Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
We are good friends. Charles is a former Mystery bookshop owner, currently freelance editor, writer, artist and reviewer with published contributions in a variety of books and magazines. J. R. Campbell is a writer and editor. His short fiction has appeared in a number of anthologies and he has also written three episodes in Imagination Theater’s The Further Adventures of Sherlock Holmes radio series. Together, Charles and J. R, hve edited the anthologies Curious Incidents Vols. 1 & 2, Gaslight Grimoire: Fantastic Tales of Sherlock Holmes, Gaslight Grotesque: Nightmare Tales of Sherlock Holmes and Gaslight Arcanum: Uncanny Tales of Sherlock Holmes, Gaslight Gothic: Strange Tales of Sherlock Holmes and Professor Challenger: New Worlds, Lost Places.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Gaslight Gothic: Strange Tales of Sherlock Holmes is a curated anthology of 11 short stories by some of the most influential writers in the genre: David Stuart Davies, Lyndsay Faye, Nancy Holder, Mark A. Latham, James Lovegrove, Mark Morris, Charles Prepolec, Josh Reynolds, Angela Slatter, Kevin P. Thornton, and Stephen Volk.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
We do our best work over a pint of Guinness (a dark Irish dry stout that originated in the brewery of Arthur Guinness at St. James’s Gate, Dublin, Ireland, in 1759).

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Anything to do with Sherlock Holmes and the many other famous detectives created by Arthur Conan Doyle.

What are you working on now?
Research and collecting of Sherlockian materials. We collect everything.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
We talk about Sherlock on Facebook and at panels at various conventions (Science Fiction, Fantasy and Sherlockian).

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Read a lot and write a lot. No kidding. There is no secret. just a lot of time and work.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Put your butt in a seat in front of your computer and write (anything).

What are you reading now?
The Feats of Sherlock Holmes by Nick Cardillo and Sherlock Holmes – Murder on the Brighton Line and Other Stories by Mike Hogan

What’s next for you as a writer?
We are always on the lookout for anything to do with Sherlock Holmes. Probably for our next volume of Gaslight tales (if our publisher wishes).

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 complete collection of Sherlock Holmes stories.

Author Websites and Profiles
J. R. Campbell and Charles Prepolec Amazon Profile

J. R. Campbell and Charles Prepolec’s Social Media Links
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Thomas L. Hay was raised in the Golden Valley of Clinton, Missouri. He is a graduate of the 1961 Clinton Senior High class. He spent four years in the U.S. Navy as a Radioman aboard the USS Hancock, during the Vietnam war. He retired after a 39-year career with TWA/American Airlines. He currently resides in Lake Waukomis, Missouri, with his lovely wife, along with some hyperactive squirrels, too many irritating geese, and a few cranky old catfish.
He has published four books, including his memoirs, “The Comeback Kid”.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“The Abduction Chronicles” is based on some true life events. The story just popped into my head after I wrote my memoirs.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I started out writing with pen and paper. Turned out to be a total mess, with arrows and notes scribbled everywhere. That’s when my wife suggested I get a computer. But then the computer and I had issues, but through trial and error, we became friends.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Most sci-fi books and reading memoirs of our American hero’s in the service of our country.

What are you working on now?
I’m working on trying to win the lottery. Haven’t been having much luck.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Haven’t found one yet outside my own.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t quite your day job.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Stupid is as stupid does.

What are you reading now?
Outpost. A sci-fi thriller by Micheal Gear

What’s next for you as a writer?
Am working on a sequel to “The Abduction Chronicles”.

If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
My own books. Would be a good time to reflect on any changes.

Author Websites and Profiles
Thomas Hay Website
Thomas Hay Amazon Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Naomi Wagner and I am a young author who strives to bring a positive impact on the world, all the while sharing my love for Jesus throughout it all. I have always been enthralled with reading exciting, action-packed, and funny fantasy books with a sprinkle of love and so, I wrote my own unique fantasy book called, Lizzy Abner and The Mark of Scales and got it published right after I turned 17 years old.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I have recently published my first book called Lizzy Abner and The Mark of Scales and it all started when I applied for a scholarship that had a criteria that included having to be the genre fantasy and no more than 17,000 words. I decided to go for it and started brainstorming a world filled with mystery, magic, suspense, and then the characters truly came alive! After literally hitting the exact maximum number of words, I realized I left on a cliffhanger and I had so much more to write! I became so pumped and excited and I continued to write chapters on an app called Wattpad.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Well, I always have to be snacking no matter where I am. It helps me keep on going and stay focused. Normally, I would just sit down and just crank out a chapter no matter how long it takes and I would come up with the craziest ideas that weren’t even planned. I think that is my favorite part of writing…just watching the story unfold and even surprise myself as the plot continues.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I have always loved just snuggling in a blanket with a nice warm cup of tea and just dive into a world that makes you forget that you are just in your living room reading. It’s the coolest thing to just fall into the story and be totally enthralled by the characters and the story. My most favorite books are, of course, fantasy. Magic is so beautiful and you can create it to become anything. There is no limit to your imagination and that is what has always inspired me to write a book.

What are you working on now?
After finishing the crazy and heartwarming journey of getting my first book published, I started to seek out my next steps. I have always been very creative and I wanted to do something where I can just be me and just share my passions to the world. That led me to start my Youtube Channel called Naomi Joy Vlogs. I want to continue to grow that, all the while working on my second book in the series. I am so excited to continue to dive into the world of Lizzy Abner.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have been learning a lot lately and I don’t doubt that I will learn so much more through trial and error. As of right now I’ve found that the more you share your personal story and your book, the more people can join the adventure as well. Promoting your book on sites that can give more readers the opportunity to get sucked into awesome stories is what I have learned is one of the best ways to promote your books.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Oh man, I could go on forever on this! But if I could only say one thing I was say, “Just Do It!” I know it may sound cliche but it’s so true. If you are passionate about something and ready to put the work in, you can do anything you put your mind too! You are capable of so much and you must continue to try because that’s all anyone can ask of you.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice that I have ever heard is more of a saying. You can get so easily distracted in the worry, and those sneaky negative thoughts which can only bring you down and suppress your potential. When your worried about something you must think to yourself, “What’s the worst that can happen?” Most of the time-well, at least for me, I could barely think of anything remotely horrible that my brain seemed to weave in my head. Ask that to yourself and you will find that what you are worried about is not as scary or bad as you think. Just try your best and do it with confidence. What’s the worst that can happen?

What are you reading now?
What I am reading now actually is more of what am I listening to now…recently I have been actually really enjoying listening to podcasts from business to lifestyle to motivational topics from just everyday people. I’ve also been working on a goal to read not just fantasy books but really good business, health, and spiritual books every week. Hopefully, I can stay consistent for the next 30 days.

What’s next for you as a writer?
As a new writer, of course, you gotta be thinking about what’s next. For me, I am working on writing the second book in the series and hopefully get my book out to more people around the world. Just knowing that one person somewhere was touched by my story and Lizzy Abners life…makes my heart is so filled.

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?
Hmm, if I had to bring 3 books on a deserted island it would be definitely the Bible and most likely a checklist/vision book because your girl cannot not live without a checklist haha. And lastly, it would be probably a book I have never read before just because it would probably mean way more to me then as it would be the only fantasy book I could ever read because I would be stuck on a stranded island.

Author Websites and Profiles
Naomi Wagner Website
Naomi Wagner Amazon Profile

Naomi Wagner’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hello I am Lanae. This is my very first book. I am so excited about it. I was married for seventeen years. I am survivor of domestic violence. I am mother of three grown children.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Love Journey is the name of my book. I am a suck for love. I believe we have to get back to old ways loving each other.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
No

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Zane, Terry McMillan, Eric Dickeye

What are you working on now?
Building my empire.

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

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Sometimes you will have to walk away and come back refresh.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Just write and everything else will fall into place.

What are you reading now?
Nothing

What’s next for you as a writer?
I want to write a fiction book.

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?
Zane

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hello, I have written just one book but several screenplays that are being circulated. They all revolve around finding happiness in an unhappy world. They deal with conflict among ideologies as well as race and desertion. I grew up in a small town in Idaho where, at least on the surface, there were none of the topics that I am writing about in the screenplays, but there were many examples of what I write about in my book.
My grandpa was my best friend growing up. He was born in 1898 into a Mormon family which over a short period of time disintegrated. He ended up being raised by his brothers. He worked hard and met his future wife while working on a threshing crew in a little valley in Idaho. (This would make a great book/movie itself) He later purchased his father-in-laws farm and built a new house near where my grandmother had grown up. I tell all that to get to this. He taught me to pray. Not just in kneeling or folding my hands and saying some words, but to talk to God as if He were sitting in a chair in front of me. To first tell Him how grateful you are for the blessings you have and then asking for the wisdom to know what to ask for in prayer. It was then that I would ask for what I thought I needed. When I have stuck to the regimen I have fewer problems than when I just try to “wing it” in life. Another thing he taught was something he called eternal laws. The main one was tithing. He made sure I understood that I was to always give at least 10% of everything I earned back to God. I have tried hard to live up to his example and can honestly say I know that I have blessed way more than what I deserve by just giving back a fraction of what I have been given.

I have been married twice and had a total of 5 children, 3 girls, and 2 boys, who happened to be the youngest. The oldest son passed away 5 years ago. He was the bravest man I have ever met. It is his name that I use as my “pen name”.

I currently live in Nevada with my child bride of 24 years and our son who is now 19. When the time comes that I go to meet my grandpa I will be buried near him in Wyoming.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The name of my book is: “Stepping Stones: A Personal Guide to Your Life.” I chose this title after reading the stories that are compiled in the book. They tell how a wide variety of personalities have had things happen in their lives at just the right time. Sometimes even saving their lives. These are things that weren’t immediately recognized as anything special but in reviewing the situation it was seen there was an unseen force at play. It reminded me of coming to the edge of one of the creeks that ran through our property as a youngster. They were too wide to jump so I would look for stones or a log or something to allow me passage. Usually, it would be a granite stone that would be sticking up near enough to step on. Many times the water was flowing fast enough that the second and continuous stones couldn’t be seen until the next step had been taken. There were even times when a straight crossing couldn’t be made so it would be necessary to step to the side or even backward a bit to access a complete path. In the end the other side was reached.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t know what would be called unusual. In my earlier life I owned a business that contracted to the Federal Government for IT projects. That required writing hundreds of pages on various IT topics. Some had to be written for techies but then another set was written for a lay person. They were usually the ones that signed the checks and who needed to know it was the right thing to do.

I try to write something as if it were the first time I would be reading it so it doesn’t become boring. In the screenplays, I become emotionally involved as it requires the writer to build something that will draw the audience in. This can be transferred to books but there is a considerable amount of “whittling” of the script required to put it in book form.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I read F. Scott Fitzgerald early on in high school but that didn’t last. My favorites today are still some of the classics like Ernest Hemingway. I really enjoy Tom Clancy, James Patterson, Bret Easton Ellis, and a little bit of Stephen King.

What are you working on now?
I am working on finishing another screenplay as well as researching a biography for a friend of mine.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Amazon and Kindlepreneur have been the most helpful to me so far.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Enjoy reading your writing. Put yourself in your characters shoes. It’s kind of like Little Red Riding Hood method. Sometimes they are very tight. Sometimes they are way too large and in yet another instance they are just right.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Believe in yourself and trust in God.

What are you reading now?
I am currently reading “The Chef”.

What’s next for you as a writer?
Get more publicity for my book.

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 from Tom Clancy, two from James Patterson, and the Bible.

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am from Zimbabwe. I write African contemporary romance fiction. So far, I have written ten full length fiction books. I also have three full length fiction books of two series each to follow. I am currently having short fiction available at wattpad and timbooktu. I am a Christian. I enjoy going to church, watching satellite programs on Wildlife, Discovery Channel, NatGeo etc. I also read a lot. Music is an inspiration though I am not talented enough to sing or play instruments.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest completed project is Boomerang. I was inspired by the visual art of wood carving. I was trying to find more about African sculpture when I discovered that wood is not sculptured. It is a separate art on it’s own. From researching I came up with a story of a talented ruralite wood carver.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My inspiration comes from diffetent sources. I can’t call that unusual.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I have read African authors, pioneers like Ngugi Wa Thiongo, Doris Lessing, Nardine Godimer, Wilbur Smith, Shimmer Chinodya, the late Charles Mungoshi and Major Mwangi to name but a few. I have been inspired by non African authors like Jack London, Harold Robins etc.

What are you working on now?
I am working on a new book that is close to completion. It examines the love affairs of a principled spinster woman of African origin.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
If I was sure of that I should have been hitting the jackpot as AmazonKDP or Print #1 bestselling author. I have tried using different sites principally Facebook and Twitter to name a few.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Lots, never hit PUBLISH with the first draft. Try doing that on the tenth draft which should go through a string of Beta readers whose critique should be taken on board. After that get professionals to edit, design the jacket and do the interior then publish. It’s an expensive but elaborate process. Beware of scams. Don’t relax yet, market, publicize then start all over with a new book and draft #1. If need be, use marketing/publicity professionals with book marketing footprints.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t give up. Had Thomas Edison done that we wouldn’t have the bulb. Had Bill Gates, Steve Jobs or Abraham Lincoln given up where would we be?

What are you reading now?
Voice In The Night by Pastor Surprise Sithole

What’s next for you as a writer?
Keep reading and repeating the writing, editing and publishing process.

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?
Sweet Savage Romance – Rosemary Rogers
A Time To Die – Wilbur Smith
Dogs of war – Wilbur Smith
Sho-gun

Author Websites and Profiles
Temba Magorimbo Amazon Profile

Temba Magorimbo’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a singer-songwriter, musician and music teacher in his 40s who has recently started writing fiction books. I’m getting great reviews for my first collection of short stories, and some excitement about my very recently released novel called “Out among the Ice Beacons”.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I have just released “Out among the Ice Beacons” which is inspired by my love of science fiction, my interest in the social/political effects of religion having a tight grip on the nations ideology, and my amusement of the very English banter I hear around me that I don’t often see in novels. Those three things combined are, essentially, the book in a nutshell.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I like to write late at night, and have lots of bits of paper around me with notes on them, when i’m writing.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Authors would be Robert Sheckley, Ray Bradbury, Harlan Ellison, Harry Harrison, Richard Matheson and Douglas Adams.
Books would be “Mindswap” by Robert Sheckley, “The Stainless Steel Rat” books by Harry Harrison, ‘Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams and all of the short story books from Ray Bradbury.

What are you working on now?
I am currently planning and outlining a sequel to a short story in my first book, about a rock band from different planets. The short story was called “No sleep till Corsyllia” and the new novel will follow on from the ending of the story. It will a chance to go totally absurd with the humour and make it the silliest thing I have written so far.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Goodreads seems to be a great way of connecting, but facebook has been invaluable too.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
It’s surprising how easy it is to self-publish, so if you have a book in you, write it and get it published!

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I have ever had was to stay true to yourself and do what you feel you need to do.

What are you reading now?
I am currently reading the biography of Warren Zevon.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I will be starting to write the novel I am planning soon, as well as a book of lyrics and poems.

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?
“Mindswap” by Robert Sheckley
“Lord of the Rings” by Tolkien
“Stainless Steel Rat Wants You” by Harry Harrison
“Alice in Wonderland” by Lewis Carroll

Author Websites and Profiles
Gareth Howells Amazon Profile

Gareth Howells’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a lifelong comic book fan who’s been writing in one form or another since I was 11 years old. My first novel, Bounty, was published in June 2015, and since then, I have self-published five novels (four in the Jill Andersen superhero/mystery series), a novella, a collection of short stories, and I’ve had two short stories included in anthologies.

Among my influences are Stan Lee, Kevin Smith, and Joss Whedon. I’ve been an X-Men fan from the moment I first read comic books, and I’ve also enjoyed the likes of Spawn, Witchblade, Batwoman, and Saga. I write a series that combines superhero epics with police procedurals, and my fantasy book is very much in the vein of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and even Supernatural.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I released a collection of short stories titled LEGENDS OF THE GEM back in January. It’s a prequel of sorts to NOTNA, detailing the history of the Gem of Notna through a series of stories sprinkled throughout the gem’s history and its effect on its hosts and even the worlds they inhabit. NOTNA was inspired, in part, by the comic book series Witchblade, and back in the day, Witchblade had a companion series titled Tales of the Witchblade, which detailed the Witchblade’s past without taking up time in the main series. LEGENDS OF THE GEM is similar to that concept.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My most productive writing tends to happen late at night, when normal people are sleeping (and to be honest, I should be too). I’ll write during the day, but I find my highest word counts and my best work almost always come after the sun has gone down.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Stan Lee is one of my biggest influences; without his influence on comic books and superheroes overall, I’m not sure if I ever discover comic books and decide to become a writer. Chris Claremont was the first comic book writer I fell in love with, and among my other influences are Kevin Smith, the late Michael Turner, and Marc Silvestri. Joss Whedon is an influence solely because discovering the Buffyverse helped me rediscover my love for writing after a particularly dark, creativity-free time in my life.

I’m also inspired by countless other self-published/indie authors, including the likes of R.R. Virdi, S.E. Anderson, E.A. Copen, and Otto Linke. Their work is quality, but it’s their willingness to share their insights and support other authors (like myself) that help keep me going — particularly when the words aren’t there and the frustration mounts.

What are you working on now?
I’m currently writing BETRAYED, which will be the fifth book in the Jill Andersen series. Right now, I’m shooting for a summer release, but seeing as how I’m on my fifth rewrite, there’s no telling when it’ll actually come out. After that, I’ll work on book six in the series, BITTER END, as well as start laying the groundwork on a spinoff series I can’t really say too much about right now (lest I spoil stuff that hasn’t actually been written yet).

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Word of mouth is always best, but I’ve also found geek conventions are a solid way of selling my books and getting my name out there (conventions have led to new authors discovered, new partnerships to emerge, podcast opportunities, panel appearances, etc.). Online, mailing lists are usually my most reliably successful promotion methods. Social media doesn’t really do much for me — unless it’s someone else posting about my work.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Finish your work. If you don’t finish your work, you’ll never be able to focus on anything else — not editing, not publishing, nothing. If you start a story, finish it. Even if that story never sees the light of day, simply finishing a story can have long-lasting benefits (like the confidence in knowing you can do it). Also, never delete anything. You never know when something you wrote and moved away from might come in handy again.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
To quote Chuck Wendig, “FINISH YOUR SHIT.”

What are you reading now?
Chuck Wendig’s BLACKBIRDS and R.R. Virdi’s STAR SHEPHERD.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m in the process of writing and drawing a graphic novel titled BOUNTY: ORIGINS, a non-canon retelling of Bounty’s origin story. Comic books are what inspired me to become a writer, and Bounty was originally created to be a comic book character, so a graphic novel is a way for me to bring her back home, so to speak. It’s also a way for me to challenge myself as a creator by telling a story in a new format.

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?
R.R. Virdi’s GRAVE BEGINNINGS, Stephen King’s ON WRITING, S.E. Anderson’s STARSTRUCK, and BATWOMAN: ELEGY.

Author Websites and Profiles
J.D. Cunegan Website
J.D. Cunegan Amazon Profile

J.D. Cunegan’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
So far I have worked on 2 books. The first book I worked on was a project I called “Beastia Bellatorum”, which is generally the war between the 7 Deadly sins and warriors who represent the 7 Heavenly virtues, but I have shelved that for a bit. The main project I am working on now is called “Colors of Death” which I have just finished the first book of the series.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“Colors of Death: Black”, the story of a man who becomes Death’s assistant to help souls pass on. And the inspiration of this book, and the series that is soon to come is based on how some people, like some friends of mine, after some difficult times think about ending their lives. To me that was simply taking things for granted, there could be so much more to life. The basic message of this story is that Death gives meaning to life, it pushes us to move forward and improve ourselves.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Well it isn’t unusual, but I procrastinate a lot, mostly because I wait for inspiration. I spend a lot of time thinking about how the plot would play out and the moment I get an idea, I spend a long time writing it all down. Afterwards, I read it, I second guess myself, I ultimately decide it isn’t good enough, and erase the whole thing.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Mitch Albom is one of my favorite authors. The 5 people you meet in heaven was an amazing story, and I have always been drawn to stories about spirituality, and fantasy.

J. K. Rowling and her Harry Potter series was one of my favorites as well, which was a great example of how the novels hold so much more detail than the movies.

And being a fan of the fantasy genre, I am also a big fan of George R. R. Martin for his books which ultimately was brought to life in the show Game of Thrones.

What are you working on now?
I am currently working on the 2nd book of my “Colors of Death” project, “Colors of Death: Red”. The story picking up immediately after the end of Book 1, “Colors of Death: Black”, and will involve a more complicated case for Conor, Death’s Assistant.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
In terms of best method, I believe an Email list would be best, I hope to make one myself, but sites like Awesome Gang really help an author who is just starting.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
My advice, write what you want to write about, and strive to improve and really find your style. Sometimes we get discouraged or even afraid that we don’t match up to the quality of other authors. So don’t compete with them, compete with yourself.

The poem Invictus is always one I keep in mind, especially the line “I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul.”

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Just keep writing.

What are you reading now?
I am reading “The next person you meet in heaven” a sequel to the book I mentioned that was written by Mitch Albom.

What’s next for you as a writer?
What’s next for me is to be better than who I was yesterday. And just keep doing 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?
Well probably the SAS survival handbook to you know…survive.

A comedy book would be nice also. Laughter is always nice if you are alone in an island.

And probably any thick book like a dictionary, because we are going to need to make a fire and more paper means more kindling.

Author Websites and Profiles
R. P. Bautista Amazon Profile

R. P. Bautista’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a lawyer and write fiction on the side. I have published three full novels and have written many short stories, one complete screenplay, and have several other projects in various stages of development, but right now I am concentrating on completing the second installment of the Mike Stoneman Thriller series.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My current novel, “Righteous Assassin,” is the first book in a series featuring Mike Stoneman, a New York Homicide detective. The character was born from a short story I wrote in 2012 for a competition in which the story, “Fool Me Twice,” won first prize. When I decided in 2016 to write another crime-based novel, I returned to that character and develop a longer story for him, and possibly a series. I sometimes just sit around and think about how people might get murdered. I know that sounds a little sick, but when you’re thinking about writing crime thrillers, you think about these things. By writing a serial killer story, I got to use several of them. I also wanted to portray my killer here as both smart and calculating, and also a person who disguises his evil intentions within the delusion of a holy mission. It’s a perversion of religion, of course, but it so often happens in our actual world. The story winds these themes together, and ultimately ends on a point of moral ambiguity, which also ties back into the theme.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write on the side, so mostly on my couch while watching a sporting event (hockey in the winter, baseball in the summer) or while traveling on business while in lonely hotel rooms.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
As a kid I read a lot of science fiction, and loved Ray Bradbury and Robert Heinlein, Edgar Rice Burroughs, and Isaac Asimov. And, of course, Tolkien. As an adult, I read a lot of mystery/detective stories and love Sara Paretsky and Michael Connelly. There’s a little bit of Harry Bosch in my Mike Stoneman character. The main thing for me is a good plot and a story that I can really follow and get involved with. I think Heinlein’s “Stranger in a Strange Land” may be my favorite book, partly because of the depiction of the legal system of the future.

What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on Mike Stoneman #2, which is tentatively titled “Deadly Enterprise.” This book picks up Mike’s story right after the end of “Righteous Assassin” and is his next big case. It’s not a serial killer this time, but rather a dead girl (OK, she’s not the only one) who presents a mystery because the M.E. thinks that her cause of death does not seem consistent with the rest of her physical attributes. When she is linked to a similar dead girl, Mike and Jason start to sniff out the situation and find that the murderers may be people who are supposed to be the good guys. It’s an internal affairs matter, and so Mike and Jason enlist the assistance of an IA investigator and together they try to get to the bottom of some very dirty business.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Promoting an indie book is the big challenge. I’m looking for all possible outlets where readers can find me. If only Amazon would feature more independent authors . . . I have my own website at www.KevinGChapman.com, so feel free to check in there. I post my reviews of other books there.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Having more than one book is a great thing, but if you’re truly new, best advice is to not publish as fast as you can — have the book ready, then think about marketing and do some prep work — get testimonial quotes, get your cover out on some pre-publication web sites, do some pre-orders, so that when you officially “launch” you’ll have more impact.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
You can’t successfully edit your own writing. Get a real editor. Only an objective editor can really help you make your writing as good as it can be.

What are you reading now?
Currently reading Sara Paretsky’s “Brush Back” and recently finished Of Half a Mind by Bruce Perrin (which I highly recommend)

What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m planning for at least 5 installments of the Mike Stoneman series. Book #2 is in production. Book #3 is in the outline stage. I’m working on good ideas for #4 and #5. After that, we’ll see.

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?
Atlas Shrugged, Ayn Rand — The Lord of the Rings (all of them) — Finnegan’s Wake, James Joyce (because if I had all the time in the world to read it, I might finally start to understand it)

Author Websites and Profiles
Kevin Chapman Website
Kevin Chapman Amazon Profile
Kevin Chapman Author Profile on Smashwords

Kevin Chapman’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a junkie for stories. I have worked as an assistant director in movies. I also edit novels. This is my first fictional novel. Basically my life is all about stories. Give me a cow and I can make it climb a tree.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My book is called Fly With Me. I had a surgery in my knee and I was bedridden for 6 months. Writing this book was my way of getting over my trauma and getting back into life.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write whenever I am too overwhelmed. I am not very good in expressing my anger or my happiness in person. It all stays inside me and sometimes it gets suffocating. When it all gets too much to handle, all the stuff kind of bursts out as stories.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Harry Potter, JK Rowling. This is the pillar of my life. JK Rowling is kind of my adopted mother who doesn’t know about me!

What are you working on now?
I am writing some screenplays since I also make films.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Finding book reviewers online and getting them to review my book.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Read as much as you can and observe with all your senses.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Love yourself and respect others.

What are you reading now?
The Sellout by Paul Beatty

What’s next for you as a writer?
I want to getting readers for myself. That’s what my focus is right now. I want to know what people think about my work.

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?
Harry Potter, Twilight, Feluda

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a relatively new to the writing scene with my debut novel just been released. I love to read and watch movies taking a lot of my inspiration from both media formats.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
G.S.D is the name of my latest book. I always wanted to write a book that would shock my audience. I think I achieved that with G.S.D.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Normally waking at 2am and having to write down what has flowed into my head and prevented me sleeping.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’m a huge fan of Stephen King the way he has created a world for his fiction is inspiring

What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on my new novel Network Seven.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I use all form of social media and have my author website.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t be afraid to write even if you have to do many rewrites. We all need to start somewhere.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
To never give up even if you are turned down. Keep going to will make it in the end.

What are you reading now?
Stephen Kings Pet Cemetery that book never gets old.

What’s next for you as a writer?
To finish my next novel for all the dedicated readers 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?
Stephen Kings Pet Cemetery.
Jk Rowling Harry Potter and the chamber of secrets.

Author Websites and Profiles
Chester Lee Website

Chester Lee’s Social Media Links
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I worked for over twenty years in marketing, developing ad campaigns, catalogs, product launches, and promotional literature. I had spent my career writing creatively about products but had never tried to write books or even short stories. It was encouragement from a friend, who wrote fan fiction that got me interested in trying to write. I currently live in Virginia, but my job had provided the opportunity for extensive travel, both foreign and domestic, to create the backdrop for my characters to play out their story. I feel like the experience of having spent time in the locales I use in the books give a degree of authenticity. I also have a passion for ancestry research and was inspired by how I saw certain traits passed down from one generation to another. I drew on that experience as well when I was writing.
I have written six very large books, each over 700 pages, called The Medici Warrior Series, in the genre of paranormal romance and urban fantasy.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The first book of the series, which releases April 22, is called The Blood Covenant. My fanfiction writing friend was seriously into vampires and wanted me to write a vampire story. I was reluctant because I felt like it had been done by so many. But once I decided to try, it was under the caveat of creating a “different vampire”. I did not want to stick to the stake through the heart, silver bullet, can’t see yourself in a mirror vampire. I wanted to create my own mythology about who they were, and where they came from, and that became my inspiration.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I think if you’re a writer, you already fall into the “unusual” category. We are typically introverts, who live in our heads. When I write, I am totally immersed in the process. I won’t answer the phone or a knock at the door. I resent any intrusion when I’m in the zone.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I have always loved Anne Rice, and while I have read all of her vampire chronicle novels, my most favorite book from her is The Witching Hour. She wrote that book with such detail I felt like I was standing in the corner of the room with her characters. I love books with detail, and I love writing with detail, which explains why my books are all so large.

What are you working on now?
Currently, I am not writing but promoting. Book one of the Medici Warrior Series is getting ready to release and I am swamped with all the promotional aspects of selling books. I can’t write and promote at the same time. For that reason, I wrote all six books in the series before I started looking for a publisher, and beginning the process of promoting and selling. I do have ideas swirling in my head for the next series, however.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I don’t think a writer can use one method. I use Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter accounts, to do paid boosts on select posts, as well as placing paid ads on those sites. I also place ads on Amazon. I use book bloggers and advance reader sites, and I hired a PA who has experience in book promotion to help me gain traction.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
If you think you are going to get rich writing books, and that is your motivation, then stop. You’re going to be sadly disappointed. Your book may be a hit, or it may just appeal to a small niche market, or it may not sell at all (except those pity purchases from family and friends). You have to write for yourself. You have to enjoy the process. If you like the story, then write it, put it out there and see what happens.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I follow Anne Rice on Facebook, and she said if you like your story, then odds are there is someone else out there who will like it as well. Write for yourself. Write the story you want to read.

What are you reading now?
A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness

What’s next for you as a writer?
I am playing around with several concepts for another series. I like complex stories that can’t be wrapped up in a neat little bow, so it will definitely be another series and not a stand-alone book.

If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
If I am limited, then I will definitely select really big books. I am a fan of big books anyway. My first choice would be The Lord of the Rings Trilogy by JRR Tolkien (yes, this may be cheating because it’s already 3 books, but if you have read them, you know they were written as one big book.) I love this complex fantasy that allows you to escape into another world.

Next, I would pick Anne Rice’s The Witching Hour. I love all of Anne Rice’s books, but she wrote this book with such detail I felt like I could stand in the characters shoes and see what they were seeing, hear what they were hearing, and feel what they were feeling. I love visual writers who can place me in the scene.

Picking a final book is hard, because I love so many, but it would probably be Amy Tan’s Joy Luck Club. This book struck a personal emotional cord with me as it speaks to the complex relationships between mother and daughter.

Author Websites and Profiles
Emily Bex Website
Emily Bex Amazon Profile

Emily Bex’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am an entrepreneurial artist that focuses on the cross between pragmatic and creative solutions. I believe this is important because by using various ways of thinking and problem solving people can solve any problem in any discipline!

I am a new author, however I have been writing for my self for about two years. It’s time to get my stuff out there!

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“Communications Crash Course: 11 Strategic Conversation Frameworks for Everyday Scenarios to Enhance Your Conversations and Confidence”

I really enjoyed writing this book because it touched a very personal part of my life. I was a very isolated, timid, and reserved person that after moving away from home decided that I wanted to have friends – I was sick of coasting along in life by myself! However, socializing was something that I was horribly afraid of. The question that constantly came to mind (and I suspect many others in my situation) was “what should I say?”

I had to chronicle various instances and look back in time to some of the things I had to do and realizations I had to make in order to become a better conversationalist. This book is part “how–to” and part “here is my story.” I never want to preach to anybody – that is not my objective. I simply want to lay things on the table in a way that says, “Hey, this is what I did and maybe it will work for you.”

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I cannot write my first draft on a computer. I always need a good pen and paper. Seriously! The pen is super important. For some reason my thoughts flow a lot easier onto paper and I will use words that I didn’t even know I knew! It’s a crazy phenomenon.

However, if I want something that I write to be a bit more accessible, I will hop straight to the computer. When I go directly to digital, my writing comes off as more simple and concise.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I really enjoy philosophy books or books that have an element of philosophy in them. However, my favorite book is “War and Peace” by Leo Tolstoy.

What are you working on now?
I will be making an audio version of “Communications Crash Course: 11 Strategic Conversation Frameworks for Everyday Scenarios to Enhance Your Conversations and Confidence” over the next few weeks.

I am also building my business via books, public talks, and workshops!

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
That’s a good question – I am still learning! To answer this fully would be a very long answer.

In short, I have a list of promotion recommendations that I have been following, so the answer varies depending on what kind of audience I want to reach.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Put something out there. I am very new myself, yet I found out that actually writing the book is only about 1/4th of what goes into making it successful!

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“You can’t go through your life alone”

My mother constantly drilled that into my head, even though I didn’t want to listen for the longest time. However, when I made an effort to connect with people I found out that I was a much happier person. It’s why I am so passionate on writing about things like talking to people!

What are you reading now?
“Discipline and Punish” – Michel Foucault

What’s next for you as a writer?
I will be researching the next book to write in my series “Communication Skills 101”. I’m debating on public speaking versus nonverbal communication. Let me know which one you would like to learn more about!

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?
An encyclopedia – I love learning new things!
A dictionary – To assist me with words I may not know in the encyclopedia
And War and Peace – I would read that again!

Author Websites and Profiles
Alixander Laffredo-Dietrich Website
Alixander Laffredo-Dietrich Amazon Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Follow this Celia Moore Books page to receive news and updates: or visit Celia’s website https://www.celiascosmos.com

Celia Moore is the author of the Fox Halt Farm series, a unique blend of romance, suspense, and secrets. Celia lives in Devon in the South West of the United Kingdom and is a keen gardener and runner too – always accompanied by her scruffy border x jack russell terrier called Tizzy. MOORE 1967 – NOW
In 1967; the year I was born, my parents were living on a small farm near Moretonhampstead (and I have a treasured old photo of my Dad with his two plough horses, Blossom and Pleasant). He used to work the horses on the rocky fields there. He could plough up to an acre a day, and B and P always knew to stop if the plough was about to hit one of the many rocks sticking out of the ground.

Later, we moved to a farm near Whiddon Down and had a small dairy herd. It never made any money and my parents eventually sold it. Dad then worked in the cheese factory in North Tawton. A massive change for him in his fifties but he said he loved the regular wage, lack of worry and set hours – and he loved the camaraderie of his work mates most of all – it is lonely on a farm sometimes.

I left Devon in 1986 to study for my degree in London and then worked for Lloyds Bank in their head offices in London, Bristol and Taunton for 10 years as a Chartered Surveyor.

In 2000, I left the office life behind to start a new adventure in North Wales training to become an outdoor instructor – teaching rock climbing, canoeing, mountaineering, and even skiing. And I climbed everything I could in the beautiful national park. I moved to Somerset in 2002 and started teaching in an outdoor education centre where school groups would come on adventure weekends and weeks. I also taught children excluded from school too and I ran special programmes for children in care. I added more qualifications to my name including archery, rifle shooting and mountain biking. I ended up managing one of the centres. It was fulfilling work – I loved watching the children who weren’t academic shining in front of their classmates as they showed off their new skills etc. The activities also allowed teachers to see some of their pupils in a new light too. The children gained so much.

When, in 2008, I met my husband, it didn’t seem fair to expect him to put up with my all-consuming job. He is the best thing that has ever happened to me – and I gave up my job and came to live with him back in Devon – Home at last! By the way, I had actually been in primary school with Paul but I hadn’t seen him for 26 years when we met up again!

Today, I work for lovely customers keeping their gardens nice, eating their cake and drinking tea. Many have lost their other halves to cancer and with my friendship I feel like what I do now, is wholly appreciated. In winter 2016, I started blacksmithing creating organically inspired items for gardens (sundials, bird feeders, arches etc.) but that is on hold at the moment while I write…
My debut novel was published in November 2017 …and Culmfield Cuckoo its sequel is available from 20 March 2019

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
CULMFIELD CUCKOO – it is the sequel to FOX HALT FARM which was originally inspired by a dream that wouldn’t leave me – a strange situation the main characters found themselves in. I pictured them all in one place and at a certain point in their lives where all of their life stories had become wholly intertwined- but in ways, that not all of them realized. My book explored how they came to be there.
Although my earliest memories are of living on a dairy farm, Fox Halt Farm is a story about people, who I created in my mind – none of them are perfect, they are scarred and flawed. But like us all, they are simply striving to find happiness.
The novel begins in 1986 with Billy May and her family struggling to keep their dairy farm – my fictional Fox Halt Farm is just outside Okehampton and the
beloved cows are in the danger of having to be sold – the future of the whole farm is at risk. 
At this same time, Richard MarcFenn is running a thriving multinational business in London.
When Billy and Richard’s very different worlds collide, it has consequences for them, their families and their friends and the story Fox Halt Farm details the following twenty years of their lives.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write whenever I can – I simply love writing and my border terrier x jack russell, Tizzy is often sat on my lap helping me not to eat too many Rich Tea biscuits with my endless cups of tea.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Maeve Binchy is my most favourite she just makes me feel like I am part of the family I’m reading about.

What are you working on now?
Just starting the final part of the Fox Halt Farm Trilogy, working title is ‘ A GREEN TREE ‘ inspired by the Chinese Proverb ‘Keep a green tree in your heart and perhaps a singing bird will come.’

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My facebook page Celia Moore Books

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Simple but so hard… Never give up.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Keep the reader in mind with every word you write.

What are you reading now?
The Grand Sophy by Georgette Heyer

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?
Jonathon Livingston Seagull, Tuesdays with Morrie, Under The Greenwood Tree and Silas Marner

Author Websites and Profiles
Celia Moore Website

Celia Moore’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a YA Author of Fantasy, Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance books. I have written 22 books under different PenNames.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book: Return To Outer Earth was inspired by my love for drawing. I drew the characters when I was a teenager. And I have brought them to life in my Onizuca Series.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
No

What authors, or books have influenced you?
S.D. Perry’s Resident Evil Series, Richelle Mead’s Vampire Academy, Bloodlines Series, Holly Black.

What are you working on now?
Many different Series at once. I like to start the first book in a new Series so I have something to go off of later on as the Series progresses.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Twitter and Facebook groups.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Some days you want to give up. Don’t.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Never compare yourself to the other authors in your genre. You are unique and original.

What are you reading now?
I don’t read books while I am writing. I don’t want my ideas to mesh with another author’s book.

What’s next for you as a writer?
To keep publishing my books. I have so many just sitting around and its time they see the light of day.

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 Resident Evil books.

Author Websites and Profiles
Bria Lexor Website
Bria Lexor Amazon Profile

Bria Lexor’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 writing most of my life, but it’s only in the last six years that I started writing romance novels. Before that, I wrote for TV and had a screenplay optioned. So far I’ve written twelve books and contributed to an anthology. I write historical, romantic suspense and historical/paranormal.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest is “Tied to Morocco”. It is the second book in the “Morocco” series and tells Catherine and Tazim’s story.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I have to have quiet.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Kathleen Woodiwiss, Nora Roberts, Stephen King have probably influenced me the most.

What are you working on now?
Right now I am working on a sequel to “Payback”. This will be another Romantic Suspense/Thriller with lots of passion and murder.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I just keep plugging away at various sites.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t quit.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
See above. Writing is hard and publishing is sometimes harder, but you have to be persistent and believe in your stories.

What are you reading now?
“You Belong to Me” by Karen Rose

What’s next for you as a writer?
I am working on a story set in the 1830’s, but the plot isn’t fully formed 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?
Any books written by Kathleen Woodiwiss, The Velvet Quartet by Jude Deveraux, The Key series by Nora Roberts, ‘Salem’s Lot’ by Stephen King

Author Websites and Profiles
Leslie Hachtel Website

Leslie Hachtel’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m originally from Washington State but I’ve lived most of my life in the American South, between Alabama, Tennessee, and Georgia. I have been working in education for about 10 years now.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Blessed are the Dead is my latest (and first publicly available) book. What inspired me originally was reading an article about the Cristero War in Mexico during the 1920s. I came across this group of priests who had fought against the Mexican government, and it seemed like such a dissonant image that I thought it would make a pretty interesting book.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Sometimes, especially if I’m nearing a deadline, I’ll go take a shower before I start writing. Something about having no distractions lets me gather my thoughts. When I get done showering, I’ll almost always be able to write for several hours without any hesitation.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
My influences vary a lot because there are all kinds of authors whom I admire. Some of my favorite authors are Ernest Hemingway, William Vollmann, and Mario Vargas Llosa.

What are you working on now?
Right now I’m working on a novel which involves the dark history of a little town in Alabama that probably no one has ever heard of.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have a blog which I try to update fairly regularly with general thoughts, advice on writing, or just topics I find interesting at the time–I especially like to make a list of all the books I’ve read in a given year and upload that around New Years.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
I don’t have any advice other than the generic, but nonetheless true, advice: write every day. If you write every single day you’ll watch a book grow in no time at all. Yeah, it’ll require edits and the whole process ends up being a long one, but you can’t even get that far if you have nothing on the page.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I’ve ever heard is that your job doesn’t define you. Make your job be the vehicle of your dreams, even if the job itself isn’t one of them.

What are you reading now?
Right now I’m reading A History of Byzantium by Timothy E. Gregory

What’s next for you as a writer?
I have another book completed which will probably be released later this year, around August from what it looks like right 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?
The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway, Moby-Dick by Herman Melville, and Blood Meridian by Cormac McCarthy

Author Websites and Profiles
James Corkern Website

James Corkern’s Social Media Links
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a Hoosier at heart, but now I live in Jefferson City, Missouri with my husband and two kids. I am a part time editor and a personal assistant, but writing is my passion and my creative outlet. I’ve tried other creative endeavors (crochet, drawing, painting, etc), but writing is where I found my place. I love epic fantasies with multiple point of view characters and a sweeping plot. My favorite authors are Brandon Sanderson, Robin Hobb, Patrick Rothfuss, and George R.R. Martin. I’ve written many books, but only one is published at the moment. I have portions written of several of the following books in The Leyumin Divided Saga, of which Mother of Rebellion is the first. I also have a free short story for my newsletter subscribers, but it’s exclusive to them. You can sign up for my newsletter and receive the free short story, Jerg and the Dregstown Warrior, here: https://www.subscribepage.com/interviews-bkboes-newsletter

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My epic fantasy novel is titled Mother of Rebellion. The title is inspired by one of the main characters named Imrah. She’s definitely one of my favorite characters. This woman sacrifices so much, and when she finally opens herself up to hope, she sparks a rebellion against the nation that enslaved her.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t know how interesting this is, but if I get stuck, I like to take a walk to clear my head. I also read a chapter of a good book before I begin writing. I feel like it preps me for the job. Oh! Speaking of prep, I do color code my outlines.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
So. Many.

But if I had to pick the author that influenced me the most, it has to be Brandon Sanderson. The guy is talented, and he shares that talent freely with authors. He has free recordings online of the class he teaches at BYU. I’ve seen him speak, and he’s a humble, kind, and admirable human being. I love his books. Every single one of them.

What are you working on now?
I’m working first and foremost on the second book in The Leyumin Divided Saga. My hope is to finish the first draft in May 2019. I’m also working on some YA science fantasy ideas. These are shorter, punchier stories that give me a breather from my huge, detailed, and complicated epic fantasies. I also work on the occasional short story in the world of Leyumin.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
You can find me on Amazon and in Kindle Unlimited. My hardcovers are available almost everywhere.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Hire an editor. Get an awesome cover. Publish. Write the next book.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best marketing tool for your author career is to write the next book.

What are you reading now?
Right now I’m reading The Great Hunt by Robert Jordan. I think I might be in The Wheel of Time series for quite some time.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m so excited to get The Leyumin Divided Saga finished and out into the world.

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?
Ummm… my genre is epic fantasy, so I’m going to pretend you said 3 or 4 SERIES. Haha.

1) The Stormlight Archives
2) The Kingkiller Chronicles
3) The Wheel of Time

Author Websites and Profiles
B.K. Boes Website
B.K. Boes Amazon Profile

B.K. Boes’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
When people ask me what kind of writing I do, I say the short answer is everything but journalism. I’ve got a long history of script writing (film, video, animation and theater). The transition to novel writing was (mostly) easy as I had lots of experience with structure, character, plotting and dialogue. A long held apprehension around fiction was that I would have to describe the sky and clouds. Where I got that idea, I don’t know! At some point I realized it wasn’t absolutely essential; that if I didn’t want to describe the sky and clouds I didn’t have to. I heard a similar story from a woman who wanted to be a vet since she was a child. But her father said that while it was a worthy goal, he just couldn’t see her lifting a cow. So she gave up the dream until she was in her 30’s when she realized that vets don’t have to lift cows! So she want to back to college and made her dream come true.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My new novel, The Disappearing Shore was inspired by two things. First, the unprecedented situation we find ourselves in with respect to climate change and other environmental challenges. Second, a secret told to me by an organizer who knows the “big names” in climate activism. He said that privately they say there’s little hope while publicly they they present a face of determined optimism. The writer in me realized that while they were prudent in not expressing their innermost fears publicly, I could do that job for them in a heightened dramatic format. Breaking taboos and revealing secrets is a job I take seriously!

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
The only unusual aspect of my writing is that I tend to get ideas and figure out problems when I’m around water – bathing and doing the dishes. Other than that, writing is much like any other job. Show up, sit down and make something happen.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’m influenced by all kinds of writers – authors, film scriptwriters, song writers, playwrights. I appreciate writers who serve the work, who don’t call attention to themselves and flaunt their style.

What are you working on now?
I have another novel in the works that still taking shape.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m still looking into venues but Awesome Gang has been great to work with.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep writing, stay on top of changes in publishing and avoid adverbs.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Writer, George Orwell noted that people tend to rely on Latin derived words when they’re being evasive. Anglo Saxon derived words are punchier and to the point. Author John Braine observed that some objects and settings are “quick” while others are “dead”. By quick he meant vital, with a felt presence. Something dead, even something inanimate was lacking in presence or interest. These are subtle, often surprising qualities that help writers infuse their work with vitality and purpose.

What are you reading now?
Aftermath, a mystery by British/Canadian writer Peter Robinson.

What’s next for you as a writer?
Another novel.

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 Complete Works of Shakespeare, and How To Survive on a Desert Island.

Author Websites and Profiles
Roberta Park Website

Roberta Park’s Social Media Links
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Chimauchem Destiny Okpalaeke is an English Novelist who had written fewer Fiction stories recently. He is a Nigerian Born by birth and a BSc Holder. He is a good inventor, creating amazing storylines to keep people imagining things and wondering how possible it be. He is also film writer, songwriter, solo Artist and Stag entertainer.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is “The new African/American Story Book” publishes few weeks ago on Amazon Kindle. It has lots of lessons to learn. Most of the storylines will keep you imaging and wondering how possible the story emerged and invented. Some of the story will keep you amusing and wondering how possible that can happen. You need to read the book, laugh, imagines, learn, applaud the book and recommend to your friends and relatives.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Yes. I write a lot. I started writing since my 18 years and I have lots of films I wrote. My house is full of papers

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Shakespear and Wole Shoyinka

What are you working on now?
I am writing a new story titled “The Americano Girl”

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

Do you have any advice for new authors?
I will advice them to keep focused to their dream. This is not an easy way. whatever they may pass in publishing or after publishing their book they should bear it and never to quit because quit had never win anything since history began.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Never quit on anything you drives passion to do no matter how difficult you may find it.

What are you reading now?
Dictionary to perfect some side of my grammer

What’s next for you as a writer?
Continue publishing different books to keep people entertained

If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
My book first, Shakespeare,

Author Websites and Profiles
Chimauchem Okpalaeke Website

Chimauchem Okpalaeke’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Former police intelligence officer, former strategy professor at Rutgers University in NJ, current owner of the largest training institute for corporate competitive intelligence. Published 6 books in business, one children book.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
There Will Be Hell To Pay. Inspiration from multiple events: personal experience with deaths of sister and of closest friend, disgust with politicians (Hilary Clinton’s famous “what difference does it make” when testifying about responsibility for the deaths in Benghazi), libertarian philosophy (held since undergraduate studies in Philosophy), work with Fortune 500 companies. Above all: Ayn Rand’s novels espousing serious moral message about personal responsibility via fiction.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
If you consider writing at 5:00am as unusual, then yes.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Ayn Rand’s Atlas Shrugged and Anthem, Mark Cain’s Circles of Hell series, Christopher Moore, and definitely Neil Gaiman. The protagonist in my book is Jack Merriman. See the resemblance?

What are you working on now?
The next book in the series of Celestial Inc.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Hiring Chicklit Cafe.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Yes: never ever leave your day job. And email me with a request for my (extremely insightful, helpful, fun and devestating) analysis of the “extraordinary industry of literary agents.”

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I have bad hearing in one of my ears due to being a rock drummer in my teen years. So I can’t hear advice.

What are you reading now?
Sci fi.

What’s next for you as a writer?
The next book in the series, Celestial Inc.

If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
How to survive on a desert island vols 1-4.

Author Websites and Profiles
Benjamin Gilad Website
Benjamin Gilad Amazon Profile

Benjamin Gilad’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am an Alaska Native (Tlingit) from Yakutat, Alaska where I grew up as a commercial fisherman. The village is located in the northern part of southeast Alaska between Mount Saint Elias and Mount Fairweather. It is between these mountains of which I write my fiction about, however I have taken real-life events to create my stories. In a sense, then, the history, culture and life style of this beloved community is very much true. So far I have written two books of fiction and two none fiction. One of the fiction book is a collection of short stories which stories are illustrated with my water color paintings. The other is a novel that talks about acculturation and assimilation of the Native peoples of Alaska.

The non fictions are political commentaries about tribal governments and their relationship with the federal government, including the subjects of legal plunder, progressives and the dangers of socialism and communism.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The Kadashan Speaks, volume 2, the Law of Nature of Nature and Natures’s God—our lives, our liberties, our pursuit of happiness– from a Native American perspective.

I was inspired to write this particular book because over the many, many years of learning about how our governments should function, and how far away we are from real intent of the U.S. Constitution and the Natural Law and God’s laws, I felt it was now time to educate America about how we became a great nation and why we are following great nations that have come and gone.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not really. Try to get my writing done in mornings so I can do my tasks in the afternoons. I read and think a lot to get ideas about what to write about—and then go at it. I am not inspired to write every day (although I have been encouraged to do so), I find I do my best when I prepare myself. You will find in my non fiction that a lot of research has been put into my subjects. In my fiction you should be able to tell that I share a lot of my history, culture and traditions taught to me me by my parents and elders.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I enjoyed John O’Hara’s stories. I read him a lot in college and his style has always made me want to write–not like him, but to develop my own. Alexis De Tocqueville, Cicero, W. Cleon Skousen, Frederica de Laguna

What are you working on now?
I am presently working on an autobiography about growing up in the fishing rivers of Dry Bay and Akwe. Akwe is where the village of Guseix is, where my ancestral roots and tribal house come from. The village had seven tribal house in it and sunk into the ground nearly a hundred years ago. My quest to locate the village has been for not for many years. The last ten years has become fruitful and one can never describe the feeling I had when I discovered my own tribal house.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Awesome Gang, Facebook, Twitter and my own website: www.kadashan.simplesite.com. My books are found on Amazon and Barnes and Noble

Do you have any advice for new authors?
My mother taught me something when I was still a boy. She said, “it is no disgrace to fall. It is when you just lay there that’s so disgraceful.”

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Same as my mother. When my rejections slips were getting thicker than my manuscripts, I just got up and started all over again. It took twenty years before I was discovered.

What are you reading now?
5000 Year Leap, Democracy in America, John Locke’s on Politics and Education.

What’s next for you as a writer?
To write more short stories and a novel or two. I would like to write more about the history and culture of Native Americans, and the greatness of America.

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, Book of Mormon, Under Mount Saint Elias, John Muir’s Travels n Alaska, the 5000 year Leap—He Walked the Americas

Bertrand (Kadashan) Adams’s Social Media Links
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hi there Readers, I guess I spend all the time I can reading and writing. Sometimes I eat! Or swim. Or go for a hike. I love exploring jungly places. And reading about them. I wrote this book, about a sweet dog, because I took care of my son’s dog for 18 months. While i wrote, Turbo, a black lab/healer, watched me. Whenever I got up from the computer, he jumped up too. And panted eagerly. So I went for more walks then! Turbo left to live on a farm with Adam, my son. A more exciting life for a dog! My books include: Surfer of the Century (Lee and Low NY 2008), Hardcore Inventing, Invent, Protect, Promote and Profit (Skyhorse Publishing, NY 2009, Hawaii, A Pictorial Celebration, (Sterling Publishing NY) and Exploring Lost Hawaii, Places of Power, History, Mystery and Magic, (Island Heritage, Hawaii 2003) that featured on the History Channel and the Travel Channel, Harold and the Poopy Little Puppy (TCK Publishing CA), I Escaped North Korea (Best Day Publishing HI), Gatorlands (Indigo River Publishing FL)

Awards include: 2008 Asian/Pacific American Award for Children’s Literature, 2008 Simon Wiesenthal Museum of Tolerance Once Upon a World Award, Carter G. Woodson Award, Texas Bluebonnet Master List 2010/2011selection, Bank Street College Books of the Year, The Bloomsbury Review Editors Favorite, Cleveland Public Library Distinguished Children’s Biography List, Texas Women’s University Librarians’ Choice 2008, Kiriyama Notable Books 2008, BookList Best Children’s Books 2007, 5 awards for excellence from the Hawaii Book Publishers’Association, the Kahili Award in Literary Arts in the 2004 “Keep It Hawaii” awards, Award for special interest book in 2002 by the Hawaii Book Publishers’Association, Hawaii Tourism Authority “Keep it Hawaii” award for excellence in Literary Arts, and numerous excellent reviews such as a starred review from

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is Gatorlands. It was inspired by a visit to the Florida Everglades. And the sight of those enormous gators!

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Authors like Nancy Drew, Enid Blyton, Daphne Du Maurier, Mary Higgins Clark, Philippa Carr, Harlen Coben, Joseph Finder influenced me.

What are you working on now?
I’m working on an I Escaped series — teens escape from scary situations – the stories are based on fact. Its a lot of fun researching the stories. the first book is I Escaped North Korea.

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

Do you have any advice for new authors?
I find its good to have some sort of outline. If a particular chapter comes to you, include it in the outline. Afterwards..write the book as a first draft. It doesn’t have to be perfect. When you have finished writing, you can then start again. I often rewrite books a number of times.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The above advice.

What are you reading now?
You Will Know Me by Megan Abbott

What’s next for you as a writer?
More 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?
A big book of poetry
A big book of short stories
A book on survival

Author Websites and Profiles
Ellie Crowe Website
Ellie Crowe Amazon Profile

Ellie Crowe’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Watcher is my first book with another (Ghost Story) scheduled for release September 2019. I have been writing seriously for close to ten years and after six failed attempts finally created something I was excited about. It’s a very personal story and meant a lot to get it out in the world.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Watcher is the latest title and it’s inspired by my wife who has suffered from MS (Multiple Sclerosis) for close to twenty years. As her caregiver, watching the struggles she goes through every day and not seeing that represented in media, both her weaknesses but also her strengths, I decided to do something about it.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
All writers have unusual habits, it’s just a matter of whether they SEEM weird at the time. For me I always write in the same place, if I start a book in one area of the house, it will be finished there. No seat hopping.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I am heavily influenced by Michael Crichton and Richard Matheson as well as Jules Verne and Agatha Christie. I’m a huge Hard Case Crime fan and any fiction that takes the restraints off and really starts to explore.

What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on a road trip, romance, paranormal, adventure. It’s…..complicated.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’ve had major success with the wonderful writing community on Twitter otherwise I haven’t tried many yet. With this being the first release I’m just learning the ropes.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
It’s only as hard as you let it be. We get so caught up in how difficult the first draft, just completing a book is we forget the real work is editing, formatting, advertising, etc. After all that, writing seems easy by comparison. So enjoy that part.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Finish your sh*t. – Chuck Wendig

What are you reading now?
I’m reading a selection of indie authors (Sarah Joy Green-Hart, Dawn Hosmer) and working my way through the Hard Case collection of classic pulp fiction.

What’s next for you as a writer?
More books! I’m exploring publishing and the publishing industry. A new imprint, Gestalt Media is my current project, seeking out undiscovered creators and bringing their work forward is a true passion.

If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Well, the Boys Scouts of America Handbook seems like a good idea. Probably one of the Worst Case Scenario volumes as well. Robinson Crusoe would be poetic and Jurassic Park because I’ve never gotten tired of reading that one.

Author Websites and Profiles
Michael Stokes Website
Michael Stokes Amazon Profile

Michael Stokes’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My father was in the Air Force, so as I child I lived in many different places. My husband and I love to travel. People met on these adventures are a source of characters and plots. Growing up I wanted to be a writer, but in the career guidance class, I learned that very few writers earn enough to pay the rent. So, I went into teaching and on the side, authored columns for The Press-Enterprise and Inland Empire Magazine, as well as publishing a textbook and trade and scholarly articles. I began my academic career as a community college teacher and retired as a college president. I received degrees from Riverside Community College, University of La Verne, and University of California, Riverside. Working on my Doctorate of Philosophy at UCR provided me with experience in empirical research and understanding how human consciousness informs behavior. All this prepared me to write my current novel, international thriller, Story of a Stolen Girl.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Story of a Stolen Girl is my first novel, published July, 2018. I am outraged by those who abuse children and young women and how society turns a blind eye. Through my writing, I hope to shine a light on sexual exploitation and human trafficking. I donate from the sale of this novel to organizations that either fight human trafficking or provide services to the victims.
Every year, 800,000 children, women, and men are trafficked. When those not transported across international borders are included, the number increases to between two and four million people. Approximately, 75-80% of human trafficking is for sex.
Most Americans believe human trafficking is a problem only in poor and underdeveloped countries, too far away to be our concern. However, statistics report over 50,000 slaves in the United States, with another 17,500 being trafficked every year. There has never been a country or time in history when it did not occur. If this book stimulates conversation that makes a difference for any of these children and young women, I am satisfied with its results.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write whenever my characters talk to me. I really like to sleep, so I wish they wouldn’t strike up conversations at four in the morning. But they do.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I prefer books in which ordinary people do extraordinary things. The protagonist of Story of a Stolen Girl does exactly that.

What are you working on now?
I am working on two short stories and a novel with the working title of Tale of Three Sisters. The novel, set in South Africa, delves into love, family bonds, racism, apartheid, kidnapping, and child human trafficking.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I do public speaking to service organizations and book clubs and have found that effective in promoting Story of a Stolen Girl and awareness of sexual exploitation of children and young women. Also, my website, http://patspencer.net is effective. I have had many compliments on how professional it is even though I did it myself. And I am not a techie.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Take a college writing class and join a writer’s group.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
In ten years, you will look back and either you did it or you didn’t. Don’t stop. Your dog may die, you may lose your job, or get a divorce or a serious disease. You may have to cut back on the time you spend on what you want to accomplish, but keep going. If you quit, even for a short time, the probability is that you will never come back and finish. (Mark Hansen, Ph.D. advisor)

What are you reading now?
Where the Crawdads Sing and the newspaper.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I am working on two short stories and a novel with the working title of Tale of Three Sisters. The novel, set in South Africa, delves into love, family bonds, racism, apartheid, kidnapping, and child human trafficking.

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?
Blank journals so I could write my next book.

Author Websites and Profiles
Pat Spencer Website
Pat Spencer Amazon Profile

Pat Spencer’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My father was in the Air Force, so as I child I lived in many different places. My husband and I love to travel. People met on these adventures are a source of characters and plots. Growing up I wanted to be a writer, but in the career guidance class, I learned that very few writers earn enough to pay the rent. So, I went into teaching and on the side, authored columns for The Press-Enterprise and Inland Empire Magazine, as well as publishing a textbook and trade and scholarly articles. I began my academic career as a community college teacher and retired as a college president. I received degrees from Riverside Community College, University of La Verne, and University of California, Riverside. Working on my Doctorate of Philosophy at UCR provided me with experience in empirical research and understanding how human consciousness informs behavior. All this prepared me to write my current novel, international thriller, Story of a Stolen Girl.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Story of a Stolen Girl is my first novel, published July, 2018. I am outraged by those who abuse children and young women and how society turns a blind eye. Through my writing, I hope to shine a light on sexual exploitation and human trafficking. I donate from the sale of this novel to organizations that either fight human trafficking or provide services to the victims.
Every year, 800,000 children, women, and men are trafficked. When those not transported across international borders are included, the number increases to between two and four million people. Approximately, 75-80% of human trafficking is for sex.
Most Americans believe human trafficking is a problem only in poor and underdeveloped countries, too far away to be our concern. However, statistics report over 50,000 slaves in the United States, with another 17,500 being trafficked every year. There has never been a country or time in history when it did not occur. If this book stimulates conversation that makes a difference for any of these children and young women, I am satisfied with its results.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write whenever my characters talk to me. I really like to sleep, so I wish they wouldn’t strike up conversations at four in the morning. But they do.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I prefer books in which ordinary people do extraordinary things. The protagonist of Story of a Stolen Girl does exactly that.

What are you working on now?
I am working on two short stories and a novel with the working title of Tale of Three Sisters. The novel, set in South Africa, delves into love, family bonds, racism, apartheid, kidnapping, and child human trafficking.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I do public speaking to service organizations and book clubs and have found that effective in promoting Story of a Stolen Girl and awareness of sexual exploitation of children and young women. Also, my website, http://patspencer.net is effective. I have had many compliments on how professional it is even though I did it myself. And I am not a techie.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Take a college writing class and join a writer’s group.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
In ten years, you will look back and either you did it or you didn’t. Don’t stop. Your dog may die, you may lose your job, or get a divorce or a serious disease. You may have to cut back on the time you spend on what you want to accomplish, but keep going. If you quit, even for a short time, the probability is that you will never come back and finish. (Mark Hansen, Ph.D. advisor)

What are you reading now?
Where the Crawdads Sing and the newspaper.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I am working on two short stories and a novel with the working title of Tale of Three Sisters. The novel, set in South Africa, delves into love, family bonds, racism, apartheid, kidnapping, and child human trafficking.

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?
Blank journals so I could write my next book.

Author Websites and Profiles
Pat Spencer Website
Pat Spencer Amazon Profile

Pat Spencer’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I live in the Pacific Northwest – I’ve always wanted to write, even as a kid, I’d come up with some (bad) stories. I’ve always loved the old serial TV shows like Buck Rogers and Flash Gordon. I cut my teeth on Lost in Space and Star Trek. But I could never really find anything like that to read. So, a few years later, here I am writing the types of books I would have wanted to read when I was a kid. I have four books in my series right now, and am currently working diligently on the fifth.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The name of my latest book is The Misplaced Mentor. I wanted it to be a mystery of sorts, but it also had to have sci-fi elements in it . . . plus some humor, because life is too serious as it is already. If my reviews are any indication, I did alright.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
You mean to ask if I have ANY writing habits? I do write, but not every day. I try to get in at least 1000-2000 words in a writing session when I actually do write.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
All of them. Seriously, naming any of them is a real task. I love Douglas Adams, Scott Sigler, Steven Saylor, Mark Dawson – all write in different genres, but I do love each of their styles.

What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on the as-yet-untitled book 5 in my series. It’s a bit of a sci-fi thriller with plenty of humor thrown in . . . or at least it will be when I’m done . . .

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have yet to find any sure-fire way to promote my books. I’ve had limited success with Facebook and Amazon advertising, but if you don’t have any promotions at all, you get passed by.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Ever. Every indie author I’ve met has been more than helpful and is eager to see other indies have success. I wouldn’t still be doing this if it weren’t for the support I’ve found in the indie community.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Just. Keep. Writing.

What are you reading now?
I’m currently reading The Last Sanctuary Omnibus by Kyla Stone . . . a dystopian thriller series. Well worth the read.

What’s next for you as a writer?
To. Just. Keep. Writing. And find more ways to get my books out in front of faces.

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?
Now you’re being cruel. How could I ever choose just 3 or 4 books? If I HAD to choose, I would have The Lord of the Rings, The Martian, The Stand (by Stephen King), and possibly Dune.

Author Websites and Profiles
Terry Marchion Website
Terry Marchion Amazon Profile

Terry Marchion’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I wait tables at a bar called Tin Lizzys in Duluth, Ga. My main background, though, is in Atlanta. I know much about the club/strip bar scene there.

Whiskey, Blood, and Magic is available on Kellan Publishing and I’ve just started the second draft on Bonding Weekend. I’m sitting on two other handwritten drafts.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Whiskey, Blood, and Magic was inspired by my rock star fantasies and love of Atlanta dark city life.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I love candles and drink an enormous amount of coffee.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Lost Souls by Poppy Z. Brite and Silk by Caitlin R. Kiernan have really inspired me. I’ve read everything from Clive Barker to Laurel K. Hamilton, though.

What are you working on now?
Bonding Weekend. In Whiskey, Blood, and Magic, rock singer Jake Reece must go through his Awakening and face succubus Ariel Celique. Now, in Bonding Weekend, he track down a drug dealer who has inadvertently killed a violin virtuoso with whom he was obsessed.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Oh, I use urban fantasy facebook sites for the most part and my personal website: Https://www.davidchylde.com/

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Take your time writing your first book. It is like a relationship. And learn how to write query letters and promote.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Stop drinking and partying.

What are you reading now?
Ghost Story by Peter Straub.

What’s next for you as a writer?
Just promote the hell out of Whiskey, Blood, and Magic and get Bonding Weekend written!

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?
Lost Souls by Poppy Z. Brite
The Stand by Stephen King
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

Author Websites and Profiles
David Chylde Website

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My Name is William. I am English but live in Oslo, Norway with my wife and 5 children.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My Latest (and first) book is called “Timothy Mean and the Time Machine” It is a children’s time travel adventure picture book. It was inspired by my children and how they turn mundane everyday objects and toys into fun using their imagination.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I tend to write late at night when I have some spare time.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I have read hundreds of children’s books to my children over the years. I would say authors such as Roald Dahl and Julia Donaldson have influenced me to a certain degree.

What are you working on now?
I am currently writing more picture books including a sequel to Timothy Mean.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I think its best to use a combination of places. Reviews really help through readers and bloggers.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
The most important thing is your story. Make sure that is perfect before going to market.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Enjoy the moment.

What are you reading now?
I am reading

What’s next for you as a writer?
I plan to publish more action \ adventure picture books for children.

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 Lord of the Rings
The Hobbit
The Enormous Crocodile
and of course Timothy Mean and the Time Machine

Author Websites and Profiles
William Ford Website
William Ford Amazon Profile

William Ford’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a mom first and foremost. I’m a do-gooder. I’m a self-improvement nut. I’m a java junkie (with half and half, please), Green Bay Packer fan, runner and newbie rock ‘n roll singer.

I love to have fun. But more importantly, I want to leave this earth in better shape than I found it–for my kids and for everyone’s’ kids. That fuels a lot of what I do.

This is my first book. But not the last. I’ve spent more decades than I want to reveal as a reporter. I covered small town politics, freelanced for bigger papers and then went to work covering the travel industry for trade magazines. No, it wasn’t beaches at sunset or snow-kissed mountaintop writing. It was business, marketing, technology.

I covered stuff we don’t always like to talk about –like human trafficking and the travel industry.

A lot of what I did was cover how the big guys try to the run the market. And I wrote how the little guys–mostly travel agents, who are mostly women and entrepreneur–were succeeding. A lot of David vs. Goliath stuff. So, yeah, you can see I’m for the people. It’s because I’m Irish and because, even though I live in New York City, I remain a hick from the sticks. So I’m for the little guy who can often be overlooked by the folks on the coasts. But I’m done being a reporter. Now, I am a full-time writer. A bit more on that in the advice-for-new-writers section!

Because I’m from a small town and a big family, I like to play. I love the outdoors. I love to move. So I do some kind of hardcore workout every day. Not because I’m disciplined, but because I’m addicted to exercise. My whole family is like that. We are all up running or power-walking at dawn. I like hiking–nature is SO good for us!-camping, skiing, biking, and stand-up paddle board. Earth is a playground for me! I want it to stay that way, so that’s one reason I volunteer with the New York League of Conservation Voters writing blog posts. I am their oldest intern!

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My book is “The Stranger Among You: How the Faith-Based Refugee Resettlement Movement is Shattering our Red and Blue Silos.”

Back in 2015, when I saw all those images of refugees pouring into Europe, I thought of my great-great-grandmother, a teenager who fled a starving Ireland with her widowed mother and a few of her big brothers. And of my daughters’ great grandmother, a 12-year-old who fled with her mom and brother and sisters across Siberia. Because they couldn’t go through Europe. World War I was in the way.

So I went to work helping refugees. And then so many people kept asking the church I was working with how we did it. I kept telling them, you need to write a book about this! And then I realized, ‘I’m a reporter! I should write it!’

So, I wrote this book! And I didn’t just write about the church and the synagogue that I was working here in New York, I wrote about the Southern Baptists, the Lutherans, the Mormons, the Methodists, and all those many people who were doing the same in the Bible Belt and a lot of red states. Because I found that this issue, which looks so divisive when you read the headlines, is actually a unifying one.

And I met a lot of wonderful and very thoughtful people, with big hearts and open minds. And–fun as well!

And I am hoping, now that we have all of these desperate migrants right on our own border, Americans will help them the same way we helped the refugees from Syria, the Congo, Myanmar, South America and more.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My favorite time to write–or at least get going on it– is first thing in the morning. First, though, I have to go for a run or do some really killer, heart-pounding workout, like Core Power Yoga Sculpt. Then I shower and have a kick-butt cup of coffee (in my Montana Coffee Traders cup–I love Montana ’cause one of my daughters lives there!) It really works best if I am up at 5:05 and out the door — either off to Sculpt class or on a run with our coonhound–before 5:30.

Then, a shower, get dressed (contacts in and make up on!) and that big jolt of java. I like to get going before my daughter (only one left at home now!) is up.

Then, once she is out the door (which is fast, she is an efficient kid!) it’s off to write–either at the New York League of Conservation Voters, or at my own desk, depending on the day.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I have authors I love but I don’t feel that anyone influenced this book. It came from an impossible-to-deny drive within me to tell a story that major media were totally overlooking.

But, I love to read. My favorite book is “Pride and Prejudice.” It’s just utterly delightful. Aside from really killer fiction like “The Goldfinch,” I am really a history and biography nut. So that means that, of course, I am listening to Michelle Obama read “Becoming.” That book makes me love her even more. But I also adore Robert Caro and his blockbuster LBJ series. It’s really the history of America told through the prism of the life of one man. And I loved Jon Meacham’s “The Soul of America.” Since I’m a woman who has a life filled with joy but also challenges, I am a huge Brene Brown fan. Sometimes my bedside shelves hold all of her books.

What are you working on now?
Right now I’m working on marketing this book (which is why I am writing all of this for all of Awesome Gang’s awesome readers). Guess what. Marketing a book might be harder than writing it!

But I have a LOT of books in the works! One is about travel being an emotional journey as well a a geographic one. Another one is going to be a memoir, a fun one that manages to laugh at topics that can often make us weep. Life is filled with so much absurdity, you might as well grab every opportunity to laugh that you can. It’s going to cover some of my tough times and bad people I had to deal with, but mostly it’s going to be how all of that helped me grow–and how rock ‘n roll and extreme sports (well, extreme for ME) helped! A lot of other stuff helped, too, like wonderful friends and all of the great resources that are at our fingertips today.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I am hoping that Awesome Gang is!

Do you have any advice for new authors?
I have two pieces of advice for new authors. First, join a writing group. I’ve only tried one, but it is great–Self Publishing School. You don’t have to use that one but here’s what you need to look for in any writing group:
Number one: community, because writing is SO solitary. Especially if you’re like me, a reporter used to busy news rooms and a mom used to working at schools with lots of people around. So it should have a really great Facebook page and some kind of regular online get-together.

The second thing to look for in your group: resources: SPS basically lays out a roadmap that starts with how to come up with an idea for your book and goes all the way through to marketing it! They provide wonderful resources like great editors, designers and more.

My second piece of advice: hire a life coach. It is SO hard for us women to do that! But it is really important for us to invest in ourselves. So finally, I am doing it! And it is SO worth it!

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I’ve ever heard I was something my Core Power Yoga Sculpt instructor gave last week. “Lean in and let go.”

That’s lean into all the positives and opportunities before you. And let go of anything that isn’t helping you. I’ve really embraced that. It’s very helpful.

What are you reading now?
As I mentioned, I just finished “The Soul of America,” I’m listening to “Becoming,” and I’ve just begun reading “Young Washington,” by Peter Stark. It shows a very different Washington–cocky, ambitious and headstrong–than this wise and modest father of our country we picture today. He was so rash that he was the guy who sparked the French and Indian War that led to the Seven Years War in Europe. The fire was laid for both of those conflicts, Washington provided the match. It’s full of extreme adventure–weeks of riding or hiking in virgin wilderness, rafting (and falling into) icy waters and some pretty pitched and very ugly battles. If you like history, you’ll dig this. Oh, and I am also reading “Sarong Party Girls,” by Cheryl Tan, a friend of mine. It is HILARIOUS! And also thought-provoking. It’s set in Singapore and if you liked “Crazy Rich Asians,” you’ll love this book!

What’s next for you as a writer?
My next step is writing a memoir that will make you laugh and cry–and then turn it into a movie!

It’ll be about overcoming the odds, something every woman does every day. So even though it’ll be specific to my life, the lessons I’ve learned (many taught to me by others I sought out) should be universally applicable.

And, it’s set in New York, where I live, which means there is a LOT of opportunity for absurdity!

If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
If I were stranded on a desert island, I’d bring a book about how to shoot flares to bring in rescuers!

More seriously, I would bring “Pride and Prejudice,” Robert Caro’s “Master of the Senate” and “Ascent to Power” and some book like “The Goldfinch.” Along with whatever book I am currently reading.

Author Websites and Profiles
Kate Rice Website
Kate Rice Amazon Profile

Kate Rice’s Social Media Links
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m an accidental author as I began writing my first story, Mechanics of Murder, after I had been fired for taking maternity leave. Forced to take a 3rd shift job, angry and hormonal, I started thinking of ways of killing my ex-boss without getting caught. I began writing down my ideas and my imagination took over. I started creating a story of a female mechanic, which I was, finding a dead body underneath the truck she was working on. My father absolutely loved the story and encouraged me to complete it and get it published instead of actually killing my ex-boss. I agreed and was almost finished with the first draft when my father had a stroke. Encouraging him to get better, I rushed the book to Lulu Publishing without it being edited. My father was able to hold my first novel but was never able to read it, he passed away 2 days later. But it began a passion for me that has not dwindled!

I have continued writing and my list has now grown. With Love; Now & Forever and Shadows, both paranormal romances though with different personalities and twists. The sequel to Mechanics of Murder, A Wrench in the Plan, was completed in January of 2011 and was released in the spring of 2012. I know my Dad would be proud. My contemporary romance, Love’s Everlasting Song, is a sweet tale where hopes, dreams and occasionally fairy tales do come true. I have published 16 books and am currently contracted with several small publishers in New York and Australia. I’m excited to be a headlining author in Australia in June of 2022 and hope to have my letters (USA Today and NY Times best selling author) earned by then.

I usually have 5-7 novels in the works and plan on writing for many more years! My stories are not sexually graphic because I believe each readers experience and imagination are usually more erotic and more sensual than what I will put into words and I ALWAYS have to have a happy ending! Life is meant to be fun, enjoy the journey!!!

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I’m currently working on two books, one is for my Australian publisher for a Calendar Girls boxed set but I’m also working on a thriller that I’m super excited about. This world we live in and the need/demand for change is crazy so it’s a romantic suspense based on that. The name of it is Love Perfected and should be available this summer, 2019.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I have to write everything out long hand and THEN type it on my laptop. It’s long and tedious but I get distracted when I type and I don’t like losing my flow when it’s full on.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Stephen King, always and forever, though I am a true fan of his older works. Nora Roberts is my hero. I love her, love her class, love her stories. For me they never get old and I hope that someday I will have the chance to meet her in person

What are you working on now?
I’m working on several stories. I have to go where my imagination takes me so that is the tale I pick.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m still getting down the marketing techniques. I used to use PeopleReads quite a bit but the owner is focusing on family right now which I completely understand and respect. Still trying new places so I’m hoping this might be my next best method. So far it’s been a fun and easy experience!

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Edit, believe in yourself and don’t listen to haters or negative people. Keep around the people who fill your bucket, not poke holes in it.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
When I doubt myself or my writing because of a less than stellar review, go and read some reviews from authors whom I love. They even have trolls and haters, so stop looking at the negative and feed your soul positive and light.

What are you reading now?
Annabelle Anders historical romances, she’s pretty fabulous

What’s next for you as a writer?
I just kicked off this year with a book signing at Barnes & Noble. Hoping to fulfill my contracts and start traveling the US for signings before heading over seas. After I finish polishing Love Perfected, I’ll start focusing on getting it ready for movie rights.

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?
UGH! DON’T MAKE ME CHOOSE!

Author Websites and Profiles
RaeAnne Hadley Website
RaeAnne Hadley Amazon Profile

RaeAnne Hadley’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a farmer, a Texan, a beekeeper, and a writer and a few other things. I am married to an English teacher. In spite of all those things, I love to write. grammar is not my strong point but storytelling is. I have written two non-fiction books and now two fantasy novels. I have also written several short stories.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The Princess who Forgot she was Beautiful was actually inspired several years ago when i was counseling a young woman with low self-esteem. I started the story for her and it just took off.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My German shepherds need to be at my feet around the kitchen table. when i get stumped i ask them questions and they give me answers. Seems to work well.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
C.S Lewis, Jim Butcher, Kristan Painter, currently.

What are you working on now?
the third book in the five book series, the Harry Ferguson chronicles.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I am still testing those waters. it seems to be a matter of try this one, record results, try another one.. and so on and so forth. I am hoping Awesome gang beats all of them hands down!

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write because you love it. do not be impatient!!! i mean that dont be impatient.. i am not kidding DO NOT GET IMPATIENT. invest your money in your books. do skimp on editors or cover artist. hint not all the expensive ones are as good as some less expensive ones. A great stock cover is better than a mediocre custom cover and costs less. not everyone who claims to be a good editor is. you have to share a common world view, they have to understand voice. overnight successes usually are the result of several years of agony and the product of individuals who will not QUIT!

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
the head covers for the heart.

What are you reading now?
i read several books a time. both fiction and non fiction. fiction just finshed the dresden files for the third time, also reading man of war series, and non fiction, how to be an amazon advertising expert…

What’s next for you as a writer?
1. develop a system that works for marketing my books, that i use everytime
2. keep writing force myself to write every day even when i am busy in the blackberry fields and the beehives.

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, large empty notebooks to write in, how to survive by yourself on a deserted island,
and last but not least my kindel fire with a thousand books in it.

Author Websites and Profiles
William David Ellis Website
William David Ellis Amazon Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Derek E. Keeling. I am a 32 year old author living in Oregon. I’m an award-winning journalist, author, content writer, and social media coordinator. I began my love of writing as a young teen and it has since flourished into a profound passion. My work has been featured in numerous publications, including books, magazines, newspapers, blogs, websites, and more. I currently have two published books, Nomad’s Island and The Umbras. In my free time, I enjoys spending time with my beautiful wife and daughter.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is called Nomad’s Island. It was inspired by a failed trip to Hawaii I took many years ago. I intended to live off the land and hunt wild boar on the island of Kauai, Hawaii. That did not succeed. Planned on staying a year, only stay a month. Years later I was reflecting on that trip and thought about the idea for Nomad’s Island. The book is very different from my experience, but that trip I took is what spawned the idea for the book.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Coffee. Lots of coffee.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Charles Nordhoff and James Norman Hall (Mutiny on the Bounty). I also enjoy the Gonzo journalism of, Hunter S. Thompson. C.S. Lewis is a all-time favorite of mine.

What are you working on now?
I am working on getting the word out there about my new novel, Nomad’s Island. After a while, I have a three-book series to work on.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I would say I have found lots of success on every website I have used to promote my book. Nomad’s Island has found a home through Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin, Pinterest, and more.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write. It’s as simple as that. Just keep writing. Worry about the editing and other stuff when you have everything in front of you.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t follow your dreams. Lead them.

What are you reading now?
I’ve jumped back into a childhood classic that I can’t seem to stop reading. C.S. Lewis’ “The Voyage of the Dawn Treader”. There’s something nostalgic, whimsical, and beautiful about that story that I cannot get past. I’ve probably read it a dozen times in my life.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I am always writing. My next book endeavor is a three-part series. Lots of work to be done on that, however.

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?
Ha! Funny this questions came up. My newest novel, Nomad’s Island is literally about being stranded on the island. The protagonist, Damon, takes with him his favorite childhood book, which is also one of mine, “The Ghost in the Noonday Sun”. That would be one of mine. The others would be: “The Voyage of the Dawn Treader”, “Mutiny on the Bounty”, and “Into the Wild”.

Author Websites and Profiles
Derek E. Keeling Website
Derek E. Keeling Amazon Profile

Derek E. Keeling’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account