Here Is Your Awesomegang Authors Newsletter
Published: Sat, 06/18/22
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Carolyn Watson Dubisch
Interview With Author Carolyn Watson Dubisch
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve written and illustrated fifteen children’s books, and four comic book series for kids -two are ongoing, “The Dragon in The Closet” and “After The Robots Died”. An older series, “The People That Melt in The Rain” is going to be released as two graphic novels -the first one next year, from odness books.
I have also illustrated four children’s books by other authors, as well as done illustration work for children’s textbooks, Star Wars books, Hopscotch, Highlights and other magazines.What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Dragon Stones is my newest book. It was inspired by my brother. As a child, we would visit central Maine where my family had a cottage on a lake. My brother was brilliant at skipping stones across the water. When my character Lizzy and her older brother Ron happen upon a lake in the woods. Ron immediately begins skipping stones. Much to their surprise, the stones come skipping back out of the fog that covers the water.Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I like to write long hand in a notebook. It creates a task for me of transcribing the story, but I have found that having stories and ideas hand written in notebooks is more secure than storing them on computers or drives. Computers get old and inaccessible after fifteen or more years. Storage devices fail. Even online storage accounts have not been reliable for me.
It’s the old notebooks that worked the best.What authors, or books have influenced you?
David Weisner and Chris Van Allsburg were early influences for me when I was a young art school student in New York City. I saw their originals on display at the Illustrator’s Society gallery.
When it comes to writing, I love so many authors. Recently Sarah Rees Brennan and Erin Entrada Kelly for YA level stories, Audrey Wood for picture books, Ed Gorey, Richard and Wendy Pini for comics, and Aminder Dhaliwal’s “Dead End Job’s For Ghosts” was hilarious and taught me I still have so much to learn.What are you working on now?
I am working on putting out the third issue of “The Dragon in The Closet, Dragon’s Journey”-up on one website will be on Amazon next week- and writing the fifth issue of that series. I am also finalizing the art for a wordless book called “Alien Farm, Scary stories For Kids”. Als finishing the art for the first issue of “After The Robots Died” and writing the third issue of that series.What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I use social media -A LOT. I also use Amazon ads and offer up free ebooks when I can. Promoting locally is a good idea, but hard for me, because I live in a foreign country where I have only semi-fluency with Spanish. I have still done some school visits here and have my book in a local bookstore, but if I lived in the States I could do more I think.Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t quit. This business is all about sticking around. The longer you last at this the farther you get. Even if you walk the marathon you still get to the finish line.Promote. Promote. Promote.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
-If you do not go after what you want you will never have it.
Get out there. Get your work out there. Don’t stop.What are you reading now?
A YA novel called “Binti” by Nnedi Okorafor. It’s a fascinating sci-fi story that I highly recommend. I’m also very slowly reading Stephen King’s “On Writing” book.What’s next for you as a writer?
I have many stories that are waiting for me to illustrate, but as a writer, I am finishing “The Dragon in the Closet” and “After The Robots Died” -two comic book series that are pretty long-running. I have two other series, one is called “Dragonfly Girl” and the other is “Chronicles of a Flying Monkey” in the early stages of writing, both will be comics.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?
Purple Hibiscus. by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Let’s Not Go to The Dogs Tonight by Alexandra Fuller
Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn
The Institute by Stephen King
The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara KingsolverAuthor Websites and Profiles
Carolyn Watson Dubisch Website
Carolyn Watson Dubisch Amazon Profile
Carolyn Watson Dubisch’s Social Media Links
Rennie Du Plessis
Interview With Author Rennie Du Plessis
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
How many books have I written? So far, 12 and counting. Why do I do it? Because I’ve spent much of my life presenting life-changing teaching in Churches and Bible Schools and people kept telling me with amazement that they’ve never had such deep teaching – it had to be turned into books so everyone can benefit.
This is the key reason why I do it:
“Making our world a better place and helping people and businesses develop is a way of life to me. I passionately believe that each life can make a difference to the world and I put great emphasis on the personal development of the whole person. The potential in us excites me and is the passion behind my forty years of people development. It’s an amazing adventure giving someone the power of knowledge that flips the switch and watching as they realise all the possibility and power residing inside them.”
I have earned two PhD degrees; one in Theology and Religion and one in Counselling Psychology. I’m a highly experienced instructor in practical, applicable biblical principles with a vast range of expertise. I’ve had the pleasure of has teaching internationally at all levels; from foundational instruction through to specialized instruction to senior leaders, from recovering addicts to doctorate students. My books are based on more than forty years in continuous study, research, writing and instructing to learners at all levels.
I love asking the hard questions and exploring truth and that has resulted in many profound and amazing discoveries which are reflected in my books. This isn’t theory, mind you. The depth and clarity that comes from a breadth of knowledge, understanding and expertise and most importantly, from decades of practical experience. It’s the real experience that makes the difference. In my books I draw insights from personal explorations of Religious Practices, Theology, Cognitive and Competency Developing, Cognitive Counselling, Temperament Diagnostics, Anthropology, and History to name a few disciplines.
My books are for real people living in the real world. This practicality is a reflection of my extensive business experience: entrepreneur, multiple business owner, author, trainer, radio announcer, cognitive counsellor and international speaker. It brings a practical, workable aspect to all the training and writing. I’ve conducted workshops, seminars, lectures internationally and developed and created courses on the wide scope of living a life of possibility.
I love educating and inspiring others to succeed and to live the life of their dreams.What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Make your Prayers Work: A Happy Walk Book (thefluidway Publishers) is my latest book.
My inspiration is that I’ve taught on prayer internationally and seen astonishing results. And then, most of the people I’ve met have a hunger to make their prayers really effective. Prayers can produce powerful results. They will bless you and change the world around you. But how do you get that sort of result? That’s what I cover. I answer questions like these:
• What are the Secrets to making my prayers work?
• Are there Power Principles that will transform my prayers?
As an expert who taught on prayer internationally and who saw amazing results personally, I had to write this book and answer these questions and more.Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I walk and pray and listen when I’m honing a point in my writing. My books need to be inspired, so yes, prayer and listening play an important role as well as deep research. And not many people know this – walking and praying is a right brain activity that releases creativity. And I have a special strategy that keeps me from writer’s block – I work on a number of books at the same time. If I get stuck, on one, I work on another. And if I’m really stuck? I walk and pray and listen.What authors, or books have influenced you?
Of course, to be expected, the bible – it’s crammed with amazing information, teachings and astonishing life stories. And I have volumes of books of all kinds on theology, the mind and all sorts of fascinating subjects all of which have shaped my writing. I also have all my books from my university days in Theology and Psychology. Plus, I have had the privilege of co-authoring some books with A Victor, an amazing author.What are you working on now?
Right now, it’s a free book for our email newsletter subscribers. It’s called ‘He Leads me; Adventures in God’. It’s all about the many different ways that God leads you to succeed in life. You can’t buy it. You can get it and other freebies by subscribing. Here’s the link:What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I love using MailerLite to send out email newsletters automatically and special book releases. And Awesome Gang was highly recommended to me by a top publishing expert as ‘A Top Book Promotion Site with one of the best email lists.’Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write top quality, carefully researched content that makes a positive difference in the life of your reader. And always, always keep checking for typos as we all scotoma – we can overlook things (it’s a brain thing). And every book I write is proof-read by an expert in my field. Make sure your book is well formatted, and remember, your cover is your window – make it full of impact and relevant.What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Treat your writing as a ministry then you’ll do it with all your might and ability and give your very best and very most.What are you reading now?
I’ve just finished ‘Did I forget to tell you? by A Victor. What a delightful book! He’s quirky, funny and yet thought provoking.What’s next for you as a writer?
Well, that’s exciting. I’m always working on more than one project at a time. Next, I’ll be releasing a workbook to assist those who want to know more about the leading of God in their 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?
Trusting that I’d finally get rescued…
The Bible
Strong’s Bible Concordance
A blank paged book for writing in (with a pencil).
The Lost Book of Herbal Remedies by Nicole Apelian – to help me with foraging on my island retreat and for natural healing through plantsAuthor Websites and Profiles
Marin Darmonkow
Interview With Author Marin Darmonkow
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Marin and for a good match I live in a port city – St. John’s, NL Canada. I have three children – one in Austria and two in Canada. Started writing in 2016 – kids became independent and suddenly I had time to create. First I decided to start with developing an old idea – The Adventure of Alex and Er. The publication was written, illustrated, and designed by my hands. I created even the fonts for the book. Then I added four more titles under the name 2GETHER picture book collection. So far I have twelve books on all the major online book retailers.What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
ART. Art is autistic and artistic. Art doesn’t speak but he creates art that dismisses even gravity. The story has only ten lines of text. To fit the title, which is very obligatory, I created extremely elaborate – in fact, out of this world – illustrations. The book will be launched in August 2022. The inspiration is deeply personal and I will keep it close to my chest.Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Usual only.What authors, or books have influenced you?
Probably I was influenced by many books and many authors in my early years. I grew up with my grandparents who gave me books instead of toys. I became a voracious reader and I knew how to read and write since I was four. Some of the books I read as a child were appropriate for my age, others were difficult even for linguists or scientists to comprehend, nevertheless for a child…What are you working on now?
Just finished writing EARL THE BOYGIRL. I am currently making the illustrations – fourteen spreads plus two covers and a title page.What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
The best method? I try to perfect all the ingredients of my titles (text, visuals, design, layout) and to make a meaningful and eye-catching piece of art. On my website https://fontreal.com I have links to all major online book retailers. I use sites like Awesomegang and other free – if possible – platforms to promote my titles.Do you have any advice for new authors?
Go for it, if your brain says it is in your heart.What is the best advice you have ever heard?
This was my grandfather’s advice as I grew up: never play leapfrog with unicorns.What are you reading now?
I reread rather often Dickens.What’s next for you as a writer?
Up to my mind. It travels all the time by itself. Sometimes we meet. It tells me stories and I put them on paper. I am allowed – my mind doesn’t mind – to place the copyright symbol next to my name.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?
Escaping a desert island for dummies, volumes I, II, III, and IV.Author Websites and Profiles
Marin Darmonkow Amazon Profile
Marin Darmonkow Author Profile on Smashwords
Marin Darmonkow’s Social Media Links
Kate Rauner
Interview With Author Kate Rauner
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve loved science and science fiction since I was a kid. Now I’m creating my own worlds based on what’s really known about our solar system. I’ve written a five book series on a near-future Mars colony, and a trilogy about a colony on Saturn’s moon, Titan. Sometimes my imagination strays farther into fantasy and poetry, so I’ve also released short stories and poetry-for-nerds collections.What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest work is a trilogy, Titan – Colonizing Saturn’s Moon. I was inspired by two things: NASA’s recent exploration of the weird moon Titan, and comments from real-life scientists that this may be the best place in the solar system for a human colony. Who would leave Earth for such a dismal, frozen place? And why would they go? I answered those questions with a cult seeking to create a perfect world under a leader with some deadly ideas about their destiny.Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not unusual to me. I set up my computer in a quiet place at home, on a desk long enough for my cat to sprawl out without pushing my keyboard off the edge, and a cushion for my dog at my feet. I begin each writing day a couple thousand words into what I’ve already got down, improving the draft (I hope!) and launching myself into new scenes.What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’ve read the classics from Tolkien, Asimov, McCaffrey, and Wells. Lately I discovered that I missed Philip K. Dick. How did that happen? I’m catching up. From today’s authors, I read widely. I’m lucky enough to belong to a small writers group in my town, Silver City, New Mexico, USA, and their help reading and commenting on my work is invaluable. They’re also great authors themselves: Alethea Eason, Kris Neri, and EJ Randolph.What are you working on now?
I’m into the third book of a new trilogy: Winnie Bravo, Space Pilot. Based on the moon, Winnie and her friends are clearing junk out of Earth orbit so humanity isn’t trapped in its own pile of space debris. And, yes, this is a growing real-life problem too. She discovers a mysterious killer satellite, and someone is willing to kill to preserve its secrets. I plan to release all three books summer or fall of 2022.What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Amazon. It’s the Big Dog in book sales.Do you have any advice for new authors?
Be gentle with yourself. Whatever you’re writing will take longer and be harder to complete than you expect.What is the best advice you have ever heard?
There are no rules, only guidance.What are you reading now?
I just finished How to Buy a Planet by D. A. Holdsworth. A scifi story with very British humor and eccentric characters. I don’t think it’s much of a spoiler to say… you shouldn’t sell your planet to aliens.What’s next for you as a writer?
I aim to complete my Winnie Bravo trilogy. That’s enough of a goal for now.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?
Oh my! I bet my answer would change every day, but… The Hobbit, Wonderful Life by Stephen Jay Gould, and my childhood copy of Living off the Country by Bradford Angier, because, I’ll need advice to survive on that desert island.Author Websites and Profiles
Kate Rauner Author Profile on Smashwords
Kate Rauner’s Social Media Links
Margaret Bennett
Interview With Author Margaret Bennett
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a former Language Arts high school teacher and have written over sixteen Regency romance books. The plots have feisty heroines and roguish heroes with a little intrigue. I write full time now in beautiful Beaufort, SC.What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Miss Finley Kidnaps an Earl is a Regency romp. I like humor and try to provided some in every book. The idea for a young lady to kidnap a nobleman came to me late one night (like most of my ideas) and I quickly jotted down a few notes. And what fun it is to commit a crime mentally and not be responsible for paying for it!Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I usually start writing a book from handwritten notes I’ve made in the middle of the night when I’m struck with a great story idea. Often, the story line is developed in the same manner, middle of the night epiphanies.What authors, or books have influenced you?
I love Georgette Heyer’s novels and have found other writers like her, including Joan Smith, Barbara Metzger, and Jennie Goutet to name a few.What are you working on now?
The Misfit Maid is a working title for my latest story. It’s about a young orphaned woman forced to flee a cruel guardian who is trying to get her inheritance by marrying her off to a crony. She becomes a maid for an Earl, but is dreadfully inept, causing all sorts of havoc. Great fun.What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
In the past, I have been a top 100 Best Seller for The Hopeless Hoyden. However, Amazon ads have not been delivering as well for me in recent months. So I am branching out to friendly websites like Awesome Gang, and I have found them to be most helpful in not only giving exposure to readers, but also provide excellent advice to help me further my career.Do you have any advice for new authors?
If you’re a new author, don’t give up. Try different avenues to gain exposure. And above all else, keep writing!What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I ever heard was not never quit on your dreams. And it’s true. Things don’t happen as we want them to, but with time and hard work, our dreams and ambitions can come to fruition.What are you reading now?
I’ve started a new novel by Sofi Laporte title “Birdie and the Beastly Duke.”What’s next for you as a writer?
My next project is sorting through my many ideas for another good story line that I can inject with humor.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?
Georgette Heyer’s – The Nonesuch
Lynn Messina – The Harlow Hoyden
Mary Kingswood – Stranger at the Cottage
Jennie Goutet – The Sport of MatchmakingAuthor Websites and Profiles
Margaret Bennett Amazon Profile
Margaret Bennett’s Social Media Links
Richard Powell
Interview With Author Richard Powell
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
After working as a forensic psychologist for 40 years, I retired to write full time. My historical fiction series has been on Amazon’s best-seller list for 2 years.What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My most recent release, Witch Dance was inspired by the rising gun violence that threatens everyone.Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I use the Hemingway method. That is I begin each day reviewing the previous days work and it helps me resume the flow.What authors, or books have influenced you?
I love the Scotish detective novels by J.D. Kirk. His style is close to what I employ in the Jergen County series, of which Murder Club is book one.What are you working on now?
I am preparing to release the third book in the Tigers on the Road Series. It covers the final weeks of the Japanese invasion of Burma and the role played in stopping them by the Flying Tigers. On a lighter note, I am also starting the third book in the Pirates of Barataria Series. The time-traveling pirates are about to avoid the pandemic by traveling back to the golden age of piracy in the Caribean.What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My Author Page on Amazon.Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write and when you can’t write more.What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t run with scissors.What are you reading now?
A Snowball’s Chance in Hell by J.D. KirkWhat’s next for you as a writer?
Writing a second book in the Devil’s Playground 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?
Boat building made easy.
Conversations with Wilson
War and PeaceAuthor Websites and Profiles
Richard Powell’s Social Media Links
Wayne DesLattes
Interview With Author Wayne DesLattes
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a minister/pastor/writer/author, husband, dad. I enjoy good food & drink, the mountains, healthy living, and the outdoors, and within the last 3 years . . . the ministry of healing. I’ve written one book.What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The Gathering:When the Rapture Really Happens. I was inspired to write it from over 30 years of reading, thinking about and studying about Jesus’s return and what is called the rapture (it’s when Jesus returns that He saves Christians out of the Tribulation Period, which is prophesied to occur in the near future), and also because of all the catastrophic world-wide events occurring. There’s been a lot of discrepancies about the subject and prophecies that are incorrect and even false teachings. My book walks people thru the biblical scriptural evidence and sequential prophetic events to pinpoint when we can expect Jesus Christ to return. It also suggests how to prepare for it, what to look for and what to do to makes sure one is in the group He will save.Do you have any unusual writing habits?
What’s usual versus unusual? I have no ritual I go through other than asking God to speak to me and reveal His truth in scripture.What authors, or books have influenced you?
Tim LaHaye’s book series, The Left Behind series.What are you working on now?
Books on healing, how to have total reconciliation, and who we are as we are created in God’s image & likeness.What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
do a little bit of everything.Do you have any advice for new authors?
Go for it. You only live once. Write almost everyday.What is the best advice you have ever heard?
When your facing trouble, run to it and get over it as quickly as possible. if you’re going thru hell, move quickly, and learn to listen to God.What are you reading now?
I read the Bible daily. I’m reading on about healing and inner healing for the trauma/abuses people suffer in life.What’s next for you as a writer?
To write about my own healing experiences I’ve received from Jesus Christ, and now how He is doing it thru me for others. We all need healing of some kind (if we are honest about it). God can heal any heartache, any physical, mental, emotional or spiritual problem there is to experience. I’ve seen Him do nearly every single week. You may call them miracles—which they really are! Its real, vulnerable, and practical.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, Poetry by John Donne, Hemingway, and a book on how to get off a deserted island & survive if you can’t.Author Websites and Profiles
Wayne DesLattes Amazon Profile
Wayne DesLattes’s Social Media Links
Laura Peterson
Interview With Author Laura Peterson
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have written a few non fiction books – how to books, etc. This is my first fiction book – the first in a series.What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Obsessed. I have been fantasizing about these characters and this story for over a year and I decided to start writing everything down.Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Sometimes I speak out loud as I write. I pretend I am one of the characters.What authors, or books have influenced you?
I enjoy paranormal books and urban fantasy books. I like Cassandra Clare, Jim Butcher, Kim Harrison and many others. I love the Sookie Stackhouse books.What are you working on now?
The next book in the Obsessed series.What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I don’t know. I just started book promotion.Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write everyday.What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I heard an author say once that his books write themselves. That is true, once I get started the characters take over and the book writes itself – I am just writing everything down!
Thomas Davison
Interview With Author Thomas Davison
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am 65 years old. I have been a teacher all of my adult life. I spent my time learning the craft of teaching until I retired. Three months into retirement, I was going crazy. I accepted a job teaching college coursework inside two State Prisons in Ohio. I am starting my sixth year of teaching incarcerated students, felons.I was so profoundly moved by my observations and interactions with these students that in 2019 this motivated me to create poems and short stories about their day-to-day lives and experiences. I found myself starting new and learning a different craft—the craft of writing. I have been very fortunate and have been published over sixty times.
Dozens of literary magazines and journals, including Twisted Vine Literary Arts Journal, Author’s Publish, Shanti Arts Literary Magazine, Innsaei International Journal of Creative Literature, Third Estate Arts Quarterly, and True Chili Western Magazine (Underwood Press).
My short stories have been published in many anthologies, including 42 Stories Anthology, Indiana Horror Review 2020 Anthology, Marketplace Journal, Forbidden Verses Anthology, Poetica #2, The Inner Circle Writers’ Group Poetry Anthology 2020, and Sincerely Magazine 2019 Art Anthology.
Some additional publications include Active Muse Literary Journal, American Diversity Report, Badlands Literary Journal, Barzakh Magazine, Black Petals Literary Journal, Bluntly Magazine, Dime Show Review Literary Journal, Flowers & Vortexes, Creative Magazine, Huunu, Inc., Ponder Savant, The Preservation Foundation, Inc., The Storyhouse Writer’s Showcase, Potato Soup Journal, Teach. Write., The Dribble Drabble Review, Too Well Away Literary Journal, Wilderness House Literary Review, and Scriblerus Magazine.
Podcasts where you can view some of my writings,
Creative Drive Podcast (YouTube) Prison Philosophy 101 Creative Non-Fiction, by Dr. Thomas Davison https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbe9_Z7bFio
Creative Drive Podcast (YouTube) Three Poems by Dr. Thomas Davison https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXDlEuRhqbYA chapbook of my poetry called Different Prisons—a fiction novella entitled, The Boy With Strange Eyes. Later this year, in 2022, I will have two books and a serial published. Just now (June 2022), I have a five-part serial entitled Eternal Prisoners.
I have managed to win a few awards. I am most proud of my winning Petrarchan (Italian) sonnet, which was selected by the American Jewish Historical Society to be posted in the Emma Lazarus Museum. I have recently started a not-for-profit Entrepreneur Services for Felons (ESF). I have dedicated 100% of my writing profits to providing free one-on-one support services for felons and ex-felons. Also, I have created two Writing Clubs within the prisons. These incarcerated students are my beta readers to ensure that I speak in their voice and keep it honest.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The name of the book is Eternal Prisoners-A Story in the Cthulhu Mythos. It is available on Amazon, Kindle Vella. It is being released in five parts or serials. You can read the first three serials utterly free if you are an Amazon Prime member.My inspiration for writing this book is fascinating. I discuss it in the forward of the book.
I am a lifetime fan of horror. As a young boy, the first horror book I read was by H. P. Lovecraft many years ago. I was hooked. My published work is predominantly about my prison experiences. I wanted to try my hand at my favorite genre of horror. The serial story Eternal Prisoners is that attempt. I intended it to salute the master—the first book’s author. My close circle of fellow writers, and my beta readers, state it is a scary story. We shall see if what little I have learned about the craft of writing is enough. I must share with you that while submitting this story, I felt much like that nervous 12-year-old boy reaching for that Lovecraft book.Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I have tons of unusual writing habits. First, I keep daily journals about events inside and outside the prisons. I use these journals as my source documents when I want to write a prison-themed story or poem.Next, I am totally into ekphrastic writing and poetry. Writing is a craft and an art form. Paintings, sculptures, and even landscapes (nature’s art) often motivate me to write. All forms of art are interconnected. Some of my best work (in my opinion) comes from viewing other art. I see a piece that interests me and create an entire story around that piece. It happens in art all the time, ekphrastic creation. Also, vice-versa, for example, an artist reads a book or poem. They are moved by it and create a painting or sculpture depicting what the writing made them feel and see.
Another example is the art form of music. I like to listen to music when I write. It helps me to set a mood. I select what music I listen to and match it to the perspective of the poem or story I want to write. I believe writing is different for everyone. What one person might view as unusual might make perfect sense to someone else.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I read every genre: westerns, mysteries, non-fiction, fiction, and science fiction. If forced to choose, my favorite genre to read is fantasy. My favorite books and their authors include a wide variety of genres. Lord of the Rings, To Kill a Mockingbird, Grapes of Wrath, Slaughterhouse-Five, The Time Machine, Dracula, The Art of War, I Have no Mouth, and I Must Scream, Peter Pan, I could go on all day. I like anything that speaks to me or moves me in some way.What are you working on now?
I am working on my memoirs, my life story. I worked on it for a while, then set it back down and went to another project. I believe it would make a good read. I was raised as a military brat, served in the Army, and traveled the world. I have experienced and seen so many exciting things over my lifetime.What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have no idea. Word of mouth? E-marketing is the big craze for now. To be completely honest, I love writing. On the other hand, I’m not too fond of all the day-to-day administrative tasks required to make a book successful. I am too lazy or too busy to ever self-publish.Do you have any advice for new authors?
If you believe you have something important to say in your heart, don’t give up on that dream. Stay with it! Teach yourself, takes classes, and seminars, find a mentor or learn from those who have already mastered the craft. For every piece I have had accepted for publication, I would guess I have had ten pieces rejected. But, you will get better if you learn from each rejection. I know that I am a mediocre writer at best and will never be a master of the craft. But, I can enjoy writing and become a well-polished writer. That is enough for me.What is the best advice you have ever heard?
It is a quote by Jodi Picoult. “You might not write well daily, but you can always edit a bad page. You can’t edit a blank page.” It sounds so simple, but it is profound. So many authors want to write only perfect stuff. If they can’t get it perfect, they get stuck. The key is to get it all down on paper. Then you can go back through revisions until you polish up all the rough stuff. Great quote and great advice.What are you reading now?
Nothing. When I am writing, I don’t read. The only time I read is when I step back and take a hiatus from writing. I am currently in writing mode, so I am not reading anything now.What’s next for you as a writer?
There are two things. First, I would like to finish those memoirs. Second I would like to create an entire poetry chapbook of ekphrastic work in its entirety.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 and the first three books that popped into my head when you asked me what books had influenced me the most. So, my list would be 1) The Bible, 2) Lord of the Rings, 3) To Kill a Mockingbird, and 4) Grapes of Wrath.Author Websites and Profiles
Thomas Davison’s Social Media Links
Anne Scottlin
Interview With Author Anne Scottlin
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hi, I’m Anne Scottlin… nature lover, mountain-hiker, foodie, doting dog mama to my three adopted Mini Schnauzers, award-winning actress, and best-selling author. There’s more. I grew up in an isolated and unusual religious environment. I was homeschooled until I was fifteen. My nerd side is obsessed with Medieval history. And, I love people. Whenever I can, I hop on a plane to explore more of our planet and meet more people. What am I like? My friends and clients know me for my warm empathy and joie de vivre.You want more? I’ve been working in the industries of personal empowerment and emotional wellbeing for over a decade. I help you start celebrating your life again! I teach you how to infuse your life and work with joy, resilience and a healthy mental lifestyle.
I am a frequent guest on radio, television, and podcasts to share my unusual life journey and my Principles of Joy. I speak at personal development events and retreats. My best-selling book, Live for Joy, is a full-color experience supporting personal empowerment and building a sustainable lifestyle of joy.
I’ve written two books for publication. The first, “Live for Joy”, which was published in 2021, and the second, “The Chair of Joy”, which will be released in fall 2022. I have three more books in varying stages of completion, and the next one will be published in 2023.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Both of my books, “Live For Joy” and “The Chair of Joy” were inspired by our great need to bring more joy into our work, our lives, and our families. I love creating books that deliver an experience, not simply a read, so both books are fully illustrated to support their message. They teach through nature, art, and imagination… in addition to words.Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My writing habits violate all the rules. I don’t have a habit of writing at the same time every day. I often don’t use outlines. I edit as I write, although I’m getting better at restraining myself. Worst of all I write in a drag and drop fashion, in lumps. I put them together, then I dissect them, then I reorganize the sentences, somewhere between ten and one hundred times. I am fastidious and writing takes me FOREVER. Except when it doesn’t… sometimes inspiration just strikes.What authors, or books have influenced you?
One of my favorite authors is Ken Follett. I love finding myself immersed in one of his great masterpieces, from “Pillars of the Earth” to “The Century” Trilogy. They are remarkable and deeply inspire me as an author.What are you working on now?
I am working on a third book for release in 2023 on personal empowerment and emotional wellness for Gen Z.What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
They each have their advantages and disadvantages. I printed and distributed through Ingram and Lulu for maximum digital distribution. So my book landed on Amazon last.Do you have any advice for new authors?
Know your audience before you start writing your next book. Be very clear on your avatar. Then write directly to them. Right now I’m working on the book I just mentioned for Gen Z. So I had to become very familiar with that audience and what is important to them and the style of books they like to read. You can’t write for everyone, especially when you’re starting out.What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write what moves you, and it will move others. Write in your authentic voice.What are you reading now?
“IQ84” by Haruki Murakami, “Psycho-Cybernetics” (again) by Maxwell Maltz, and “The Tao of Happiness” by Derek Lin. My favorite so far this year? “Segaki”, by David Stacton.What’s next for you as a writer?
As I continue to write, I am planning my books more strategically in order to build on my existing brand. I’m exploring which risk I want to take on my next book, traditional publishing or self-publishing. It could go either way.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?
Oh wow. That is a tough one. I would probably throw out a few toiletries and pack something immense to let my imagination get lost in, like “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy, an anthology of Shakespeare, and some exquisite inspiration like Basho’s “The Narrow Road to the Deep North”.Author Websites and Profiles
Anne Scottlin’s Social Media Links
Ian Catto
Interview With Author Ian Catto
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hi, I’m PlatypusTarot. I’ve written several novels but haven’t published any of them yet. Instead of writing another novel that would never see the light of day, I decided to change things up. I started writing an ongoing web series, and publishing mini-compilation ebooks with 5 chapters each.What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is Csick volume 1. It was inspired by reality television and the anime “Food Wars”. I always wanted there to be a reality show about writing. I watched “Food Wars” and fell in love with the competition and battles. I decided that I needed to turn that into a writing contest.Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I love black licorice while I write. As for unusual, I don’t think so. Oh, my characters are influenced by the music I’m listening to.
With one novel I was writing my playlist included a lot of heavy metal. The main character quickly developed an anger problem.What authors, or books have influenced you?
So very many. The first I can remember is the Hardy Boys. A little later I discovered Gordon Korman and he became my idol. Lillian Jackson Braun had a huge influence on my early adult years. Garth Nix and C.S. Friedman have both heavily influenced my fantasy work.What are you working on now?
Right now I am working on an ongoing web series titled “Csick”
It’s an over-the-top fantasy world where anything can happen. The main character is self-aware and knows he is merely a character in a story. This leads to arguments between him and the writer. Another character is five raccoons masquerading as a human.
It’s been a blast to write, and I’m enjoying the absurdity of it all.What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m still fairly new, but Reddit has given me the most traffic for a free ebook.Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep writing.
Push through the blocks, even if you’re writing nonsense, the important thing is to keep writing.
This works especially well if you can manage to make it a routine, even just 10 minutes a day can make a world of difference.What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t eat the yellow snow.What are you reading now?
I actually just got a graphic novel of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” which is my favourite work by Shakespeare. I’m looking forward to reading it.What’s next for you as a writer?
If things go well, I plan on continuing my web series. Once it reaches 40 chapters I want to publish it in paperback form with two bonus chapters and market it as Season 1. If things really take off, I’d love to revisit my older novels and get them ready for professional editing.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?
1 – Watership Down by Richard Adams (No question or hesitation)
2 – Losing Joe’s Place by Gordon Korman (It’s a juvenile comedy, but it brings me back to my childhood and reminds me why I want to be an author)
3 – The HitchHiker’s Guide To The Galaxy by Douglas Adams. Preferably a nice omnibus.
4 – The preview copy of my unpublished novel. It is and always will be an inspiration.Author Websites and Profiles
Ian Catto Author Profile on Smashwords
Ian Catto’s Social Media Links
Surinder Govind
Interview With Author Surinder Govind
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Considered himself a mystic of romance and inspirational novelist, I am an author from Canada. A pharmacy graduate and ex-entrepreneur, I have realized that the modern generation could be inspired by romance novels. My debut romance novel, ‘You Should Have Faith In Me’ gives the inspiration to the youths to become a millionaire in the modern world capsuled in a romantic ambience. I also have written non-fiction books on mind, body, and soul.What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
You Should Have Faith In Me. I think our youth wants to do something, especially Indian youth but they don’t have knowledge about it. I try to give that knowledge in the form of a romantic novel.Do you have any unusual writing habits?
NoWhat authors, or books have influenced you?
I read Russian novels that inspired me a lot. I also read Indian novelists like Chetan Bhagat, Ravinder Singh, Rajashree, and Munshi Prem Chand.What are you working on now?
I want to write a novel series. So, my mind is thinking about that series.What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Yet I am testing the websites. After the results, I can say anything about it.Do you have any advice for new authors?
Still, I have no concrete advice for new authors as I am also a new author.What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Be practical. Take action if you want to do something in life.What are you reading now?
I am now preparing for the next exam that I will join in next year in January. In between, I read some inspirational books.What’s next for you as a writer?
I will write a novel series in future.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 don’t need to bring any books with me. I want to write something there. So, I need some notebooks and pens to write.Author Websites and Profiles
CM Jr. Surowiec
Interview With Author CM Jr. Surowiec
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a debut author, and launch my first book on May 21, 2022. I was born in Orlando,Florida, raised in Los Angeles, California, and relocated to Upstate New York from grade school on.What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“DragonSin” is the name of my book. I wrote a short story in college and during the pandemic decided to expound upon it. My children were not only the catalyst, but continued to give me inspiration as they were both Alpha and Beta readers.Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I like to take my laptop with me to Taco Bell and after I eat lunch crank out a thousand word challenge. Sometimes I even achieve it!What authors, or books have influenced you?
The Sword of Shannara by Terry Brooks has had the biggest impact on me from a literary perspective. It was the first book I ever read by choice, and it began a life long love for reading.What are you working on now?
I am currently writing Book #2 a sequel to “DragonSin”. I plan to release the name and cover art around Thanksgiving time.What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I struggle with marketing and promoting (and would rather be writing!), so I am the worst person to ask. Please let me know how and where I should be promoting my books! (lol)Do you have any advice for new authors?
I was worried about only launching my book on Amazon, so I scrambled to set up two other sites before launch date. It turns out (in retrospect), that decision diluted my sales across multiple platforms, instead of driving my ranking up in just one initially. I would recommend a rolled launch, add a new site every 4-6 weeks.What is the best advice you have ever heard?
You should strive for at least 8-10 Beta Readers. My Betas helped me improve my story immensely.What are you reading now?
A Clash of Kings by G. MartinWhat’s next for you as a writer?
I really want to finish the trilogy, so I plan on trying to focus my attention on that for 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?
DragonSin by CM Surowiec Jr (duh!)
The Sword of Shannara by T. Brooks (already read it 3 times why not 4?)
Six of Crows by L Bardugo (Love this book)
Homeland by RA Salvatore (another book I have read many times)Author Websites and Profiles
CM Jr. Surowiec Amazon Profile
CM Jr. Surowiec’s Social Media Links
D. E. Cunningham
Interview With Author D. E. Cunningham
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a new author, script writer, voice actor, and producer. I published my first book in December of 2021, but it took me six years to get there. A friend encouraged me to start writing this story back in 2015 and I thought, “Sure. I’ll write a novel. How hard could it be?” And, of course, it was incredibly hard. I quickly realized that I had a lot to learn, so over the next six years while in grad school, working full-time, and raising a young family with three boys, I wrote this novel. I should say that I mostly re-wrote this novel, because the first draft was done in about eight months. The next dozen or so drafts took five more years.What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The title of my debut novel is, “Marco Swift and the Mirror of Souls”. I was inspired by an idea about where the souls of the living exist. What do they do? Do they know they have bodies? And I wanted to write a story for kids who have gone through trauma or really anything hard: divorce, abuse, loss, moving, being bullied, or feeling alone. I also wanted to make this an adventure that was exciting, fun, and action packed, because that’s what I liked when I was a kid – still do actually.Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I get up very early each morning, before my wife and kids, and write. Usually, that’s around 5:30am – 6am. I try to get in 1 hour each day, but sometimes it’s only 15 minutes. Sometimes, of course, it just doesn’t happen because I’ve been up all night with a crying baby or a sick child.What authors, or books have influenced you?
Hayao Miyazaki (filmmaker), Brandon Sanderson, J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, Robert Jordan, Rick Riordan, and George MacDonald to name a few.What are you working on now?
I am currently working on two sequels to my debut novel, but I am also working on an animated TV series. I have written several scripts for animated TV series, co-created one, served in a variety roles on different productions, and voice one of the main characters in the series I helped create.What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Ha! I have no idea. I am so busy with creating things that I haven’t taken much time to promote. I try to update my Facebook and Instagram pages when I can. I did a Hidden Gems ARC that gave me a few good reviews. Word of mouth seems to be the main driver currently.Do you have any advice for new authors?
Learn your craft, take your time, and listen to smart people. I spent so much time writing when I had no idea what I was doing. After years of writing, reading, classes, seminars, and talking with established authors I have learned so much – and still so much more to learn! I wish I had slowed down and listened to others first. I think it would have saved a lot of headaches and confusion at the beginning.What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“If you look for truth, you may find comfort in the end; if you look for comfort you will not get either comfort or truth only soft soap and wishful thinking to begin, and in the end, despair.” C. S. LewisWhat are you reading now?
The Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson.What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m working on the sequels to my debut novel now and have two other series planned. But, I am also working in the animated TV world and would love to write more scripts and develop another 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 Bible, The Wheel of Time, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, and the Lord of the Rings.Author Websites and Profiles
D. E. Cunningham Amazon Profile
D. E. Cunningham’s Social Media Links
K.A. Tremblay
Interview With Author K.A. Tremblay
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve always been a writer at heart but only recently pursued it as anything more than a hobby. My day job is strictly left-brain oriented, so I get to explore the other side of my mind through my writing.So far I’ve written and published two Young Adult novels that take place in the 1970s – one of my favorite eras. I’m currently working on the third book in the series.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Charlie’s Story is the name of my latest book. It’s the continuing saga of Charlie Seldon, a major character from my first published novel, Angie. Charlie got in a lot of trouble at the end of that book. He’d been sent to juvie! His story, I felt, needed to be told: where he’d been in life, how he got to this point, and where he’ll go from here. It’s a tale, in essence, of redemption.Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t have a particular place or time when I write. It happens whenever I can find the time, and can happen wherever I happen to be. If I’m not in front of my computer, I’ll pull a piece of paper out of my purse – it could be a flyer, a restaurant menu, or even the back of an envelope – to get the words out of my head and onto the paper. Later on, I can type everything out on the computer.What authors, or books have influenced you?
I have multiple favorite authors, many of them from the 19th century, writers of the so-called classics. That being said, my biggest influences for the type of fiction I write are S.E. Hinton (The Outsiders, That Was Then, This Is Now) and Cynthia Voigt (Homecoming, Dicey’s Song, The Runner). This genre is realistic YA fiction, a style that resonated with me when I read these books in my youth. When I started writing my own books, the realistic style seemed to flow naturally.What are you working on now?
I’m working on writing the third book in the saga that began with the love story of David and Angie. This one is about Angie’s older brother Tony, who went to Vietnam and is now MIA.What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My promo guru is Jane Ryder, who is simply brilliant when it comes to doing all the extraneous work I’d need a second “me” to accomplish. Her website is ryderauthorresources.com.Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep writing, no matter what. Never give up. And DON’T throw out those pages you think are silly or not good enough. Everything you write is precious, even if it’s just for you.What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Aspirin is a good placebo for many ailments.
Also, don’t decide on something if you have doubts. Wait until you’re reasonably sure.What are you reading now?
I’m reading the novel Rebecca by Daphne DuMaurier, published in 1938. Everyone knows the Hitchcock movie, but certain plot elements were changed from the novel in order to comply with Hollywood’s production code. Without giving away the plot, let me say my attitude toward Maxim DeWinter changed.What’s next for you as a writer?
I need to finish the third novel (working title is The Intervening) and then I’m not sure which direction I’ll go from 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?
Moby Dick
The Bible
War and Peace (I need to read that one, and what better opportunity?)
Thin Thighs in 30 Days (Hey, why not?)Author Websites and Profiles
K.A. Tremblay’s Social Media Links
Stu Duncan
Interview With Author Stu Duncan
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I live in the forest of Ontario, Canada, on the edge of a lake. I was never able to decide what I wanted to do when I grew up and it is getting a little late to make that decision. I have been a skydiver, barefoot water-skier, paramedic, college teacher, software developer, chemist, fisherman, pilot, aircraft builder, and an author. Those are the things I remember.
I studied at Niagara College, Waterloo University, McMasterUniversity, Brock University, and the Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara in Mexico.
I have flown the plane I built, a two-seater STOL (Short Take Off Landing) aircraft, from coast to coast in Canada. In 2020 I added floats to my plane.What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is “Rosa and the Prion – Native Without a Tribe”. When I was teaching at a college, one of my students asked if I was native. I asked him why he asked and he said, “The way you are turning grey is called Eagle Feathers”. This started a search into my roots, which led me to my great-great grandmother, who left her reserve to raise 6 children with my grandfather. Like my heroine, Rosa, I was raised in the white man’s world and knew nothing about my actual roots.Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t experience writer’s block. I do experience a shortage of time in a busy life.What authors, or books have influenced you?
Literally tens of thousands of books. When I was learning to read as a child and was whining to mom about how much I hated reading, she said, “Stuart, you are going to love reading.” She was absolutely “write” in ways she didn’t imagine.What are you working on now?
Robot Wife. The title explains a lot. This book was prompted by a terrible movie my wife and I struggled through one Saturday evening about a man falling in love with his blow-up doll. It got me thinking along a different line about a robot wife.What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I promote my books through my own website and the kind people who run sites such as Awesome Gang.Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t quit your day job. If you are in it to make money, there are much better, more reliable ways to earn an income. I write because I have been a storyteller since childhood. My wife always comments, after reading my latest effort, “How does all of that stuff come out of your brain?” She loves the romance parts, but hates my bad guys. I have a background in psychology and draw my antagonists from that. The real world has far more evil people than the ones coming out of writer’s minds.What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t give up. Never go back. Always be polite. Yours friends will continue to like you. Your enemies will go crazy.What are you reading now?
Wow! I just realized that I haven’t started reading another book in a week.What’s next for you as a writer?
My home needs a new roof and I like to do my own work. So I won’t be getting a lot of writing done this summer. Ok, that wasn’t really what’s next as a writer, but it was a dose of reality. Next step will be to finish Robot Wife which is about 40% done. I am at a junction with the story which can go off in one of several directions and I spend my insomnia time exploring each, deciding which will make the best story.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 would take Swiss Family Robinson. My grade 5 teacher read us this story during our lunch hours. It fascinated me. Sadly, now as a retired biologist, I fear that the wonderment will no longer be there.
The Old Man and the Sea held me spellbound.
Two short stories: The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. I wish that I had written it.
Leinegen versus the ants. A terrifying short tale.Author Websites and Profiles
