Introducing Author Rebecca Jane Lynch
This week I’m delighted to introduce an up and coming author who has written the young adult fantasy series Satu Country. You’ll see by her answers to the questions below that she is dedicated to her work. You can read my review of Coming Tides here.
Interview of Author Rebecca Jane Lynch
By L.Leander
What is the favorite character you have written and why?
Kano Shadow is my favorite so far. He’s cool, strong, dark, and a real mystery. He’s the type of person I love to follow in a story, but I’d probably be afraid of him if he were real.
Are you self-published or traditionally published and why?
I am actually both. I have been published in the anthology Swimming Blind by Athanatos Ministries, which was traditionally published by the Athanatos Publishing Group. I’ve also published two books through Publish America. More recently though, I’ve settled on self-publishing through Lulu.com, and I really enjoy it. I enjoy that I have full control over the formatting and cover design of my book. Best of all, Lulu is free–which is great for a new author.
What did you want to be when you grew up? Did you realize that dream?
Well, when I was little I always wanted to be three things simultaneously: an author, movie director, and an actress. So far I’m only one of those.
Explain your creative process. Pantser? Outliner?
I am definitely an outliner. I have dozens of documents on my computer storing plot ideas and extremely detailed character information. I always have a general idea of what I want to happen in a story before I begin writing. Usually as I go along though, random ideas come to me and I add them to the story. That’s especially true with a lot of the humor in my books–that is rarely planned.
How do you come up with ideas for your writing projects?
Sometimes ideas just come to me when I least expect it; other times I get ideas from dreams or real-life experiences. When it comes to Satu Country, the idea just came to me one day and I started writing. With other books, such as my children’s mystery story Hamster Heroes, I based the characters on real-life people and animals, but the stories themselves are entirely imaginary.
Who is your biggest supporter? Why?
My biggest supporter is probably my friend Michelle. She’s one of my beta readers and has been encouraging me to write before I ever published my first book.
Explain a day in the life of a writer (you)
Since I only write as a hobby and my real “job” is being a full-time college student, I just grab a few moments here and there to write when I can. Usually I get my best writing done late at night after everyone else is in bed. When I’m not in classes however, I like to sit down, turn on some Skillet or Relient K music, and write.
What is your wildest dream for your writing?
To have my Satu Country books made into movies, or an anime-styled cartoon series. If I had the skills and people necessary, I’d love to make it an animated series and direct it myself.
What types of books do you like to read/authors that have inspired you?
Even though I read manga the most, I really enjoy reading fantasy books and some Christian fiction. My favorite authors are Frank Peretti and Ted Dekker. I’ve really been inspired by Ted Dekker’s writing style/tone.
What is your favorite hobby? Does it enhance your writing?
Writing really is my favorite hobby. Besides reading and sketching, it’s my favorite thing to do. As for the second half of that question, I think it does. Practice makes perfect (or, at least, makes things better). The more I write, the more I understand myself, my writing style, and my direction for future projects.
There will be seven books total in the Satu Country series, and the first two have already been published. This year I’m working on book three, In the Heights. Each year I plan to self-publish one of the Satu books, which shouldn’t be too difficult since I have already written them on paper and just need to transcribe them to digital copies and edit them.
Satu Country has really been my life’s dream. I started working on handwriting them when I was in high school. I’d like to encourage people to read the Satu books, especially if they like young adult fiction. The first book, Coming Tides, was the roughest one I wrote, plot-wise, because it is mostly just introducing all of the characters to the readers while trying to add enough plot to keep the story going. The second book, Saving the Valley, is smoother. I think the books will get better the further along the series goes.
I’m also working on my first adult fiction novel, which will be titled The
Perceptionalist. It probably won’t be published until 2014 because it’s taken a backseat to the Satu books. More information about my other books can be found on my website.
~Rebecca Jane Lynch
Links where my book can be purchased: My Author Spotlight, and Amazon.
Other links: My website and the Satu Country website
Author bio: Rebecca Jane has been writing books since she was eleven years old. She first became published after winning a Christian writing contest in 2010 and had her short story “The Dissenters” published in an anthology. Since then, she has published seven books and is best known for her young adult fantasy series Satu Country
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( 2 so far )Introducing Author Michael Murphy
What a treat we have in store for us this week. My guest is Michael Murphy, author of Goodbye Emily. This is a sometimes nostalgic, sometimes sad and downright funny book about returning to Woodstock and reliving the days of youth. If you’d like to read my review click here.
Interview with Michael Murphy
By L.Leander
Where do you write? What’s your creative space like?
I used to write glued to my home office computer, but in the past year I’ve added a wireless keyboard to my tablet and now write in the backyard with my chickens, 
around the pool or patio. Freedom via technology!
What is your favorite writing tool?
As I mentioned, my tablet is a fabulous tool. In addition to writing, I can pause and check something on the internet and since my current work in process is historical fiction, that comes in handy when checking slang words in the 1930s for example.
What movie star would you pick as one of the characters in your book and why? I’ve been asked this more for my return to Woodstock novel, Goodbye Emily, than any of my previous books. I think it’s because readers often comment that it would make a great movie. Since it focuses on three baby boomers reliving their roadtrip to Woodstock, I envision Tom Hanks as Sparky, Billy Bob Thornton or Sam Elliott as Buck and William H. Macy as Josh.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
I always wanted to be an author. I read Gone with the Wind when I was nine. I was a geek even then, still am.
Did you realize that dream?
Just about.
Explain your creative process. Pantser? Outliner?
I’ve always been a seat of the pants author, but I’ve become more formalized as I’ve become more experienced. For example. I write details biographical histories for my main characters so I know how they’ll act or what they might say in a given situation or scene.
If you could only have one mode of transportation what would it be, a horse or a bicycle? Why?
I’m not much for either, but my wife and I have a tandem bike that we dust off now and then. She still looks sweet, upon the seat of a bicycle built for two.
Do you dream about your stories?
Absolutely. Ever written about a dream? Dreaming is the most important part of my creative process. I use it as a tool. If I envision a character or scene before falling asleep, I often wake up with a vivid dream. I also tap into my subconscious on a treadmill.
What’s your favorite theme park?
Definitely Disneyland.
Why?
It’s the happiest place on earth!
Are you a reader? I’m an avid reader.
I write the type of books I love reading, mostly (but not limited to) mystery/suspense with a lot of humor. The master being Nelson DeMille.
Michael says:
My goal in writing Goodbye Emily was to portray sixty-somethings in a realistic manner instead of “get off my lawn” clichés. By realistic, I mean, funny, talented, sexually active and optimistic about the future. From the reviews so far, I think I’ve succeeded.
http://www.amazon.com/Goodbye-Emily-ebook/dp/B00A8IYL2C
Introducing Author Roy Murry
I’ve been waiting to do this interview for a while now and I’m very excited to present to you an author who has written perhaps one of the most interesting tales I’ve ever read. The Audubon Caper is a work of fiction based on actual events and the story starts at rapid speed and escalates from there. If you’d like to read my review of the book click here. No matter what type of material you read you’ll definitely be amazed at the idea that this is a true story and happened in the USA. Without going into too much detail I’ll just tell you this is definitely one of my favorite books and if you haven’t already indulged you should run right out and buy a copy. You definitely will not be disappointed.
Interview of Author Roy Murry
by L.Leander
Where do you write? What’s your creative space like?
A quiet room anywhere I can plug in my Laptop. I need a place with no distractions.
What is your favorite writing tool?
#1 Tool: My Brain. A good night’s sleep with no appointments in the morning is very important to me before I write. I place an outline in my mind the night before I write and fill in the blanks when I start writing around 4:00 a.m. in the morning. Other than my mind, I have three books near by The World Almanac, The Merriam-Webster Dictionary, and their Thesaurus.
What movies star would you pick as one of the characters in your book and why?
I have never thought of my book as movie material. Any young actor in their late twenties would do fine. I think any good actor could pull off the main character’s traits.
What did you want to be when you grew up? Did you realize that dream?
Well, I didn’t dream of being a writer. I got drafted into the US Army, before I could decide what I wanted to be. As a Green Beret in Vietnam, I felt like I reached a goal 
very few could achieve and live to tell about it.
When I returned home from the war, I reached another goal, not a dream, of graduating from college where my America Literature professor told me I could write after grading my assigned assessments of great and not so great American Writers. At that point, I thought, not dreamt, I will be a writer someday.
Explain your creative process.
I outline with sentences what I will write. After that, I put my mind to work at each step. Sleep on it and write. I do this with the reviews I write for my blog.
One or two sentences, while reading a book, and then put my brain to work. Then I write. Might sound too easy, but it works for me. If I’m not happy with the first draft, I repeat process again, again, and again if need be.
If you could only have one mode of transportation, what would it be a horse or a bicycle?
Neither. I’m a walker. Therefore, I’d rather walk, thank you.
Do you dream about your stories?
I don’t call it dreaming. As I said, I put my brain to work. That’s why I have one.
What were you like in high school?
I was an introvert until I got to know you. Then I became an extrovert. With friends and family, I was fun to be with. But if they screwed with my reading time, they knew they were in trouble.
What’s your favorite theme park? Why?
Disney World and Epcot Center, Orlando, Florida. The main reason was to see the happy faces on my children. That was years ago. In a few years, I’ll take my grandchildren. For me, I liked adventure land and the restaurants at Epcot. Traveling is a theme park for me. I do all the itineraries, etc.
Are you a reader? What types of books do you like best? What author(s)?
Read?! That’s all I do. Read, write, and play golf is my life.
Past: Ralph Waldo Emerson; Henry David Thoreau, et al
Near past: Edgar Allen Poe; Arthur Conan Doyle, et al
Present: Dan Brown; James Patterson, et al
For my blog: #children to #erotica, and all in between
I like mysteries. Who-done-it’s I love to solve before the end of the book. Since
starting my blog http://www.conniesbrother.blogspot.com,
my reading has been eclectic.
Links:
My book – The Audubon Caper
Amazon: http://amzn.to/MGxfR7
Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/PWnA8n
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/roy.murry.7
Twitter: @roylmurry425
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( 3 so far )Introducing Author Sarah Buchynski
Please help me welcome a young up and coming author this week who I’m sure we’ll see more of. Her name is Sarah Buchynski and her book reads like a video game – action, plot and characters that pop. If you’d like to read my review of her book, The Awakening (Before True Light) click here. And, be sure to scroll down to the bottom of the interview to see Sarah’s free offer!
Interview with Author Sarah Buchynski
by L.Leander
What is your favorite pastime (other than writing)? (you can only pick one) and why?
My favourite pastime, other than writing, would be playing video games. More specifically RPGs such as games from the Final Fantasy series are really enjoyable to me. I like them since they convey a story and you can really immerse yourself into the world through the visuals, music, and interactions. Even though it is entertaining for me, sometimes the emotions that the music creates with the different scenarios gives me a burst of inspiration, which can lead me to go write or compose music.
Who are you as a writer?
My identity as a writer is simple. I only try to create works that will entertain readers and make them laugh, cry, be angry, get excited, etc…
What are your thoughts on the Indie Publishing movement?
I think it is great. However, it is still a small movement in comparison to other indie movements such as music. Hopefully it will continue to grow, so truly talented authors can be more easily discovered.
Have you ever ghostwritten? Would you? Why?
I have not ghostwritten. However, if I had the opportunity, I probably would. If you are ghostwriting for certain people, it can lead to other writing opportunities since you are networking your writing skills. Although, not getting a credit for the public to see is disheartening, but inside the industry can discover you through word of mouth.
What is your favorite book of all time? Why?
Probably The Horse and his Boy by CS Lewis. That was the first book that I got so addicted to that I could not put it down. Before I read that, I was not really into reading and now I read a variety of things like books, manga, articles, etc…
Do you believe writers need a degree to be successful? Why or why not?
Absolutely not! For fiction, I believe that a degree cannot teach a person to be creative to create a captivating story. In my opinion, a degree would only help to teach a person to have proper grammar skills so they can convey their story in a written format. The story is the most important element of a book and an editor can help with the technical aspect for the writer if they lack the skill. The grammar is not what captives an audience, it is the story.
You are camping in a tent in the woods. A loud roar happens outside the flap to the tent. What do you do?
I pinch myself and then I wake up from a terrifying dream. In reality I am safe in my bed at home.
What is your greatest asset? Why?
I suppose my greatest asset as an independent author would be the business skills/knowledge I’ve been learning in post secondary. This knowledge helps me to find ways to market and promote myself as well as understand any contracts I need to so there is a lesser chance I get ripped off.
What do you treasure most on earth?
The human brain because it is an amazing thing that it can do so much and create so much.
What did you like to do as a child? Favorite games, pasttimes, friends, etc.
To be honest, most of my childhood memories are of me doing homework. However, I really enjoyed the traveling that I was able to do.
What is the single-most important thing that has happened to you thus-far on your writing journey?
Probably getting my book published and actually finding out complete strangers are reading my book.
How important is being successful as a writer to you?
It is not very important, however, it would be nice. All I really want is for people to read and enjoy my book.
The genie is going to grant you three wishes. What are they?
An isolated tropical island, a movie deal for my book where I get to work on the post production for it, and a wish for more wishes since at the time I could not come up with a last one.
You get one day to spend any way you want with whomever you want. Describe the day (money is no object)
I’m not really sure what I would do. Any day where I do not have to worry about anything school related is a great day. I would probably end up going to a music store and getting new and high quality instruments, equipment and software for music production and post production so I can go out and record anything from field recordings to a full band.
Who or what were your main inspirations for choosing a writing career?
Writing is not really my career. I do it because I enjoy it. However, I put enough effort into that it could be my career. I mainly got into writing because someone once told me that I was good at it. From that I tried writing poetry and had some publishing success with that then moved into the world of writing novels. People seemed to enjoy reading my work so that’s what makes me keep writing.
So when I’m not writing and promoting my work, I am a full time student of audio engineering (soon to be graduated). I have already recorded a few indie bands. In the near future I may be doing the audio for an indie film. I also want to branch out to doing audio for book trailers plus create original music for them either contemporary, orchestrated or a combination of both. My ultimate career goal with that is to be a foley artist and eventually get into composing music for film. Writing is what keeps me sane trying to accomplish these goals.
People have told me that my book, Before True Light: The Awakening is very unique, but in a good way. The system of abilities comes from the science of ancient alchemy, but also the fantasy side of it. So it is not 100% magic and not 100% science. The storyline is more than just a story too. I want to entertain people, but also make them think about the world around us. However, I would like to think that I’ve done this in a way that if a person does not understand the metaphors, it will not hinder the storyline in any way for them – it’s more like bonus material if you catch on to it.
Thanks for stopping by – leave a comment for Sarah and let her know you came. Check below for her generous offer to five lucky readers.
Points of Purchase:
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/269067
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/book/before-true-light/id591634024?mt=11
Kobo: http://www.kobobooks.com/search/search.html?q=Before+True+Light
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/before-true-light-sarah-buchynski/1114142585
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BeforeTrueLight
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FantasyFanatic7
Bio:
Sarah Buchynski is a young author that showed a passion for writing even as a child. In her grade school years, she placed second in an essay writing contest for the Royal Canadian Legion and has two poems published in a student anthology with Creative Communications and several works in school-based anthologies. Now she has expanded her writing ambitions with her first fantasy series, Before True Light.
As a writer, one of Sarah’s main techniques is to paint a vivid picture into the reader’s mind through carefully constructed imagery. In addition to the embedded metaphors which older audiences can enjoy along with the story.
Sarah’s other technique is research. Almost every name of places and characters have been carefully researched so that it is relevant to the storyline. Sarah believes that everything in a story should have a purpose to an extend,so that makes research even more important even for works of fiction.
Giveaway: the first 5 people to like Before True Light on facebook will receive a free copy of the ebook.
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( 2 so far )
Introducing Author Michael Cavallo
Well, everyone. You won’t want to miss this week’s zany interview with author Michael Cavallo, the author of Michael Did What? You can read my review of the book here. Mike is a funny guy and the great lengths his character goes to to prove to the world how wonderful he is makes for a light read. I found myself laughing more than once. You will too. (Be sure to check out the links at the end of the interview – Michael has a money-saving coupon for you!
Interview with Michael Cavallo
by L.Leander
What is your favorite pastime (other than writing)? (you can only pick one) and why?
I don’t really have one. Life just kinda gets in the way. I’m married, with two kids, a house, and that keeps be busy. Aside from writing and marketing, “Michael Did What?” I’ve been mentally kicking around a few ideas for my next book. For now, “Michael Did What?” takes most of my free time. That, and trying to keep those little cups on top of the NyQuil bottles. They’re always disappearing, and it’s up to me to restore order to the medicine cabinet. Can you consider that a pastime?
Who are you as a writer?
Simply put, I’m really just going for a laugh, and there are few rules to that. (One is to refer to bad 80’s TV shows a lot. What the heck was Hart to Hart about anyway?) I’m trying to keep the reader a little off balance so they never really know what to expect. I like to use a variety of techniques, each in a different way, and without a discernible pattern. I like to hit the reader with a joke about F. Murray Abraham and two stalks of celery when they least expect it.
What are your thoughts on the Indie Publishing movement?
As a writer, I think it’s awesome. It gives every author an opportunity, which is all one can ask for. It’s also a ton of work, and full of scams. (The Ultra-Golden-Ruby-Premium Marketing package will help you to sell 3 million books in the first 3 days alone! By Thursday, Lindsay Lohan will be cast in the movie version, provided she posts bail! Just send $400 now, and an address where your groupies should loiter!)
I’m self-published on Amazon, so I’m more familiar with that than the others, but I did do my homework. It takes so much time and effort to get your book noticed, but if it’s good, it will be shared, and you’re on your way. Competition is tremendous, as even the most popular writers give their books away for free or 99 cents from time to time. It can be rewarding though, once you invest the time and effort into learning how to utilize the industry, and filter out the nonsense.
As a reader, it can be just as much work separating the good writing from the not so good. You can find some good work in whatever niche you’re into, and you may have to sift through a lot of titles. I’m not sure the world needs a 450 page tome dedicated to the proper storage of garden hoses, (and 67 ways to coil them!) but at least the choice is there. Worst case scenario, you’ve wasted a dollar.
Have you ever ghostwritten? Would you? Why?
It isn’t something that I’ve really considered, but I would love to do it. I think I’d have a great ability to help someone crystallize their thoughts, and inject some humor into their story. I understand Fidel Castro’s English isn’t so good, and, let’s face it, he isn’t known for his humor. I could help to soften his image in his golden years. This could be a win-win for both of us! Do his henchmen read this blog? Maybe then I’ll have henchmen too. That’s when you know you’ve made it.
What is your favorite book of all time? Why?
I’m not sure I have an all-time favorite book. If I had to pick one, Our Dumb World from the Onion would probably be it. Who satirizes an atlas, anyway? Brilliant! Probably a million one-liners in that book. Also America, the Book, by John Stewart. Great sound bites, blurbs, ridiculous comments in a spoofed textbook. A textbook I can scribble in if I want to! I guess I see these as revenge from years of Catholic grammar school.
Do you believe writers need a degree to be successful? Why or why not?
Of course not. A writer only needs a bunch of crap bouncing around inside of his head, a need to get it out, and the means to do so. See those people wandering around Manhattan muttering to themselves, oblivious to the world around them? Those are unwritten books, trying to get out.
You are camping in a tent in the woods. A loud roar happens outside the flap to the tent. What do you do?
First, I unzip the flap as patiently and gingerly as possible, sometimes taking upwards of six hours, so as not to draw undue attention upon myself. If the roaring still persists, I will then attempt to distract the roarmaker, usually by screaming like a little bitch. I do this as I make a bee-line for the cooler, and bravely attempt to liberate as many cans of beer as possible, while cursing myself for not finishing them the night before. I will then head towards the car, which, because of the Rules of Scary Movies, is wwwwaaaaaayyy off in the opposite direction. Immediately thereafter, I drop one of the cans, and am faced with a dilemma: Continue on, and enjoy the juice of my labor in the comfort of my ’72 Pinto? Or do I risk it all to go back for the lone ale, reminding myself that people are sober in China? Being as eco-conscious as I am, I make an about face to rescue the lone straggler. This is when, as the Rules of Scary Movies dictate, that the hideous beast emerges from the brush, and the race—full of close-ups, and in slow motion—begins for real. Realizing that if something works, you should stick with it, I then enter Phase II of my plan, namely, screaming like a BIG banshee. The higher pitch and frequency of this brilliant and manly plan usually works to perfection, and within moments I’m sipping a cold one from inside my car, while the defeated monster fogs my window with his rapid panting. All that’s left to do, as the camera pans back, is give that squirrel the finger. Fade to black, roll credits.*
*No squirrels were hurt during the answering of this question.
What is your greatest asset? Why?
That’s easy. My sense of humor. I’ve learned to find the humor in almost any situation, including the most difficult ones. That’s not to say you can avoid your responsibilities, or neglect to do the tough things that need to be done, but I always try to find a way to laugh while doing them. Many people may feel that you can’t be serious about something and maintain a sense of humor about it at the same time. They feel it’s either/or. I’ve laughed in the dentist’s chair, emergency room, and funeral homes. If I can help other people to laugh while in those situations, that’s even better.
What do you treasure most on earth?
That’s a bit tougher. I’d have to say life itself. The process of life, of growing and evolving. Just watching life unfold, and taking from it what you can, and being thankful for it. Most people can look back on difficult times and see how it made them grow, and then appreciate it. If I can accelerate that process, and experience gratitude during the difficult times, then I’ve taken a tremendous step. I have done that. The trick is to do it consistently. That, and pepper-jack cheese. The mild cheese is deliciously offset by the spiciness of the jalapenos. It’s like there’s a party in my mouth.
What did you like to do as a child? Favorite games, pastimes, friends, etc.
I played hockey a lot, usually as a goalie. There’s was nothing like it. When I’m focused, nothing else exists except that puck. I wouldn’t feel cold, or tired, or worry my car insurance is due. Time would sometime slow down, and I’d see the play a few seconds before it unfolded. Other times, it would speed up, and I’d have no recollection of plays after the game. The outside world would just cease to exist.
What is the single-most important thing that has happened to you thus-far on your writing journey?
I’d have to say the confidence I’ve gained, just learning to open up a bit, and put myself out there. You immediately set yourself up for criticism, and need to understand it comes with the territory. And this is just from a simple joke book, it’s not like I’ve published my personal memoirs. Of course, the positive feedback helps too.
How important is being successful as a writer to you?
I enjoy making people laugh, so that is my primarily goal. If I can do that, and make a few bucks, even better. What I don’t enjoy is the constant work promoting, and marketing the book. In a perfect world, I’d have an army of minions to take care of that.
The genie is going to grant you three wishes. What are they?
Well, the most obvious answer is for world peace, but I don’t want to sound like a desperate Miss America contestant. Another would be for my kids to get along, but this would not be possible without supernatural intervention. They could rule the entire Earth, and they’d still fight. Stuff like:
One son: “This is MY ocean! Why don’t you go play in the Atlantic?!?”
Other son: “But I saw it first! I want to play here!”
Either son: “Moooommm!”
The other two wishes? I don’t know. Can I donate them to charity?
You get one day to spend any way you want with whomever you want. Describe the day (money is no object)
Money is no object? What about resurrecting the dead? If that isn’t an object, then I’d go drinking with Jim Morrison. I would describe the day in great detail, but unfortunately I’d have no recollection of it. Trust me, we had a good time.
Who or what were your main inspirations for choosing a writing career?
I’d have to say Douglas Adams, and Dave Barry. Dave Barry could write an article about any topic, and take it in any direction within 3 paragraphs. No matter where he went with it, it was hilarious. Adams too, but he’d build a full novel around it. I also have a tiny (3 inch square, hardcover) book on my desk about the New York Mets. I don’t know the title, but it’s the crappiest book I have ever come across. About 30 pages, with one ‘fact’ on each page. The thing is, the facts aren’t even impressive. Stuff like, “Mike Piazza hit 2 doubles against L.A. on August 9, 2001.” From a major publisher, with a price of $7.99. An average fan could do better right of the top of their head. I’m not sure where I got it, but keep it as inspiration. If this book can be published and sold, I can challenge the Bible.
Readers, I hope you’ve enjoyed this interview as much as I have. Please leave Michael a comment to let him know you stopped by! If you’d like to find out more about Michael Cavallo (who wouldn’t?) check out his links below:
Amazon:Introducing Author Cherley Grogg
I really enjoyed interviewing author Cherley Grogg this week. I found out about a Facebook group Cherley runs called Writing Wrangler and Warriors. I joined and have had a grand time interacting with the talented authors there. Cherley heads up the group, and it’s a great place for blogging and sharing about our books (and our lives). I thoroughly enjoyed reading Cherley’s novel Stamp Out Murder. You can read my review here. Come along while I ask Cherley some off the wall questions so you can get to know what really makes her tick!
Interview with Cherley Grogg
by L.Leander
1. Where do you write? What’s your creative space like?
I do a lot of writing on the move since I’m a trucker girl. At home I live to pull my rocking loveseat close to my roaring fire in the fireplace. And in the summer on my front porch in the swing
2. What is your favorite writing tool?
My little laptop, except for poetry and outlines I like to write long hand.
3. What movie star would you pick as one of the characters in your book and why?
The young man on suits. I think he had a charm about him.
4. What did you want to be when you grew up? Did you realize that dream?
I wanted to be a mother and later i wanted top be a school teacher. I an a mother and I taught Sunday School.
5. Explain your creative process. Pantser? Outliner?
Both, I like to do a loose outline and then write as I go.
6. If you could only have one mode of transportation what would it be, a horse or a bicycle? Why?
Bicycle, because it costs lessee to maintain.
7. Do you dream about your stories? Ever written about a dream?
My stories are with me day and mighty for about a year before I put them on paper. I don’t remember my dreams.
8. What were you like in high school? Class clown? Nerd? Cheerleader type?
I was a fighter, a defender of the weak and helpless. I’ve always loved top laugh and have fun. I made good grades, but I loved skipping school.
9. What’s your favorite theme park? Why? (If you’ve never been, which one would you like to visit and why?)
Dollywood, it’s geared more towards adults.
10. Are you a reader? What types of books do you like best? What author(s)?
I read a lot. I like all kinds of genres. Westerns, history, cozies, suspense, mystery, true crime, children’s books, spiritual books and most of all the Bible. Jeffry Deavers, Sue Grafton, and we have some great writers on Writing Wranglers and Warriors, including you.
Thank you for a very interesting interview Cherley. Readers, leave Cherley a comment to let her know you stopped by. And be sure to pick up one of her books. Here are other places you can find Cherley Grogg and her books.
Stamp Out Murder
“The Secret in Grandma’s Trunk” This is an especially good book for your Tween Children and Grandchildren.
And please join Cherley on her Facebook Fanpage, that’s managed by one of her most faithful fans: Cindy Ferrell
Introducing Author Myra Johnson
It’s Christmas Eve and what better way to celebrate the holidays than snuggling in with a good Christmas-themed novel. My guest today is Myra Johnson, bestselling author of One Imperfect Christmas. You can read my review here.
Myra has created a protagonist you either love or want to give a good swift kick in the seat of the pants. She’s not all that different from most of us, really. But that’s all I’ll say – you’ll have to read the book for yourself to find out more. Be sure to check out the book trailer for One Imperfect Christmas – the link is below – I’m sure you’ll enjoy it!
So, sit back and enjoy my interview with Myra and above all, Happy Holidays everyone!
Interview of Myra Johnson
by L.Leander
Where do you write? What’s your creative space like?
My office is a converted upstairs guest room, and it’s pretty much wall-to-wall desk, filing cabinets, bookshelves, and bulletin boards. Oh, and a treadmill, which has a makeshift desk for my laptop so I can walk while I check email (don’t ask how that’s working for me!). I do most of the busy work of writing in the mornings while sitting at my regular desk overlooking our woodsy backyard. Then after lunch I usually move to my comfy Ikea chair and ottoman, where I open up my work-in-progress and spend 4-5 hours in focused writing time.
What is your favorite writing tool?
Not counting my trusty MacBook Pro, I’d have to say Scrivener writing software. I love being able to keep the entire manuscript plus character photos, notes, and research material all in one place and easily accessible. Note card view allows me to see scenes and chapters at a glance, and there’s even a word count meter that lets me know whether I’m staying on track toward my deadline. Once the book is complete, I can compile the document as an RTF file and then convert to Word for sending to my agent or editor.
What movie star would you pick as one of the characters in your book and why?
I recently watched a Christmas movie starring the perfect actors for One Imperfect Christmas. I’d cast Teri Polo as Natalie and Paul Essiembre as Daniel. They’re amazingly close in both looks and personality to how I pictured my characters as I wrote the book. (Hallmark folks, anytime you’d like to pick up the movie rights, just let me know, okay?)
What did you want to be when you grew up? Did you realize that dream?
As a child I always wanted to become an actress or a writer. So yes, I’d say I have fulfilled the best part of that dream. As a novelist, I live out the stories in my head as both “actor” and “director.” Not to mention I can go to work in my jammies if I want to!
Explain your creative process. Pantser? Outliner?
Definitely pantser! Once I have the germ of an idea in mind, I start imagining the characters’ current situations and backstories. Finding representative photos always helps. Usually I get a visual of an opening scene, and that kicks off the story. I might have two or three major turning points in mind, along with a general idea of the ending. But how we get from point A to point B to point C is always a journey of discovery.
If you could only have one mode of transportation what would it be, a horse or a bicycle? Why?
If I could have the means to feed and care for a horse, that would be my choice. I’ve always loved horses, though I didn’t get many chances to ride until my mid-40s. While volunteering at a therapeutic riding center, I met some wonderful “horsey friends” willing to share their horses so I could take dressage lessons—what a thrill! There’s nothing quite like the bond between a horse and rider. We moved from that area several years later, and since then I have really missed the opportunity to ride. Unfortunately, circumstances have never come together in a way that would allow me to have my own horse.
Do you dream about your stories? Ever written about a dream?
Actually, the idea for One Imperfect Christmas first came to me in a dream. We’d been watching a bunch of sappy Christmas movies on TV, and those were playing through my head all season. Then one night I awoke with dream images of a couple about to celebrate 50 Christmases together, only something stood in their way. It took a little imagining and playing the “what if” game to come up with the right characters and plot, and the story went through several incarnations before reaching its published form.
What were you like in high school? Class clown? Nerd? Cheerleader type?
I’d have to say nerd. I was an A student (graduated 5th in my class), but I was certainly not popular—very much a loner, the last kid picked for teams, never had a real date, much less a boyfriend, didn’t go to prom. Very sad, yes. But that didn’t stop me from not only meeting the guy of my dreams (we’ve been married 40 years now) but landing the career of my dreams as a published novelist. I’m also blessed to have so many wonderful writer friendships now, tops among them the ladies of Seekerville.
What’s your favorite theme park? Why? (If you’ve never been, which one would you like to visit and why?)
I’m not much of a daredevil, so I don’t visit theme parks for the roller-coaster rides. Give me something fun and “gentle” like Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean river trip or the Haunted Mansion. I loved Epcot, too. We finally made it there a few years ago when RWA held their conference in Orlando. Visiting all the different “countries” was fascinating!
Are you a reader? What types of books do you like best? What author(s)?
I love to read. My pleasure reading is usually during the last hour before bedtime, and my favorite books ever are The Hobbit and the Lord of the Rings trilogy, by J.R.R. Tolkien. For the past several years I’ve mostly read inspirational fiction by favorite author acquaintances including Carla Stewart, Julie Lessman, Mary Connealy, Janet Dean, Cara Lynn James—too many to name! When I need a change of pace, I’ll try one of my husband’s techno-thrillers. Clive Cussler is always fun!
Myra’s bio: Award-winning author Myra Johnson is a Texan through and through, but she has no regrets about recently making the move to the more temperate climate of the Carolinas. She and her husband of over 40 years are the proud parents of two beautiful daughters who, along with their godly husbands, have huge hearts for ministry. Four rambunctious grandsons and two precious granddaughters take up another big chunk of Myra’s heart. The Johnsons also enjoy spoiling their very pampered oversized lapdogs. Myra’s first novel from Abingdon Press is One Imperfect Christmas (September 2009). She has also written contemporary romances for Heartsong Presents.
Thank you, Myra for a candid and interesting interview. Readers, please leave comments for Myra – she’d love to chat with you! Listed below are some places you can find Myra Johnson and check out her other books.
Find Myra on the Web:
www.facebook.com/MyraJohnsonAuthor
www.Twitter.com/TheGrammarQueen
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1391761.Myra_Johnson
Order One Imperfect Christmas online at:
Watch the Book Trailer for
One Imperfect Christmas:
Want to see more books by Myra Johnson? Her latest release, A Horseman’s Hope, is now available for preorder here: Amazon
INTRODUCING AUTHOR LAURA SEEBER
This week my author guest is Laura Seeber. I have just finished reading her novel The Spring And Autumn Murders. You can read my review here. This was an interesting book and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Ms. Seeber has done a great job of making the story personal and relevant to today’s readers.
I love getting to know authors and Laura is definitely not an exception. How I yearn to be like her! Read question #5 below and in Laura’s answer you’ll see why. I am a total pantser, but Laura’s explanation of how she writes puts me to shame. I just have to get used to outlining.
Enjoy our conversation and don’t forget to comment and show Laura Seeber some author love.
Interview with Author Laura Seeber
by: L.Leander
Where do you write? What’s your creative space like?
I work primarily in my living room in a great big pink chair with my laptop perched either on my knees or on a nearby coffee table. The area around me changes depending on how much other work I have going on- but it usually consists of a notebook, a sketchbook and a few wads of crumpled up paper tossed around the table and floor. I am definitely not an organized person.
What is your favorite writing tool?
My favorite writing tool is probably my notebook and pen. I know, sounds weird when I spend so much time on the computer, but being able to draw out plot lines, etc. with pen and paper feels much more real to me.
What movie star would you pick as one of the characters in your book and why?
I would probably cast Jackie Chan as Lord Nianzu if I had the chance. I’m a genuine fan of him, and his acting ability which goes way beyond what is shown in a lot of the kung fu action movies that you see him in. It would be great to see him in a role that would highlight his acting ability without type-casting him as a kung fu master.
What did you want to be when you grew up? Did you realize that dream?
Depends on when you would have asked me. At one point I wanted to be a pilot, a tap dancer, a scientist, and a horse trainer. To be honest, being a writer was never one of my dreams that I remember. However, right now I also work as a geologist, so I guess I partially realized my dream of becoming a scientist.
Explain your creative process. Pantser? Outliner?
Oh I’m almost obsessive in my outlining. I’ll start with a subject matter or area I want to write about. Then I’ll spend the next few months researching the setting, the people, the eras, and the subject matter until I feel that I can truly internalize what I have researched. Then for the next few months I’ll “write” the story in my head, reworking things, changing point of view, altering characters until I get to the point where I don’t think it can be changed anymore. Then I break out the lap top and write it down. After that I’ll revise it a few more times until feel it’s good enough to submit.
If you could only have one mode of transportation what would it be, a horse or a bicycle? Why?
Unfortunately I would probably choose the bicycle. Although I love riding horses, they can be quite expensive to fix and or replace when something goes wrong. It’s much easier to fix a flat tire than it is to fix a broken leg.
Do you dream about your stories? Ever written about a dream?
Actually, dreaming of my stories is one of my steps in writing. If I continuously dream of a story for a few nights I know that it’s near completion and it’s time to break out the computer.
What were you like in high school? Class clown? Nerd? Cheerleader type?
Actually in high school I was the quiet kid who sat in the back and didn’t say much. The only time I came out of my shell was when I was around my friends- then I became a smiling goofball who wanted to make sure everyone was having a good time.
What’s your favorite theme park? Why? (If you’ve never been, which one would you like to visit and why?)
Well, I guess my favorite theme park would be Kenny wood Park in Pennsylvania. It’s the closest park to where I grew up, and it has a great nostalgia feel to it.
Are you a reader? What types of books do you like best? What author(s)?
I’m a fairly avid reader, but I wouldn’t say that I read incessantly. I prefer either mystery, non-fiction or the occasional romance if the heroine actually has half a brain on top of her shoulders. Honestly if the story is well written, I’ll read just about anything. As far as authors- Agatha Christie, P.D. James, Carl Sagan, Arthur C. Clarke, and Madeline L’Engle are a few that come to mind.
Thank you, Laura, for taking the time to join me today. It’s been great chatting with you. Readers, don’t forget to leave a comment and do check out my review of The Spring And Autumn Murders – I’m sure you’d love to read it!
You can learn more about Laura Seeber by visiting these links:
Where to purchase The Spring and Autumn Murders:
Biography:
Laura Seeber has worked as a geologist, an environmental consultant, and a freelance writer. She currently divides her time between her own environmental consulting business, handling various ghostwriting and freelance writing projects, and her own fiction writing. Her interests include history, outdoor activities, martial arts, mysteries, and non-fiction material. The Spring and Autumn Murders is her first novel. She currently lives in Illinois with her husband, Michael.
INTRODUCING AUTHOR AMY METZ
It is my pleasure to introduce you to author Amy Metz in this week’s interview. Amy is a charming person and excellent writer who delights her readers with euphemisms of southern wit. I thoroughly enjoyed her book Murder and Mayhem in Goose Pimple Junction and you can read my review here. Amy also does reviews and interviews, so when you’re done reading about her here go on over and visit her website – it’s well done and very interesting!
Interview with Amy Metz
by L.Leander
1. What makes you stand out as a writer?
Goose Pimple Junction is a wacky town with quirky residents. I think those unique qualities and the goosepimpleisms throughout the book make Murder & Mayhem In Goose Pimple Junction different from your average mystery.
2. What is your favorite type of reading material?
Anything with a mystery, humor, or love story. Combine all three and I’m there. I love mysteries, and I particularly love humorous mysteries. I also love romantic suspense or romantic mysteries.
3. If you could only pick one, who is your greatest influence?
Yikes! I honestly have no idea!
4. Where do you get your ideas for writing?
Everywhere. I’m always on the lookout for ideas, and sometimes reading, hearing, or seeing something sparks a new story. My imaginary friends also frequently give me ideas.
5. Are you a pantser or an outliner?
Both, depending on the story.
6. Finish this sentence: One thing very few people know about me is…
I have fibromyalgia. It’s similar to chronic fatigue syndrome, and I have flares when I do too much or don’t get enough sleep. It’s another reason why writing is the ideal occupation for me.
7. If I had a choice, every day would include:
Oh, so many things. The ocean. Cheesecake. Books. How about eating cheesecake on a beach, reading a book? But seriously, I’d have to say every day would include love.
8. If you were stranded on a deserted island and could have Internet and a computer or a supply of paper and pens, which would you choose?
Definitely the Internet and a computer. I would go into severe withdrawal without them.
9. Do you hear voices? What do they tell you? What do you tell them?
Not really voices, but I do feel like I get strong suggestions about what to write from my characters. I tell them to have their way with me. I’m easy. But only with imaginary people.
10. What is your very favorite part of being an author? Your least favorite?
I love to get lost in my story and spend time with my characters. I hate promoting and marketing.
11. Where did you grow up?
Louisville, Kentucky. I moved away for college and lived in Lexington for a few years after that, but mostly, Louisville has been home.
12. Describe your ideal vacation (the sky’s the limit.)
I would go to Boston and wander the streets for days, photographing that totally cool city. Then I would drive to Kennebunkport and stay at The Colony Hotel, where I would walk on the beach, take more pictures, and I’d sit on the veranda overlooking the beach and read a good book. Then, because the sky’s the limit, I would go to Ireland, Scotland, and England. And take lots of pictures.
13. If you could be either, which would you choose – a dog or a cat? Why?
Definitely a dog. To me, dogs are goofier, more loving, generally have a warmer, friendlier personality, and they’re more affectionate than most cats. Now, cat people, don’t yell at me. I know there are exceptions. But I would be a dog. I’d be a lab or a golden retriever or a mastiff.
14. You are the co-host of CBS This Morning – who would you like to snag an interview with?
John Sandford. In fact, John—if you’re reading this, call me. I’d love to feature you on my blog!
15. Tell us a little about your most recent protagonist?
Tess Tremaine is a forty-something Yankee who moved to the southern town of Goose Pimple Junction to start a new chapter in her life after getting a divorce. Because of her unhappy marriage and contentious divorce, she’s sworn off men. Until she meets Jackson Wright. As much as she tries to deny an attraction, she’s smitten. And as much as she tries to avoid him, he keeps popping up. They team up to investigate a seventy-five-year-old cold case murder, and he becomes her translator for southern speak and her saving grace in more ways than one.
Thank you for being here, Amy, and sharing a little bit about yourself. Readers, check out the links below to buy Murder and Mayhem in Goose Pimple Junction and visit Amy’s site where there are lots of featured Indie authors. Leave a comment in the comments section below to give Amy some love. Thanks!
Other places to find Amy Metz (click on the book cover to go to her Amazon book listing):
Amy Metz website
Amy Metz Blog
Amy Metz Amazon Author Page
Amy Metz Facebook Page
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( 6 so far )Introducing Author Brian Beam
This week it’s my pleasure to introduce an exciting author, Brian Beam. Brian and I met on a Facebook group. I offered to read and review his manuscript. Am I ever glad I did!
From the very first paragraph of The Dragon Gem I was hooked. Mr. Beam has a style that keeps readers on their toes, craning their necks to get a peek at what’s coming up next. The fantasy world he creates is well-developed and the characters are delightful. You can read my review of The Dragon Gem here.
One of the things that interested me about Brian Beam was his comment about being a dad. He takes his role very seriously and is proud of his son. That is something that endears him to readers, I think. His compassion and fun-loving spirit shine through the pages of his writing.
I sincerely believe that Mr. Beam is an author who will make a name for himself. His first book was great and I’ve been privileged to read the manuscript of the second. (I promised not to relay any secrets – sorry!) Brian has a definite way with words and plot. His characters jump from the pages right into your heart and you find yourself falling in love with them. I was sad to see the first book end. Oh, and I forgot – for you adventure lovers – Brian writes lots of action and adventure in his series. You won’t be disappointed!
Here is my interview with Brian – his personality shines through!
Interview with Brian Beam
by L.Leander
L.Leander: What makes you stand out as a writer?
Brian Beam: I write for the sheer pleasure of writing and telling a story, not to sell the most books I can. When I have a story in mind, I don’t really think much about how universally appealing it will be. I hope that readers will love it, and I hope that it will sell, but I don’t sacrifice vision solely for increased readership. Of course, that doesn’t mean I’m going to shovel out poor work just because I think it’s good, but it does mean that there will be no vampires or erotica in my books any time soon. I think that dedication to my vision comes out in my work.
L.Leander: What is your favorite type of reading material?
Brian Beam: I’m a big fantasy nerd, so just about anything fantasy. I tend to read more epic fantasy, though.
L.Leander: If you could only pick one, who is your greatest influence?
Brian Beam: Even though I just started reading his work about three or four years ago, Brandon Sanderson. He is not the author who made me want to strive to write fantasy; he’s the one who made we want to strive to write good fantasy. His books have taught me so much about effective world-building and thinking outside of the box when crafting stories. I would say that if not for his work, I probably never would have completely finished my first novel.
L.Leander: Where do you get your ideas for writing?
Brian Beam: They just pop in my head. I know that sounds simple, but there’s not much more to it. I am a jogger, and sometimes I get some great(to me at least) ideas then, but there’s no particular process.
L.Leander: Are you a pantser or an outliner?
Brian Beam: Mostly a pantser. I say mostly because I do come up with the generalities of the story in my head. I know where the characters will start and finish. I know most of the big events that occur in between. I know my characters’ personalities. I never put all this to paper except for the occasional note or two. Once I start writing, I let the story lead me from the beginning to the end. Sometimes I find myself on the general path that was plotted in my mind. Other times, I go off-roading and have a great time doing so.
L.Leander: Finish this sentence: One thing very few people know about me is…
Brian Beam: That I love to write and record music. I haven’t done so in quite a while, but I love it!
L.Leander: If I had a choice, every day would include..
Brian Beam: Four hours of dedicated writing time followed by 12 straight hours of playing with my wife and son. And chocolate. And cake.
L.Leander: If you were stranded on a deserted island and could have Internet and a computer or a supply of paper and pens which would you choose?
Brian Beam: Depends…do I get electricity? If so, internet hands down. There’s plenty of programs where I could write. Besides, I type much faster than I write and I have horrible handwriting/drawing skills. Plus, it’d be much easier to send letters through email than in a bottle J.
L.Leander: Do you hear voices? What do they tell you? What do you tell them?
Brian Beam: They tell me to write their stories. I tell them to sit down, shut up, and wait their turn. I’m starting to wonder if this is an interview or a psychological screening questionnaire…
L.Leander: What is your very favorite part of being an author? Your least favorite?
Brian Beam: Having someone say they enjoyed my book is my favorite. When I first published The Dragon Gem, I told my wife that if just one person who was a complete stranger said they liked my book, it would all be worth it. Just reaching even one person truly validates what an author does. My least favorite is having so many ideas in my head and not having the time to dedicate to them.
L.Leander: Where did you grow up?
Brian Beam: I was born and raised in Bardstown, Kentucky (bourbon capital of the world as well as Rand McNally’s Most Beautiful Small Town in America 2012). It was one of those quaint towns that you hate growing up in as a kid and miss the minute you move away. My father still lives there, so I get to visit my hometown still. It’s just one of those friendly, historic towns.
L.Leander: Describe your ideal vacation (the sky’s the limit)
Brian Beam: All I want is a beach and no responsibilities. I’m not too hard to please J
L.Leander: If you could be either, which would you choose – a dog or a cat? Why?
Brian Beam: Definitely a cat. Cats are (usually) very independent. Plus, as a cat, I could look at everyone like they’re idiots or have an incredibly eclectic personality and people would be okay with it because I was a cat.
L.Leander: You are the co-host of CBS This Morning – who would you like to snag an interview with?
Brian Beam: Brandon Sanderson. He has some amazing thoughts on what it takes to be a good writer and write a good book. He teaches a creative writing class at BYU and one of his students taped a series of his lectures. I watched several of them and took so much away from them. I’d love the chance to pick his brain a bit. Maybe some of his creativity would rub off on me too.
L.Leander: Tell us a little about your most recent protagonist?
Brian Beam: Korin is sarcastic, good-natured, slightly flawed, and willing to put his life on the line for those he cares about. He’s not the perfect hero. He’s brave, but only to an extent. He’s smart, but not a genius. He’s a capable fighter, but still gets his butt handed to him. He is generous, yet not selfless. Basically, he’s real. Too often in books we get these cookie-cutter good guys and villains. I wanted to try to steer from that a bit.
Korin’s best friend is a magic talking wizard cat named Max, who is partially to blame for his sarcastic wit. Max is there to keep Korin grounded…and alive.
The Korin’s Journal trilogy will follow him on a journey that starts as a quest to find his parents that turns out to be much much more.
L.Leander: Thank you Brian for allowing me to interview you. Readers, you’ll definitely want to read Brian’s fantasy novel, The Dragon Gem. It’s available on Amazon. Click on the book cover below to purchase. You’ll be glad you did!
Brian Beam Facebook Author Page
Be sure to grab a copy of The Dragon Gem – you’ll be glad you did! Click on the book cover to take you to the Amazon sale page. Be sure to give Brian some love in the comments section – he’d love to hear from you!
L.Leander's Reviews and Interviews 