Maria Savva's Blog, page 60
March 5, 2011
Introducing author C.E. Trueman, and an international giveaway!
Today I'd like to introduce you to, Catherine Elizabeth Rose, (pen name: C.E. Trueman), author of The Bone Cradle and Grey Amber, the first two books in a children's trilogy.
I first met Catherine a few years ago as we were both using the same publisher, Pen Press, for our books. We were attending a marketing seminar in Brighton. Catherine was sitting on my left hand side and Helen Bonney, another children's book writer who I'll be introducing you to soon, was sitting on my right hand side. We all got on very well and attended the London Book Fair together in 2007.
Since that time we have remained friends and I have had the pleasure of reading both of Catherine's books. They are the type of children's books that can also be enjoyed just as much by adults.
Today is Catherine's birthday. Happy Birthday, Catherine!!
Happy Birthday Comments
As well as answering my questions, Catherine has very generously agreed to give away a copy of The Bone Cradle and a copy of Grey Amber! More details about that at the end of the interview.
Here are her replies to my interview questions:
Is there a particular author, or book, that inspired you to start writing?
As a child I was very inspired by Roald Dahl. I can remember reading James and the Giant Peach when I was five and being completely captivated. I used to love the way that Dahl’s heroes, who were children themselves, were able to go on fantastic journeys of discovery. Today, I am still in awe of his imagination. I think Dahl had a gift for seeing the world through a child’s eyes.
When did you first discover your love of writing?
I first discovered a love of writing when I was around seven years old. I would make books at home and fill them with stories and poetry. I still have notebooks from my childhood and brought them in to show other aspiring writers when I was invited to give talks for two years running at my daughter’s school.
Do you have an tips for someone who is considering self-publishing their own book?
I would advise anyone who is thinking of self publishing their book to shop around and see what deals are available. Make sure you look at the quality of the publisher’s product. If the end result appears shoddy or badly printed on poor quality paper then no matter how good your story is or how successful the marketing, that will put readers off. Look at the front covers of their titles. Is the artwork eye catching and well done, or is it uninspiring? The front cover is the first thing that attracts a reader’s eye and moreover, it needs to sell your story.
As well as publishing two children’s books, I know that you are also a poet, can you tell us a bit more about that?
I have been writing poetry since I was a child and over the years, have won several competitions. My first poems were published in Pause, the magazine for the National Poetry Foundation during the 1980s. Its patron was the late Spike Milligan. Since then I have gone on to have poems published in several mixed anthologies. You can find details on my page at Authors Register. I have also done readings and was asked to do a poetry workshop at my local primary school, following which they named a table after me!
Which do you prefer, writing children’s books or poetry?
I think I probably prefer to write poetry as I enjoy using descriptive language and imagery. Poetry writing is like whittling. You keep shaving away the excess until you end up with something which is skillfully pared down, beautiful and unambiguous.
I have read both of the first two books in your trilogy, The Bone Cradle and Grey Amber, and thoroughly enjoyed them. They are certainly educational as well as gripping adventure stories. I imagine a lot of research had to be done about the various subjects contained in the books. How long did each book take you to write?
It took me about six months to write each book and yes, I did lots of research. When I wrote Grey Amber, I did some travelling, driving as far west as it’s possible to go in the UK without actually being in Ireland . I ended up staying in a cottage at Llanrian so that I could get a feel for the Welsh setting which is a huge part of the book.
How much can you tell us about the third book in the trilogy that you’re currently working on?
The third book centres around the search for Dylan as Matt and Ollie are given this task by Tobias at the end of Grey Amber. I visited the East Coast of America last summer which was a huge whaling centre in the 19th and 20th centuries so I am thinking of setting part of the novel there. It’s evolving!
What is the target age-group for your children’s trilogy?
The target age group is 9 – 12 years although I know of many adults who have read and love the books, which is great.
Who are your favourite authors and what is it about their writing that you like?
If a writer can make me catch my breath, or shed tears, or leave me with a delicious aftertaste for a prolonged time, then I know they are doing a good job as a writer. Wordsmiths that have done this for me are Emily Bronte, Charles Dickens, Oscar Wilde, David Almond, Sarah Walters, Michael Armstrong and Sylvia Plath but this is by no means an exhaustive list.
Is there a book you own that you’ve read more than once?
There are far too many books to read more than once. If I read a story that moves or inspires me, then the memory of it lingers and I feel that the impact may be lessened on a subsequent read so I don’t tend to.
What was the last book you read?
The last book I read was The Spare Room by Helen Garner. It was well written and poignant, and its characters also frustrated me immensely which I think was the author’s point.
Are you reading a book at the moment?
I am not reading anything right now although I have several books that are ‘in waiting’.
What do you think of ebooks?
I think that e-books are the way the publishing world is going, and for the author it may be good news as it will mean more direct sales, cutting out the middle men who cream off so much of an author’s profit. It will also mean that as readers we will have far less clutter in our homes! (I have shelves and shelves of paper and hardbacks which I can’t part with). Books will be able to become more interactive with additional layers of information contained in them at a click, which is especially useful for further explanation of the different educational aspects in The Bone Cradle trilogy for example. So apart from the fact I am a total technophobe and find it difficult to work a TV remote control, I think the advent and growth of e-books is an exciting new era.
How important are reviews for you as a writer?
I hate the fact that reviews can make or break an artistic endeavour – whether it is a book, film, or art. I think there are a lot of creative people out there, and an equal number of non-creative people who have given themselves the right to condemn in a few paragraphs something which may have taken months, if not years, of hard work. At the end of the day all appreciation of art is subjective so it can only be an opinion. On the other hand, some books can be over-hyped, especially those written by celebrities or more commonly their ghost writers. These will then sell in their thousands whether they are good or not because people are taken in by the hype. I like to think that critics are transient but good books last lifetimes. The trick is to get the good book out there and I’m afraid sometimes, critics don’t help.
How do you go about choosing a cover for your books?
In choosing the covers for my books, I was lucky in that the artist that my publisher used is very talented and intuitive. She came up with the most perfect cover suggestions that any author could wish for. They surpassed my expectations in fact and to this day I have no regrets that I went with the initial designs. I still love to look at them.
What else are you working on now?
Apart from some poems and the third book in The Bone Cradle trilogy, I am not working on anything at the moment.
Where can people buy your books?
You can buy my books: The Bone Cradle and its sequel Grey Amber, on Amazon and lots of other book websites. If you go to Book Butler, and put in the title of the book, it will tell you where it is available to buy. You would also be able to order them from any high street bookstore.
Do you have your own website or blog where people can read more about your work?
I have a page at Authors Register. I also have a MySpace account at MySpace that contains a blog of musings and poetry written over the past three years. Additionally, I write the Memory Lane page for my local newspaper, The Biggleswade Chronicle, and my articles can be read on their website at Biggleswade Today under Nostalgia.
Catherine is giving away one copy of The Bone Cradle and one copy of Grey Amber (Print copies in the UK and pdf copies for international winners).
To enter, all you need to do is leave a comment here for Catherine.
Winners will be chosen on 9th March 2011.
Good luck!
I first met Catherine a few years ago as we were both using the same publisher, Pen Press, for our books. We were attending a marketing seminar in Brighton. Catherine was sitting on my left hand side and Helen Bonney, another children's book writer who I'll be introducing you to soon, was sitting on my right hand side. We all got on very well and attended the London Book Fair together in 2007.
Since that time we have remained friends and I have had the pleasure of reading both of Catherine's books. They are the type of children's books that can also be enjoyed just as much by adults.
Today is Catherine's birthday. Happy Birthday, Catherine!!
Happy Birthday Comments
As well as answering my questions, Catherine has very generously agreed to give away a copy of The Bone Cradle and a copy of Grey Amber! More details about that at the end of the interview.
Here are her replies to my interview questions:
Is there a particular author, or book, that inspired you to start writing?
As a child I was very inspired by Roald Dahl. I can remember reading James and the Giant Peach when I was five and being completely captivated. I used to love the way that Dahl’s heroes, who were children themselves, were able to go on fantastic journeys of discovery. Today, I am still in awe of his imagination. I think Dahl had a gift for seeing the world through a child’s eyes.
When did you first discover your love of writing?
I first discovered a love of writing when I was around seven years old. I would make books at home and fill them with stories and poetry. I still have notebooks from my childhood and brought them in to show other aspiring writers when I was invited to give talks for two years running at my daughter’s school.
Do you have an tips for someone who is considering self-publishing their own book?
I would advise anyone who is thinking of self publishing their book to shop around and see what deals are available. Make sure you look at the quality of the publisher’s product. If the end result appears shoddy or badly printed on poor quality paper then no matter how good your story is or how successful the marketing, that will put readers off. Look at the front covers of their titles. Is the artwork eye catching and well done, or is it uninspiring? The front cover is the first thing that attracts a reader’s eye and moreover, it needs to sell your story.
As well as publishing two children’s books, I know that you are also a poet, can you tell us a bit more about that?
I have been writing poetry since I was a child and over the years, have won several competitions. My first poems were published in Pause, the magazine for the National Poetry Foundation during the 1980s. Its patron was the late Spike Milligan. Since then I have gone on to have poems published in several mixed anthologies. You can find details on my page at Authors Register. I have also done readings and was asked to do a poetry workshop at my local primary school, following which they named a table after me!
Which do you prefer, writing children’s books or poetry?
I think I probably prefer to write poetry as I enjoy using descriptive language and imagery. Poetry writing is like whittling. You keep shaving away the excess until you end up with something which is skillfully pared down, beautiful and unambiguous.
I have read both of the first two books in your trilogy, The Bone Cradle and Grey Amber, and thoroughly enjoyed them. They are certainly educational as well as gripping adventure stories. I imagine a lot of research had to be done about the various subjects contained in the books. How long did each book take you to write?
It took me about six months to write each book and yes, I did lots of research. When I wrote Grey Amber, I did some travelling, driving as far west as it’s possible to go in the UK without actually being in Ireland . I ended up staying in a cottage at Llanrian so that I could get a feel for the Welsh setting which is a huge part of the book.
How much can you tell us about the third book in the trilogy that you’re currently working on?
The third book centres around the search for Dylan as Matt and Ollie are given this task by Tobias at the end of Grey Amber. I visited the East Coast of America last summer which was a huge whaling centre in the 19th and 20th centuries so I am thinking of setting part of the novel there. It’s evolving!
What is the target age-group for your children’s trilogy?
The target age group is 9 – 12 years although I know of many adults who have read and love the books, which is great.
Who are your favourite authors and what is it about their writing that you like?
If a writer can make me catch my breath, or shed tears, or leave me with a delicious aftertaste for a prolonged time, then I know they are doing a good job as a writer. Wordsmiths that have done this for me are Emily Bronte, Charles Dickens, Oscar Wilde, David Almond, Sarah Walters, Michael Armstrong and Sylvia Plath but this is by no means an exhaustive list.
Is there a book you own that you’ve read more than once?
There are far too many books to read more than once. If I read a story that moves or inspires me, then the memory of it lingers and I feel that the impact may be lessened on a subsequent read so I don’t tend to.
What was the last book you read?
The last book I read was The Spare Room by Helen Garner. It was well written and poignant, and its characters also frustrated me immensely which I think was the author’s point.
Are you reading a book at the moment?
I am not reading anything right now although I have several books that are ‘in waiting’.
What do you think of ebooks?
I think that e-books are the way the publishing world is going, and for the author it may be good news as it will mean more direct sales, cutting out the middle men who cream off so much of an author’s profit. It will also mean that as readers we will have far less clutter in our homes! (I have shelves and shelves of paper and hardbacks which I can’t part with). Books will be able to become more interactive with additional layers of information contained in them at a click, which is especially useful for further explanation of the different educational aspects in The Bone Cradle trilogy for example. So apart from the fact I am a total technophobe and find it difficult to work a TV remote control, I think the advent and growth of e-books is an exciting new era.
How important are reviews for you as a writer?
I hate the fact that reviews can make or break an artistic endeavour – whether it is a book, film, or art. I think there are a lot of creative people out there, and an equal number of non-creative people who have given themselves the right to condemn in a few paragraphs something which may have taken months, if not years, of hard work. At the end of the day all appreciation of art is subjective so it can only be an opinion. On the other hand, some books can be over-hyped, especially those written by celebrities or more commonly their ghost writers. These will then sell in their thousands whether they are good or not because people are taken in by the hype. I like to think that critics are transient but good books last lifetimes. The trick is to get the good book out there and I’m afraid sometimes, critics don’t help.
How do you go about choosing a cover for your books?
In choosing the covers for my books, I was lucky in that the artist that my publisher used is very talented and intuitive. She came up with the most perfect cover suggestions that any author could wish for. They surpassed my expectations in fact and to this day I have no regrets that I went with the initial designs. I still love to look at them.
What else are you working on now?
Apart from some poems and the third book in The Bone Cradle trilogy, I am not working on anything at the moment.
Where can people buy your books?
You can buy my books: The Bone Cradle and its sequel Grey Amber, on Amazon and lots of other book websites. If you go to Book Butler, and put in the title of the book, it will tell you where it is available to buy. You would also be able to order them from any high street bookstore.
Do you have your own website or blog where people can read more about your work?
I have a page at Authors Register. I also have a MySpace account at MySpace that contains a blog of musings and poetry written over the past three years. Additionally, I write the Memory Lane page for my local newspaper, The Biggleswade Chronicle, and my articles can be read on their website at Biggleswade Today under Nostalgia.
Catherine is giving away one copy of The Bone Cradle and one copy of Grey Amber (Print copies in the UK and pdf copies for international winners).
To enter, all you need to do is leave a comment here for Catherine.
Winners will be chosen on 9th March 2011.
Good luck!
March 3, 2011
My interview on Notes From An Alien
You can read my latest interview on the 'Notes From an Alien' blog (author Alexander M. Zoltai's blog).
Click here: Notes From An Alien
Earlier in the week, Alexander also interviewed Stacy Juba and Darcia Helle, my fellow moderators on BestsellerBound.com
Read their interviews here:
Darcia Helle
Stacy Juba
Click here: Notes From An Alien
Earlier in the week, Alexander also interviewed Stacy Juba and Darcia Helle, my fellow moderators on BestsellerBound.com
Read their interviews here:
Darcia Helle
Stacy Juba
Meet Nestor Maronski & your chance to win a pdf of Cutting The Fat!
As many of you will already be aware, I recently wrote a murder/mystery novella with author Jason McIntyre.
This week, author Stacy Juba is featuring the lead character from that novella, the evil reviewer, Nestor Maronski, on her fictional online game show.
The game show is an ongoing contest on Stacy's blog to celebrate the release of her latest novel Sink or Swim which is a murder/mystery based on a reality TV show.
You can help support me and my co-author Jason, by leaving a comment on Stacy's blog interview with Nestor. The 3 fictional characters who get the highest number of unique commenters on their posts will win!
There is also a chance to enter to win a pdf copy of Cutting The Fat!
Click here to read the interview: Nestor Maronski Interview
This week, author Stacy Juba is featuring the lead character from that novella, the evil reviewer, Nestor Maronski, on her fictional online game show.
The game show is an ongoing contest on Stacy's blog to celebrate the release of her latest novel Sink or Swim which is a murder/mystery based on a reality TV show.
You can help support me and my co-author Jason, by leaving a comment on Stacy's blog interview with Nestor. The 3 fictional characters who get the highest number of unique commenters on their posts will win!
There is also a chance to enter to win a pdf copy of Cutting The Fat!
Click here to read the interview: Nestor Maronski Interview
March 1, 2011
Introducing Paul Mansfield Keefe, author of 'Digger's Bones'.
Today, I would like to introduce you to the very talented, Paul Mansfield Keefe.
I met Paul a few months ago, on BestsellerBound, a message board where indie authors can chat to readers. (I'm a resident author on the board). We have since become very good online friends.
I recently had the pleasure of reading Paul's debut novelDigger's Bones as a reviewer for Bookpleasures. You can see my review here: Review of Digger's Bones on Bookpleasures.com
I really enjoyed the book and can tell that Paul is an author to look out for in the future. It is rare that a debut novel is so well written, and I must say I was very impressed. Paul has a way of describing an action scene so that you feel as if you are actually there. His thriller, Digger's Bones, is a must read.
As well as agreeing to take part in an interview today, Paul has very kindly offered a special discount voucher to all my blog readers, so you can get your hands on a copy of the book for just $2.99. Don't miss it! More details about this are at the end of the interview.
Here are Paul's replies to a few interview questions I set him:
Is there a particular author, or book, that inspired you to start writing?
My inspiration really came from working on an animated sci-fi movie script. I had decided that I had far more to write than could be encompassed in a movie so I began writing a novel. I started writing my thriller, Digger’s Bones, after reading The Jesus Thief by J. R. Lankford, which was a very enjoyable read. Angie Cooper came to me mostly formed and I knew it was the story I needed to write.
When did you first discover your love of writing?
When I was in high school I wrote a lot of poetry and I truly loved it. However, like many people in life, I moved away from writing for many years. Now that I’ve found it again I wonder how I could have ever stopped, I’m obsessed with filling empty paper with words; even if it is electronic paper.
Your debut novel, Digger’s Bones, is a thriller dealing with subjects including archaeology and the history of religion. How much research did you have to do and how long did it take you to write the book?
I did tons of research. Every church mentioned, every religious doctrine, every location around the world, had to be extensively researched. The last thing I wanted was for someone to say, “Boy, did you get that wrong!” I collected photos, multimedia CDROMs, read up on archaeology as much as possible, and of course consulted everyone’s favorite, Wikipedia.
It took me about two years to finish the manuscript. A lot of that time was spent working out an intricate plot and ensuring it played well with the characters. Of course, I also work full-time so that made the overall development time a bit longer.
Have you ever visited the holy lands described in the book? As a reader, I was impressed by how detailed the description of the places was.
I’ve visited some, but not all, of the places in the book. I once lived in Virginia and worked in the Russell Senate Office Building and spent time visiting the different Smithsonian buildings. I spent time up on Bandelier looking over the ground Angie did in the novel, and the same for the Zugspitze in Germany. However, I haven’t been to the Holy Land. So, now you know the reason for the painstaking research. And let me add that I’m now dying to go!
You have been getting some great reviews for Diggers Bones. One thing I noticed, and I think was also mentioned by another reviewer, is that you have really managed to somehow get into the mind of a female character. Angie Cooper, the main character is very believable and she seems to think and feel just like a woman. Was it hard for you as a man to write from a woman’s perspective?
It was important to the story that Angie be an “every woman” and not an embittered, whiskey drinking, overly masculine, female stereotype. Not that they don’t have their place in thrillers, a hard-boiled female detective can be a great character. But Angie is an innocent caught up in a powerful drama that she didn’t create. So, I set out from the start to make her believable as an ordinary person.
I grew up around many strong women, my sisters and my mother, and so I was exposed to non-stereotypical women early in life. Not thinking of women as being the “weaker” sex allowed me to better portray a woman’s perspective and emotions. Still, the first go-round a couple of woman said they didn’t “get” Angie and I had to figure out what was missing from her personality. That turned out to be a nurturing spirit and Madie was added to help round out Angie and that really seemed to do the trick.
I understand that Digger’s Bones is the first in a series, can you tell us a bit more about your plans for the series?
I can tell you that I’ve had three books planned out for some time and I am currently working on the second. I can also tell you that as long as Angie finds ways to get into, and out of, trouble, I’ll be writing about her. The last thing I can say without spoiling much—any reader of my first novel can attest to the fact that it is difficult to talk about without giving something away—is that the settings will be completely different from the first book. Yes, I have my research cut out for me.
Do you have any tips for someone who is considering self-publishing their own book?
Absolutely. First and foremost, do it. Don’t worry about the difficulties involved, they are minimal. Start with Amazon.com and BarnesAndNoble.com and create eBooks for the Kindle and Nook. Next, go to CreateSpace.com and make a print version. CreateSpace is a part of Amazon so you can link your two books together on Amazon and they will also get linked on Barnes and Noble. Finally, take a deep breath and hold on tight.
Who are your favourite authors and what is it about their writing that you like?
Growing up I read a lot of sci-fi and fantasy such as Frank Herbert’s Dune and the Adept series by Piers Anthony, because the settings amazed me. As an adult I read a lot of David Baldacci for his character development and great plots. Lately I’ve been enjoying John Connolly because of his fluid and descriptive writing style. I like the fact that he can pull that off without getting too flowery. You may have noticed that Angie reads a Sue Grafton novel in Digger’s Bones and you would be right in thinking she is another of my favorites. The last I’d like to mention is the late, great Tony Hillerman. I believe I’ve read all of his novels but I keep hoping there is one I missed so I can revisit Jim Chee and Joe Leaphorn one last time.
Is there a book you own that you’ve read more than once?
Speaking of Tony Hillerman, I read a couple of his more than once—the first that springs to mind is Skinwalkers, a great novel. I also read Dune more than once as a kid.
What was the last book you read?
Right now I’m reading several at once, a somewhat bad habit of mine. The last novel I finished was by the brilliant Maria Savva, A Time To Tell. I have to say, it was a pleasure to read and even greater pleasure to get to know the author.
Thank you, Paul :)
Are you reading a book at the moment?
I’m reading several as mentioned above. One that would be of interest to lovers of the sci-fi genre is Jaleta Clegg’s Nexus Point; I’m really enjoying it. Even though the characters are young adults the book could easily be read by YA readers as well. It kind of reminds me of a Michael Crichton novel.
What do you think of ebooks?
I love them. Not that I don’t like the feel and smell of the printed page, I really do. Yet I find the convenience of eBooks, especially carrying a library around with me in my Kindle, to be quite compelling. There’s no doubt that they’re here to stay and every author should address them as a means to greater readership.
How important are reviews for you as a writer?
It’s hard to say. I had a couple of bad reviews in the beginning because I, stupidly, posted a mainly unedited version of my book accidentally. Once I righted that, the reviews got better but I can’t say that sales were directly affected. I suppose if they had all been bad it would have had a negative effect, but the reverse hasn’t proven itself out.
How did you go about choosing a cover for your book?
I created the cover art myself because I had several ideas I wanted to try out. I ended up with a skull set in a sort of blended out earthy background to make it sort of pop off the shelf. Yet, I worry that too many see the cover and assume it’s some sort of horror novel. I guess that’s why publishers have marketing departments.
What are you working on now?
Book two in the Angie Cooper Series. The one great piece of positive feedback I’ve heard more than anything else is, “When’s the next book coming out?” Readers really want to know what’s going to happen to Angie next. And I’m not going to let them down.
Where can people buy your book?
It’s available in print at:
CreateSpace
Amazon.com
Barnes and Noble
For the Kindle:
Amazon.com
For the Nook:
Barnes and Noble
As an iBook For iPad, iPhone, and iPod (available in the iBookstore):
iBookstore
For the Sony Reader:
Sony
For all eReaders at Smashwords:
Smashwords
Do you have your own website or blog where people can read more about your work?
Any of these URLs will lead to my blog with more info on the book, including some review clips.
DiggersBones.com
PaulKeefe.com
PaulMansfieldKeefe.com
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Yes, I would like to give a special promotional offer to all readers of the Maria Savva Goodreads blog.
From now until March 31, 2011 get Digger’s Bones as an eBook for only $2.99 at Smashwords using the coupon code: TT55Q.
That’s $4 bucks off, so if you’ve been thinking of checking out the adventures of Angie Cooper, now’s the time!
Thank you, Paul, for answering my questions. I wish you every success with your books.
I met Paul a few months ago, on BestsellerBound, a message board where indie authors can chat to readers. (I'm a resident author on the board). We have since become very good online friends.
I recently had the pleasure of reading Paul's debut novelDigger's Bones as a reviewer for Bookpleasures. You can see my review here: Review of Digger's Bones on Bookpleasures.com
I really enjoyed the book and can tell that Paul is an author to look out for in the future. It is rare that a debut novel is so well written, and I must say I was very impressed. Paul has a way of describing an action scene so that you feel as if you are actually there. His thriller, Digger's Bones, is a must read.
As well as agreeing to take part in an interview today, Paul has very kindly offered a special discount voucher to all my blog readers, so you can get your hands on a copy of the book for just $2.99. Don't miss it! More details about this are at the end of the interview.
Here are Paul's replies to a few interview questions I set him:
Is there a particular author, or book, that inspired you to start writing?
My inspiration really came from working on an animated sci-fi movie script. I had decided that I had far more to write than could be encompassed in a movie so I began writing a novel. I started writing my thriller, Digger’s Bones, after reading The Jesus Thief by J. R. Lankford, which was a very enjoyable read. Angie Cooper came to me mostly formed and I knew it was the story I needed to write.
When did you first discover your love of writing?
When I was in high school I wrote a lot of poetry and I truly loved it. However, like many people in life, I moved away from writing for many years. Now that I’ve found it again I wonder how I could have ever stopped, I’m obsessed with filling empty paper with words; even if it is electronic paper.
Your debut novel, Digger’s Bones, is a thriller dealing with subjects including archaeology and the history of religion. How much research did you have to do and how long did it take you to write the book?
I did tons of research. Every church mentioned, every religious doctrine, every location around the world, had to be extensively researched. The last thing I wanted was for someone to say, “Boy, did you get that wrong!” I collected photos, multimedia CDROMs, read up on archaeology as much as possible, and of course consulted everyone’s favorite, Wikipedia.
It took me about two years to finish the manuscript. A lot of that time was spent working out an intricate plot and ensuring it played well with the characters. Of course, I also work full-time so that made the overall development time a bit longer.
Have you ever visited the holy lands described in the book? As a reader, I was impressed by how detailed the description of the places was.
I’ve visited some, but not all, of the places in the book. I once lived in Virginia and worked in the Russell Senate Office Building and spent time visiting the different Smithsonian buildings. I spent time up on Bandelier looking over the ground Angie did in the novel, and the same for the Zugspitze in Germany. However, I haven’t been to the Holy Land. So, now you know the reason for the painstaking research. And let me add that I’m now dying to go!
You have been getting some great reviews for Diggers Bones. One thing I noticed, and I think was also mentioned by another reviewer, is that you have really managed to somehow get into the mind of a female character. Angie Cooper, the main character is very believable and she seems to think and feel just like a woman. Was it hard for you as a man to write from a woman’s perspective?
It was important to the story that Angie be an “every woman” and not an embittered, whiskey drinking, overly masculine, female stereotype. Not that they don’t have their place in thrillers, a hard-boiled female detective can be a great character. But Angie is an innocent caught up in a powerful drama that she didn’t create. So, I set out from the start to make her believable as an ordinary person.
I grew up around many strong women, my sisters and my mother, and so I was exposed to non-stereotypical women early in life. Not thinking of women as being the “weaker” sex allowed me to better portray a woman’s perspective and emotions. Still, the first go-round a couple of woman said they didn’t “get” Angie and I had to figure out what was missing from her personality. That turned out to be a nurturing spirit and Madie was added to help round out Angie and that really seemed to do the trick.
I understand that Digger’s Bones is the first in a series, can you tell us a bit more about your plans for the series?
I can tell you that I’ve had three books planned out for some time and I am currently working on the second. I can also tell you that as long as Angie finds ways to get into, and out of, trouble, I’ll be writing about her. The last thing I can say without spoiling much—any reader of my first novel can attest to the fact that it is difficult to talk about without giving something away—is that the settings will be completely different from the first book. Yes, I have my research cut out for me.
Do you have any tips for someone who is considering self-publishing their own book?
Absolutely. First and foremost, do it. Don’t worry about the difficulties involved, they are minimal. Start with Amazon.com and BarnesAndNoble.com and create eBooks for the Kindle and Nook. Next, go to CreateSpace.com and make a print version. CreateSpace is a part of Amazon so you can link your two books together on Amazon and they will also get linked on Barnes and Noble. Finally, take a deep breath and hold on tight.
Who are your favourite authors and what is it about their writing that you like?
Growing up I read a lot of sci-fi and fantasy such as Frank Herbert’s Dune and the Adept series by Piers Anthony, because the settings amazed me. As an adult I read a lot of David Baldacci for his character development and great plots. Lately I’ve been enjoying John Connolly because of his fluid and descriptive writing style. I like the fact that he can pull that off without getting too flowery. You may have noticed that Angie reads a Sue Grafton novel in Digger’s Bones and you would be right in thinking she is another of my favorites. The last I’d like to mention is the late, great Tony Hillerman. I believe I’ve read all of his novels but I keep hoping there is one I missed so I can revisit Jim Chee and Joe Leaphorn one last time.
Is there a book you own that you’ve read more than once?
Speaking of Tony Hillerman, I read a couple of his more than once—the first that springs to mind is Skinwalkers, a great novel. I also read Dune more than once as a kid.
What was the last book you read?
Right now I’m reading several at once, a somewhat bad habit of mine. The last novel I finished was by the brilliant Maria Savva, A Time To Tell. I have to say, it was a pleasure to read and even greater pleasure to get to know the author.
Thank you, Paul :)
Are you reading a book at the moment?
I’m reading several as mentioned above. One that would be of interest to lovers of the sci-fi genre is Jaleta Clegg’s Nexus Point; I’m really enjoying it. Even though the characters are young adults the book could easily be read by YA readers as well. It kind of reminds me of a Michael Crichton novel.
What do you think of ebooks?
I love them. Not that I don’t like the feel and smell of the printed page, I really do. Yet I find the convenience of eBooks, especially carrying a library around with me in my Kindle, to be quite compelling. There’s no doubt that they’re here to stay and every author should address them as a means to greater readership.
How important are reviews for you as a writer?
It’s hard to say. I had a couple of bad reviews in the beginning because I, stupidly, posted a mainly unedited version of my book accidentally. Once I righted that, the reviews got better but I can’t say that sales were directly affected. I suppose if they had all been bad it would have had a negative effect, but the reverse hasn’t proven itself out.
How did you go about choosing a cover for your book?
I created the cover art myself because I had several ideas I wanted to try out. I ended up with a skull set in a sort of blended out earthy background to make it sort of pop off the shelf. Yet, I worry that too many see the cover and assume it’s some sort of horror novel. I guess that’s why publishers have marketing departments.
What are you working on now?
Book two in the Angie Cooper Series. The one great piece of positive feedback I’ve heard more than anything else is, “When’s the next book coming out?” Readers really want to know what’s going to happen to Angie next. And I’m not going to let them down.
Where can people buy your book?
It’s available in print at:
CreateSpace
Amazon.com
Barnes and Noble
For the Kindle:
Amazon.com
For the Nook:
Barnes and Noble
As an iBook For iPad, iPhone, and iPod (available in the iBookstore):
iBookstore
For the Sony Reader:
Sony
For all eReaders at Smashwords:
Smashwords
Do you have your own website or blog where people can read more about your work?
Any of these URLs will lead to my blog with more info on the book, including some review clips.
DiggersBones.com
PaulKeefe.com
PaulMansfieldKeefe.com
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Yes, I would like to give a special promotional offer to all readers of the Maria Savva Goodreads blog.
From now until March 31, 2011 get Digger’s Bones as an eBook for only $2.99 at Smashwords using the coupon code: TT55Q.
That’s $4 bucks off, so if you’ve been thinking of checking out the adventures of Angie Cooper, now’s the time!
Thank you, Paul, for answering my questions. I wish you every success with your books.
February 28, 2011
My latest interview, and an answer to a quirky question :)
I was recently interviewed about my books and writing, by Kipp Poe, here's a link to the blog:
interview
Also, author Darcia Helle has a new feature on her blog called 'Quirky Questions Monday'. This week I am featured there along with author Jason McIntyre
Go here to read our answers :) Quirky Question
interview
Also, author Darcia Helle has a new feature on her blog called 'Quirky Questions Monday'. This week I am featured there along with author Jason McIntyre
Go here to read our answers :) Quirky Question
February 24, 2011
Introducing author Julie Elizabeth Powell, and international giveaway!
In the next few weeks I will be introducing you to some of my favourite writers, many of whom I met here on Goodreads.
My first guest is Julie Elizabeth Powell, author of Gone, Slings & Arrows, The Avalon Trilogy, Knowing Jack and A Murderer's Heart.
I first met Julie here on Goodreads a couple of years ago when we swapped books for review. I loved her book Gone and since then I have become a fan of her work. I’ve read all of her books and we have also become good friends, and I met her for the first time recently at her wedding reception.
As well as answering my questions, Julie has very generously offered to giveaway copies of Gone, Slings & Arrows, The Star Realm and Knowing Jack. For UK winners these will be print copies, pdf copies for international winners.
At the end of the interview, I'll let you know how you can enter!
Here are Julie’s replies to a few questions I asked her about her writing career and her books:
Is there a particular author or book that inspired you to start writing?
No. However, I’ve always loved to read and dabbled with words. But the ‘push’ to actually keep the words that flowed into a book came from what happened to my daughter, Samantha.
That was the basis and inspiration for your first novel, Gone. Please tell us a bit more about that.
I wrote Gone after what happened to my daughter, Samantha, in 1984, when her heart stopped and she died but was brought back to be left severely brain-damaged. A question kept nagging at me – Where had she gone? I mean, her body was lying here, true, but what had made her who she was had just vanished… her memories, her character… everything! On one of those many ‘not able to sleep’ nights, this idea came to me…she must be somewhere else, what if?…and Avalon* was born. I just had to write the story.
(*Avalon is the fantasy world featured in Gone)
At first, writing the book was about satisfying myself... helping me understand her tragic life – and mine. Then, as I continued to write, the world I’d created evolved and I thought this could really help others too. Though I don’t know how many other people that have suffered these exact circumstances, in my experience I don’t think there are /have been many cases like Samantha (brain okay, then wiped, to put it crudely) that lasted for so many years. I thought this book might be an answer that could satisfy a sorrowful heart. Whatever the circumstances, for those left behind, loss is loss… and love gets so tangled; this was one way of trying to sort things out. After Samantha died the second and final time, things didn’t improve for me much (you never get over it), but writing definitely helped… and it’s a tribute to her now. I also like to think that it could be true. Imagine that!
The book was inspired by Samantha. When you read the book, you’ll maybe understand the mixed feelings involved in a relationship like that – but there is no denying, she was my inspiration for this book.
Whenever I choose a book to read, I tend to go for those involved in fantasy, mystery, magic… that sort of thing. So, anyone of a like mind will immediately appreciate the setting etc. and I hope enjoy the story. However, I feel sure that even those who don’t necessarily select this type of genre would be helped or maybe given a lighter heart, if they read Gone, even if they’ve never suffered loss. I know that many will relate to the themes of love, loss, hope, fear, guilt and so on – especially those who have lost a child – and understand the bonds of love and all the strands that can become jumbled. They will gain more than they could guess… I’m sure of it.
I think Gone is different from other books because, yes it’s a fantasy, yes it’s about loss and grief… and finding a way through those things, but this story is about following an identity, which has been stripped from its owner. While a withering body lies waiting to die, its essence, its character, its memories are seen in another place, a mysterious land found by a mother (who thinks she’s crazy, of course who wouldn’t!) where she tries to come to terms with the tragic circumstances of her daughter’s situation. It’s not about Heaven, although some may have that opinion, it’s not about death even, as no one has actually died in the true sense, it’s about life and what makes us who we are and how the bonds of love can never be broken. It’s a battle against fear and guilt, sorrow and all the other emotions put upon us in the wake of loss. I’ve never heard of another story quite like this, not least due to the fact it was inspired by an exceptional truth. It shifts from supposed reality to other plains of existence, not least the added, and most surprising, adventure (which of course is a test) where the mother encounters a talking flower who has trouble remembering jokes, goblins and fairies… just to mention a few. But, more importantly it demonstrates the embodiment of fear, which is a huge hurdle for her to overcome – like for most of us, I would say. I also think that it’s funny as well as sad, enjoyable as well as emotive and will, I hope, help others as well as entertain. I don’t think it’s ever been done in this particular way before. Yes, there are stories about ‘after death’ and there’ve been dramas looking into the effects of such things as Alzheimer’s and cases where people have been brain-damaged in other ways… but nothing like this – the whole unique package.
When did you discover your love of writing?
Always loved it but writing Gone, and then being able to have it published, awakened a need, as if a dam had burst and all those submerged ideas swam to the surface and gulped greedily at the air.
Do you have any tips for someone who is considering self-publishing their own book?
Journey Into The Unknown… And Beyond
When I first found Lulu.com it felt like a million butterflies had materialised all at once and fluttered wildly inside me… and when I published, well… For years I’d tried to find someone, anyone… please, I’ll do your laundry forever if you do… to publish my stories but sadly, as the stack of rejections in that drawer will testify, nobody was interested. Why, I wondered? Not good enough? No! Too old? No? (Well, not for writing). Poor education? No! Not…? The list was endless, of course.
However, it seemed, the only thing ‘wrong’, was the fact that I wasn’t already famous! I hadn’t invented some world changing ‘must have’ (though Gone, my first fantasy novel, was inspired by a life-changing event and would definitely make others think differently); I hadn’t climbed Mount Everest (despite the fact that my second book, epic fantasy adventure, The Star Realm, felt like it); I hadn’t landed on the moon, starred in the latest blockbuster nor had I appeared on any reality show exposing bits best kept hidden (mind you, submitting my books for sale does feel like offering my heart on a plate and asking people to ‘dig in’).
So, where did that leave me? Vanity Press? Hmm, need money for that! Become newsworthy? I couldn’t hurt anyone or steal or run around naked, oh we won’t even go there… well, you understand? But I had talent – I knew it! Ah, you’ve guessed it…self-publishing! But I had no money!
The beauty of Lulu is that it’s free! You do the labour of course but then what would you expect? After that, all you have to do is buy your own work and promote it and…
So what does it take?
A story – that tale that’s rummaged around your head for years or just popped into it while you stood ironing or aligning the brakes on the Mustang…(beware stereotyping… though I didn’t say who was under the car).
You write it!
And write it again… and…! (Sometimes it’s best to put it away for at least a month then…)
You proofread it. WARNING: this is harder than writing the story or, I imagine, climbing Mount Everest, but maybe not as difficult as stripping off in front of an audience? Depends on your point of view. Imagination is the key word here.
Then you join Lulu.
Do you know that term mind boggler? Well, that’s what it’ll feel like at first… just take it one step at a time. Joining Lulu is easy (email and password) and free (beware repetition). Go through the video – more than once. It’ll probably be easier for those really, really good with computers but even then, you learn…okay, I’ve taken on a little more grey hair, I’ll admit!
Then you choose your layout – a layout that you set up in your computer programme (Word, maybe) for your story (the most popular size is 6 x 9 novel). (Tip: don’t put in page numbers until you’ve finished everything else or it can ‘mess things’…as the extra lines on my face will show). Lulu will take you through all the stages but it’s all your choice. It may be an idea to join Lulu first then see your layout /write your story in the correct format from the start – yes, I know, I learnt this after too with my first book. Then save to where you’ll remember, because you have to browse it to uploaded it (seems obvious but you’d be surprised!) Look, I’ve already given away too much stupidity!
Just follow on-screen instructions for conversion /cover upload (I chose a Lulu cover template for all of mine because I’m still learning that side of things) and for those that have an up-to-date modern computer it should be fairly quick, depending on the size of your book (mine’s not quite stone age… well it wouldn’t be, would it… but you know what I mean? Anyway, I’m saving for a new one…). Beware waffle.
Oooh, then Lulu tells you that you have successfully published!!! Blaze of glory…trumpets, garlands… tickertape… pats on the back… butterfly waltz… this is where we came in.
Back to Earth… then the real work starts… re-editing (I told you about proofreading, didn’t I?) And of course promoting… a whole other ball game…
Good writing and don’t stop dreaming – if you want to do it, you will.
You have written 6 books in many different genres, fantasy, murder-mystery, children’s books, and non-fiction. Is there one genre that you prefer more than the others? If so, why?
That’s easy – fantasy! I do like to try various genres but my favourite has to be fantasy because I can do anything in it. If there’s a problem with a character or place or plot then I can manipulate, make it up or just have some fun – fantasy allows that. Though I don’t mind if it’s for children (although that can be even more fun and making new characters in bizarre lands is fantastic) or adults – it certainly allowed me to deal with a difficult subject and perhaps come up with acceptable answers in Gone. Though even if it’s not fantasy, in my writing, the ‘real’ world (for the most part) has to be tempered with something extra, whether it is strange, mysterious, extraordinary, and magical or... well, you get the gist.
Summarise Gone, your first book in three or four sentences.
Gone is about finding answers, especially: ‘Where had my daughter gone?’ after she was severely brain damaged at the age of two, only to suffer agonies for a further seventeen years until her second death. It concerns the exploration of the human condition. It is about hope.
Who are your favourite authors and what is it about their writing you like?
Dean Koontz, Stephen King, JK Rowling, Shakespeare and Chaucer
Taking the last two first – I love the language and the way they understood the ways of being, how people thought and felt. I particularly liked Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing and King Lear and Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales – the Wife of Bath is fabulous... we could all learn good lessons from her!
Dean Koontz is my all time favourite, as he too understands people but his books always have that ‘extra’, that magical quality and a wonderful optimism. The dialogue between main characters is amazing and very funny. The Frankenstein and Christopher Snow series are my favourites so far though I really enjoyed them all. While Stephen King also gets to the nature of being, his works, for the most part, are far more negative and gruesome – though have some spectacular ideas. They may be more macabre but the best book of his, in my opinion, is Insomnia. Its plot enthralled me (I will not give away any spoilers) though I loved the Shawshank Redemption, The Green Mile and The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon – three with a hopeful stance rather than the darker plots. I’ve enjoyed them all – too many to mention.
Is there a book you own that you’ve read more than once?
I freely admit that the Harry Potter series completes one of the best stories ever told. Brilliant – and yes, I’ve read them more than once.
If someone wanted to read your books, which would you recommend they read first, and why?
I can tell you that Gone will always be the most important book in my life but that’s not to say that every book I write doesn’t have my full attention and interest. Gone broke my heart and in a way mended it, and I love to think of Avalon being there ready and waiting for when my time comes, and welcome the idea that Samantha and I will one day be together.
What is the target age group for your children’s trilogy – The Avalon Trilogy? And Knowing Jack, your other children’s book?
Without generalising, I would say about 12. It would depend on the individual and of course I think that adults would enjoy them too. Here speaks a Harry Potter fan.
Which one of your books was the hardest to write and why?
There are two: Gone and Slings & Arrows. The first because of the truth behind why I was writing it, and the second because it was the harrowing truth. And strangely, I wrote Gone first. It took 24 years before I could write Slings & Arrows.
What was the last book you read?
Dean Koontz: Your Heart Belongs To Me
Wish I had more time to read.
Are you reading a book at the moment?
Dean Koontz: The Voice Of The Night
What do you think of ebooks?
Great idea and they can work out cheaper, though I have to say I love the feel of a book and being about to sit comfortably and let my imagination relish.
How important are reviews for you as a writer?
Vital, I would say, especially as a self-published author. Spreading the word is the only possible way of letting others know about your work. It also gives much needed feedback – even if negative (sigh). I’m always willing to learn. I’m extremely grateful to anyone that takes the time to read and review my books. It can help the ego too!
How do you go about choosing a cover for your books?
If I had the money, I would have my ideas professionally uploaded. Or, if I could understand how to do it, I would upload my own designs (even Photoshop for Dummies hasn’t helped). However, as I don’t /can’t, I search through the Lulu library and try to find the most appropriate. I’ve been lucky so far.
What are you working on now?
I have the last of the Avalon Trilogy waiting patiently for my head to ‘get on with it’, in addition to a short story & book where I hope to include short stories (obviously), poetry and pieces inspired by other books – amongst other stuff. It’s proving a good test of my abilities and it’s good to play around with other genres. It’s called Figments and I hope to finish soon enough so to help those poor children out of the predicament within which they’ve been left so that Secrets Of The Ice can at last be published. There are a few others things too, so I’m busy to say the least.
Where can people buy your books?
Julie's Lulu Storefront
You’ll find Gone on Amazon
Gone
Quite few sites carry it, however.
Do you have your own website or blog where people can read more about your work?
I had a website until recently but unfortunately the company (and my site) vanished. However, I have been putting together a new one:
Julie's website
It's a work in progress, but there is info about me, my books and maybe some tips that some may find useful. I will add more as time allows.
Do you have anything you’d like to say to your readers?
Wow… thank you so much for buying my book… I really hope you enjoyed it… and that it made you think differently about things. I hope it helped too, if you needed it. Sorry if there are any mistakes but I’m editor, publisher, designer and writer so I might have missed something. And you never know, earlier prints with errors might be worth a packet one day! If anyone wants to talk to me about any of the issues email me at julizpow (at) yahoo (dot) co (dot) uk
Oh, and… please be kind!!! Thanks.
To enter to win copies of Gone, Slings & Arrows, The Star Realm and Knowing Jack (print copies for UK winners and pdf copies for international), all you have to do is leave a comment here. I will pick 4 winners randomly on 28th February 2011. Good luck!
My first guest is Julie Elizabeth Powell, author of Gone, Slings & Arrows, The Avalon Trilogy, Knowing Jack and A Murderer's Heart.
I first met Julie here on Goodreads a couple of years ago when we swapped books for review. I loved her book Gone and since then I have become a fan of her work. I’ve read all of her books and we have also become good friends, and I met her for the first time recently at her wedding reception.
As well as answering my questions, Julie has very generously offered to giveaway copies of Gone, Slings & Arrows, The Star Realm and Knowing Jack. For UK winners these will be print copies, pdf copies for international winners.
At the end of the interview, I'll let you know how you can enter!
Here are Julie’s replies to a few questions I asked her about her writing career and her books:
Is there a particular author or book that inspired you to start writing?
No. However, I’ve always loved to read and dabbled with words. But the ‘push’ to actually keep the words that flowed into a book came from what happened to my daughter, Samantha.
That was the basis and inspiration for your first novel, Gone. Please tell us a bit more about that.
I wrote Gone after what happened to my daughter, Samantha, in 1984, when her heart stopped and she died but was brought back to be left severely brain-damaged. A question kept nagging at me – Where had she gone? I mean, her body was lying here, true, but what had made her who she was had just vanished… her memories, her character… everything! On one of those many ‘not able to sleep’ nights, this idea came to me…she must be somewhere else, what if?…and Avalon* was born. I just had to write the story.
(*Avalon is the fantasy world featured in Gone)
At first, writing the book was about satisfying myself... helping me understand her tragic life – and mine. Then, as I continued to write, the world I’d created evolved and I thought this could really help others too. Though I don’t know how many other people that have suffered these exact circumstances, in my experience I don’t think there are /have been many cases like Samantha (brain okay, then wiped, to put it crudely) that lasted for so many years. I thought this book might be an answer that could satisfy a sorrowful heart. Whatever the circumstances, for those left behind, loss is loss… and love gets so tangled; this was one way of trying to sort things out. After Samantha died the second and final time, things didn’t improve for me much (you never get over it), but writing definitely helped… and it’s a tribute to her now. I also like to think that it could be true. Imagine that!
The book was inspired by Samantha. When you read the book, you’ll maybe understand the mixed feelings involved in a relationship like that – but there is no denying, she was my inspiration for this book.
Whenever I choose a book to read, I tend to go for those involved in fantasy, mystery, magic… that sort of thing. So, anyone of a like mind will immediately appreciate the setting etc. and I hope enjoy the story. However, I feel sure that even those who don’t necessarily select this type of genre would be helped or maybe given a lighter heart, if they read Gone, even if they’ve never suffered loss. I know that many will relate to the themes of love, loss, hope, fear, guilt and so on – especially those who have lost a child – and understand the bonds of love and all the strands that can become jumbled. They will gain more than they could guess… I’m sure of it.
I think Gone is different from other books because, yes it’s a fantasy, yes it’s about loss and grief… and finding a way through those things, but this story is about following an identity, which has been stripped from its owner. While a withering body lies waiting to die, its essence, its character, its memories are seen in another place, a mysterious land found by a mother (who thinks she’s crazy, of course who wouldn’t!) where she tries to come to terms with the tragic circumstances of her daughter’s situation. It’s not about Heaven, although some may have that opinion, it’s not about death even, as no one has actually died in the true sense, it’s about life and what makes us who we are and how the bonds of love can never be broken. It’s a battle against fear and guilt, sorrow and all the other emotions put upon us in the wake of loss. I’ve never heard of another story quite like this, not least due to the fact it was inspired by an exceptional truth. It shifts from supposed reality to other plains of existence, not least the added, and most surprising, adventure (which of course is a test) where the mother encounters a talking flower who has trouble remembering jokes, goblins and fairies… just to mention a few. But, more importantly it demonstrates the embodiment of fear, which is a huge hurdle for her to overcome – like for most of us, I would say. I also think that it’s funny as well as sad, enjoyable as well as emotive and will, I hope, help others as well as entertain. I don’t think it’s ever been done in this particular way before. Yes, there are stories about ‘after death’ and there’ve been dramas looking into the effects of such things as Alzheimer’s and cases where people have been brain-damaged in other ways… but nothing like this – the whole unique package.
When did you discover your love of writing?
Always loved it but writing Gone, and then being able to have it published, awakened a need, as if a dam had burst and all those submerged ideas swam to the surface and gulped greedily at the air.
Do you have any tips for someone who is considering self-publishing their own book?
Journey Into The Unknown… And Beyond
When I first found Lulu.com it felt like a million butterflies had materialised all at once and fluttered wildly inside me… and when I published, well… For years I’d tried to find someone, anyone… please, I’ll do your laundry forever if you do… to publish my stories but sadly, as the stack of rejections in that drawer will testify, nobody was interested. Why, I wondered? Not good enough? No! Too old? No? (Well, not for writing). Poor education? No! Not…? The list was endless, of course.
However, it seemed, the only thing ‘wrong’, was the fact that I wasn’t already famous! I hadn’t invented some world changing ‘must have’ (though Gone, my first fantasy novel, was inspired by a life-changing event and would definitely make others think differently); I hadn’t climbed Mount Everest (despite the fact that my second book, epic fantasy adventure, The Star Realm, felt like it); I hadn’t landed on the moon, starred in the latest blockbuster nor had I appeared on any reality show exposing bits best kept hidden (mind you, submitting my books for sale does feel like offering my heart on a plate and asking people to ‘dig in’).
So, where did that leave me? Vanity Press? Hmm, need money for that! Become newsworthy? I couldn’t hurt anyone or steal or run around naked, oh we won’t even go there… well, you understand? But I had talent – I knew it! Ah, you’ve guessed it…self-publishing! But I had no money!
The beauty of Lulu is that it’s free! You do the labour of course but then what would you expect? After that, all you have to do is buy your own work and promote it and…
So what does it take?
A story – that tale that’s rummaged around your head for years or just popped into it while you stood ironing or aligning the brakes on the Mustang…(beware stereotyping… though I didn’t say who was under the car).
You write it!
And write it again… and…! (Sometimes it’s best to put it away for at least a month then…)
You proofread it. WARNING: this is harder than writing the story or, I imagine, climbing Mount Everest, but maybe not as difficult as stripping off in front of an audience? Depends on your point of view. Imagination is the key word here.
Then you join Lulu.
Do you know that term mind boggler? Well, that’s what it’ll feel like at first… just take it one step at a time. Joining Lulu is easy (email and password) and free (beware repetition). Go through the video – more than once. It’ll probably be easier for those really, really good with computers but even then, you learn…okay, I’ve taken on a little more grey hair, I’ll admit!
Then you choose your layout – a layout that you set up in your computer programme (Word, maybe) for your story (the most popular size is 6 x 9 novel). (Tip: don’t put in page numbers until you’ve finished everything else or it can ‘mess things’…as the extra lines on my face will show). Lulu will take you through all the stages but it’s all your choice. It may be an idea to join Lulu first then see your layout /write your story in the correct format from the start – yes, I know, I learnt this after too with my first book. Then save to where you’ll remember, because you have to browse it to uploaded it (seems obvious but you’d be surprised!) Look, I’ve already given away too much stupidity!
Just follow on-screen instructions for conversion /cover upload (I chose a Lulu cover template for all of mine because I’m still learning that side of things) and for those that have an up-to-date modern computer it should be fairly quick, depending on the size of your book (mine’s not quite stone age… well it wouldn’t be, would it… but you know what I mean? Anyway, I’m saving for a new one…). Beware waffle.
Oooh, then Lulu tells you that you have successfully published!!! Blaze of glory…trumpets, garlands… tickertape… pats on the back… butterfly waltz… this is where we came in.
Back to Earth… then the real work starts… re-editing (I told you about proofreading, didn’t I?) And of course promoting… a whole other ball game…
Good writing and don’t stop dreaming – if you want to do it, you will.
You have written 6 books in many different genres, fantasy, murder-mystery, children’s books, and non-fiction. Is there one genre that you prefer more than the others? If so, why?
That’s easy – fantasy! I do like to try various genres but my favourite has to be fantasy because I can do anything in it. If there’s a problem with a character or place or plot then I can manipulate, make it up or just have some fun – fantasy allows that. Though I don’t mind if it’s for children (although that can be even more fun and making new characters in bizarre lands is fantastic) or adults – it certainly allowed me to deal with a difficult subject and perhaps come up with acceptable answers in Gone. Though even if it’s not fantasy, in my writing, the ‘real’ world (for the most part) has to be tempered with something extra, whether it is strange, mysterious, extraordinary, and magical or... well, you get the gist.
Summarise Gone, your first book in three or four sentences.
Gone is about finding answers, especially: ‘Where had my daughter gone?’ after she was severely brain damaged at the age of two, only to suffer agonies for a further seventeen years until her second death. It concerns the exploration of the human condition. It is about hope.
Who are your favourite authors and what is it about their writing you like?
Dean Koontz, Stephen King, JK Rowling, Shakespeare and Chaucer
Taking the last two first – I love the language and the way they understood the ways of being, how people thought and felt. I particularly liked Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing and King Lear and Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales – the Wife of Bath is fabulous... we could all learn good lessons from her!
Dean Koontz is my all time favourite, as he too understands people but his books always have that ‘extra’, that magical quality and a wonderful optimism. The dialogue between main characters is amazing and very funny. The Frankenstein and Christopher Snow series are my favourites so far though I really enjoyed them all. While Stephen King also gets to the nature of being, his works, for the most part, are far more negative and gruesome – though have some spectacular ideas. They may be more macabre but the best book of his, in my opinion, is Insomnia. Its plot enthralled me (I will not give away any spoilers) though I loved the Shawshank Redemption, The Green Mile and The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon – three with a hopeful stance rather than the darker plots. I’ve enjoyed them all – too many to mention.
Is there a book you own that you’ve read more than once?
I freely admit that the Harry Potter series completes one of the best stories ever told. Brilliant – and yes, I’ve read them more than once.
If someone wanted to read your books, which would you recommend they read first, and why?
I can tell you that Gone will always be the most important book in my life but that’s not to say that every book I write doesn’t have my full attention and interest. Gone broke my heart and in a way mended it, and I love to think of Avalon being there ready and waiting for when my time comes, and welcome the idea that Samantha and I will one day be together.
What is the target age group for your children’s trilogy – The Avalon Trilogy? And Knowing Jack, your other children’s book?
Without generalising, I would say about 12. It would depend on the individual and of course I think that adults would enjoy them too. Here speaks a Harry Potter fan.
Which one of your books was the hardest to write and why?
There are two: Gone and Slings & Arrows. The first because of the truth behind why I was writing it, and the second because it was the harrowing truth. And strangely, I wrote Gone first. It took 24 years before I could write Slings & Arrows.
What was the last book you read?
Dean Koontz: Your Heart Belongs To Me
Wish I had more time to read.
Are you reading a book at the moment?
Dean Koontz: The Voice Of The Night
What do you think of ebooks?
Great idea and they can work out cheaper, though I have to say I love the feel of a book and being about to sit comfortably and let my imagination relish.
How important are reviews for you as a writer?
Vital, I would say, especially as a self-published author. Spreading the word is the only possible way of letting others know about your work. It also gives much needed feedback – even if negative (sigh). I’m always willing to learn. I’m extremely grateful to anyone that takes the time to read and review my books. It can help the ego too!
How do you go about choosing a cover for your books?
If I had the money, I would have my ideas professionally uploaded. Or, if I could understand how to do it, I would upload my own designs (even Photoshop for Dummies hasn’t helped). However, as I don’t /can’t, I search through the Lulu library and try to find the most appropriate. I’ve been lucky so far.
What are you working on now?
I have the last of the Avalon Trilogy waiting patiently for my head to ‘get on with it’, in addition to a short story & book where I hope to include short stories (obviously), poetry and pieces inspired by other books – amongst other stuff. It’s proving a good test of my abilities and it’s good to play around with other genres. It’s called Figments and I hope to finish soon enough so to help those poor children out of the predicament within which they’ve been left so that Secrets Of The Ice can at last be published. There are a few others things too, so I’m busy to say the least.
Where can people buy your books?
Julie's Lulu Storefront
You’ll find Gone on Amazon
Gone
Quite few sites carry it, however.
Do you have your own website or blog where people can read more about your work?
I had a website until recently but unfortunately the company (and my site) vanished. However, I have been putting together a new one:
Julie's website
It's a work in progress, but there is info about me, my books and maybe some tips that some may find useful. I will add more as time allows.
Do you have anything you’d like to say to your readers?
Wow… thank you so much for buying my book… I really hope you enjoyed it… and that it made you think differently about things. I hope it helped too, if you needed it. Sorry if there are any mistakes but I’m editor, publisher, designer and writer so I might have missed something. And you never know, earlier prints with errors might be worth a packet one day! If anyone wants to talk to me about any of the issues email me at julizpow (at) yahoo (dot) co (dot) uk
Oh, and… please be kind!!! Thanks.
To enter to win copies of Gone, Slings & Arrows, The Star Realm and Knowing Jack (print copies for UK winners and pdf copies for international), all you have to do is leave a comment here. I will pick 4 winners randomly on 28th February 2011. Good luck!
Read my interview on Darcia Helle's blog and enter to win a copy of 'Fusion'!
I recently did an interview with author, Darcia Helle.
You can read it here: Fusion interview
You can also leave a comment on the blog for your chance to win a pdf copy of my latest collection of short stories, 'Fusion'
Good luck!
You can read it here: Fusion interview
You can also leave a comment on the blog for your chance to win a pdf copy of my latest collection of short stories, 'Fusion'
Good luck!
February 21, 2011
Help Support Local Charity for Abused Women
Many of you will know that I recently co-wrote a book Cutting The Fat with author Jason McIntyre
Jason is currently trying to raise money to help support a local charity for abused women and children. His book On The Gathering Storm deals with the subject of domestic violence.
As someone who used to work as a family lawyer, helping women to obtain injunctions against violent partners, I know how real and serious this subject is. Those of you who have read my book A Time To Tell will know that it is a subject that left an impression on me.
As writers, we often write fiction inspired from events in our daily lives, sometimes almost as a way of dealing with things which are hard to comprehend.
Jason's book is currently $0.99 on Amazon kindle (ebook) until 1st March 2011. Prfits from all sales until that date will go to his local charity, helping women and children flee violent homes and get their lives back on track.
If you are able, please visit Amazon and download the book. I haven't read it yet, but I do know that Jason is a very talented author, so there is little chance that you will be disappointed with the book. If it's not your type of book, you can buy it as a gift. Kindle books can be purchased as a gift for anyone as long as you know their email address.
Remember, you do not have to own a kindle ereader to buy kindle books. Amazon provide free apps for mac, pc, iphone, ipad, blackberry and android.
Here's the link to the page at Amazon where you can read the reviews and purchase the book:
On the Gathering Storm -- kindle
Read more about Jason's campaign on his blog, by clicking here:
The Farthest Reaches - Jason McIntyre's blog
If you are on Facebook or Twitter, or any other social networking sites please spread the word about this.
Thank you for helping.
Jason is currently trying to raise money to help support a local charity for abused women and children. His book On The Gathering Storm deals with the subject of domestic violence.
As someone who used to work as a family lawyer, helping women to obtain injunctions against violent partners, I know how real and serious this subject is. Those of you who have read my book A Time To Tell will know that it is a subject that left an impression on me.
As writers, we often write fiction inspired from events in our daily lives, sometimes almost as a way of dealing with things which are hard to comprehend.
Jason's book is currently $0.99 on Amazon kindle (ebook) until 1st March 2011. Prfits from all sales until that date will go to his local charity, helping women and children flee violent homes and get their lives back on track.
If you are able, please visit Amazon and download the book. I haven't read it yet, but I do know that Jason is a very talented author, so there is little chance that you will be disappointed with the book. If it's not your type of book, you can buy it as a gift. Kindle books can be purchased as a gift for anyone as long as you know their email address.
Remember, you do not have to own a kindle ereader to buy kindle books. Amazon provide free apps for mac, pc, iphone, ipad, blackberry and android.
Here's the link to the page at Amazon where you can read the reviews and purchase the book:
On the Gathering Storm -- kindle
Read more about Jason's campaign on his blog, by clicking here:
The Farthest Reaches - Jason McIntyre's blog
If you are on Facebook or Twitter, or any other social networking sites please spread the word about this.
Thank you for helping.
Win 'Fusion'!
I am on Keta Diablo's blog today, 'Quackers and Tease', giving away 2 pdf copies of my new book Fusion
Click here for your chance to enter!
Fusion Competition
Good luck!
Click here for your chance to enter!
Fusion Competition
Good luck!
February 16, 2011
Writers you should get to know...
In the past couple of years I have read some fabulous books by authors you may not have heard of.
There are lots of good books out there, and before I joined Goodreads, I really only read books by well known authors, or books I could find in my local bookshops.
Many of you may still do that. Maybe you only buy the bestsellers or you only buy books you can find in bricks and mortar shops. I think most people are probably like that.
I just wanted to open up a window for you, and introduce you to some fabulous writers who are not bestsellers, their books are not easy to find in your local shops, but their books are some of the best I have ever read.
Here are a few recommendations.
I hope you will pick at least one from this list to try. Then, if you like it, I hope you'll come back and read another.
And most of all, I hope you'll tell all your friends about them.
Books are written because there is a story to tell, that story deserves to be read.
I've fallen in love with these books, and I hope you will too:
Breathing into Stone Breathing into Stone by Joel Blaine Kirkpatrick
Eighteenth century priest, Father Furio Novia, hates his employer, the Archbishop of Modena; almost as much as he hates Italian master sculptor, Antonio Lisi. When Novia discovers that Lisi uses his beautiful daughter's likeness in nearly every figure he carves, the priest realizes he can make accusations to the Archbishop that the sculptor has an incestuous knowledge of his daughter, Anoria. Novia begins to haunt their lives, and every family in their village of Resceto, not because he believes they have sinned, but because he desires Anoria for himself.For two years their lives twined around one another's, destined to clash in Rome; Novia, committing murder to stay free of the church; Anoria, nearly killing him to escape his lust.(some adult oriented content)
The Day the Flowers Died The Day The Flowers Died by Ami Blackwelder
A Passion set in the time of prejudice. A novel about love and loss. The completed final edition. 1930 Munich. Two Lovers. Different Worlds. A Crumbling Country Book Taste Review: Ami Blackwelder paints her words in this gently narrated historical romance set in Munich, Germany early 1930. The scenes recreate pre-war Germany...
Pixels of Young Mueller Pixels of Young Mueller by Jerry Schwartz
Klaus Mueller dreams of leaving tiny Southland someday to be a rock star. When he chooses stardom over college, however, he learns that his real education is only beginning. He endures a series of god-awful jobs while his music is repeatedly rejected, and he wonders how he will ever achieve success. After moving to the city, where he finds a career and becomes a father, he is torn between the great happiness he has found and the success he still craves. Klaus must reconcile his dreams with reality or spend the rest of his life lamenting what might have been.Pixels of Young Mueller is the story of an artist's growth to maturity and of his revolt against his family's Christian values. The tale of Klaus Mueller, as told in this modern coming-of-age novel, provides new perspectives on classic themes when Klaus confronts the forces that threaten his existence. Readers can listen to Klaus' music online at itsthejerrys.com. (edited by author)
Musical Chairs Musical Chairs by Jen Knox
Musical Chairs explores one family's history of mental health diagnoses and searches to define the cusp between a '90s working-class childhood and the trouble of adapting to a comfortable life in the suburbs. In order to understand her restlessness, Jennifer reflects on years of strip-dancing, alcoholism, and estrangement. Inspired by the least likely source, the family she left behind, Jennifer struggles towards reconciliation. This story is about identity, class, family ties, and the elusive nature of mental illness.
Horse Latitudes Horse Latitudes by Quentin R. Bufogle
Time is running out for Chester Sprockett. How is an unemployed, aspiring novelist supposed to survive when the thirty grand borrowed off his dead father's credit cards is almost gone, and the only work he can find is hawking toys and cheesy novelty items door-to-door . . . on commission yet?
And talk about woman trouble: There's Pandora, the beautiful magician's assistant who dumped him for an investment banker and the dream of becoming a performance artist; Beth, his true love, the girl he let slip through his fingers at the beach (maybe it was all that baby oil) and the mysterious blond nymph who hurls empty beer bottles at him from a black Z28 Camaro.
If it wasn't for the occasional visit from the ghost of his father, Chester would almost certainly be losing his grip on reality, and never navigate his way out of the . . . Horse Latitudes.
Caviar Dreams Caviar Dreams by Judy Nichols
Your best friend's in love with a lying, scum-bag thief. How do you tell her? Because what she doesn't know could kill her. This is photographer Lisa Watson's dilemma. Lisa has always relied on her plain, overweight friend Debbie to cheer her up when she's down on her luck (which is most of the time). When Debbie falls hard for a handsome stranger named Derek. Lisa is skeptical, believing Prince Charming is more interested in Debbie's money than her kind nature. Derek may be a small-time hustler, but he has big-time plans. He intends to blackmail his wealthy lover, Robert Helton, a conservative industrialist desperate to hide his secret gay life. However, Derek's plan takes a fatal turn when Debbie is found dead in her apartment.
Harmony Bay: An adventurous slice of waterfront life where mystery surrounds history... Harmony Bay by Tom Gahan
Harmony Bay uncovers the rich historical past of a small town through the eyes of newcomers...Detailed description laced with historical references gives the reader a feel for life in a bayside town
Enemies and Playmates Enemies and Playmates by Darcia Helle
When the abused decide to fight back, the abuser's world might just shatter. Lauren Covington's family maintains a grand facade that belies the life they live behind closed doors. Alex Covington, Lauren's father, keeps a tight rein on his family through dominance, abuse, and obsessive control. Consequently, Lauren doesn't believe she could ever trust a man, much less fall in love with one.
When Lauren meets Jesse Ryder, her carefully constructed protective wall shatters. She falls hopelessly and completely in love. It's only fitting that Jesse is a private detective who had once worked for her father, had defied him, and was now the subject of Alex Covington's wrath.
Amidst devastating loss, betrayal, and her father's destructive pursuit of Jesse, Lauren finds the trust and love she had always longed for.
Digger's Bones Digger's Bones by Paul Mansfield Keefe
Archaeologist Angie Cooper's colleague and friend, Tarek "Digger" Rashid, is murdered in front of her. But not before giving her cryptic photographic clues to a hidden tomb and the two thousand year old bones within. Angie must battle a ruthless hitman, hired by a U.S. senator with presidential aspirations, and a sociopathic religious zealot while overcoming severe acrophobia. Caught in a web of lies, deceit, and betrayal, she works to unravel the secret of Digger's bones. Bones that affect the lives of all they touch.
Digger’s Bones is an action packed thriller that takes you from the churches and burial tombs of ancient Jerusalem to the harrowing cliffs of Bandelier National Monument and the glacier capped Zugspitze in Germany. Angie Cooper, her career in shambles, finds herself on the run from mercenaries, the Holy See, the FBI, and Interpol while trying to solve one of archaeology’s great mysteries. Yet some things are better left in the past.
Twenty-Five Years Ago Today Twenty-Five Years Ago Today by Stacy Juba
Kris Langley has always been obsessed with murder. She blames herself for the violent death of her cousin when they were kids and has let guilt invade every corner of her existence. Now an editorial assistant and obit writer for a Massachusetts newspaper, Kris stumbles across an unsolved murder while compiling "25 Years Ago Today" items from the microfilm. She grows fascinated with the case of a young cocktail waitress who was bludgeoned to death and dumped in the woods. Determined to solve the case and atone for the death of her cousin, Kris immerses herself in the mystery of what happened to Diana Ferguson, a talented artist who expressed herself through haunting paintings of Greek mythology. Not only does Kris face resistance from her family and her managing editor, she also clashes with Diana's suspicious nephew, Eric Soares - until neither she nor Eric can deny the chemistry flaring between them. Kris soon learns that old news never leaves the morgue and that yesterday's headline is tomorrow's danger, for finding out the truth about that night twenty-five years ago may shatter Kris's present, costing her love, her career, and ultimately, her life.
My Schizophrenic Life: The Road to Recovery from Mental Illness My Schizophrenic Life by Sandra Yuen MacKay
Vancouver artist Sandra Yuen MacKay has an abnormality of the brain - a disease called schizophrenia. As she says, "my life is schizophrenic because I have schizophrenia. It will always be there". Much of her life has been a struggle to cope with the symptoms of her disease and the side effects of the medications required to keep those symptoms in check.
Early in her life, Sandra started to exhibit the typical symptoms of this disease which came as a surprise to her unsuspecting family. Her book chronicles her struggles, hospitalizations, encounters with professionals, return to school, eventual marriage, and success as an artist, writer and advocate.
Fade Fade by Darren Smith
"Perhaps the best way to describe just how much this book caught my imagination is to reveal that even almost a year after reading it, there are still scenes that I remember vividly, quotations that I can recall and to confess that I will never think of doughnuts with sprinkles in the same way again."
"Brilliantly written love story captures your thoughts and emotions throughout the whole reading and long after it. The lucid and detailed narration provides multi layered complexity of each character's personality, startling revelations, creative turns of the plot."
"Dramatic and touching, the author does a brilliant job of capturing the reader's attention and reeling them into the depths of his story telling."
What Remains What Remains, by Rosemary Poole Carter
WHAT REMAINS is set on a rundown plantation shortly after the Civil War. In the shadow of live oaks and Spanish moss, Isabelle Ross, who has lost her fiancé to the war, joins forces with journalist Paul Delahoussaye to untangle a web of secrets, lies, and murder.
Road Markers Road Markers by Jason C McIntyre
Dean is a forty-something sales rep for a company that ropes small, mostly blue-collar firms into long term cellphone plans. Heading home from a bad meeting, he begins to see evidence that he can will things to happen just by thinking about them. But will this tantalizing realization lead him to cross the line for good?
* * *
Most of these writers have written more books, and I'm looking forward to reading more of their work.
Give them a try.
Remember, if you like a book, remember to review it, either here on Goodreads, or on Amazon and other bookseller websites. Authors are always grateful for honest reviews. It doesn't have to be anything detailed, just a couple of lines to say why you liked it would be wonderful.
Happy reading!
There are lots of good books out there, and before I joined Goodreads, I really only read books by well known authors, or books I could find in my local bookshops.
Many of you may still do that. Maybe you only buy the bestsellers or you only buy books you can find in bricks and mortar shops. I think most people are probably like that.
I just wanted to open up a window for you, and introduce you to some fabulous writers who are not bestsellers, their books are not easy to find in your local shops, but their books are some of the best I have ever read.
Here are a few recommendations.
I hope you will pick at least one from this list to try. Then, if you like it, I hope you'll come back and read another.
And most of all, I hope you'll tell all your friends about them.
Books are written because there is a story to tell, that story deserves to be read.
I've fallen in love with these books, and I hope you will too:
Breathing into Stone Breathing into Stone by Joel Blaine Kirkpatrick
Eighteenth century priest, Father Furio Novia, hates his employer, the Archbishop of Modena; almost as much as he hates Italian master sculptor, Antonio Lisi. When Novia discovers that Lisi uses his beautiful daughter's likeness in nearly every figure he carves, the priest realizes he can make accusations to the Archbishop that the sculptor has an incestuous knowledge of his daughter, Anoria. Novia begins to haunt their lives, and every family in their village of Resceto, not because he believes they have sinned, but because he desires Anoria for himself.For two years their lives twined around one another's, destined to clash in Rome; Novia, committing murder to stay free of the church; Anoria, nearly killing him to escape his lust.(some adult oriented content)
The Day the Flowers Died The Day The Flowers Died by Ami Blackwelder
A Passion set in the time of prejudice. A novel about love and loss. The completed final edition. 1930 Munich. Two Lovers. Different Worlds. A Crumbling Country Book Taste Review: Ami Blackwelder paints her words in this gently narrated historical romance set in Munich, Germany early 1930. The scenes recreate pre-war Germany...
Pixels of Young Mueller Pixels of Young Mueller by Jerry Schwartz
Klaus Mueller dreams of leaving tiny Southland someday to be a rock star. When he chooses stardom over college, however, he learns that his real education is only beginning. He endures a series of god-awful jobs while his music is repeatedly rejected, and he wonders how he will ever achieve success. After moving to the city, where he finds a career and becomes a father, he is torn between the great happiness he has found and the success he still craves. Klaus must reconcile his dreams with reality or spend the rest of his life lamenting what might have been.Pixels of Young Mueller is the story of an artist's growth to maturity and of his revolt against his family's Christian values. The tale of Klaus Mueller, as told in this modern coming-of-age novel, provides new perspectives on classic themes when Klaus confronts the forces that threaten his existence. Readers can listen to Klaus' music online at itsthejerrys.com. (edited by author)
Musical Chairs Musical Chairs by Jen Knox
Musical Chairs explores one family's history of mental health diagnoses and searches to define the cusp between a '90s working-class childhood and the trouble of adapting to a comfortable life in the suburbs. In order to understand her restlessness, Jennifer reflects on years of strip-dancing, alcoholism, and estrangement. Inspired by the least likely source, the family she left behind, Jennifer struggles towards reconciliation. This story is about identity, class, family ties, and the elusive nature of mental illness.
Horse Latitudes Horse Latitudes by Quentin R. Bufogle
Time is running out for Chester Sprockett. How is an unemployed, aspiring novelist supposed to survive when the thirty grand borrowed off his dead father's credit cards is almost gone, and the only work he can find is hawking toys and cheesy novelty items door-to-door . . . on commission yet?
And talk about woman trouble: There's Pandora, the beautiful magician's assistant who dumped him for an investment banker and the dream of becoming a performance artist; Beth, his true love, the girl he let slip through his fingers at the beach (maybe it was all that baby oil) and the mysterious blond nymph who hurls empty beer bottles at him from a black Z28 Camaro.
If it wasn't for the occasional visit from the ghost of his father, Chester would almost certainly be losing his grip on reality, and never navigate his way out of the . . . Horse Latitudes.
Caviar Dreams Caviar Dreams by Judy Nichols
Your best friend's in love with a lying, scum-bag thief. How do you tell her? Because what she doesn't know could kill her. This is photographer Lisa Watson's dilemma. Lisa has always relied on her plain, overweight friend Debbie to cheer her up when she's down on her luck (which is most of the time). When Debbie falls hard for a handsome stranger named Derek. Lisa is skeptical, believing Prince Charming is more interested in Debbie's money than her kind nature. Derek may be a small-time hustler, but he has big-time plans. He intends to blackmail his wealthy lover, Robert Helton, a conservative industrialist desperate to hide his secret gay life. However, Derek's plan takes a fatal turn when Debbie is found dead in her apartment.
Harmony Bay: An adventurous slice of waterfront life where mystery surrounds history... Harmony Bay by Tom Gahan
Harmony Bay uncovers the rich historical past of a small town through the eyes of newcomers...Detailed description laced with historical references gives the reader a feel for life in a bayside town
Enemies and Playmates Enemies and Playmates by Darcia Helle
When the abused decide to fight back, the abuser's world might just shatter. Lauren Covington's family maintains a grand facade that belies the life they live behind closed doors. Alex Covington, Lauren's father, keeps a tight rein on his family through dominance, abuse, and obsessive control. Consequently, Lauren doesn't believe she could ever trust a man, much less fall in love with one.
When Lauren meets Jesse Ryder, her carefully constructed protective wall shatters. She falls hopelessly and completely in love. It's only fitting that Jesse is a private detective who had once worked for her father, had defied him, and was now the subject of Alex Covington's wrath.
Amidst devastating loss, betrayal, and her father's destructive pursuit of Jesse, Lauren finds the trust and love she had always longed for.
Digger's Bones Digger's Bones by Paul Mansfield Keefe
Archaeologist Angie Cooper's colleague and friend, Tarek "Digger" Rashid, is murdered in front of her. But not before giving her cryptic photographic clues to a hidden tomb and the two thousand year old bones within. Angie must battle a ruthless hitman, hired by a U.S. senator with presidential aspirations, and a sociopathic religious zealot while overcoming severe acrophobia. Caught in a web of lies, deceit, and betrayal, she works to unravel the secret of Digger's bones. Bones that affect the lives of all they touch.
Digger’s Bones is an action packed thriller that takes you from the churches and burial tombs of ancient Jerusalem to the harrowing cliffs of Bandelier National Monument and the glacier capped Zugspitze in Germany. Angie Cooper, her career in shambles, finds herself on the run from mercenaries, the Holy See, the FBI, and Interpol while trying to solve one of archaeology’s great mysteries. Yet some things are better left in the past.
Twenty-Five Years Ago Today Twenty-Five Years Ago Today by Stacy Juba
Kris Langley has always been obsessed with murder. She blames herself for the violent death of her cousin when they were kids and has let guilt invade every corner of her existence. Now an editorial assistant and obit writer for a Massachusetts newspaper, Kris stumbles across an unsolved murder while compiling "25 Years Ago Today" items from the microfilm. She grows fascinated with the case of a young cocktail waitress who was bludgeoned to death and dumped in the woods. Determined to solve the case and atone for the death of her cousin, Kris immerses herself in the mystery of what happened to Diana Ferguson, a talented artist who expressed herself through haunting paintings of Greek mythology. Not only does Kris face resistance from her family and her managing editor, she also clashes with Diana's suspicious nephew, Eric Soares - until neither she nor Eric can deny the chemistry flaring between them. Kris soon learns that old news never leaves the morgue and that yesterday's headline is tomorrow's danger, for finding out the truth about that night twenty-five years ago may shatter Kris's present, costing her love, her career, and ultimately, her life.
My Schizophrenic Life: The Road to Recovery from Mental Illness My Schizophrenic Life by Sandra Yuen MacKay
Vancouver artist Sandra Yuen MacKay has an abnormality of the brain - a disease called schizophrenia. As she says, "my life is schizophrenic because I have schizophrenia. It will always be there". Much of her life has been a struggle to cope with the symptoms of her disease and the side effects of the medications required to keep those symptoms in check.
Early in her life, Sandra started to exhibit the typical symptoms of this disease which came as a surprise to her unsuspecting family. Her book chronicles her struggles, hospitalizations, encounters with professionals, return to school, eventual marriage, and success as an artist, writer and advocate.
Fade Fade by Darren Smith
"Perhaps the best way to describe just how much this book caught my imagination is to reveal that even almost a year after reading it, there are still scenes that I remember vividly, quotations that I can recall and to confess that I will never think of doughnuts with sprinkles in the same way again."
"Brilliantly written love story captures your thoughts and emotions throughout the whole reading and long after it. The lucid and detailed narration provides multi layered complexity of each character's personality, startling revelations, creative turns of the plot."
"Dramatic and touching, the author does a brilliant job of capturing the reader's attention and reeling them into the depths of his story telling."
What Remains What Remains, by Rosemary Poole Carter
WHAT REMAINS is set on a rundown plantation shortly after the Civil War. In the shadow of live oaks and Spanish moss, Isabelle Ross, who has lost her fiancé to the war, joins forces with journalist Paul Delahoussaye to untangle a web of secrets, lies, and murder.
Road Markers Road Markers by Jason C McIntyre
Dean is a forty-something sales rep for a company that ropes small, mostly blue-collar firms into long term cellphone plans. Heading home from a bad meeting, he begins to see evidence that he can will things to happen just by thinking about them. But will this tantalizing realization lead him to cross the line for good?
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Most of these writers have written more books, and I'm looking forward to reading more of their work.
Give them a try.
Remember, if you like a book, remember to review it, either here on Goodreads, or on Amazon and other bookseller websites. Authors are always grateful for honest reviews. It doesn't have to be anything detailed, just a couple of lines to say why you liked it would be wonderful.
Happy reading!
