Roger Bray's Blog, page 5
September 12, 2018
Rachel Broughton
Today I am talking to Rachel Broughton, a mum of 2 who loves to snack, walk, knit & x stitch! A book blogger who loves romance, thrillers, crime, mystery, historical fiction & childrens books.
Hi and welcome to Meet the Bloggers.
Can you tell us about yourself please?
Hi Roger, thank you for inviting me onto your blog. My name is Rachel or if you like you can call me Rae. I’m a married mum of a two, I live in Yorkshire and work part time. Between working, looking after the little ones and blogging I’m always pretty busy!
How did you become involved in book blogging?
To be honest I guess it was by accident I started reviewing the books that I had read on Goodreads and it snowballed from there. In December I will have had my blog for three years and I really don’t know where the time has gone!
What is the best thing about blogging? What is the worst thing?
One of the best things about blogging is definitely other bloggers! I have “met” some amazing people and if I’m ever having a bad day even if they don’t realise it they really do make me smile. Whether it is chatting about bookish/non-bookish things or sharing gifs on Twitter! Plus I get to talk about books without annoying anyone (too much) and it is always lovely to get the opportunity to read books before they are released. I guess the worst is there just aren’t enough hours in the day to read every book and I hate not being able to fit a review in.
What is your favourite genre, w hat genres do you review?
The genre I read the most is romance closely followed by thrillers and mystery. However I have a real soft spot for historical romance. You will find quite a good mix over at my blog, it definitely keeps things interesting! I review pretty much anything although I have to admit to reading less sci-fi and horror.
How do you go about writing a review?
It varies to be honest, sometimes I make notes then other times I can write without. I always try to write a review as close to finishing the book as that way everything is still fresh in my mind.
Have you ever considered becoming an author?
In all honesty the idea is wonderful but I really don’t think I have the ability to do it. I really enjoy losing myself in a book so I think I will stick to reading instead!
What have been some highlights you have had whilst blogging?
There are so many brilliant things that have happened from being on blog tours for authors that I have admired for years. Chatting to lovely authors and bloggers on social media and I don’t think I will ever get tired of seeing quotes from my reviews whether it is on social media or in a book itself.
What type of blogging events do you love and take part in?
I haven’t actually been to any yet! To be honest I’m pretty quiet so I think I need to put my big girl pants on and pluck up the courage to go to one!
What advice would you give to authors wanting to approach you for a review, what would make you more inclined to accept requests etc?
It’s always nice to start the email with my name and basically just to tell me about your book. It doesn’t have to be an essay but I think the personal touch can make a difference. A good thing to do is if the blogger has a review policy it’s always worthwhile to read it first before contacting.
Now to some fun questions about you:
Favourite movie:
Shaun of the Dead – Cheers!
Favourite music:
I will pretty much listen to anything, but eighties music is a favourite along with cheesy pop. I like to be able to sing along (badly) with the music!
Favourite food:
My mum makes the best Meat and Potato Pie! Favourite book I thought about it and I just can’t pick. I’m going to get myself settled and sit on the fence for this one!
Favourite holiday destination:
I love to travel although not so much since the little ones came along. This is a tough one to answer so I’m going to cheat and pick a couple is that okay? My mum loves Australia and I have been lucky enough to go four times and each holiday was amazing! I really enjoyed visiting the national parks in America. I’m also a bit of a Disney fan that was even before children so Disneyworld and Disneyland are always brilliant places to visit!
Our gallery
I am text block. Click edit button to change this text. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
Besides books, do you have any other passion/hobbies?
I enjoy cross stitch and I attempt to knit but the most I can manage is a scarf or a blanket. They are both lovely ways to relax so they make a good hobby.
What would be your idea of bliss?
A couple of hours relaxing with a book, cup of tea and definitely chocolate!
Thanks so much Rachel for taking the time from your busy schedule to chat with me.
You can read Rae’s excellent reviews on her website and catch up with her on social media
Google +
The post Rachel Broughton appeared first on Roger Bray.
September 10, 2018
Isabella Muir
Today I am talking with Isabella Muir who, having spent twenty-five years editing and managing the production of health-related training materials, rediscovered her love of writing fiction during two happy years working on and completing her MA in Professional Writing. Since then she has published a number of novels and a short story collection.
Could you tell us about yourself?
I’m Isabella Muir, the author of the Sussex Crime Mystery series. I’ve always been a ‘words’ person, having been a technical editor in the field of health-related training materials for more than twenty years. But once I discovered fiction writing I was hooked! I was born in East Sussex and lived there until just five years ago, when my husband and I decided to explore a new area and now we live just sixty miles away in West Sussex! In fact, I based the setting for my Sussex Crime Mystery series on my birthplace of St Leonards-on-Sea, renaming it ‘Tamarisk Bay’. So, if anyone knows that area they might enjoy trying to spot some of the well-known landmarks. But we love our new hometown and since moving here I have found such a supportive group of writing friends, that it makes my writing life even more fun.
When did you first decide to write and what got you started?
I’ve been writing short stories for years, but about four years ago I did a Masters in Professional Writing and since then I have published three novels, as well as a short story anthology, entitled Ivory Vellum. In fact, it was one of my short stories that led me to develop the character of Janie Juke, a young librarian, who is the heroine of my Sussex Crime Mystery series. The stories are set in the late 1960s, with Janie Juke, who turns out to be an excellent amateur sleuth, following in the footsteps of her hero, Hercule Poirot, solving crimes and mysteries. The stories are based in the fictional Sussex seaside town of Tamarisk Bay and are perfect for anyone who loves Agatha Christie and the swinging sixties.
Do you plot your stories or do you write and see where it takes you?
With each book I write I promise myself I will focus on the storybeats before I start writing. But I must admit that it doesn’t come naturally to me at all, so I must be more of a pantser. I usually have a good idea about where I want the story to go and how it will end, but much of the rest comes to me as I write. Do you have any inspirations for your writing? Other authors / people / events? I have two wonderful writing buddies who really inspire me to keep writing. I have also been lucky enough to join a local indie authors network – Chindi Authors. They are such a supportive crowd and we have been attending lots of local events throughout the summer. People like the idea of meeting local authors and being able to buy a signed book!
What is the best part about writing, and the worst?
The best part of writing for me is the challenge to find the perfect sentence, but that is also the worst, because it is rarely found!! I love chasing words around the page until they come as close as possible to that elusive phrase or sentence I have in my mind, but it’s like a slippery eel sometimes, extremely difficult to pin down!
Tell us about one of, or your most recent book?
I recently published, The Invisible Case, the third novel in the Janie Juke series, where we meet Janie’s Aunt Jessica, who has been off travelling around Europe for the last nine years. She arrives back in town with a new Italian friend, Luigi, and the whole family soon get embroiled in a tangle of mystery and suspicion, with death and passion at the heart of the story. I’m half Italian, so I wanted to tell the story of Jessica’s return by starting with the train journey from Rome to Calais, which is a journey I did with my family many times as a child. With the third book in the trilogy complete, I thought this would be a good time to bring out a compilation of all three books. What’s more, it’s Agatha Christie’s birthday on 15th September, so the compilation – The Sussex Crime Mysteries is available at a special price – just until the 15th September – Agatha Christie’s birthday!
Do you have a favourite author? (I think I may know the answer to this one 
September 5, 2018
Kate Moloney
Today I am talking to Kate Moloney who tells me her favourite books to read are crime, thriller, mystery, psychological and police procedurals. She is planning to expand her horizons a little to include sci-fi, fantasy and YA novels too as crime can only go in so many directions! She finally decided to start blogging about books and reading because as much as she enjoys everyone else’s blogs, pages and sites, she wanted to create my own.
Can you tell us about yourself please?
Sure! My name is Kate Moloney, I’m from Ireland and I’m a married mom of two. I love to read, and have done ever since I was young. I am useless at these “about me” things, and I envy anyone who can fill them in easily, haha!
How did you become involved in book blogging?
I have always been a reader, but when I was expecting our youngest I decided that while I had the time, I would start the blog to share the book love. So it kind of started out of a need to keep busy and as a place to talk about what I was reading. But also because I am the only person in my family that reads so much, I had nowhere to discuss the books!
What is the best thing about blogging? What is the worst thing?
I don’t think there is a singular best thing as such; I do think that blogging gives you great opportunities though. I have been lucky enough to read some brilliant books really early, I have had the privilege of meeting some of my favourite authors and I’ve made some lovely friends thanks to starting the blog.
In terms of the worst, that is a bit subjective too. For me, I find it hard to read under pressure, so this year I’ve had to take a bit of a break to try and get myself into a better headspace for it.
What is your favourite genre? What genres do you review?
Initially, I would have said crime/thriller books, but I haven’t been reading them for the past couple of months as I’ve noticed they don’t help when you have anxiety and panic attacks. So I’ve had to switch up my reading habits. My new favourite genre is probably YA fantasy as its just super fun.
As it stands, I’m closed to reviews, but I would read YA, fantasy, sci-fi and maybe a crime/thriller book at a push. I’m hoping that will all change when I get the anxiety under control!
How do you go about writing a review?
I may own tons of notebooks, but I am quite disorganised when it comes to writing reviews. I tend to only make notes if it is a heavy book, or there are a lot of characters to keep track of. Usually I just sit down infront of my laptop and just try and get the words out.
Have you ever considered becoming an author?
I get asked this quite a lot, oddly enough, but my answer never changes. I am no good at creative writing. I never have been, and I don’t think I have the imagination or thought processes to actually try and write something!
Our gallery
Harrogate 2018
I am text block. Click edit button to change this text. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
What have been some highlights you have had whilst blogging?
I’ve been lucky enough to attend some author events, which has been great as I got to actually meet people that I’ve only chatted to on Twitter etc. I flew over to London a couple of years ago to a Ragnar Jónasson launch in Goldsboro Books, which was brilliant because he is one of my favourite authors. I also got to attend Harrogate this year, which has been the absolute highlight as I got to meet more amazing authors and bloggers.
I’ve had my reviews quoted inside and outside some amazing books, I am a character in a couple of books, and I swear, that will never get old!
What type of blogging events do you love and take part in?
As I’ve been taking a break, I haven’t participated in many events but where possible I’ll try and go to an author signing, or a blogger event, but to be honest not a lot happens over on the west coast of Ireland! Hence the flying over to the UK for events!
Any special places blogging has taken you to?
I’ve only gotten as far as the UK with blogging, but my dream would be to go to Iceland Noir. It sounds amazing, and I am a huge fan of Icelandic crime!
Which author would you most like to meet?
Well I’ve already met my favourite Icelandic author (Ragnar), and up until July I would have said Lee Child, but I had the pleasure of meeting him at Harrogate!
What advice would you give to authors wanting to approach you for a review, what would make you more inclined to accept requests etc
Try and personalise your email. If you know the bloggers name, use it. Check out their blog before you contact them, to make sure they read your genre, and that they are accepting requests.
Now to some fun questions about you:
Favourite movie:
I can’t pick one! Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, The Breakfast Club, Die Hard, Easy A, I really like funny movies!
Favourite music:
I listen to a lot of different stuff! I’ve seen Metallica, One Direction, Usher, Alice Cooper, Linkin Park, 5ive live, amongst many others. My fave band is possibly HIM, a Finnish love-metal band, but I also like pop music from the noughties!
Favourite food:
My husband makes an excellent chilli, so I think I’ll have to go with that!
Favourite book:
Too many to choose from! If I had to pick some, Into The Darkest Corner by Elizabeth Haynes, Killing Floor by Lee Child, Snowblind by Ragnar Jónasson, Nevernight by Jay Kristoff.
Favourite holiday destination:
We don’t go on many holidays, but we were in Prague earlier this year and it was beautiful. I love going to cities because there is usually plenty to see and do!
Pets:
We don’t have any pets in our house!
Besides books, do you have any other passion/hobbies?:
Not really. Books have always been my thing. I’m not sporty or anything!
If you could meet anyone, dead or alive who would that be and why?
I don’t think there is anyone I would like to meet that I haven’t already. Unless Tom Hiddleston counts? [image error]
What would be your idea of bliss?
A good book, a cup of tea and a Cadbury Mint Crisp in a warm cosy reading spot.
Any fun facts/stories you would like to share about yourself
I don’t think so, I’m pretty boring [image error]
Thanks for taking the time talking to me Kate, good luck with your blog.
You can see Kate’s great reviews on her WEBSITE or catch with her on social media.
The post Kate Moloney appeared first on Roger Bray.
September 2, 2018
LEONARD TILLERMAN
I am really happy to be talking today to Leonard Tillerman who is an educator and writer. He has spent the last 25 years as an English teacher and school Principal. He also have over 20 years of experience as a blogger and freelance writer offering his services to various publications. He is extremely passionate about writing…and reading!
Can you tell us about yourself please?
Many thanks for having me here Roger. My name is Leonard Tillerman and I am a School Principal from Toronto, Canada. I also have over 20 years of experience as a blogger and freelance writer offering my services to various publications. I am currently only a few years away from retirement and plan to take my book blogging “hobby” and make it my full-time pursuit very soon. I am married and have 2 children (who are not children anymore as they are in their 20’s). I also have a little Yorkshire Terrier named Charlie who is my best friend. Yorkies-beautiful, little dogs with the heart of a lion.
How did you become involved in book blogging?
I am extremely passionate about writing, and the same can absolutely be said about reading! There is nothing I like to do more than sit by the fire and read a great book. In fact, I have read so many books in my lifetime that I lost count a long time ago. That brings me to this point. I would like to help readers and authors find one another. In particular, I strive to help Indy Authors reach a larger audience by providing honest and comprehensive reviews of their work. So many great writers and authors are are just not having their voices heard. My Grandfather was an amazing writer who wrote 5 amazing books. They were never published as it was such a difficult market to break into. I want to help people like him.
What is the best thing about blogging? What is the worst thing?
Without a doubt the best thing about blogging is discovering new authors and building relationships with them. I find them as a group to be such interesting people. I love all art and artists. Writers are artists.
What is your favourite genre? What genres do you review?
My favorite genre is Literary Fiction. However, I truly enjoy all genres. I also review all genres.
How do you go about writing a review?
Ahhh…such a good question. All writers have their unique routines. Personally, I read a book once and sometimes twice. I take notes as I read and highlight throughout it. When it comes time to review it I do so in one sitting. I write it out by pencil first, edit it, and then type it onto my computer. I actually spend a lot of time thinking about the book. I try to get into the author’s head, and the collective heads of the future readers.
Have you ever considered becoming an author?
I actually am an author. I have numerous articles published to literary magazines and in a variety of other places. I currently am working on 2 “works in progress” and will be publishing them this year.
Which author would you most like to meet?
This is a very tricky question. My favorite author of all time is Charles Dickens. If he could come back to life…he is the author I would like to meet. As for Indie authors there are just too many for me to narrow it down. As I mentioned previously, they are great people!
What advice would you give to authors wanting to approach you for a review, what would make you more inclined to accept requests etc?
I have written a few articles about this. Number one rule however is follow the submission guidelines. Also, develop a relationship and rapport. I have over 1000 requests currently. To get a review you really do need to stand out from the rest. Remember…the ratio between authors/reviewers is very skewed.
Now to some fun questions about you:
Favourite movie: Anything with Al Pacino in it.
Favourite music: Cat Stevens
Favourite food: Spaghetti with no meat
Favourite book: The Pickwick Papers
Favourite holiday destination: In the office in my basement. (weird…I know)
Pets: DOGS!!!!! Yorkies in particular.
Besides books, do you have any other passion/hobbies?
Animals, kindness, writing and reading. I wish to live on a kinder planet in which all are treated with the respect and love they deserve. This includes animals and nature.
If you could meet anyone, dead or alive who would that be and why?
Charles Dickens. Brilliant author. The other person is my grandfather. I miss him and would love to talk with him again.
What would be your idea of bliss?
Write and read all day long. That is bliss.
Excellent, thanks Leonard, for taking the time to answer my questions. You can see Leaonard’s excellent reviews and articles on his WEBSITE. Or connect with him on social media.
Google+
The post LEONARD TILLERMAN appeared first on Roger Bray.
September 1, 2018
S. S. Bazinet
Today I am talking with author S. S. Bazinet who tells me her fondest wish is that her stories entertain her readers and also provide them with moments of clarity and a deeper connection to themselves. Her books include The Vampire Reclamation Project series, the Sentenced to Heaven series, as well as the YA thriller, My Brother’s Keeper, and a dystopian novel, Dying Takes It Out of You.
Could you tell us about yourself?
I’m a proud mom of four amazing children. Once my children were out on their own, I became interested in computers. I even became a computer tutor for a while. I eventually worked on website and graphic design. However, my true calling is writing. When I’m writing, I’m happy. However, I still like to design and update my own websites, including the graphics.
When did you first decide to write and what got you started?
I’ve written off and on for many years, but I never was really serious about it until the summer of 2008.
Do you plot your stories or do you write and see where it takes you?
In my case, maybe I would phrase this question in a different way. Do my stories come from ideas that originate in the mind or do my stories come from that inspired part of myself that connects with the heart and soul? I tried the first method for many years and ended up with a severe case of writer’s block. Finally, I was so frustrated that I surrendered to the second method.
I stated a new intention for my writing when I announced, “I just want to have fun.” The result was amazing. My series, “The Vampire Reclamation Project,” flowed in on its own. I had never imagined that I’d write a series about incarnate angels helping out a despairing vampire. Yet, I could barely write fast enough. My first year’s word count reached over 570,000 words.
What is the best part about writing, and the worst?
I have so much fun when I’m writing. With inspiration at the helm, I write the story like a reporter taking down the facts. I enjoy the story’s characters as they interact with each other. I’m always surprised by the events that unfold and how impossible situations work out in ways that I never imagined. It’s like going to the movies and letting the magic happen.
I also love editing. It’s an opportunity to spend more time with the story and its characters. The worst part is when I finish a story. I can suffer from “empty nest syndrome.” Of course, the cure is to start writing another book! – I’m going through that at the moment, hence I’ve just started the next one (actually two but I’m trying to prioritize)
Which of the books that you have written so far is your favourite and what can you tell us about it without giving the game away?
When I’m writing a story, that story is my favorite. Afterwards, I love all the characters from all the books. They’re almost like a family of sorts. However, I must say that I’m intrigued by certain characters. For instance, in the “Sentenced to Heaven” series, the main character, Alan, has such a different personality than my own. He’s very out-spoken and sees himself as a complete rebel. He’s very upset when he finds out that he can care about someone other than himself. For him, “caring really hurts.” He doesn’t mean to be, but he’s very funny. I’m often smiling when I’m writing about his latest disasters in the heavenly realm.
What are you currently working on? How long before release?
I’ve completed a love story, but I haven’t decided when I’ll release it. I’m also editing book six of my series, “The Vampire Reclamation Project.” Hopefully it will come out around the first part of 2019.
When you have finished writing the book – what do you do next? By that I mean, do you edit the book yourself? Do you design your own book cover? Do you prepare a project plan to market your book?
I edit each book a number of times. Then I hand it over to a copy editor. Personally, I feel that a book cover should be designed by a professional, but an author needs to find a designer that is “in tune” with the type of book they wrote. The cover needs to convey a sense of what the story is all about. Absolutely, and I love your covers. Project planning? No, I don’t do very much.
Which is your favourite genre to read and why?
Genre isn’t what’s important to me. I like character driven stories of any genre, but I don’t like too much violence. I enjoy a story that demonstrates how a difficult situation helps a person to grow and find out more about themselves. I appreciate happy endings or endings that tell the reader that the main character is headed forward in their life.
How important do you think social media is for an author?
For me, it’s been invaluable in getting my books out in front of the public. It’s also been a great way to meet other people from all over the world. I’ve been so fortunate to become acquainted with many people who are not only kind and generous, but also very supportive. – Agreed!
What do you feel are the greatest challenges facing any writer at the present time?
It’s so easy to be pulled outside of oneself, to pay too much attention to what one “should do” instead of remaining true to oneself. For me, being happy with who I am and what I write is most important. It’s where I derive my greatest joy outside of family. Family comes first in all circumstances.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not writing, marketing, or being involved with your book business? Do you have any hobbies?
I love walking in the desert, hiking, and taking photos of the beautiful world we live in. I also like going to the movies and eating popcorn. Even if the movie isn’t great, I have my delicious popcorn to get me through. Dancing and listening to music are also favorite things to do. Coffee isn’t a hobby, but I do love it. I usually have a large mug close at hand when I’m writing.
Any fun facts about you that you would like to share?
I’m all about the “now” moment. I don’t think about the past as “the good old days.” My idea of happiness is to infuse each day with as much creativity and joy as possible. Humor and laughter are also very important. I really believe in that old saying, “Lighten up.”
Thanks very much for taking the time to talk to me and share your thoughts. You can contact this author through her WEBSITE and at the links below.
Google +
Find this talented author's range of books on Amazon
The post S. S. Bazinet appeared first on Roger Bray.
August 31, 2018
S.L. Grigg
Today I am talking to S. L. Grigg who is hosting a blog tour to celebrate the six month anniversary of the release of Coffee Break Companion. During the tour from 28th August to 3rd September 2018 you can pick up a copy of Coffee Break Companion for just 99p. Sharon Grigg, who writes under the pen name S.L Grigg, made it her new year’s resolution to publish her book ‘Coffee Break Companion’ during 2018. After bouncing back from mental health problems (BPD), following the death of her husband from a brain tumour in 2009, Sharon was struck down with kidney and other health problems, believed to be linked to having the Essure sterilisation device she had implanted back in 2008. In September 2017 she underwent major surgery to have a non-functioning hydronephrotic kidney removed at the same time as a full hysterectomy to remove the essure device.
Could you tell us about yourself?
My full name is Sharon Grigg, and I write under the pen name S.L Grigg. I made it my new year’s resolution to publish my book ‘Coffee Break Companion’ during 2018. After bouncing back from mental health problems (BPD), following the death of my husband from a brain tumour in 2009, I was struck down with kidney and other health problems, believed to be linked to having the Essure sterilisation device I had implanted back in 2008. In September 2017 I underwent major surgery to have a non-functioning hydronephrotic kidney removed at the same time as a full hysterectomy to remove the essure device. Just two months after setting her goal Sharon launched the collection of dark, short stories and poetry on Amazon. Many of the stories were written during Sharon’s battle with mental health. For me publishing was never about, money or fame. I just wanted to be able to hold a copy of my book and say, ‘I wrote this’ and now I can.
Do you plot your stories or do you write and see where it takes you?
I’m definitely more of a panster, especially as I mainly write flash fiction, but if I’m working on something longer I will do a rough outline after an initial burst of pantsing. I will usually just spill out my initial idea which might be the middle of a story, and then decide and outline where I want this to go from there, so a bit more plotting if it’s a longer story.
Do you have any inspirations for you writing?
Other authors / people / events? Much of my inspiration comes from personal experiences. I have written a lot about mental health, and the dark thoughts that can consume you when you are in that ‘bad’ place. But I also find inspiration in music, art and almost anything, anywhere can inspire me at times.
What is the best part about writing, and the worst?
The best part about writing is being able to get the ideas and thoughts of weird and wonderful things out of my head and onto paper. The worst part is editing, it’s such a drag, but a necessary part of the process.
Tell us about one of, or your most recent book?
Coffee Break Companion is my first book, 30 years in the making. The oldest story in there is one I wrote aged 11 called ‘Lost’, it’s about two young girls who are shipwrecked. Most of the 40 short stories and poems were written more recently, in particular during my mental health problems, when I used writing as a form a therapy. The themes in the book are quite dark, covering self-harm, rape, and abuse, with some scenes that might be disturbing for more sensitive people. But there are some fantasy and sci-fi themes too, with mermaids, dragons, and robots.
What are you currently working on? How long before release?
I’m currently working on Coffee Break Companion 2 which I am hoping to release in February 2019, 12 months after the first book. I’m also working on the first book in a romance trilogy set on cruise ship holidays – a new genre for me, but they started writing themselves, so I’m just going along with the characters as they take me on this journey.
What are you currently reading?
I have just finished Neil Gaiman’s Norse Mythology, which was a bit disappointing to be honest, the stories were quite bland. I’m hoping my next read (starting tonight) will be better – The Final Empire (Mistborn Book One) by Brandon Sanderson.
Which authors and novels would you recommend?
I love so many authors, across many genres but in particular sci-fi, fantasy and thrillers. Anything by Adam Baker, Daniel Suarez, Kelley Armstrong and Kim Harrison, and not forgetting Andy Weir. Then of course some fellow indie authors Kiltie Jackson’s LoveStyle series and Kim Alexander’s ‘Pure’ are just two who I have fallen in love with recently.
Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?
Just write, worry about everything else later, but first of all just lets the words run free and finish your story. After that you can get help and advice on development, editing and eventually publishing if you want to go there. But you can’t do anything if you don’t write.
Do you have any favourite fictional characters?
Ahh, too many. For me if I don’t fall in love with the characters then I don’t enjoy the book, but as I read an average of one book a week I fall in love again every week too, so I there are too many characters that I love I couldn’t pick out a favourite.
How important do you think social media is for an author?
For me it has been vital, I have learnt so much from connecting with other authors and being able to connect with readers and potential readers too. Without social media I wouldn’t have sold any books, being self-published social media is the main way to get yourself known.
What would you do differently if you were given the opportunity to begin again?
Start promoting my book earlier, I didn’t do a blog tour when it was released and no big launch or fuss, I just quietly posted about it and then realised I need to reach out further if I was going to sell any books.
What do you feel are the greatest challenges facing any writer at the present time?
Getting your name known, with so many people self-publishing (and unfortunately some very low quality) it’s hard to get people to give you a chance and read your book rather than a big, traditionally published author.
When you have finished writing the book – what do you do next?
By that I mean, do you edit the book yourself? Do you design your own book cover? Do you prepare a project plan to market your book?
If you could invite three people from history to a dinner party. Who would you invite and why?
Corey Haim, movie star, my first love from when I watched The Lost Boys as a pre-teen, because I never got to meet him whilst he was alive. George Orwell, author I’d love to know how much he thinks 1984 has become a reality if he were to see how we live now and where the idea for the story came from. Margaret Thatcher, a controversial one! When I was young she was an inspiration for me because as a female prime minister she showed that girls can achieve anything if you work hard enough, her political decisions may have been off the mark and I’m definitely not a Conservative but it wasn’t her politics that inspired me, it was her achievement to reach that position from a more humble background rather than being a typical Eton boy.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not writing, marketing, or being involved with your book business? Do you have any hobbies?
I enjoy Pilates and have trained as a Pilates instructor, so I am trying to start my own classes for that, which is as challenging as self-publishing! I also enjoy anything creative, at the moment that is mostly crochet.
Any fun facts about you that you would like to share?
I once auditioned for the X-Factor, and got through three rounds, all of which are before you get on the TV show, so I know a few behind the scenes secrets about the process for getting on the show. I’m glad I wasn’t on it in the end though, haha
Check out Sharon's Coffee Break Companion on Amazon
You can catch up with Sharon on her WEBSITE or Facebook.
The post S.L. Grigg appeared first on Roger Bray.
August 29, 2018
Zoe O’Farrell
It is great today to be talking to Zoe after a bit of a hiccup when her site was down due to her changing her hosting service. She finally got it sorted, and here we are. Zoe describes herself as human, a good start, a mother to a gorgeous little spitfire who is 4 years old and keeps her on her feet. She is married to a soldier and has found a home surrounded by the White Cliffs of Dover. She also has a cat which she admits to being slightly obsessed with, something else she has in common with many bloggers / writers.
Can you tell us about yourself please?
Hi I am Zoé from Zooloo Book blog. I am married to a soldier aka the Boy and we have a little lady Alicia who is 4. I have a black cat called Jet who is referred to as the devil cat, but she is scared of her own shadow.
I am originally from Watford, but we have moved to the sunny seaside town of Dover and looking to make it our home.
Aside from blogging, I love my sports, movies, embroidery and gigging!
I currently work in Finance for an arts charity called Creative Foundation. Plus, I go on a lot….
How did you become involved in book blogging?
Ready for this…. So, my friends outside the blogging community know how much I love reading and at the end of Jan 18, I kept banging on about a book I read…little known novel called The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware. On WhatsApp I was telling my friends and they suggested setting up a bookstagram. I was like what? So, I set it up took some picture (not so great!) and learned about hashtagging and off I went. Then I heard Twitter was mentioned a lot and I hadn’t a clue about it. So, I wrote that I had finished the book, and was thinking of starting another little book called The Woman in the Window by A.J Finn, and lo and behold they replied to me on Twitter. So, I was dancing around at home, the other half didn’t care but my two best friends were over the moon and encouraged me to start a blog. My friend Cyran, who has a lifestyle blog, helped me get started and February 2018 Zooloo Book blog was born (God I went on a bit didn’t I!!)
What is the best thing about blogging? What is the worst thing?
I love the community, I love speaking to the author (such as yourself!) and the fact they someone wants to know what I think. When an author emails me/acknowledges me on social media, I get all fangirling. I love the feeling. I have loved getting to know some of the publishers and the fab ladies who put on the book tours – they are in the “naughty” list – just asked Noelle at Bookouture she will know what I mean!
Stereotypically, too many books not enough time, although it’s not a bad thing I need to learn the word No (although not sure it should exist) lol. But mainly, being a newbie still, is learning that some bloggers out there do give us book bloggers a bad name and that makes me sad.
Our gallery
I am text block. Click edit button to change this text. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
What is your favourite genre? What genres do you review?
I love Thrillers, (hence reading your book Blood Ribbon, love a good ole name drop) Please, carry on! 
August 27, 2018
Katie Jones
A big welcome today to Katie Jones who, by day, is a support worker for a UK charity but on her days off mainly indulges in reading to ‘escape into another world’. From a young age she fell in love with reading. Her Mum really wanted her to succeed and taught her to read and write before she started school. She says her parents are huge bookworms so it was only natural for her to fall in love with reading.
Can you tell us about yourself please?
Hi! Thank you for having me here today Roger, this will be a lot of fun! I’m Katie and I live in central England. By day I’m a support worker for a UK charity for adults with learning disabilities and by night I read a lot, both to unwind from work and to escape for a while. Apart from reading, I absolutely love to travel and visit new places. I have spent a few years living in Australia and I’m hoping soon to be moving in the next few years back over with my partner (if he likes it of course!)
How did you become involved in book blogging?
I’ve been an avid reader of book blogs for a while however I never thought that I would be able to have my own blog. It seemed like too much work! It wasn’t until late December 2017 when I asked my partner to help me set one up; it didn’t really take off until January 2018 and became involved in blog tours with publishers and tour organisers. I haven’t been blogging long so I still feel like my blog isn’t as good as others but people read my reviews and that’s all I wanted.
What is the best thing about blogging? What is the worst thing?
The best thing is definitely discovering new authors to read. There are many books that I never would have found on my own if it wasn’t for a blog tour running and as a result I have found some new favourite authors. The worst thing is not being able to read all the books that look good. It’s hard to sometimes say no but I don’t want to over book myself and let people down.
What is your favourite genre? What genres do you review?
I read all sorts of genres but I mainly stick with psychological thrillers, romance and police procedurals. If there’s a murder, romance or an investigation in it chances are I’ll want to read it!
How do you go about writing a review?
I don’t really have a specific way of writing a review, I generally sit down with my laptop and set the post up with all the links and blurb first. I then start writing about the book, what I loved, the writing style etc. Half the time I don’t like what I wrote so I’ll save it and then go back to it before it goes live.
Have you ever considered becoming an author?
I have and it’s something I’ve wanted to do for a long time. I have ideas and a basic plot for a book however I don’t know where to start. I don’t have time at the moment which is annoying, I don’t even know if I’d be any good at writing something original.
What have been some highlights you have had whilst blogging?
I haven’t been blogging long but I have to say definitely when I was nominated for best newcomer in the bloggers bash awards earlier this year. I wasn’t expecting to be nominated and it was a complete surprise. Whoever nominated me, I thank you from the bottom of my heart, and it really meant a lot to me and encouraged me to keep blogging. Despite not winning or being placed I don’t mind, I still feel a winner!
What type of blogging events do you love and take part in?
I haven’t been to any blogging events yet but I would love to go to the Theakstons crime festival next year in Harrogate and meet some of the bloggers that I’ve got to know.
Any special places blogging has taken you to?
No special places yet but I would love to definitely meet some bloggers in the future. My friends don’t understand or read my blog so I would love to meet some people that do!
Which author would you most like to meet?
Oooh that’s a tough one, I’d say either Stephen King or JK Rowling.
What advice would you give to authors wanting to approach you for a review, what would make you more inclined to accept requests etc
Read my blog and review policy, use my name when contacting me and if I don’t want to read or don’t have the time at that moment to just accept that. We bloggers have lives too, can’t read all the books as much as we want to!
Now to some fun questions about you:
Favourite movie : Dirty Dancing
Favourite music: I listen to a wide variety of music, I can go from listening to the Spice Girls to Coldplay to Queen. I don’t really have a favourite genre.
Favourite food: Now this is a tough one, I love a lot of food and depending on the day I’d have a different favourite. Today I’d say lasagne, tomorrow it might be pizza, sushi or burgers, who knows! You’ll have to get used to burning lumps of dead cow on the barbie!! 
August 25, 2018
Alfred Nobile
It is great to today be talking to Alfred Nobile who, on his excellent blog, say he reads many genres. He reviews for NetGalley and Lovereading.co.uk. He enjoys fiction and non fiction. and likes histories, biographies and science books. In fact most types of non fiction. In fiction he prefers Horror, Psychological thrillers, crime and humour.
Can you tell us about yourself
Hi I’m Alfred. I’m Scottish. Originally from Glasgow but now living in Livingston , West Lothian
How did you become involved in book blogging?
More as hobby really. Always shared to Goodreads and Amazon. Then shared author photos, reviews etc. Now doing Blog Tours.
What is the best thing about blogging? What is the worst thing?
Best thing is meeting bloggers and authors etc. Haven’t encountered anything negative as all bloggers are supportive of each other.
What is your favourite genre? What genres do you read?
Mostly crime and horror. Occasionally some nonfiction to spice it up. Anything but romance.
How do you go about writing a review?
By the seat of my pants and usually soon after finishing the book.
Have you ever considered becoming an author?
NO!
What have been some highlights you have had whilst blogging?
Meeting other bloggers and authors at events.. Meeting like minded people.
What type of blogging events do you love and take part in?
My first blog event was the TBC event in Glasgow hosted by Sharon. I wasn’t a blogger as such. Still at the hobby stage. Had a great time meeting other bloggers and authors.
Any special places blogging has taken you to?
Has given me more confidence to go to events. Now meet up with bloggers, authors at Edinburgh Bookfestival, Bloody Scotland etc.
Which author would you most like to meet?
Charles Dickens. Would love to ask him, if at the time of writing, he was aware of the social impact of his books.
What advice would you give to authors wanting to approach you for a review, what would make you more inclined to accept requests etc ?
Use my name. Please and thank you. Also tell me about you and your book.
Now to some fun questions about you:
Favourite movie: Bugsy Malone. Love a splurge gun!
Favourite music: Pretty catholic taste; anything that’s good.
Favourite food: Ditto above answer
Favourite book: Too many to mention. Anything that takes me somewhere exciting or makes me think.
Favourite holiday destination: Somewhere with sun. A hotel bookshelf and a bookstore(s)
Besides books, do you have any other passion/hobbies?
Books, books and did I say more books.
If you could meet anyone, dead or alive who would that be and why?
Charles Dickens see previous answer.
Also my Mum , who by taking me to the Library gave me my love of reading.
Thanks Alfred for taking part and sharing a moment in your busy schedule.
You can visit Alfred on his excellent blog at the link above or contact him through social media, below.
The post Alfred Nobile appeared first on Roger Bray.
August 19, 2018
Colette McCormick
Today I am talking to Colette McCormick who was born and raised in Sheffield and remains a ‘Yorkshire lass’ at heart despite living in County Durham since the 1980’s. In 2013 Wergener’s Granulomatous caused her kidneys to fail which meant she needed regular dialysis sessions. However, after 18 months on dialysis, and totally unexpectedly, her kidneys ‘woke up.’ and today she is living life to the full
Could you tell us about yourself?
By day I am the manager of a charity shop and by night I’m a writer. I love cooking, gardening and walking the dog. In 2013 I was critically ill so the fact that I am now ‘ridiculously healthy’ (my consultant’s words) is a bonus and I am making the most of my second chance.
How long have you been writing?
I’ve enjoyed writing stories since I was a very young child and can remember asking a teacher if I could continue with a story in the next lesson so I guess that was my first attempt at a novel. However, it was much later (2006) before I had my first short story success.
Tell us about one of, or your most recent book?
Ribbons in Her Hair which is available from 23rd August is the second book that Accent Press have published and is the story of a young girl who brings ‘shame’ on the family. Having said that, for me, the book is more about how attitudes to unmarried mothers has changed over the decades. It’s about mother’s raising their daughters the best way they can rather than that than age-old dilemma.
What do you love about writing?
I love getting to know your characters and telling their story. It is definitely ‘their’ story because as I get to know them I often change what I had meant to write because I think ‘they wouldn’t do that.’ I’m always interested to see what direction they go off in.
How do you get inspired/ where do you get your ideas?
I get my ideas from everyday life. Ribbons in Her Hair is the result of a little girl with her beautiful hair tied up in ribbons who sparked a conversation. I knew I had a character that I wanted to write about so all I needed was a situation to put her in. Once I had that I was away.
Do you have a specific writing process?
Not really. I’m not much of a planner.
Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?
Don’t give up – rejections are part of the process. Also, stop making excuses and sit down and write. The books won’t write themselves. I have to tell myself the second one every single day.
What are you currently working on? How long before release?
I have just completed a book that has the working title of Not My Brother’s Keeper and the expected release date is May 27th 2019
What are you currently reading?
‘Taming of a Queen’ by Phillipa Gregory.
Which authors and novels would you recommend as must reads?
I love the 87th Precinct novels by Ed McBain. The police procedures are a bit dated now but the dialogue is incredible. ‘The Silent Companions’ by Laura Purcell is the best book I have read this year.
Do you have any favourite fictional characters?
Tess Durbeyfield from ‘Tess of the d’Urbervilles’ is my all-time favourite. I’m also quite fond of Elizabeth Bennett from ‘Pride and Prejudice.’
Which of your books would you like most to be made into a movie?
I think ‘Things I Should Have Said and Done,’ would make a great movie. Other people have said so too but sadly for me none of those people were film producers.
Film casting – which actors would you choose as your main characters?
Carey Mulligan for Ellen and James Norton for George. When I was writing the book, I had Sean Bean (from his ‘Sharpe’ days) in mind but I think that ship has sailed now.
If you could choose one person (dead or alive) to have a chat with, who would it be and why?
I like to talk to Henry VIII so that I could tell him that he could stop obsessing about sons because his daughter would be one of, if not the greatest monarch we ever had. However, I don’t see that conversation ending well for me so it’s probably just as well it never happened.
Any fun facts about you that you would like to share?
Fun facts? Does (occasionally) eating chocolate cake for breakfast count? Seriously though, I am probably the most boring person on earth.
You can find out more about Colette on her Facebook page and find her books on Amazon by clicking on the cover pictures. Thanks Colette for taking the time to chat with me.
The post Colette McCormick appeared first on Roger Bray.
