Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I authored “Portland: The Riches of a City” which is a book all about Portland that I was commissioned to write by the Chamber of Commerce. I also wrote “They Ain’t Called Saints for Nothin’!” which was a self published book I produced with artist Chris Haberman.
My first novel is “Journey to Wizards’ Keep” which I co-wrote with my two best friends when we were in college for fun. We set it aside and dug it up 30 years after we initially stopped writing. We finished it and I spent 3 years polishing it before Ravenswood Publishing picked itup.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
One of my two original co-authors, Sara Cole, and I have continued to collaborate on the Irene, Nan and Kay series. Book two is coming out in 2017, and we are very close to completing Book 3!

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Writing with another writer is an unusual thing in itself, I think. Sara and I complement each other very well. She is wonderful on plot issues, and I am a good overall writer, with a good ear for dialogue, thanks to years of being a news-reporter always looking for a good soundbite! We take turns on chapters, but I am the overall editor in order for it to have a “singular voice.” Both of us like to write in the morning, but if the muse strikes, I can be working away at night, too.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Oddly, for someone who has now written three fantasy books, I haven’t read a lot of that genre. At least, not as much as Sara. But I loved the Game of Throne series — such a marvelous world he created!
I do tend to read novels about women and especially love Amy Tan, Elizabeth Gilbert, Nicole Mones, Isabella Allende. Since our series has three female characters, perhaps all the books I read with strong women characters in it have influenced me.

What are you working on now?
We are about to wrap up book three in our series — which is set six years after the initial book, “Journey to Wizards’ Keep.”
We are both sad to think about the end of these characters, so we are toying with the idea of writing a prequel!

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Well, I am still exploring that!

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t give up! I got a lot of rejections before I got that yes. Each “no” hurt, but I just kept telling myself, “Well, that just means another publisher will get this book.” I never doubted that it would be published,

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write the book you want to read.

What are you reading now?
I am reading “A Thin, Bright Line” by a long time friend, Lucy Bledsoe. We knew each other growing up and I have enjoyed all her books. This is her latest, based on the amazing life of her Aunt.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I seem to split my time between marketing the book and writing the third one! Sara and I were thrilled to get into the Annual Book Sale at the Oregon Historical Society, which is for authors from the Pacific Northwest only. And we were just interviewed by the local paper, so we look forward to seeing that.

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 could I pick! I have the complete works of Jane Austen in one big, book, so definitely that.
The Mistress of the Vatican — because it’s endlessly fascinating and educational.
And The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert.
But you can bet I would try to sneak in more than just 3 or 4!

Author Websites and Profiles
KC Cowan Website
KC Cowan Amazon Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
The author is top ranked by KLOUT as Expert on Amazon, Spa, Alternative medicine and Technical Writing.
She is the author of four books on alternative medicine.
The author is a technical writer with statutes in spa sciences and alternative therapies. She delivers certified courses in Eliademy, and is authorized by ISTE .
She was the former qualification manager of a global UK government academy called HABIA, in India, covering cosmetology, spa and massage.
She provides continuing medical education seminars in hospitals.
She has lived in Delhi, China and USA.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is called Neuromuscular Massage Therapy. It has been inspired from the lack of affordable documentation on therapies and techniques associated with Sports massage.
It is a sequel to the 2nd title Sports Massage, which is developed in a technical framework for beginners.
It is a technical listing for reference of industry boards on wellness to further community professionalism, growth and understanding.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I meditate to achieve stability and focus to write. I also feel meditation is vital support in the form of prayer, to generate a fuel for good karma (good writing).

What authors, or books have influenced you?
My first book Low Level Laser for Physical Therapists, was edited by a legendary writer and authority, Jan Tuner. I have been influenced by him to manage advanced writing and scientific works in alternative medicine.
I am also influenced by UK Occupational Standards and their technical writing systems.

What are you working on now?
I am working on a 5th title SPA ENERGETICS FRAMEWORK, which is based on the Origin of spa energy and Dharma.
I hope to visit a Residency to complete it next year.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I loves Quotes Rain. It is a start up now called All author. Tweets can be scheduled three times daily for all books. Beautiful quotes are also shared.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
I advise them to take Zen training, as the going is rough and changeable. Mindful living in authors prepares them to remain stable in the face of uncertainty.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I have been advised to believe in Love as the supreme human quality. Love makes us human, and takes our destiny forward.
Of all forms of love, love for God is the highest rewarding factor.

What are you reading now?
I am reading Thoth and Torah, which is necessary for my fifth book. These are sacred texts on Origin.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I am traveling out of my country into a community of exceptionally mature and distinguished writers
next year. I am changing my writing style from scientific to sacred. My next writing task involves vast reading and quoting from original sources.

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 Yellow Emperors Classic of Internal Medicine by Huang Di is very important.
I also read The Secret of Everlasting Life by Richard Bertschinger.
Zen Master Dogen by Yoho Yokoi

Author Websites and Profiles
Malini Chaudhri Website
Malini Chaudhri Amazon Profile
Malini Chaudhri Author Profile on Smashwords

Malini Chaudhri’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
OK, 2 out of 3 are real: (1) I won a silver medal at the 2004 European Swimming Championships; (2) I broke both my legs and my back in 2007; (3) I won £10,000 in an online competition in 2010.

I live in Sheffield, UK, have 2 awesome children, am addicted to climbing, and have written 2 novellas – both part of the Sixty Minute Reads series

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Massacre of the Sixty: its the second part of the Sixty Minute Reads series. The series is inspired by the world’s fast paced spin, and how people (like me) enjoy consuming books these days. Each chapter is one minute of real time, and takes the reader one minute to consume. The whole book can be read in one hour, or in 60 separate chunks.
This second installment ramps up the brutality and violence. A fight to the death in the ultimate battle arena.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write with the same music track playing on loop in the background

What authors, or books have influenced you?
James Frey – A Million Little Pieces. I absolutely loved his no-rules approach to writing. Sharp, bite-size chunks, bang on and to the point.

What are you working on now?
About to start Book 3 – “Homicide Floor Sixty”. I also write a lot of short stories and publish them for free on my website www.sixtypublishing.com

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
This is my first crack at promotion, so I’m hoping it’s this one!

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Self publish if literary agents don’t want to know. It’s free! Get your work out there, even if only a few people read it. Why waste all that effort?

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Turn on, tune in, drop out

What are you reading now?
One of the Rebus books by Ian Rankin

What’s next for you as a writer?
Once Book 3 is done, I really want to go back and edit a full novel I wrote a few years ago. Has great potential, but at 70k words I’m not ready to look at it again 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?
The Stand – Stephen King
Million Little Pieces – James Frey
How to build a boat – Noah
Outdoor Survival Kit – Ray Mears

Author Websites and Profiles
Dave Johnston Website
Dave Johnston Amazon Profile

Dave Johnston’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m an Australian author, with a background in Positive Psychology. I have one book on the shelf but another two ready for release in 2017.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
‘Finding Your Path – A guide to life & happiness after school’ is my first book. It was inspired by my own transition into life after school and not feeling there was any guide book out there for me to make the decision around what was next.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I like to mix up where I write – from cafes, to the pool, to random cafes. I like the variety.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Elizabeth Gilbert ‘Big Magic’, Jessica Hagy ‘How to be interesting’, Austin Kleon ‘Show your work’ & Anthea Paul ‘Girlosophy’.

What are you working on now?
Another addition to the Finding Your Path series – transitioning into being an expat.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Instagram – having fun with interacting with people and telling the books story.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
If you have an idea you want to share – just do it. People will judge it obviously, but if you believe that’s the only thing that really matters.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Your book will never be perfect!

What are you reading now?
‘Limiting Beliefs’ – Ruth Logan

What’s next for you as a writer?
To keep writing projects about transitions that I believe will be useful and inspiring.

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 four I mentioned above that inspired my writing. I would have to take these in gratitude of where they’ve got me.

Author Websites and Profiles
Amba Brown Website
Amba Brown Amazon Profile

Amba Brown’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
This is my first book, but the 1st part in a series of 3. The second part is soon to be released before the end of the year. Part 2 will start up where the first ended as a next step in the self discovery process.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
How to get anything you want – Part 1 How did I get here?
The book was inspired by my own journey of self discovery that began at the beginning of 2016. I read Jack Canfield’s Success Principles and realized I had been doing it all wrong. So, I set out to make 2016 the best year of my life so far and set a big goal of writing a book.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I prefer to handwrite everything and use colorful paper mate felt pens only. I love seeing the colors on the page as I write.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Jack Canfields Success Principles was definitely the catalyst book for me, but the one that made me realize that I could write a book myself was “Be that Girl” by Tina O’Connor. I really enjoyed her writing style and felt like she was sitting beside me with a glass of wine telling me her stories. That was when I realized that my book didn’t have to have perfect grammar, just write like I am talking to a friend.

What are you working on now?
I am currently working on Part 2 in the series as the next step in the process. After I finish the 2nd and 3rd, the book I set out to write in the beginning was about “The difference a year can make”.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have been using Facebook as much as possible so far.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
I enrolled in a course to teach me how to write, format, publish, and market kindle books. I wouldn’t have been able to accomplish this without that amazing program. I don’t think there is any reason we can’t achieve anything we set our hearts to if we work hard and find help.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Brendan Burchard said it perfectly, “when opportunity knocks, don’t be surprised when work answers the door”.

What are you reading now?
You are a Badass by Jen Sincero….great read!

What’s next for you as a writer?
Just keep on writing….I have completely fallen in love with this!

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) The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari – Robin Sharma
2) Success Principles – Jack Canfield
3) Who Moved My Cheese – Spencer Johnson

Author Websites and Profiles
Jessie Marie Website

Jessie Marie’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a psychologist and a mom and now a radio show host, a public speaker and a magazine columnist. The truth is, I am now also a Gourmet Raw Food Chef and Nutrition Instructor, as well as a Certified Integrative Energy Healer, and student of several other osteopathic healing modalities (e.g. Craniosacral Therapy, Lymph Drainage, Visceral Manipulation, and Neural Manipulation). However, becoming a chef and a food and garden photographer was a very unexpected development. Most surprising, with the one book that I have written (though it took almost six years to write and photograph), I am now a multi-award-winning author, having received some of the highest honours possible as an author, including a starred Publishers Weekly Review and also a 2016 Gourmand Best in the World Cookbook Award, amongst other prestigious honours.

I realize this is quite a list. However, it’s important to explain that the reason I am all of these things is not because I am a “superhero”, but because of my intense craving to not leave my children motherless. And, now that I have been given a second chance, I am passionate about offering what I can to others, so that they don’t have to needlessly go through the same challenges that I had to live through.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
YUM: Plant-Based Recipes For A Gluten-Free Diet.

What inspired it… Well, it’s all pretty crazy, because while I’ve always been a great cook, historically I never really liked to cook! Especially growing up in a very gender-typed family, I grew up associating “cooking” with “women’s work”. As a strong and opinionated woman, it is not difficult to appreciate my lack of affection for the activity. This all changed, though, when I became extremely ill and debilitated and didn’t know if I would live long enough to keep my daughter from becoming motherless before she graduated high school. It is pretty incredible how motivating the desire to stay alive can be and how potent the desire to be there for others can be.

It was in 1997 that the test began. It was really scary—my immune system was kaput—gone! Every pathogen possible ravaged my body and my poor respiratory system had difficulty offering me the breath of life. It was a long and winding road, filled with multi-organ inflammation and dysfunction, including my joints, skin and neurological systems, as well as my respiratory and digestive systems. I was in pain in every cell of my body, with the toxicity within me (due to natural, as well as pharmaceutical inputs) ravaging within me. It was ugly.

After over a dozen years of profound struggling, I accidentally discovered that at the root of my debilitation was my body’s disapproval of some of the food that I ate—most notably, gluten, dairy, and potatoes. Once this awareness came to the light, my health finally began to turn around. It was a long journey, but an important point along the way was when I decided to shift my perspective about my food restrictions to focus on what I “could” eat, instead of what I had to live without. I thought of it like a painter’s palette to create new art and as a creative challenge.

At first, the process seemed grim, but being the persistent solution-seeker that I am, nothing could stop me on my mission. After years of experimenting, I successfully created insanely yummy and healthy plant-based food concepts that everyone in my family could love, even without gluten, dairy, sugar, eggs, potatoes, and many other foods that can give lots of folks a tough time.

This was not my plan, but it was my Destiny—and one that I would never want to change. Because of my suffering, I now have been able to create a gift for others—the resource that I wish I could have found when I was so sick. I want to optimally help others prevent themselves from having to go through what I did, if possible. If it is too late for that, I want to help those who are struggling find respite, ease and joy in their lives again.

Many others are like me—the symptoms are there and may have been throughout their lives. For example, I had migraines, rosacea, asthma, digestive problems and anemia since childhood, but never knew that the food I was eating was causing it. The crazy thing is that I know that I am not unique in this. Countless people have gas, skin rashes, headaches, heartburn, etc. and think that these symptoms are just a necessary part of living—when oftentimes, they actually may not be. Knowing this, I am committed to share what I have learned so that even children can avoid this dark and lonely path and instead live vibrant and healthy lives. This is what YUM has been created to do.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I do. Because I live so much “in the flow”, I find that if I don’t capture inspiration when it is offered to me, I lose it. Because of this, I’ve had to discover butterfly nets to capture the ideas when they choose to flit about (even in the most inconvenient times, like at 3am or while walking to work!). I have found that postit notes and a pen above my head in bed and the dictation button on my phone, where I can email my thoughts to myself, are my best friends. Taking photographs of special moments is another strategy I use to hold a moment in time, later to be deconstructed or poetically expressed.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Oh my goodness, SO many! Artistically for my photography, I have been very much moved by Ottolenghi. Kris Carr has been a shining light of love and hope and courage, as Viktor Frankl was also a similar reflection, but in a much different voice. Revolutionary thinkers, such as Functional Medicine and Integrative Physicians, such as Dr. David Perlmutter, Dr. Alessio Fasano, Dr. Neal Barnard, Dr. William Davis, Dr. Mark Hyman, Dr. Andrew Weil, and Dr. Natasha Turner were all instrumental for me along my personal journey. And on a soul level, Dr. Rachel Remen, Dr. Tara Brach and Dr. Daniel Amen have held a candle of hope and confirmation of my vision. Truly, I could go on and on about “inspirers” of mine, but I will stop there for now.

What are you working on now?
Currently I am excited about my new website (www.TheresaNicassio.com) that offers even more wellness resources, drawing upon my 30 years as a therapist and wellness professional. It feels like an important next chapter in my journey. Public speaking and taking on several magazine columns, like the two with Blush Vancouver Magazine is another opportunity to give to my community. My new radio show, the Dr. Theresa Nicassio Show on HealthyLife.net is taking my message to a whole new level, with a global reach that is quite humbling.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
You know, my favourite method for promoting my books is opening my heart with people, whether in person or online via social media. I can’t believe how many people write emails and social media messages to me, as well as talk to me when I am at public events. It is extremely magical. In many ways I know that my tool for connecting is my book, which offers hope and love and compassion. However, the most important medium of my message is simply my willingness to love and deeply care about the people whose lives I am meant to touch.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
I have two recommendations:
1) Write because you have something you want to share with others that you think will touch them in a meaningful way, but don’t be attached to the outcome.

2) Focus on the who, what, when, where, how and why of your message—-beginning and ending with the “WHY”. I think new authors are often focused on the “WHAT” of their writing or message. The “What” is really just two-dimensional. However, the “Why” is where the passion resides. If there is no passion, there is no reason to write and without passion, there is no reason to read what is written.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Say “Yes” and then figure it out later.”

This is a great way to confront fears and learn to embrace the unknown and move out of one’s comfort zone.

What are you reading now?
Because I am needing to learn about the world of online marketing, I just started to read Martin Crosbie’s book about the ins and outs of selling ebooks.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I also have several other forthcoming books up my sleeve that I am brewing up plans to eventually launch into the world one day. All are still in the non-fiction genre that are a combination of being inspirational, psychological and philosophical. The most important work I will probably ever write is my book, “In Search of Your Golden Buddha.” However, I am also looking forward to offering an insider view of my life’s journey as a psychologist in my book “The Secret Life of a Therapist”. I also am looking forward to one day birthing my book “PIG-Out”, which will offer practical tools for more joyful and kind living through pleasure, inclusivity and gratitude.

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?
Rachel Remen’s “Kitchen Table Wisdom”, Tara Brach’s book “Radical Acceptance”, Mitch Albom’s “Tuesdays With Morrie” and Johanson & Kurtz’s “Grace Unfolding”.

Author Websites and Profiles
Theresa Nicassio Website
Theresa Nicassio Amazon Profile

Theresa Nicassio’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve been a California guy ever since… well, ever. So far I’ve written four books. The fifth is on its way. When I’m not writing, I like to figure out what to write next, or say incredible (lame) jokes. Here’s one for you:

Why did the golfer wear two pairs of pants?
In case he got a hole in one.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
A BLANKET FOR DECAY is my latest book. It’s the final chapter in my zombie apocalypse trilogy THEIR DEAD LIVES. I just wanted to write about zombies eating people, but over time the story evolved into something crazier.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I like to say dialogue out loud as I write, but I can only do this in private because I use different voices for different characters and I don’t want to be put into an asylum.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Dennis Lehane, Stephen King, and Crichton are my top three. I’ll never forget Jurassic Park’s river scene involving the T-Rex. Too bad it didn’t make the movie!

What are you working on now?
My action thriller SPARE NO ONE has just gone to my editor. I’m also working on a romantic thriller, and, THEIR DEAD WORLD: the sequel series to my zombie apocalypse trilogy. And of course the sequel to ONE PISSED-OFF SHARK, aptly named TWO PISSED-OFF SHARKS.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
So far it’s been word of mouth and free kindle promotions!

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just keep writing and pushing and having a good time.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“You re-wrote it a tenth time? Good. Now the eleventh.”

What are you reading now?
Bull Mountain by Brian Panowich. Great stuff!

What’s next for you as a writer?
Promoting and 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?
Trick question. I would trade in three of the books for a knife, a box of matches, and a raft. With my fourth book choice I would of course pick the fourth Harry Potter. Why that one? Because I haven’t read it yet.

Author Websites and Profiles
Zack Scott Website
Zack Scott Amazon Profile

Zack Scott’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a self-development geek and lifehacking enthusiast. I have been deeply immersed in the self-help industry for almost 10 years and have explored hundreds of strategies, tips and techniques in the fields of motivation, psychology and self-development. I admit to having the largest collection of resources on self-development and productivity than anyone I know. I am also a professional translator and interpreter (speak 3 languages).

I am passionate about self-growth and sharing my own personal findings with the world through my books. I live in Europe with my husband Kostia and our daughter Katie.

I have written 2 books:
– Anger Management: The Only Practical Guide You’ll Have to Read
– How to Live Longer: 100 Practical Tips to Live to Be 100

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is called “How to Live Longer: 100 Practical Tips to Live to Be 100”. Ever since I gave birth to my daughter almost a year ago, I have become very passionate about healthy living. This book is the compilation of all the research I’ve done on the topic.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I usually start writing as soon as my daughter goes down on her nap, and I type as fast as possible to make sure that I write as much as I can before she wakes up

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I have been recently influenced a lot by the work of Seth Godin.

What are you working on now?
I have just published my second book, and now I’m exploring new book ideas.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
http://awesomegang.com/

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just start writing Your first book is usually your worst one, so just ship it as soon as you can, so that you gain valuable experience and move on to writing your second book with these new-found insights.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Whether you think you can or you can’t, you are right.

What are you reading now?
Linchpin by Seth Godin

What’s next for you as a writer?
I am exploring new book ideas at the moment, and still am not sure what the future will bring

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?
Linchpin by Seth Godin
Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe
The Bible
Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

Author Websites and Profiles
Olga Senych Amazon Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve written 4 books but have currently published 1. The rest are very soon to follow starting on Dec 1, 2016!

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Born of Water, An Elemental Origins Novel. I have always loved nautical history, shipwrecks, marine biology, and marine archaeology. This fascination, combined with my love of YA fantasy, inspired me to write the mermaid/siren story Born of Water.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I try to write standing up to save my tailbone. I live in Italy right now so I know all the best cafe’s that have high tables so I can stand and work comfortably.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
So many! Stephen King, JK Rowling, Anne Rice, Ken Follett, JRR Tolkein, Kelley Armstrong, Suzanne Collins, Stieg Larsson, Arthur Golden, Bill Bryson, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Chuck Wendig, Veronica Roth, and Frank McCourt. A real mixed bag! For me, it’s important to read widely and outside my own genre, that’s the best way to improve my own writing.

What are you working on now?
The third full length novel in my Elemental Origins Series – Born of Earth.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t edit your first draft. Everyone’s first draft stinks. Just get the words down on the page, you’ll make them pretty later.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
You can fail at what you don’t want to do, why not take a chance doing something you love? -Jim Carrey

What are you reading now?
Swann, by Ryan Schow. Demolition Love, by Layla. And Insurgent, by Veronica Roth. I try to read both unknown indies as well as the big names.

What’s next for you as a writer?
Get the first 5 Elemental Origins Series novels published and out there.

If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Bag of Bones, by Stephen King.
Pillars of the Earth, by Ken Follett.
The Hobbit, by JRR Tolkien.
Memoirs of a Geisha, by Arthur Golden.

Author Websites and Profiles
A.L. Knorr Website
A.L. Knorr Amazon Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I grew up all over the place. My dad gets restless, at least that’s what I told people who asked if I was an army brat when I told them how much I moved. I went to three different schools in seventh grade. I lived in several places in Texas. Lived in Superior, WI right after that, quite the change of scenery, I know. Moved around Illinois a bit. We finally settled in Peoria, Il, but we did move to three different houses while there. I then moved to Rochester Hills, Michigan after I finished graduate school. I was a librarian at one of the nicest public libraries I’ve ever visited, RHPL. I worked with teens, and in particular, planned the teen programming. The experiences I had with those teens will be some of the best of my life, even at the end, I can guarantee you that. But I ended up closer to family again after my aunt passed away rather suddenly. I didn’t like how far I had gotten away from everyone. Urbana-Champaign is a lovely pair of cities though, so I’m not unhappy to be back.

I’ve published three books, and written three more ready for publishing. One is very close to being done with the final edit. About 80% done. The other two will be published next year, with any luck.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The book that is just about to be published, Whom the Gods Fear, is the conclusion to a trilogy of books I wrote. I like swashbuckling adventures. I love The Princess Bride movie. The cast of colorful characters and creatures has always been inspiring to me. The lighthearted style in a dark tale, that was what I was going for in these stories. The first in the trilogy exemplifies this the best. The deeper inspiration for these stories is my passion for all things mythological and folktale. I did more than a few projects for grad school on mythology, folklore, legends and fairy tales… I just love these stories. I enjoy making my own myths and that’s the true basis for these books.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I often write a kind of encyclopedia for my books before and as I write them. I enjoy creating back stories for things, and most of the time these “entries” and their information doesn’t appear in the book. I tend to write in a more fluid manner, so I don’t stop to think about the tiny details as much as forward momentum of the action. But the details always go into the encyclopedia. I like to put entries up on my blog of things that might not have made it into the book because all that detail just didn’t fit.

I also play Om in the background whenever I write. I get distracted by sounds, and with two cats and a dog, these sounds can happen at any time.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Christopher Moore has to go in here. He also loves to play with myths and legends. And his writing style of using humor to lighten dark topics, it’s a style I aspire to perfect. Garth Nix, his dark fantasy series, The Abhorsen series, has to be next. His world building is fantastic. Elmore Leonard, his punchy, dialog heavy style of writing is very influential to my style. And really, anything dystopian. One of my majors in college was Political Science. I love exploring different political philosophies taken to extremes. That certainly comes across in some of my writing.

What are you working on now?
Besides editing, I’m currently working on a larger science fiction series. I have the first two books done. It’s a series about thirteen huge generational colony ships shot into space that are more than 600 years along their course. The story starts taking place roughly 2 years out from their ultimate destination. I’ve already written the first two, and am working on the third now. It isn’t the first time I’ve tackled sci-fi, but it’s the first time I’ve published it. I worked on several short sci fi stories for creative writing when I was in college. I enjoy writing fantasy, but I really love writing sci fi. Before I switched to political science in college, I spent three semesters as a pre-med major. I suspect there are a lot of people who have a similar background in college. While I wasn’t cut out to be a pre-med student, I never lost my fascination with science. Physics in particular was my favorite class. Because of my love of science, I still read a lot of books and articles about new and exciting discoveries. This new series was greatly inspired by the discovery of a gas giant in a solar system similar to ours.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I don’t really have one. I’m relatively new to all of this promotion stuff. I was interrupted just as I was ready to do start a promotional blitz. A couple years ago, as I was getting ready to publish my 4th book, I planned to go around and buy professional covers and start advertising. But life got in the way and I never got to that. So here I am, trying to start up again now that I’m ready for it. There are so many more options than there were before. I think I’ll start talking about the best and worst ones on my blog, just to keep a running diary of what ends up working.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just write. There are a billion things that will try to eat at your time. Find a quiet space, and write until you finish what you’re working on. The TV shows, movies and other entertaining distractions, will still be there when you finish. And don’t be discouraged if something disrupts your flow. Get back up, and start something new if you can’t reconnect to that old thing.

I got caught up for two years with my cancer right at the end of writing my third book in a trilogy, the first two of which I already published. I felt immense pressure to finish it. Not many people had purchased the first two, and maybe they didn’t even remember it, but I still felt obligated to complete the story for those few. I just couldn’t find the groove again to start the editing process. So I switched rails and started something new. And it worked, I was ready to get back to editing that third book. Your imagination is like a muscle, at least I think so, and sometimes you have to warm it up before it’s ready to do the heavy lifting.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
When you can’t think of something to write, read. I’ve read a lot of authors say this when giving advice to writers. And it is so true. Again, with that imagination is a muscle thing, reading a great story really inspires me.

What are you reading now?
Watership Down. Again. It’s been years since I read it last. And last week I read the new Garth Nix book, Goldenhand. I’m glad I got the chance to visit the world of Abhorsen again.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I will continue to finish the SciFi series I started. I’m working on book 3 of that series. I think I’ll just shoot through until the end of that series, since that’s where my head space is at right now. My brain is full of ideas for that story line, so for the immediate future, it’s going to be that series. I don’t have a name for the series yet, but the first book is called The Thirteen.

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?
One, Of Mice and Men, because I think this book is perfect. Two is To Kill a Mockingbird. I know, these are two books we were forced to read in school. So maybe I’m biased simply because I was exposed to them so young. But I can’t help it. I love them even though I know it’s probably cliche to pick two classics. I don’t care. And three, a book I hadn’t read before. Something from the science fiction best sellers list. Something that wasn’t in a series. Because I’d want to have something new to discover, something I knew I could read that I’d never read before. And I’d savor that book as long as I could.

Author Websites and Profiles
M.M. Perry Website
M.M. Perry Amazon Profile

M.M. Perry’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a well seasoned, over sixty great grandmother who travels the US by recreational vehicle. Oh, and I ride motorcycles. I have written two mystery novels, one romance/adventure novel, one novella and several short stories (included in various anthologies).

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book was “Paradise Down”, the first in a trilogy of novellas set in Hawaii as part of the Lei Crime Kindle World series.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I almost never write at home. My first three books were written sitting in local McDonalds restaurants. My current book is being written during 22 days of cruising!

What are you working on now?
I am about half way into book three of my Klondike (PA) mystery series, “Almost a Touch”. It follows a new murder in Montana using several main characters introduced in the first two books in the series.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I use a variety of methods to promote my books. Utilizing Kindle Select, I am able to offer my books on sale from time to time. I rarely promote them for free, but on occasion I do so.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Quit reading and WRITE! Seriously. Just get it on paper – you’ll fix it in the edits. That means no self-editing in your first draft. It works!

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Remember those who helped on your way up – you may have to see them again on your way down. (wink)

What are you reading now?
I am getting ready to read the first couple of Toby Neals’ new Wired series, using a character she introduced during her Lei Crime series. I’m also hooked on JB Lynn’s Hitwoman series – funny, quirky, lovable characters.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I hope to continue writing my Klondike mysteries, as long as my readers enjoy them. That means at least three books in 2017 (two novellas for the Lei Crime series). I also have a new series I want to work on, Lea Rules, a street raised, kick-ass private eye who rides a motorcycle.

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?
Only 3-4? That’s difficult – so many great books out there. They’d have to be REALLY long books since I’m a fast reader. Some Heinlein Sci-Fi and maybe some Gabaldon time travel/romance.

Author Websites and Profiles
Donna B. McNicol Website
Donna B. McNicol Amazon Profile

Donna B. McNicol’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve always been creative but becoming a published author wasn’t one of my lifelong goals. However, after having our son, I began to write children’s stories. In 2012, my first book, “Guess What is on Grandpa’s Farm” was published. By 2015, I added four more books to the Guess What series. This year, I created a coloring book to go along with the series. While I was drawing the illustrations for “Guess What You Can Color”, I was also working on my first adult fiction, “Her Way Out” which was released on November 1, 2016. In addition to those, I published a book of my dad’s sayings and life philosophies. “It’s Always Somethin’: 101 Sayings from an Old Rancher” is full of one-liners but also has a lot of good, solid advice for all parts of life regardless of what industry you’re in. He was 88 years old when the book came out and is now 92 but still going strong on their ranch.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is the adult fiction, “Her Way Out.” After writing children’s books for several years, I wanted to see if I could write more than a few hundred words. It was a fun adventure and it’s good to finally see the book in print.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I am the most creative when I can write outside in the sunshine and warm weather. Since it’s too hard to see a laptop screen outside and suntan lotion gets too messy, I always write my first drafts in a spiral notebook with a Uniball pen that I buy in bulk from Costco. I can’t live without those pens, even for normal use. Now if I could just figure out a way to keep my notebook dry while lounging on a pool float, I’d have the perfect writing environment.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
While going to college to get my paralegal degree, I loved reading John Grisham’s books.

What are you working on now?
I have a custom illustrated book that I’m doing for a client but I’ve also started working on the sequel to “Her Way Out.”

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I don’t think there is one best method. I use social media and newsletters but an author has to use all resources when it comes to promoting. There are so many books available today and with self-publishing, the competition and numbers are always increasing. Being creative and trying lots of options is essential.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write what your heart tells you. If you try to be someone that you’re not, it shows in your writing. Then when you have your polished draft finished, find the right people to help (beta readers, an editor, designer, etc.) And above all, be patient. Things worth doing take time.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
This is one of my dad’s saying and simply said: “It’s not about what you know. It’s about how you use what you know.”

What are you reading now?
The Hidden Soul by Reagan Colbert. It’s a fiction novel based on the crucifixion of Christ as told through the eyes of a Roman soldier who was ordered to drive the nails into Jesus’ hands. It’s one of the few books that I’ve read recently that kept me reading until the wee hours of the morning. The author is only 19 and this is her first book in a series but she is a great storyteller.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I like to keep my options open and see where my creativity steers me. In addition to the projects that I am currently working on, I have several other children’s stories that I plan to pitch to agents and see if I can break into the traditional publishing arena.

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?
Book 2 and 3 in Reagan Colbert’s “The Roman Soul Series” and “Witness to a Trial” by John Grisham.

Author Websites and Profiles
Nancy O’Neill Website
Nancy O’Neill Amazon Profile
Nancy O’Neill Author Profile on Smashwords

Nancy O’Neill’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account