast Away”). I would take an autobiography of figures I admire, it could be a book about Marilyn Monroe, who I just wrote about or with the lives of any other celebrity that do better job inside their brains than while acting on scene. Maybe a book from Deepak Chopra would help me out there and make me feel less isolated. Actually, my own book, “Out of Thin Air” which is about being lonely in space would do the job.

Author Websites and Profiles
Ana Claudia Antunes Website
Ana Claudia Antunes Amazon Profile

Ana Claudia Antunes’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a pharmacy graduate based in Jodhpur city, which is also known as Suncity. I have written this book. In addition to this, I also wrote a book “Kuch Lafz” which is a compilation of 16 poetries written by a son for his mother.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is “The Tree’s Sister” which is a 130-page fictional book based on the theme of emotional bonding and environmental conservation. My zeal to do something to aware people for plantation and plant conservation is what inspired me to do this.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
No. I don’t.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Many authors and their books have influenced me. But, my favourite is “Revolution 2020” by famous author Chetan Bhagat. My another favourite book is “Love@Facebook” by well known author Nikita Singh.

What are you working on now?
Presently, I am preparing for my exams. I am appearing for competitive exams which will enable me to get a good and stable job. Writing is my passion, and I will continue it even after I get my job. Presently, getting a good job is my first priority

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I believe in word of mouth strategy for promotion. When we write good content then we can hope that people will surely like it. I am not a marketing guru and I may be wrong on this. I myself have not tried all marketing strategies but I believe that social media is the best way to promote books in addition to the traditional websites like Amazon.com and publisher’s websites.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
If you have a passion to write something, do write. Reading an interview of a successful author earning good income and then deciding over writing should not be done. Follow your heart for it will guide you to your passion.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
My father who is a Surgeon by profession was surprised when I told him that I plan to publish a book which I wrote some times back. He advised – “I like your passion towards writing. But, as a father I would advice you that you should first get up to achieve your childhood dream of becoming a civil services officer. You can continue on with writing after you achieve that.”

What are you reading now?
I like reading ebooks/books during leisure time. Presently, I am reading “The Guest” e-book by author Suneeta Balakrishnan.

What’s next for you as a writer?
For me, the idea of a book came randomly. For eg: The idea of my latest book “The Tree’s sister” came when I was walking in the park in the evening. Presently, I am preparing for my exams, but I will surely resume to writing after achieving my childhood dream.

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 have my own list of favourite books. I will take the top-3 or top-4 from those books with me in that case.

Author Websites and Profiles
Ankit Singh Website
Ankit Singh Amazon Profile

Ankit Singh’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Yankee transplant currently living in the south. Spent four years working my way around the world as a computer and English as Second Language (ESL) teacher. Now that I’m semi-retired I have time to write. I currently have one non-fiction and two fiction books on Kindle — all short.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
DANCING CRAYONS is my most recent Kindle submission. I was sitting at my desk thinking about what subject to use for a short horror story. I was staring at the 3 1/4″ cubed metal box next to my computer. The box has pictures of colored pencils on all sides. I was thinking, “What if these colored pencils could dance?” That thought developed into DANCING CRAYONS.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not really. Once in awhile I’ll wake up around 2:00 A.M. with a story idea. I can’t get back to sleep until I get up and write about it for an hour or two.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Margaret Atwood certainly.

What are you working on now?
Currently working on the next paranormal Christian short story for my TWELVE MYSTERIOUS WOMEN collection on Kindle.

Also working on another short horror story. It hints that people from the Wizard of Oz might be some of the characters.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m still trying to figure that out. However, I’ve been very impressed with “ryuken” in fiverr.com Covers are very important. A cover that speaks to the readers, that gives a promise, is needed. I found a few people on fiverr.com who are good with this. It’s either pay them $5.00 (plus a 50 cent service fee) or pay a professional cover designer from $100 – $200 (2015 prices).

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Yes, I do:

Proof read, proof read, proof read. Then hire a good editor.

For eBook fiction short stories, don’t make them too short or too long. I’d suggest at least 6,000 words, unless it’s free. Over 18,00 words is too long. Around 20,000 — 26,000 words is in that odd grey area. It’s too long to be a short story, but too short to be considered to be a full book.

Promote, promote, promote. Again, fiverr.com has a huge list of people who’ll promote your books to numerous blogs, social media sites, etc. Some are great, some mediocre. You’ll have to check the reviews and decide for yourself. Go to youtube.com (or any search site) and put “How to promote your eBook” in the search box. Youtube has a long list of very good videos about this. Many are by people who have something to sell. You don’t have to buy; they still give free advice.

Schedule; watch your time. Know your writing rhythm. I mentioned that sometimes I get up in the middle of the night to write. I also know that the few hours before I go to bed isn’t my best time, so read or promote during that time. Try to write 1,000 words a day.

Once you have three or four books of the same genre (or series) set up a blog that allows for an email list. Then as you submit books you can inform readers. It’s also a good way to communicate with them.

Read, read, read. In my opinion, the bets book for authors (or any short story reader) is “The Art of the Short Story” September 9, 2005 by Dana Gioia and R. S. Gwynn. It’s on amazon and your library should have it. It’s the “Best Short Fiction” by 52 great authors. There’s roughly a one page biography about each author before their story followed by the author’s notes about writing. That it’s required reading for MIT’s Reading and Writing Short Stories class speaks for itself.

I hope this information is useful for you.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
DON’T GET DISCOURAGED! Quoting a high school French teacher of over 50 (that’s not a typo; it’s fifty) years ago. OK, get discouraged but don’t quit. Hang in there.

What are you reading now?
Writing with Intent by Margaret Atwood

What’s next for you as a writer?
Getting a blog for my fiction eBooks together. Have joined a WordPress meetup group. They’re all over the place. See meetup.com. Also reading WordPress for Dummies.

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

The Art of the Short Story (mentioned above)

A book about Acadian History (Haven’t decided which; am looking at some now.)

Modern Irish Short Stories

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I was named for a grandmother I never met, I’ve lived in seven states and five countries, I once had 17 cats, and I’ve been writing since before I could spell properly.

Of course, my spelling has improved, and I no longer write in crayon. The cats had to be given away because it’s insane to try to move to Germany with 17 cats (my 5 year old self was very sad, but at least I got to keep ‘my’ cat). And, despite being named for my grandmother, I spent the first 13 years of my life being called by my middle name, which I have come to think suits me better, but which I haven’t started using again because… hassle.

Ah yes, books that I’ve written? Well, I’ve written five so far, but I’ve only published one of them. It was the first one to make it through sufficient revisions to be good enough for the public eye. In addition, I ran a Kickstarter campaign for it, hired a professional editor, cover artist, cover designer etc., so it’s quite pretty and professional now, which makes me happy. I’ve also published a handful of short stories with small literary magazines and even put a collection of them into one tiny volume that is available for purchase.

When I’m not reading or writing, I enjoy playing bass, rock climbing, trail running, backpacking, and general adventure having.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book (and debut novel) is entitled Blade’s Edge and it was initially inspired by the time I spent wandering around mountain shrines in Japan while I lived there teaching English.

As I spent more and more time hiking through the local mountains and encountering the various shrines everywhere I asked myself what the world would be like if all of the shinto spirits existed and were able to interact with the world? That was the initial spark.

From there the story evolved and eventually became something that was loosely inspired by feudal Japan, but was, in fact, it’s own completely imaginary world.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write at a standing desk. I can write sitting down, of course, but I prefer to write standing up for a number of reasons, not least of which is that I enjoy dancing while rocking out to electronica/dubstep violin music on pandora. Yep. I look ridiculous.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Well, hundreds of them, honestly even the books I don’t like have most likely influenced my writing in some way, even it was simply an example of what not to do.

That said, here are some of my favorite authors who I would be elated to find myself compared to (as in, I like them so very much that I would be suspicious that anyone comparing me to these great writers is actually my mom incognito):

1. Kristin Cashore

2. RA Salvatore

3. Anne Bishop

4. Tamora Pierce

5. Karen Chance

I’m going to leave it at five, but honestly the list goes on forever, and those are just the authors who write in a similar genre to my debut novel.

What are you working on now?
Well, I’m currently doing a lot of PR and marketing for Blade’s Edge, but next up on the list is to finish revising a contemporary fantasy novel entitled Gwendamned.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Goodreads has worked wonders for me so far in terms of exposure. Running a Goodreads giveaway has gotten hundreds of people to look at my book (and request it) who never would have seen it otherwise. In addition, facebook ads have worked well for me, and I’m looking into the benefits of doing a blog tour as well.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Hire an editor BEFORE you publish. It is always worth the money, I don’t care how good your significant other is at catching typos.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Well… that’s a strong superlative… But off the top of my head, this quote from Hugh Howey is pretty solid: “Don’t be miserable. Be happy. And nice. And work hard. And get discovered. How, exactly? I have no f@#$ing clue.”

What are you reading now?
I am currently reading a Winter’s Tale by Mark Helprin.

What’s next for you as a writer?
Keep publishing! I have a number of books that are in need of revision and then once they’re pretty and polished are ready for public consumption. I hope to release at least one more book this year…. Preferably two.

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?
Ooohhh… That’s a toughie…

1. The Count of Monte Cristo, it’s huge, worth rereading a few hundred more times, and can be used as kindling for about a year once I’m finally tired of it.

2. The Count of Monte Cristo in the original french. If I’m going to have that much time on my hands I might as well learn French, plus see the aforementioned kindling use.

3. Graceling by Kristin Cashore because it’s one of the best books ever, and the main character is probably the character most likely to survive being stranded on a desert island of any I’ve ever read. Perhaps I could channel her knowledge and manage to rescue myself.

Author Websites and Profiles
Virginia McClain Website
Virginia McClain Amazon Profile

Virginia McClain’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a North Carolina native living in Tokyo. I first left the US in 2001 (out of the blue according to my family) to go to graduate school in Christchurch, New Zealand. I earned my MA in Theatre and Film Studies from the University of Canterbury in 2004 and promptly hit the road (or skies). I went to Shanghai, China to visit my friend with every intention of moving back to North Carolina after my visit. After two weeks, I decided I liked China and ended up living there for four years. In 2008, I moved back to New Zealand. (By this time my family was used to my seemingly random moves.) After living through two major earthquakes in Christchurch, I decided to move to Japan in 2011. That last move in particular seemed to defy logic for most people. Anyway, I’m a conundrum even to myself.

Within New Zealand and China, I moved frequently from city to city. For a decade, only my parents and two of my three sisters, never all three at the same time, knew my physical address. I’m not really sure how many different places I’ve lived. I used to unpack but keep everything in grocery bags so I could just tie the bags closed when I was ready to move. I once moved from start to finish (packing, cleaning my old place, and unpacking) in an hour and a half. It would have been faster if not for traffic. Since moving to Tokyo, I have only lived in four different places. Marriage has definitely settled me down.

Dang: The Dang Series Book 1 (Episodes 1, 2 and 3) is my first and only book so far.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Dang was inspired by an idea I had to make a redneck soap opera series. For years, I started drafts and outlines for different books but I never finished anything. Dang was one of the ones I always wanted to develop. My wife encouraged me to just write and I followed her advice. I started writing Dang as a soap opera but somewhere along the way it turned into a trailer park comedy crime murder mystery thriller.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t really have any unusual writing habits. Sometimes I make myself laugh out loud when I’m writing. Is that weird?

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I love to read Mark Twain. I like the characters and the dialogue.

What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on book 2 in the Dang series. The working title is Dang: The Legend of Vernon Boone.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I think the best way to promote my first book is to write a second book. I’m working hard to get book 2 ready to publish.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just write. Don’t worry if the first draft isn’t perfect.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I’ve ever had is to have fun. If whatever your are doing isn’t fun, then it’s time to change.

What are you reading now?
2k to 10k: Writing Faster, Writing Better, and Writing More of What You Love by Rachel Aaron

What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m just going to keep on writing and see what happens.

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 clean joke book, a dirty joke book and a book of motivational quotes.

Author Websites and Profiles
Rob D Smith Website
Rob D Smith Amazon Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a retired lady of uncertain age who loves reading & can’t stop writing. I started serious authorship when I lost my last job – I was a chemist – and in six months I had a book. It took a lot longer to get it published, however.
I live near Kettering, England, without my family: they are grown & pursuing their own lives now, which gives me more time for writing.
I am a witch & have been for more than 40 years. Much of my writing stems from this.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I am very near to publishing my third book, Hunting Spectres. It is the next volume in The Bloodwitch Chronicles: I have already published Witch in Blood and The Vampire’s Granddaughter.
The inspiration begins with the question ‘What if?’ and goes on from there: how a hero, or heroine in this case, overcomes obstacles through a combination of skill and thought and not, as happens so often in horror movies, by sheer accident. Good does not overcome evil, not unless good is really, really lucky.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
What constitutes unusual? I sit at a desk with a PC or laptop and hammer away. Doesn’t everyone? I have written straight through a night: I can find that an entire day has passed unnoticed when I’m on song. I do tend to run several, and I mean several, storylines at once and bounce around the timelines of my stories more in the way of a movie director: I end up with lots of random scenes which I then have to fir together. Surprisingly, they do tend to fit rather well – I must be a writer or something.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I adore Terry Pratchett. I’d give someone’s right arm to be able to write like he does. There’s Tolkein, naturally, and C S Lewis. Terry Goodkind did the excellent Sword of Truth series, and Ursula Le Guin was influential. I also devoured Asimov, Poul Anderson &, Michael Moorcock amongst a host of others… I loved the Worst Witch books and Harry Potter was part of my kid’s lives, and mine. There are really too many to mention.

What are you working on now?
Books Four & Five in The Bloodwitch Chronicles series, naturally: Fruit of the Bitter Tree and Witch in Chains. There’s also a couple of chick-lits, Country Pursuits & Dancing in Rainbows: a comic horror about a school in hell which I’m calling Fungus Notes right now, and a dystopian fantasy, For the Flowers: and anotheer supernatural fantasy, The Singers of Dalmyre and when I have a moment, my own autobiography – Five Colours in my Skirt, about growing up in the Fifties & the changes I’ve seen. Yes, Too many. But the inspiration strikes & I have to write it down……..

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Gawd knows, because I surely don’t or my books would sell better. I sell through Amazon.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep at it. Do not be discouraged by failure. Everyone’s had that.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
How do you know you can’t do it if you haven’t tried yet?

What are you reading now?
An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth by Chris Hadfield. I didn’t think I’d like it, but he has a lot of down-to-earth sense that is useful for everyone.

What’s next for you as a writer?
Write, write, write. Promote, promote, promote. Pray for a publishing contract, I’m rubbish at marketing & stuff.

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?
Can’t I take my laptop and a solar converter and write my own? I’ve read all the books in my library & I won’t be able to get new releases.

Author Websites and Profiles
Lynda Panther Website
Lynda Panther Amazon Profile

Lynda Panther’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
A former firefighter, I sometimes feel as if I jumped from the fire into the frying pan when I took up writing as a means to fulfill my passion to create characters and worlds that I longed to inhabit or longed to avoid. I also play bass guitar, though not as frequently—something’s gotta give when you write.

I am a recipient of a State of Florida Individual Artist Fellowship, my work has appeared in, among others, New Plains Review, The MacGuffin Magazine, The Chaffey Review, and the anthology Everything Is Broken. My first novel, Die Laughing, is a humorously dark sci-fi adventure set in the 1950s.

Besides numerous short stories and a few poems, I’ve completed four novels and am currently working my way through a fifth one. I tend to gravitate mostly to sci-fi/fantasy/horror, but not always. My forthcoming release is a contemporary women’s lit novel.

I have two grown children. I live in Miami Lakes, FL, with my wife and our terrier, KC. Contact me at my www.louisklowy.com , or on Facebook/Louis K Lowy or on twitter:@LouisKLowy I love to hear from fans.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My first — and latest released book by IFWG Publishing — is a humorously dark sc-fi adventure set in the 1950s of flying saucers, communist paranoia and live television. It’s the story of Las Vegas comedian, Sam E. Lakeside, who is abducted by shape-shifting aliens and their leader, a power-hungry mobster and forced to participate in a plan to rob the earth of it’s oil. Sam recruits a black-listed comic book writer and the mobster’s ex-girlfriend to fight back. This leads them to New York City and the Steve Allen Show, where Sam is forced to choose what he wants most in the world — to be a star — or the planet’s survival.

My forthcoming novel, Pedal is set for release in spring, 2015 by Assent Publishing. It is the story of Joanne Brick a single, 49-year-old elementary school music teacher who is fired and struggles to reclaim her life back through bicycle racing.

I wanted to create a realistic, contemporary story with an everyday, middle-age heroine, and where the stakes take on a greater significance beyond itself. I also thought the theme of change and how ordinary people deal with it was an important issue worth writing about, particularly in these times of economic uncertainty.

Though I’ve never raced competitively, I own and have ridden bicycles nearly my entire life, most frequently in college, where it allowed me to spend time with my thoughts. The opportunity to contemplate that biking affords, along with the physicality of the sport, attracted me to use it in my story.

I hope Pedal will inspire women and men of all ages to overcome life’s turning points.

I also have a sci-fi book titled Anatomy Of A Humachine: Book 1 – To Dream set for release by IFWG Publising in March, 2016.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write a minimum of three hours per day Monday-Friday. I keep strict, written notes on it. For instance if I start at 11am, I’ll note the date and time in my notebook. If I get up to grab a cup of tea, I’ll mark the time it took to make the tea. Whatever that time is, say 5 minutes, I’ll mark a +5 to my 11am start time, which means I now have to write to at least 2:05p to make up my three hours. So, yea, I’m anal about not cheating on my three hour minimal time.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Growing my I was a huge, hugh comic book fan – so I’d have to say Stan Lee from my childhood days. In highschool and college I loved (and still do) Stephen King, Charles Dickens, and Sinclair Lewis. Later on, I loved James Joyce, Cormac McCarthy, Ray Bradbury, Ernest Hemingway, Jane Austen and so, so many others.

What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on a turn of the 19th century horror story. A good portion of it takes place in Florida, which is fun.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My website is www.louisklowy. com – I’m also on Facebook/Louis K Lowy – and twitter @LouisKLowy. I also have a Pinterest sight – Louis K Lowy. Though I enjoy all the sites, I would have to say that grand central station is my website, especially now that I just started up a newsletter. I’m going to be having lots of giveaways and exclusives. You can sign up on the website.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Patience and tenacity — and discipline. Get your butt in the chair and write.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
A writer writes. (Simple, but it says everything.)

What are you reading now?
William Gibson’s Neuromancer.

What’s next for you as a writer?
To finish the first draft of my fifth novel – first drafts for me are like hiking up a muddy mountain in army boots. The greatest writing joy for me is the polishing and re-writing.

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?
Dubliners – James Joyce. Salem’s Lot – Stephen King. The Art of the Short Story – Dana Gioia/R.S. Gwynn (this is a compilation of amazing short stories). The Road – Cormac McCarthy. (Of course I’m leaving out many, many, more marvelous books I’d like to take.)

Author Websites and Profiles
Louis K Lowy Website
Louis K Lowy Amazon Profile

Louis K Lowy’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Born in Brooklyn, NY in April 1967 lived in Panama City, Florida since June 2000. I served in the US navy 1984-1986. I have two degrees and am working on a third at FSU Panama City, Florida. I am a mental health/disibility activist and mental health suffer. I am also a abstract realism painter.

This is my first book I have another one in the works just waiting to be released.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Bad Memories I started it in 1995 and finished in 1998 and got it published Feb 2015, I wanted to be a author

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write it long hand before I type it in word

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Poe, Shakesphere, Dumas, Twain
the tell tale heart & his other works, animal farm

What are you working on now?
A kiss before strangling it finished waiting publication

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
haven’t found one yet

Do you have any advice for new authors?
write, write, read, read never give up

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
if you don’t want to incriminate yourself never keep stuff in writing

What are you reading now?
school textbooks

What’s next for you as a writer?
publish my second novel then type up my third

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?
animal farm, dragonlance chronicles, for whom the bell tolls

Author Websites and Profiles
Douglas Sandler Amazon Profile

Douglas Sandler’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My fascination with fiction began in middle school when I entered a book-reading contest and won. As an ardent fan of the resonating narrative and the cliffhanger, I decided to dedicate myself to becoming a skilled writer. When college professors spotlighted my writing in the classroom, it anchored my interest in becoming a novelist. I continued to pursue my education at UCLA where my writing earned praise from an award-winning author. Of equal and enduring importance in my life, is a passion for horses. As an avid, lifelong equestrian and horse owner, I now live on a ranch with my family, which we share with a menagerie of four-legged friends.
My debut effort, Beautiful Evil Winter, is a Multi-Award-Winning Novel. Beautiful Evil Winter earned a bouquet of book awards including a highly-coveted Eric Hoffer Award for “…writing of significant merit…” and a Readers’ Favorite International Book Award. The hotly contested Readers’ Favorite International Book Awards attract both New York Times Best-Selling Authors and celebrities like comedian Jim Carey, a children’s author. Readers’ Favorite shortlisted Beautiful Evil Winter in three genres- Suspense, Thriller and Romance Sizzle. Beautiful Evil Winter would best be classified as a Fiction hybrid – part Women’s Fiction, part Suspense and part Thriller.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The name of my novel is Beautiful Evil Winter. After my husband and I traveled to Russia to adopt, I decided to write a book.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I always write on a full stomach. I build rhythm into my day with frequent breaks to walk the dogs or tidy the house. I restrict my intake of news when writing because I find that I’m much happier and focused.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Stephen King, Jodi Picoult, Annie Proulx, Stephenie Meyer, Suzanne Collins

What are you working on now?
My second novel, a Suspense Thriller, will be based in the US. I expect it to be published in mid-April because it has to grind through the quality control process. Quality has been a enduring focus for me in all aspects of my life.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Google + has been an effective way for me to establish an author presence. I also like Pinterest.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Set a budget which allows for a high quality book covers, editing and formatting. I recommend Damon Za for cover art, Sara at Yellow Bird Editors for editing and Polgarus Studios for formatting. Remember that the text should be a polished as the cover design; so, don’t skimp on the editing process. Finally, I recommend self-publishing through Ingram Spark because they make the process simple, and they offer great customer service.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Never share the idea for a plot until it appears in print.

What are you reading now?
I just completed Sing You Home by Jodi Picoult. I haven’t started to read another novel yet. I hope to read American Sniper by Chris Kyle soon.

What’s next for you as a writer?
Finish my second novel and take a break.

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, The Art of Happiness by Dalai Lama, Rainbow in the Cloud by Maya Angelou.

Author Websites and Profiles
Kelly K. Lavender Website
Kelly K. Lavender Amazon Profile

Kelly K. Lavender’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I live in a coal mining town deep in the Canadian Rockies. I’ve written over 50 novels, romance, time travel, mystery, and two memoirs. I published with Harlequin and other major publishers, and then discovered the exciting world of indie publishing. I’m now on Amazon, Kobo, ITunes, etc., loving this wild west version the publishing business.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Latest book is a novella about mail order brides in the Canadian west, the first of a series, ROSE’S MAIL ORDER BRIDES AND GROOMS, OBJECT MATRIMONY. I was reading an account of an early mail order bride and came across a reference to a periodical that advertised Mail Order meetings. (Early version of on line dating, yes??)

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I wander with my laptop around the house looking for a place, like a dog searching for a place to sleep. Can’t write tioll I find the right spot.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I read constantly, and from every book, take something away.

What are you working on now?
Another novella in the Rose series, a cowboy story, and a western historical romance.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Promotion is the toughest part of being a writer. I use http://jimsgotweb.com for sending out notices about free promos, and I also use gigs on Fiverr.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Get a professional copy editor once you’ve finished your book.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Trust in God but tie up your camel.

What are you reading now?
Burden of Breath by Ann Minnett

What’s next for you as a writer?
More books. Writing is like breathing, it has to be done.

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 Course In Miracles.

The Essential Rumi

Any books by Mary Oliver

Author Websites and Profiles
BOBBY HUTCHINSON Website
BOBBY HUTCHINSON Amazon Profile

BOBBY HUTCHINSON’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
This is my second MC novel. I’ve written several short stories over the years and I’ve self published five others.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Behind Blue Eyes: Hells Vipers 2. I wanted to give the readers a deeper look into Nuke and his life. As well as other members of the Hells Vipers. I want to get a feeling for why some of them behave as they do.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I have to play music or watch television while I write. I can’t sit in a quiet room and just write.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Anne Stuart, she’s my hero. Stephen King, he’s my other hero!!

What are you working on now?
I’m re-writing several short stories and I have a new idea for another MC novel.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Awesomegang of course!

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Never give up, EVER!

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write from your soul.

What are you reading now?
I’m an ARC novel for a review.

What’s next for you as a writer?
Write, Write, 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?
Hells Vipers: You Belong to me, Behind Blue Eyes: Hells Vipers 2 and Hamlet,

Author Websites and Profiles
Jordan Abbott Website
Jordan Abbott Amazon Profile

Jordan Abbott’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account