P.J. Berman's Blog, page 3
July 2, 2020
Author Interview - Victoria Moschou
Hello again everyone,I have have good news for all you fantasy fans out there, as today I am speaking to novelist Victoria Moschou.
PB: Hi! Welcome to pjbermanbooks.com. Tell us a bit about your background.VM: Hello and thank you so very much for having me. My name is Victoria Moschou and I am a 27-year-old economist from Greece. I work at my family’s business and I also tutoring Economics three times a week. When I am not working at my day jobs, I write epic stories and fantasy tales, set in mythical lands, simply because that’s how I can endure reality. A proud Ravenclaw myself, I can hardly say no to a good book, a hot mug of coffee, baking and photography.PB: Snap! I'm a Ravenclaw too. What made you decide to become an author?VM: I guess I always dreamed of writing my own books ever since I read Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, and realised the impact this book had on me. I wanted to tell stories about people with whom I could connect with. There were characters inside my head waiting to tell their stories. Some were more intriguing than others. Some have already seen the light of this world. And some are waiting patiently in the dark. That’s what made me decide to become an author; my characters and my favourite stories, that keep inspiring me after so many years.PB: When did you first start writing?VM: I remember writing my first ever story when I was nine years old. I’m sure that if I read this story now I will start laughing, in best case scenario, and I won’t be able to stop cringing, in worst. But the idea of becoming an author truly bloomed inside my head when I turned 15 and realised that, although I’d been reading great books at the time, there were certain books that still weren’t on the shelves.PB: What was the first story that you can remember writing?VM: I believe it was a Harry Potter fanfic. Come on, it’s a classic after all.PB: Honestly, literally everyone in my house would agree with that! When you begin writing a new novel, do you always know the ending?VM: Definitely not. Surely I plot and I try to make an outline as detailed as possible, but it’s the characters that narrate the story, therefore it’s their decisions that will eventually shape the ending of the book.PB: Tell us about your recent novel, Guardian of the Auras.VM: Guardian of the Auras is a YA High Fantasy novel, the first in a planned trilogy, that’s loosely based on the Greek myth of Pandora’s box. Set in a world where feelings have been banned and logic dominates, a young Priestess, Aurora, accidentally unleashes the Auras of the world, all the feelings and emotions that were believed to be the monsters of the universe.PB: If you could meet any of your characters, who would you meet, and what would you say to them?VM: I’d love to meet Wilona, Aurora’s best friend, and ask her how the hell she manages to remain so freaking calm when dealing with a crisis.PB: Where did the idea for come from?VM: The book started out as a short story that was about to be part of a writing competition, but after writing more than 10k words in just a couple of days, I realised there was more to happen and I simply had to see this story through.PB: Of all your achievements, which are you most proud of?VM: Honestly, I’ve never thought of that before. I’d probably say that I’m proud I had the chance to be published by Kingston University Press because if it wasn’t for the University and my writing teachers, I wouldn’t be where I am today.PB: What is your favourite book series to read and why?VM: I have many favourite series but I recently started reading Bloodlines, by Richelle Mead, which is a spin-off series of my all-time-favourite Vampire Academy, so I really want to see if I made the right decision and started reading this series after so many years of wanting to do so.PB: What are your long term ambitions with regards to writing?VM: Aside from being traditionally published, I want to write books that will make people laugh, cry and love with a passion!PB: If you weren’t an author, what career would you be in?VM: As I’m already following two completely different paths, I’d probably be working as an economist. Although thinking my life without books and writing seems truly terrifying, like being trapped inside a car that’s about to explode, so I think that not being a writer isn’t an option for me.PB: I can relate to that. What’s the next target for you?VM: I want to finish The Auras’ Chest series and then fully dedicate myself to a NA Urban Fantasy/Romance project I started earlier in 2020.PB: Tell us a random fact about yourself.VM: I am an only child.Well, thank you so much to Victoria Moschou for talking to us all today. If, like me, you are interested in reading more of her work, you can do so here:AmazonGoodreadsUntil next time, keep reading!Peter
PB: Hi! Welcome to pjbermanbooks.com. Tell us a bit about your background.VM: Hello and thank you so very much for having me. My name is Victoria Moschou and I am a 27-year-old economist from Greece. I work at my family’s business and I also tutoring Economics three times a week. When I am not working at my day jobs, I write epic stories and fantasy tales, set in mythical lands, simply because that’s how I can endure reality. A proud Ravenclaw myself, I can hardly say no to a good book, a hot mug of coffee, baking and photography.PB: Snap! I'm a Ravenclaw too. What made you decide to become an author?VM: I guess I always dreamed of writing my own books ever since I read Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, and realised the impact this book had on me. I wanted to tell stories about people with whom I could connect with. There were characters inside my head waiting to tell their stories. Some were more intriguing than others. Some have already seen the light of this world. And some are waiting patiently in the dark. That’s what made me decide to become an author; my characters and my favourite stories, that keep inspiring me after so many years.PB: When did you first start writing?VM: I remember writing my first ever story when I was nine years old. I’m sure that if I read this story now I will start laughing, in best case scenario, and I won’t be able to stop cringing, in worst. But the idea of becoming an author truly bloomed inside my head when I turned 15 and realised that, although I’d been reading great books at the time, there were certain books that still weren’t on the shelves.PB: What was the first story that you can remember writing?VM: I believe it was a Harry Potter fanfic. Come on, it’s a classic after all.PB: Honestly, literally everyone in my house would agree with that! When you begin writing a new novel, do you always know the ending?VM: Definitely not. Surely I plot and I try to make an outline as detailed as possible, but it’s the characters that narrate the story, therefore it’s their decisions that will eventually shape the ending of the book.PB: Tell us about your recent novel, Guardian of the Auras.VM: Guardian of the Auras is a YA High Fantasy novel, the first in a planned trilogy, that’s loosely based on the Greek myth of Pandora’s box. Set in a world where feelings have been banned and logic dominates, a young Priestess, Aurora, accidentally unleashes the Auras of the world, all the feelings and emotions that were believed to be the monsters of the universe.PB: If you could meet any of your characters, who would you meet, and what would you say to them?VM: I’d love to meet Wilona, Aurora’s best friend, and ask her how the hell she manages to remain so freaking calm when dealing with a crisis.PB: Where did the idea for come from?VM: The book started out as a short story that was about to be part of a writing competition, but after writing more than 10k words in just a couple of days, I realised there was more to happen and I simply had to see this story through.PB: Of all your achievements, which are you most proud of?VM: Honestly, I’ve never thought of that before. I’d probably say that I’m proud I had the chance to be published by Kingston University Press because if it wasn’t for the University and my writing teachers, I wouldn’t be where I am today.PB: What is your favourite book series to read and why?VM: I have many favourite series but I recently started reading Bloodlines, by Richelle Mead, which is a spin-off series of my all-time-favourite Vampire Academy, so I really want to see if I made the right decision and started reading this series after so many years of wanting to do so.PB: What are your long term ambitions with regards to writing?VM: Aside from being traditionally published, I want to write books that will make people laugh, cry and love with a passion!PB: If you weren’t an author, what career would you be in?VM: As I’m already following two completely different paths, I’d probably be working as an economist. Although thinking my life without books and writing seems truly terrifying, like being trapped inside a car that’s about to explode, so I think that not being a writer isn’t an option for me.PB: I can relate to that. What’s the next target for you?VM: I want to finish The Auras’ Chest series and then fully dedicate myself to a NA Urban Fantasy/Romance project I started earlier in 2020.PB: Tell us a random fact about yourself.VM: I am an only child.Well, thank you so much to Victoria Moschou for talking to us all today. If, like me, you are interested in reading more of her work, you can do so here:AmazonGoodreadsUntil next time, keep reading!Peter
June 28, 2020
Author Interview - Maria Vermisoglou
Hello all!I hope you're having a wonderful day. It's time for another interview, and on this occasion I have the pleasure to meeting Greek fantasy fiction author Maria Vermisoglou.
PB: Hi Maria! Welcome to pjbermanbooks.com. Tell us a bit about your background.MV: I’m a librarian who grew up in Greece, Athens in particular. Last year, I was working in Crete and I must say, islands are so much better than big crowded cities. I love my job and the people I meet are intriguing.PB: What made you decide to become an author?MV: Since a young age, books had been my closest friends since I’m a bit of an introvert. It was just a regular day when I had finished just another book and I wasn’t satisfied by the way it ended. So, I thought…what if? Just a small paragraph at first and then, the story unfolded before my eyes. The words wouldn’t leave me so I decided to write it down. It became a book and then more stories came.PB: When did you first start writing?MV: I always “wrote” stories in my head. As soon as I liked a story, I took a part of it and ideas formed, making an entirely different story. It wasn’t until 2018 that I actually put the ideas on paper.PB: What was the first story that you can remember writing?MV: It was in high school when I started a story about five girls—based on my friends—who uncover their powers and journey to defeat the evil king. I never finished the story, but it was fascinating to say at least. One day, I might pick it up again if I don’t get buried under the pile of new and unfinished projects. Ha!PB: When you begin writing a new story, do you always know the ending? MV: I’m what you would call a pantser so I let the characters drive and write what they tell me. Sometimes, I think I know the ending, but the story takes so many wrong turns, we end up in another country altogether. As confusing it might sound, it’s fascinating! But sometimes, I wish I had a map!PB: If you could meet any of your characters, who would you meet, and what would you say to them?MV: All and none. They would probably kill me for everything I put them through. If I’m allowed to meet only one, Eva Della Luna would be my choice. She’s the first character I ever created and my most favourite. She’s been through so much, but still prevails with the grace of the hero and the endurance of a witch. I would tell her I’m sorry, hoping she doesn’t turn me into a vase. Ha-ha!PB: Tell us about the Eulogimenoi series. MV: The Eulogimenoi series means “Blessed” in Greek. There are 2 books in the series and a short story. Currently, only one is published, but I should have the other 2 out very soon. The series follows Violet as she journeys through the supernatural world, fighting the darkness in order to destroy its evil plans. Mostly a series about shifters, but there’s an interesting range of creatures from different cultures that might be her allies or her enemies. Good thing she’s got a fairy for a best friend.PB: Where did the idea come from? MV: Strangely enough, the backstory is almost as interesting as the story itself. It all started with a small writing prompt that gave birth to a short story. After some rejections, I set it aside. I stumbled upon a call for portal stories and mine fit, but it needed to be longer. So, I started typing and the “Wow!” moment happened. You know when an idea is so powerful you just stare at whatever is in front of you? Yes, that happened. I never submitted the story since it took its own will and even demanded 2 volumes! How can I say no?Beware the Violet is a story set in Halloween when a girl who hates the whole celebration thing, falls into a rabbit hole and ends up in a supernatural city. Too bad, huh?PB: Of all your achievements, which are you most proud of? MV: I’m proud of all my achievements, but writing is one of the most important things. I never imagined I could write or even publish a book. Now, I have published two and working my way to more. Writing is a difficult process and uncertainty is always a companion, but with the right guidance and faith in yourself, you can do it. I really love every journey the stories take me and can’t wait to jump on the next one.PB: What is your favourite book series to read and why?MV: I have many favourite books so I can’t choose one, but if you give me fantasy or paranormal, chances are that I’ll love it!PB: What are your long term ambitions with regards to writing?MV: There are a few books who had helped me when I was sad or was going through difficult times. I would like for my writing to do the same for people.PB: If you weren’t an author, what career would you be in?MV: I’m already a librarian and wouldn’t trade it for any other career. Being surrounded by tons of books is inspiring, magical and cheers me up every time.PB: What’s the next target for you?MV: I want to get a deal with a traditional publisher and get better at marketing, writing and figure out the whole author thing. I know a lot, but I’m not to the point where I know what I’m doing.PB: Tell us a random fact about yourself.MV: Random…I like to make keychains and sometimes, I don’t even look—my hands work mechanically like they have a mind of their own.Thank you so much to Maria Vermisoglou for speaking to us today. If you would like to give her books a try, you can do so by purchasing them here:WebsiteIinktr.eeUntil nest time, keep reading!Peter
PB: Hi Maria! Welcome to pjbermanbooks.com. Tell us a bit about your background.MV: I’m a librarian who grew up in Greece, Athens in particular. Last year, I was working in Crete and I must say, islands are so much better than big crowded cities. I love my job and the people I meet are intriguing.PB: What made you decide to become an author?MV: Since a young age, books had been my closest friends since I’m a bit of an introvert. It was just a regular day when I had finished just another book and I wasn’t satisfied by the way it ended. So, I thought…what if? Just a small paragraph at first and then, the story unfolded before my eyes. The words wouldn’t leave me so I decided to write it down. It became a book and then more stories came.PB: When did you first start writing?MV: I always “wrote” stories in my head. As soon as I liked a story, I took a part of it and ideas formed, making an entirely different story. It wasn’t until 2018 that I actually put the ideas on paper.PB: What was the first story that you can remember writing?MV: It was in high school when I started a story about five girls—based on my friends—who uncover their powers and journey to defeat the evil king. I never finished the story, but it was fascinating to say at least. One day, I might pick it up again if I don’t get buried under the pile of new and unfinished projects. Ha!PB: When you begin writing a new story, do you always know the ending? MV: I’m what you would call a pantser so I let the characters drive and write what they tell me. Sometimes, I think I know the ending, but the story takes so many wrong turns, we end up in another country altogether. As confusing it might sound, it’s fascinating! But sometimes, I wish I had a map!PB: If you could meet any of your characters, who would you meet, and what would you say to them?MV: All and none. They would probably kill me for everything I put them through. If I’m allowed to meet only one, Eva Della Luna would be my choice. She’s the first character I ever created and my most favourite. She’s been through so much, but still prevails with the grace of the hero and the endurance of a witch. I would tell her I’m sorry, hoping she doesn’t turn me into a vase. Ha-ha!PB: Tell us about the Eulogimenoi series. MV: The Eulogimenoi series means “Blessed” in Greek. There are 2 books in the series and a short story. Currently, only one is published, but I should have the other 2 out very soon. The series follows Violet as she journeys through the supernatural world, fighting the darkness in order to destroy its evil plans. Mostly a series about shifters, but there’s an interesting range of creatures from different cultures that might be her allies or her enemies. Good thing she’s got a fairy for a best friend.PB: Where did the idea come from? MV: Strangely enough, the backstory is almost as interesting as the story itself. It all started with a small writing prompt that gave birth to a short story. After some rejections, I set it aside. I stumbled upon a call for portal stories and mine fit, but it needed to be longer. So, I started typing and the “Wow!” moment happened. You know when an idea is so powerful you just stare at whatever is in front of you? Yes, that happened. I never submitted the story since it took its own will and even demanded 2 volumes! How can I say no?Beware the Violet is a story set in Halloween when a girl who hates the whole celebration thing, falls into a rabbit hole and ends up in a supernatural city. Too bad, huh?PB: Of all your achievements, which are you most proud of? MV: I’m proud of all my achievements, but writing is one of the most important things. I never imagined I could write or even publish a book. Now, I have published two and working my way to more. Writing is a difficult process and uncertainty is always a companion, but with the right guidance and faith in yourself, you can do it. I really love every journey the stories take me and can’t wait to jump on the next one.PB: What is your favourite book series to read and why?MV: I have many favourite books so I can’t choose one, but if you give me fantasy or paranormal, chances are that I’ll love it!PB: What are your long term ambitions with regards to writing?MV: There are a few books who had helped me when I was sad or was going through difficult times. I would like for my writing to do the same for people.PB: If you weren’t an author, what career would you be in?MV: I’m already a librarian and wouldn’t trade it for any other career. Being surrounded by tons of books is inspiring, magical and cheers me up every time.PB: What’s the next target for you?MV: I want to get a deal with a traditional publisher and get better at marketing, writing and figure out the whole author thing. I know a lot, but I’m not to the point where I know what I’m doing.PB: Tell us a random fact about yourself.MV: Random…I like to make keychains and sometimes, I don’t even look—my hands work mechanically like they have a mind of their own.Thank you so much to Maria Vermisoglou for speaking to us today. If you would like to give her books a try, you can do so by purchasing them here:WebsiteIinktr.eeUntil nest time, keep reading!Peter
June 25, 2020
Author Interview - Tyler Butcher
Hello all!It's that time again, and today I have the pleasure of interviewing American author of all things paranormal, Tyler Butcher. This is going to be some interesting stuff!
PB: Hi! Welcome to pjbermanbooks.com. Tell us a bit about your background.TB: Hey! I’m a National Guardsman in my mid-twenties.PB: What made you decide to become an author?TB: I’d always loved writing and storytelling, but I didn’t know how to apply that. When I found out about self-publishing, and how I could make money on the side doing what I enjoyed, I knew what I wanted to do.PB: When did you first start writing?TB: When I was about ten, I used to write short stories and little comics for my own enjoyment.PB: What first got you interested in the paranormal?TB: Unsolved Mysteries hosted by Robert Stack, I was always interested when he told a ghost or ufo story on that program even as a young kid.PB: Where did the idea for 'Visitors!' come from?TB: Honestly, I got the idea because I was familiar with the material and it was easy to write about. I hadn’t written anything of serious length in some time and I approached it with the intent that I would learn more about my personal writing style and work out some of the early kinks of self-publishing.PB: Tell us about your recent books, 'Secrets!' and 'Evidence!'.TB: 'Secrets!' focuses more on conspiracy theories and things of that nature. I tried to blend serious analysis with humour, so some conspiracies like the assassination of JFK get very serious and thorough breakdowns while others are roasted based on how ridiculous their premise is, i.e. Israeli Animal Spying. As for 'Evidence!', it’s a fairly analytical look at the UFO phenomenon. I do my best in that one to be fair and balanced.PB: When it comes to your fiction writing, you begin writing a new story, do you always know the ending?TB: I have an idea of what the ending looks like, my approach to fiction is to have a very loose framework to build the story in, but I like to leave things flexible in case my ideas about certain characters and plot elements change.PB: If you could meet any who has featured in your work, who would you meet, and what would you say to them?TB: John F. Kennedy, and I would tell him what he did in the war was badass, but he has to get rid of J. Edgar Hoover and Lyndon Baines Johnson.PB: Of all your achievements, which are you most proud of?TB: Marrying my wife, I’m not gonna lie, I married up.PB: I'm much the same. Marrying your best buddy is the key to a happy life! Bringing it back to the subject of books though, what is your favourite book series to read and why?TB: Harry Turtledove’s The Great War, that series is some of the best Alternate History I’ve ever read and does a good job of exploring the ramifications of it’s point of divergence.PB: What are your long term ambitions with regards to writing?TB: Long term I would love to eventually do this full time. I’d also like to get into comics at some point.PB: If you weren’t an author, what career would you be in?TB: I’d probably get a job around machines, maybe work for a railroad or Toyota or something.PB: What’s the next target for you?TB: I’m hard at work trying to get my first novel out by the end of the year.PB: Tell us a random fact about yourself.TB: I absolutely hate sweet potatoes. I was in the field for a month once and for a week and a half all we got for food was sweet potatoes. So after all that time of every way you could eat a sweet potato for breakfast, lunch and dinner, I am unwilling to ever eat one ever again.All the more for me then! There are always plenty in my house. My wife loves them.More importantly though, I am intrigued to see what you all think of the theories outlined in Tyler's books.Thank you so much to Tyler Butcher for taking the time to speak to us today. If you would like to purchase his work, you can do so here:AmazonAll the best. Happy reading!Peter
PB: Hi! Welcome to pjbermanbooks.com. Tell us a bit about your background.TB: Hey! I’m a National Guardsman in my mid-twenties.PB: What made you decide to become an author?TB: I’d always loved writing and storytelling, but I didn’t know how to apply that. When I found out about self-publishing, and how I could make money on the side doing what I enjoyed, I knew what I wanted to do.PB: When did you first start writing?TB: When I was about ten, I used to write short stories and little comics for my own enjoyment.PB: What first got you interested in the paranormal?TB: Unsolved Mysteries hosted by Robert Stack, I was always interested when he told a ghost or ufo story on that program even as a young kid.PB: Where did the idea for 'Visitors!' come from?TB: Honestly, I got the idea because I was familiar with the material and it was easy to write about. I hadn’t written anything of serious length in some time and I approached it with the intent that I would learn more about my personal writing style and work out some of the early kinks of self-publishing.PB: Tell us about your recent books, 'Secrets!' and 'Evidence!'.TB: 'Secrets!' focuses more on conspiracy theories and things of that nature. I tried to blend serious analysis with humour, so some conspiracies like the assassination of JFK get very serious and thorough breakdowns while others are roasted based on how ridiculous their premise is, i.e. Israeli Animal Spying. As for 'Evidence!', it’s a fairly analytical look at the UFO phenomenon. I do my best in that one to be fair and balanced.PB: When it comes to your fiction writing, you begin writing a new story, do you always know the ending?TB: I have an idea of what the ending looks like, my approach to fiction is to have a very loose framework to build the story in, but I like to leave things flexible in case my ideas about certain characters and plot elements change.PB: If you could meet any who has featured in your work, who would you meet, and what would you say to them?TB: John F. Kennedy, and I would tell him what he did in the war was badass, but he has to get rid of J. Edgar Hoover and Lyndon Baines Johnson.PB: Of all your achievements, which are you most proud of?TB: Marrying my wife, I’m not gonna lie, I married up.PB: I'm much the same. Marrying your best buddy is the key to a happy life! Bringing it back to the subject of books though, what is your favourite book series to read and why?TB: Harry Turtledove’s The Great War, that series is some of the best Alternate History I’ve ever read and does a good job of exploring the ramifications of it’s point of divergence.PB: What are your long term ambitions with regards to writing?TB: Long term I would love to eventually do this full time. I’d also like to get into comics at some point.PB: If you weren’t an author, what career would you be in?TB: I’d probably get a job around machines, maybe work for a railroad or Toyota or something.PB: What’s the next target for you?TB: I’m hard at work trying to get my first novel out by the end of the year.PB: Tell us a random fact about yourself.TB: I absolutely hate sweet potatoes. I was in the field for a month once and for a week and a half all we got for food was sweet potatoes. So after all that time of every way you could eat a sweet potato for breakfast, lunch and dinner, I am unwilling to ever eat one ever again.All the more for me then! There are always plenty in my house. My wife loves them.More importantly though, I am intrigued to see what you all think of the theories outlined in Tyler's books.Thank you so much to Tyler Butcher for taking the time to speak to us today. If you would like to purchase his work, you can do so here:AmazonAll the best. Happy reading!Peter
June 21, 2020
Author Interview - Daniel Kelly
Hello all,In today's interview, we are delving into the world of historically-based fantasy fiction, as we get to know author Daniel Kelly.PB: Hi Daniel! Welcome to pjbermanbooks.com. Tell us a bit about your background.
DK: Good evening Peter, and thanks for having me here. A bit about myself…well I am a chef who just happens to like to read a lot, so probably not qualified to write as such but it seems to be going down quite well. I was born and raised in Donegal very much in the shadow of Doe Castle, literally a few hundred metres from my parents’ house which I think instilled my initial love of history, that was the playground my brothers and myself grew up playing in. playing out the battles and swordfights we imagined had taken place there, growing up with those stories of the wars. Between that and the teachers we were lucky enough to have as children, stories and imagination were a big part of my childhood and it’s something I would like to pass on.PB: What made you decide to become an author?DK: I actually decided to become a chef… though that was as much accident as anything else. I took a summer job working in the kitchen of the cove restaurant at sixteen. The atmosphere was something I loved in kitchens, the friendships I made. History and reading, I had always loved. When we were told to pick careers at seventeen, well, it’s a pretty daunting prospect for anyone at that age, what would you like to do for the rest of your life? I applied for a mixture of options I had an interest in, history, archaeology, IT, computer software design and engineering, and professional cookery. Professional cookery college required you to accept or reject before the results were out for the leaving cert exams… and what careers were really available if I did history and archaeology? But everyone always needs to eat. Chefs would always be needed. I took what seemed the rational choice at the time but I never stopped reading. One day, after reading David Gemmell’s Troy series, I just started writing for myself.PB: When did you first start writing?DK: One of my first memories is actually of writing, even before I knew what letters were, no joke. We were living in our old house before my parents current one was even built and I wasn’t at school yet so I would have to say I cant have been more than three which always surprises me I can remember it so clearly. My mother has the most beautiful cursive handwriting, I think we had visitors coming over or something so she gave me a sheet of paper and a pencil expecting me to draw I expect, while she cleaned. Instead I did… what I thought was the same as she did. I drew squiggly lines across every line of the page, and brought it to her saying “What does this say”? lol. But seriously, I wrote the odd story at school, but I don’t think I started actually actively writing until I was almost thirty. To be honest, during most of my jobs I wouldn’t have had time, restaurants and hotel are… long hours, to put it politely. Only during the recession, during which I took a job in a hospital did I eventually have time to get back into it.PB: What was the first story that you can remember writing?DK: Does “How I spent my summer holidays” count? I have vague memories of writing a story of red Hugh O’Donnell when I was in school. He is one of the local hero’s in Donegal, and was a member of the flight of the earls. It’s a story I would still love to write sometime, but that version is long gone. Unfortunately my handwriting is virtually illegible so anything I wrote before I got a laptop would be like trying to decipher hieroglyphics.PB: When you begin writing a new novel, do you always know the ending?DK: Oh gods no…I can’t read a book I have read before because I already know how its going to end. I will usually have a very basic idea of the direction I want it to take, but if I knew how it was going to end at the start, I don’t think I would be able to write it. It’s as much a mystery to me as it is to whoever is reading it.PB: If you could meet any of your characters, who would you meet, and what would you say to them?DK: I think I would tell Agamemnon, either not to go home, or to kill his wife as soon as he gets there. If that doesn’t make sense… you can either google what happens when he gets home, or get excited because my version of it is coming in my sequel “A Hero’s Welcome” part two of the Heroes of Troy series.PB: Where did the idea for The Fall of the Phoenix come from?DK: After reading Gemmell’s Troy series I wondered why, when they wrote the histories, the Greeks always seem to look like the bad guys in troy. I realise morals were different back then, honour, glory all had different values to modern society, but also that the Iliad was written some five hundred years after the events and is probably as accurate as guessing. So I wrote it initially to try to make sense to myself more so than thinking about publishing.PB: Tell us about your research process for The Fall of the Phoenix.DK: I am very fortunate in that there is an abundance of writing on Troy, none of which can be reliably relied on. Everything we know, or nothing, may be true. We know there was a city there which was destroyed. History at the time was passed down by word of mouth with the Iliad only being the accepted version because a Spartan king advocated it. So keeping as accurate to bronze age history we do know as possible, weapons, armour, clothing etc, it leaves a lot of leeway in the story. I had read as much as I could on it over years without really knowing I was researching what would be my first novel, with small obscure articles throwing up details now and again.PB: That process sounds like a lot of fun! Of all your achievements, which are you most proud of?DK: Getting published at all I am quite proud of. But outside of that, Spartacus actor Manu Bennett aka Crixus (BIG FAN) did a promotion video for me after I sent him a copy, and some of my favourite authors, like Christian Cameron and S.J.A. Turney read and reviewed it. But honestly, when almost especially, someone you didn’t know enjoys it, and takes the time to contact you and say they enjoyed your work, and leaves a review, I think there is very little like the feeling that can give you. When someone says they loved your book, that makes you more proud than the awards it has gotten.PB: What is your favourite book series to read and why?DK: Oh, this is a very difficult question to answer for various reasons… Christian Cameron’s killer of men from his long war series ignited my love of Greek stories after a few years away from them, but Ben Kane’s forgotten legion and Conn Iggulden’s emperor series did the same for me in Roman History. Added to this, I LOVE fantasy, Tom Lloyds The Stormcaller, I consider one of the best books ever written, combining fantasy heavy magic mixed with medieval history, and I had never really been into modern fantast, until I met Dyrk Ashton at worldcon when it was in Dublin. I got on really well with him and he gave me a copy of his book which is… an urban fantasy setting for a war of the god, and I never really expected to like it, but I devoured it, and the second, with the third being my most anticipated read this year because, yes, Paternus is THAT good.PB: What are your long term ambitions with regards to writing?DK: I think every author dreams about being successful enough to be able to just write. I would like to think that one day I could support myself with writing and give myself the time to put down all the stories that are in my head. Obviously TV deals and million euro contracts would be nice, but you have to be realistic.PB: What’s the next target for you?DK: I think, for the minute, I would like my next book to go down as well as my first. Maybe be more successful and reach a wider audience, but really just to grow.PB: Tell us a random fact about yourself.DK: Hmmm… I represented Ireland as a chef in international competitions.Well, if that doesn't make you want to read The Fall of the Phoenix right now, I don't know what will! Thank you so much to Daniel Kelly for joining us today.If you would like to purchase a copy of The Fall of the Phoenix, or find out more about Daniel himself, you can do so via the links below:InstagramFacebookTwitterAmazonUntil next time, happy reading!Peter
DK: Good evening Peter, and thanks for having me here. A bit about myself…well I am a chef who just happens to like to read a lot, so probably not qualified to write as such but it seems to be going down quite well. I was born and raised in Donegal very much in the shadow of Doe Castle, literally a few hundred metres from my parents’ house which I think instilled my initial love of history, that was the playground my brothers and myself grew up playing in. playing out the battles and swordfights we imagined had taken place there, growing up with those stories of the wars. Between that and the teachers we were lucky enough to have as children, stories and imagination were a big part of my childhood and it’s something I would like to pass on.PB: What made you decide to become an author?DK: I actually decided to become a chef… though that was as much accident as anything else. I took a summer job working in the kitchen of the cove restaurant at sixteen. The atmosphere was something I loved in kitchens, the friendships I made. History and reading, I had always loved. When we were told to pick careers at seventeen, well, it’s a pretty daunting prospect for anyone at that age, what would you like to do for the rest of your life? I applied for a mixture of options I had an interest in, history, archaeology, IT, computer software design and engineering, and professional cookery. Professional cookery college required you to accept or reject before the results were out for the leaving cert exams… and what careers were really available if I did history and archaeology? But everyone always needs to eat. Chefs would always be needed. I took what seemed the rational choice at the time but I never stopped reading. One day, after reading David Gemmell’s Troy series, I just started writing for myself.PB: When did you first start writing?DK: One of my first memories is actually of writing, even before I knew what letters were, no joke. We were living in our old house before my parents current one was even built and I wasn’t at school yet so I would have to say I cant have been more than three which always surprises me I can remember it so clearly. My mother has the most beautiful cursive handwriting, I think we had visitors coming over or something so she gave me a sheet of paper and a pencil expecting me to draw I expect, while she cleaned. Instead I did… what I thought was the same as she did. I drew squiggly lines across every line of the page, and brought it to her saying “What does this say”? lol. But seriously, I wrote the odd story at school, but I don’t think I started actually actively writing until I was almost thirty. To be honest, during most of my jobs I wouldn’t have had time, restaurants and hotel are… long hours, to put it politely. Only during the recession, during which I took a job in a hospital did I eventually have time to get back into it.PB: What was the first story that you can remember writing?DK: Does “How I spent my summer holidays” count? I have vague memories of writing a story of red Hugh O’Donnell when I was in school. He is one of the local hero’s in Donegal, and was a member of the flight of the earls. It’s a story I would still love to write sometime, but that version is long gone. Unfortunately my handwriting is virtually illegible so anything I wrote before I got a laptop would be like trying to decipher hieroglyphics.PB: When you begin writing a new novel, do you always know the ending?DK: Oh gods no…I can’t read a book I have read before because I already know how its going to end. I will usually have a very basic idea of the direction I want it to take, but if I knew how it was going to end at the start, I don’t think I would be able to write it. It’s as much a mystery to me as it is to whoever is reading it.PB: If you could meet any of your characters, who would you meet, and what would you say to them?DK: I think I would tell Agamemnon, either not to go home, or to kill his wife as soon as he gets there. If that doesn’t make sense… you can either google what happens when he gets home, or get excited because my version of it is coming in my sequel “A Hero’s Welcome” part two of the Heroes of Troy series.PB: Where did the idea for The Fall of the Phoenix come from?DK: After reading Gemmell’s Troy series I wondered why, when they wrote the histories, the Greeks always seem to look like the bad guys in troy. I realise morals were different back then, honour, glory all had different values to modern society, but also that the Iliad was written some five hundred years after the events and is probably as accurate as guessing. So I wrote it initially to try to make sense to myself more so than thinking about publishing.PB: Tell us about your research process for The Fall of the Phoenix.DK: I am very fortunate in that there is an abundance of writing on Troy, none of which can be reliably relied on. Everything we know, or nothing, may be true. We know there was a city there which was destroyed. History at the time was passed down by word of mouth with the Iliad only being the accepted version because a Spartan king advocated it. So keeping as accurate to bronze age history we do know as possible, weapons, armour, clothing etc, it leaves a lot of leeway in the story. I had read as much as I could on it over years without really knowing I was researching what would be my first novel, with small obscure articles throwing up details now and again.PB: That process sounds like a lot of fun! Of all your achievements, which are you most proud of?DK: Getting published at all I am quite proud of. But outside of that, Spartacus actor Manu Bennett aka Crixus (BIG FAN) did a promotion video for me after I sent him a copy, and some of my favourite authors, like Christian Cameron and S.J.A. Turney read and reviewed it. But honestly, when almost especially, someone you didn’t know enjoys it, and takes the time to contact you and say they enjoyed your work, and leaves a review, I think there is very little like the feeling that can give you. When someone says they loved your book, that makes you more proud than the awards it has gotten.PB: What is your favourite book series to read and why?DK: Oh, this is a very difficult question to answer for various reasons… Christian Cameron’s killer of men from his long war series ignited my love of Greek stories after a few years away from them, but Ben Kane’s forgotten legion and Conn Iggulden’s emperor series did the same for me in Roman History. Added to this, I LOVE fantasy, Tom Lloyds The Stormcaller, I consider one of the best books ever written, combining fantasy heavy magic mixed with medieval history, and I had never really been into modern fantast, until I met Dyrk Ashton at worldcon when it was in Dublin. I got on really well with him and he gave me a copy of his book which is… an urban fantasy setting for a war of the god, and I never really expected to like it, but I devoured it, and the second, with the third being my most anticipated read this year because, yes, Paternus is THAT good.PB: What are your long term ambitions with regards to writing?DK: I think every author dreams about being successful enough to be able to just write. I would like to think that one day I could support myself with writing and give myself the time to put down all the stories that are in my head. Obviously TV deals and million euro contracts would be nice, but you have to be realistic.PB: What’s the next target for you?DK: I think, for the minute, I would like my next book to go down as well as my first. Maybe be more successful and reach a wider audience, but really just to grow.PB: Tell us a random fact about yourself.DK: Hmmm… I represented Ireland as a chef in international competitions.Well, if that doesn't make you want to read The Fall of the Phoenix right now, I don't know what will! Thank you so much to Daniel Kelly for joining us today.If you would like to purchase a copy of The Fall of the Phoenix, or find out more about Daniel himself, you can do so via the links below:InstagramFacebookTwitterAmazonUntil next time, happy reading!Peter
June 18, 2020
Author Interview - Katja Bart
Hello everyone,I hope you are all having a great day. Today's interview subject is fantasy writer, Katja Bart. So, let's meet her!PB: Hi Katja! Welcome to pjbermanbooks.com. Tell us a bit about your background. 
KB: Hi, thank you for having me!I'm something of a jack-of-all-trades-master-to-none. I did three degrees in very different fields, worked in customer service and data, and have hobbies ranging from long-distance running to learning languages. But the constant for most of my life have been books - particularly urban fantasy. I ended up reading so much of it that I wanted to write my own.PB: What made you decide to become an author?KB: I don't think there was ever any one thing, to be honest. Reading a lot, I quickly started to play around with elements of different stories, imagining them going a different route, or with different characters in the same scenario. The more I did it, the more I wanted to explore, until one day I had written a full-length book.Mind you, that book was terrible, badly written, self-illustrated, and was a blatant rip-off of the Parent Trap and Indiana Jones, (but with triplets!) but it was a book, and it made me think that I might be able to pull off the real thing one day.PB: When did you first start writing?KB: As soon as I could hold a pen for long periods of time without it cramping my hand. Actually no, that's a lie - before that I dictated stories to my older cousin to write down, much to her chagrin. Before THAT I acted the stories out loud, which caused my family some concern because I was constantly talking to myself. PB: What was the first story that you can remember writing?KB: I think it must have been a riff on the fairy tale of the beast wife, or something like that. There's a version of it in any folklore - a man spies on a magical creature, steals its coat, and it turns into a woman that he takes for a wife. Eventually she runs away and he goes on a quest to win her back. I think in my version she runs away and he never finds her, but I'll have to ask my grandmother about that.PB: When you begin writing a new story, do you always know the ending?KB: Not always. I like plotting things out and I have gotten better at it, especially using things like the Snowflake Method and Gwen Hayes' "Romancing the Beat" as a drafting method. Having said that, however, my characters sometimes surprise me. I might start a scene intending for it to go one way and then it'll go in the completely opposite one. Stuff like that can really impact the ending. The ending to Orpheus, for example, got rewritten like 15 times before I was satisfied with it.PB: If you could meet any of your characters, who would you meet, and what would you say to them?KB: Would it be cheating if I said the fanfiction characters I like writing? I've been super-into revisiting the animes from my childhood and I've basically spent my time in lockdown writing about the inner lives of tertiary characters. I want to tell all of them they deserved so much better!From my books... I'm currently revisiting a dystopian fiction that I wrote in 2012. In it, Britain has left the European Union and World War III is being instigated by demons. I would love to get in the heads of my two main characters... and I would also like to apologise to them for all that I'm about to put them through. PB: Tell us about your recent novel, Orpheus.KB: In many ways, Orpheus is a story about moving on. Stephanie, the main character, fell for the wrong guy and ended up with a cursed voice on top of a broken heart, and she spends the whole of the novel trying to essentially get him back for all that he's done to her. At the same time, however, she starts to fall in love with another boy - Travis - who thinks the world of magic and fairies is swell because it might heal his father and free him to live his own life. As it happens, neither revenge nor magic are a cure-all; indeed, both seem to make matters worse, as revenge drags Stephanie further into the dangerous world of fairies, and magic comes with a higher price than Travis is willing to pay. Both characters end the first book thoroughly disillusioned but, hopefully, able to finally make the sacrifices they've been putting off in order to live their lives. PB: Where did the idea for Medusa’s Daughter come from?KB: Well... boredom, I guess. I started reading a lot of poetry in late 2017, had a lot of time on my hands, then gave it a go. Then in early 2018, I took part in a creative art challenge by Ana Radchenko on Instagram, and decided that what I wanted to do was edit my poems into a short ebook. The winter of 2017 also turned out to be a fertile time for poetry writing because I was going through a massive move, and there was a lot of melodrama that had to get written down somewhere.I am told by the 3 people who have read it that they enjoyed it, too. It's not a bad result. PB: Of all your achievements, which are you most proud of?KB: My PhD, probably, although writing it has been one of the most excruciating experiences I have ever had to undergo. PB: What is your favourite book series to read and why?KB: You mean I have to pick one? Ouch.Probably Tana French's Dublin Murder Squad books. Every time I open one or the other I find something that enchants me all over again. I can re-read those until the cows come home. PB: What are your long term ambitions with regards to writing?KB: To keep enjoying it as much as possible. I'm extremely fortunate because my day job is something that I am genuinely passionate about, which means that I can come to my fiction writing with a light heart. That's not to say that writing is ever easy for me - some days, on some projects, it feels like literally pulling teeth. But so long as I can look forward to sitting down at my desk to write, I'll consider myself lucky. PB: If you weren’t an author, what career would you be in?KB: Mathematics. If only because I like puzzles so much. PB: What’s the next target for you?KB: Well, I am told, in no uncertain terms, that if I don't write a sequel to Orpheus, I will have some very unhappy readers.PB: Tell us a random fact about yourself.KB: I once participated in a jiu jitsu throwathon, where my teammates and I tried to do over 100 throws in one hour each. I think I got up to 108, and walked like a penguin the next day.Thank you to Katja Bart for speaking to us today! If you'd like to check out her books, you can do so here:LuluGoodreadsUntil next time, happy reading!Peter
KB: Hi, thank you for having me!I'm something of a jack-of-all-trades-master-to-none. I did three degrees in very different fields, worked in customer service and data, and have hobbies ranging from long-distance running to learning languages. But the constant for most of my life have been books - particularly urban fantasy. I ended up reading so much of it that I wanted to write my own.PB: What made you decide to become an author?KB: I don't think there was ever any one thing, to be honest. Reading a lot, I quickly started to play around with elements of different stories, imagining them going a different route, or with different characters in the same scenario. The more I did it, the more I wanted to explore, until one day I had written a full-length book.Mind you, that book was terrible, badly written, self-illustrated, and was a blatant rip-off of the Parent Trap and Indiana Jones, (but with triplets!) but it was a book, and it made me think that I might be able to pull off the real thing one day.PB: When did you first start writing?KB: As soon as I could hold a pen for long periods of time without it cramping my hand. Actually no, that's a lie - before that I dictated stories to my older cousin to write down, much to her chagrin. Before THAT I acted the stories out loud, which caused my family some concern because I was constantly talking to myself. PB: What was the first story that you can remember writing?KB: I think it must have been a riff on the fairy tale of the beast wife, or something like that. There's a version of it in any folklore - a man spies on a magical creature, steals its coat, and it turns into a woman that he takes for a wife. Eventually she runs away and he goes on a quest to win her back. I think in my version she runs away and he never finds her, but I'll have to ask my grandmother about that.PB: When you begin writing a new story, do you always know the ending?KB: Not always. I like plotting things out and I have gotten better at it, especially using things like the Snowflake Method and Gwen Hayes' "Romancing the Beat" as a drafting method. Having said that, however, my characters sometimes surprise me. I might start a scene intending for it to go one way and then it'll go in the completely opposite one. Stuff like that can really impact the ending. The ending to Orpheus, for example, got rewritten like 15 times before I was satisfied with it.PB: If you could meet any of your characters, who would you meet, and what would you say to them?KB: Would it be cheating if I said the fanfiction characters I like writing? I've been super-into revisiting the animes from my childhood and I've basically spent my time in lockdown writing about the inner lives of tertiary characters. I want to tell all of them they deserved so much better!From my books... I'm currently revisiting a dystopian fiction that I wrote in 2012. In it, Britain has left the European Union and World War III is being instigated by demons. I would love to get in the heads of my two main characters... and I would also like to apologise to them for all that I'm about to put them through. PB: Tell us about your recent novel, Orpheus.KB: In many ways, Orpheus is a story about moving on. Stephanie, the main character, fell for the wrong guy and ended up with a cursed voice on top of a broken heart, and she spends the whole of the novel trying to essentially get him back for all that he's done to her. At the same time, however, she starts to fall in love with another boy - Travis - who thinks the world of magic and fairies is swell because it might heal his father and free him to live his own life. As it happens, neither revenge nor magic are a cure-all; indeed, both seem to make matters worse, as revenge drags Stephanie further into the dangerous world of fairies, and magic comes with a higher price than Travis is willing to pay. Both characters end the first book thoroughly disillusioned but, hopefully, able to finally make the sacrifices they've been putting off in order to live their lives. PB: Where did the idea for Medusa’s Daughter come from?KB: Well... boredom, I guess. I started reading a lot of poetry in late 2017, had a lot of time on my hands, then gave it a go. Then in early 2018, I took part in a creative art challenge by Ana Radchenko on Instagram, and decided that what I wanted to do was edit my poems into a short ebook. The winter of 2017 also turned out to be a fertile time for poetry writing because I was going through a massive move, and there was a lot of melodrama that had to get written down somewhere.I am told by the 3 people who have read it that they enjoyed it, too. It's not a bad result. PB: Of all your achievements, which are you most proud of?KB: My PhD, probably, although writing it has been one of the most excruciating experiences I have ever had to undergo. PB: What is your favourite book series to read and why?KB: You mean I have to pick one? Ouch.Probably Tana French's Dublin Murder Squad books. Every time I open one or the other I find something that enchants me all over again. I can re-read those until the cows come home. PB: What are your long term ambitions with regards to writing?KB: To keep enjoying it as much as possible. I'm extremely fortunate because my day job is something that I am genuinely passionate about, which means that I can come to my fiction writing with a light heart. That's not to say that writing is ever easy for me - some days, on some projects, it feels like literally pulling teeth. But so long as I can look forward to sitting down at my desk to write, I'll consider myself lucky. PB: If you weren’t an author, what career would you be in?KB: Mathematics. If only because I like puzzles so much. PB: What’s the next target for you?KB: Well, I am told, in no uncertain terms, that if I don't write a sequel to Orpheus, I will have some very unhappy readers.PB: Tell us a random fact about yourself.KB: I once participated in a jiu jitsu throwathon, where my teammates and I tried to do over 100 throws in one hour each. I think I got up to 108, and walked like a penguin the next day.Thank you to Katja Bart for speaking to us today! If you'd like to check out her books, you can do so here:LuluGoodreadsUntil next time, happy reading!Peter
June 14, 2020
Author Interview - Rajesh Konsam
Hello everybody,I hope you're having a great day. Today I have the pleasure of interviewing contemporary romance novelist, Rajesh Konsam.
PB: Hi Rajesh! Welcome to pjbermanbooks.com. Tell us a bit about your background.RK: Hi Peter! Thanks for the opportunity. pjbermanbooks.com is a cool site. As for my background, I come from a small state in India called Manipur. I’m passionate about reading and telling stories. Writing being my primary passion, my daytime job (software engineering) is also something that I enjoy. I dabble on poetry occasionally. I love working out at the gym on the weekends, but amid this COVID-19 lockdown, I settle with 4 a.m. jogs. PB: Thanks! I'm really glad you like the site. What made you decide to become an author?RK: I’m an expressive person, and I guess the desire to express my thoughts morphed into a story. I also feel that there’s a dearth of good representation of sensitive topics like mental health in books and movies. There’s a saying, “Write what you want to read and what hasn’t been written yet.” Maybe I’m trying my luck here.PB: When did you first start writing?RK: I’m a late bloomer when it comes to writing. My first real piece was written when I was in college. I guess I had a flair for short write-ups or modern poetry initially, but it was when the itch for storytelling kicked in that I started focusing on novels.PB: What was the first story that you can remember writing?RK: I think it was a vain attempt at writing fantasy. I remember cooking up a half-baked story about werewolf hunters, shapeshifters, mermaids and wizards. I don’t even remember where I kept it. As it was written on paper, I have lost it.PB: When you begin writing a new story, do you always know the ending?RK: I love this question. I always have a definite and well-planned ending for every story that I write. Even if I’m not fully sure about the final plot point, I ask myself these questions. Is it a sad ending or a happy one? What’s the final twist? Which character will meet a certain fate?Towards the middle of the book, I work on the foreshadowing and the initial denouement. I will make sure that as the story progresses, it will ultimately lead to that one event.I follow a template where the plot points follow this order: crisis, pre-climax, climax and afterthought.PB: If you could meet any of your characters, who would you meet, and what would you say to them?RK: I would like to meet Roshan from ‘Bittersweet’ and say as he goes through violent upheavals in life, I cannot solve his problems, but a pep-talk might prepare him for the worst in life.I would also love to meet a supporting character, Ragini, from the same novel, and tell her that it’s okay to have made bad decisions and that sometimes, owning our mistakes and moving forward is all we need in life.PB: Tell us more about your recent coming-of-age novel, Bittersweet.RK: ‘Bittersweet’ is a story about a group of young millennials, led by Roshan and Shanaya, who struggle to find footholds in the creative industries, as they tackle their first jobs, financial independence, second relationships, compromises, loss of identity and fear of failure.It is set in a fictional version of Mumbai, and focuses on the dreams, the disasters, the fear and the uncertainty of creative youngsters. The book is available on Amazon worldwide, and there is a Kindle version too.PB: Where did the idea come from?RK: I had a tough time as a college student. I was uncertain about my future and had this ‘noise’ in my head. At one point, I was convinced that I would do nothing substantial in my life. This fuelled me to write about the struggles of millennials albeit in a different setting.As a successful engineer and a novelist, I have now overcome that phase of my life, but I’m glad I ranted my feelings when it still mattered.PB: Of all your achievements, which are you most proud of?RK: It has to be the one where I get messages and emails from people telling me that ‘Bittersweet’ helped them cope through their own struggles.Whenever I read them, I ask myself a set of questions. ‘What kind of contribution do you want to give the world in the long run? What is it that you desire most in life?’PB: What is your favourite book series to read and why?RK: I took a chance on the 'The Remnant Chronicles' by Mary E. Pearson and love it for its fabulous plot twists, world building and beautiful prose.PB: What are your long-term ambitions with regards to writing?RK: In the future, I can see myself writing books in different genres. With short stories, I have dabbled with psychological thrillers and mysteries, and hence I would like to try writing novels in these genres. I am also dying to write a cyberpunk noir, but I guess, there’s still a lot for me to learn.PB: If you weren’t an author, what career would you be in?RK: I would have tried my hand at being a psychologist. This field intrigues me.
PB: What’s the next target for you?RK: I want to focus on writing about mental health in the next two years and spread awareness on it. Having a good readership on it is what I desire next.PB: That's a very noble cause. Finally, tell us a random fact about yourself.RK: I have learned to say ‘I love you’ in nine languages but have refrained (failed actually) from using any of those since college.Thank you to Rajesh Konsam for talking to us today and giving such and interesting and disarmingly candid interview. It's been fun!If you would like to purchase Bittersweet, you can do so via the link below:AmazonHappy reading!Peter
PB: Hi Rajesh! Welcome to pjbermanbooks.com. Tell us a bit about your background.RK: Hi Peter! Thanks for the opportunity. pjbermanbooks.com is a cool site. As for my background, I come from a small state in India called Manipur. I’m passionate about reading and telling stories. Writing being my primary passion, my daytime job (software engineering) is also something that I enjoy. I dabble on poetry occasionally. I love working out at the gym on the weekends, but amid this COVID-19 lockdown, I settle with 4 a.m. jogs. PB: Thanks! I'm really glad you like the site. What made you decide to become an author?RK: I’m an expressive person, and I guess the desire to express my thoughts morphed into a story. I also feel that there’s a dearth of good representation of sensitive topics like mental health in books and movies. There’s a saying, “Write what you want to read and what hasn’t been written yet.” Maybe I’m trying my luck here.PB: When did you first start writing?RK: I’m a late bloomer when it comes to writing. My first real piece was written when I was in college. I guess I had a flair for short write-ups or modern poetry initially, but it was when the itch for storytelling kicked in that I started focusing on novels.PB: What was the first story that you can remember writing?RK: I think it was a vain attempt at writing fantasy. I remember cooking up a half-baked story about werewolf hunters, shapeshifters, mermaids and wizards. I don’t even remember where I kept it. As it was written on paper, I have lost it.PB: When you begin writing a new story, do you always know the ending?RK: I love this question. I always have a definite and well-planned ending for every story that I write. Even if I’m not fully sure about the final plot point, I ask myself these questions. Is it a sad ending or a happy one? What’s the final twist? Which character will meet a certain fate?Towards the middle of the book, I work on the foreshadowing and the initial denouement. I will make sure that as the story progresses, it will ultimately lead to that one event.I follow a template where the plot points follow this order: crisis, pre-climax, climax and afterthought.PB: If you could meet any of your characters, who would you meet, and what would you say to them?RK: I would like to meet Roshan from ‘Bittersweet’ and say as he goes through violent upheavals in life, I cannot solve his problems, but a pep-talk might prepare him for the worst in life.I would also love to meet a supporting character, Ragini, from the same novel, and tell her that it’s okay to have made bad decisions and that sometimes, owning our mistakes and moving forward is all we need in life.PB: Tell us more about your recent coming-of-age novel, Bittersweet.RK: ‘Bittersweet’ is a story about a group of young millennials, led by Roshan and Shanaya, who struggle to find footholds in the creative industries, as they tackle their first jobs, financial independence, second relationships, compromises, loss of identity and fear of failure.It is set in a fictional version of Mumbai, and focuses on the dreams, the disasters, the fear and the uncertainty of creative youngsters. The book is available on Amazon worldwide, and there is a Kindle version too.PB: Where did the idea come from?RK: I had a tough time as a college student. I was uncertain about my future and had this ‘noise’ in my head. At one point, I was convinced that I would do nothing substantial in my life. This fuelled me to write about the struggles of millennials albeit in a different setting.As a successful engineer and a novelist, I have now overcome that phase of my life, but I’m glad I ranted my feelings when it still mattered.PB: Of all your achievements, which are you most proud of?RK: It has to be the one where I get messages and emails from people telling me that ‘Bittersweet’ helped them cope through their own struggles.Whenever I read them, I ask myself a set of questions. ‘What kind of contribution do you want to give the world in the long run? What is it that you desire most in life?’PB: What is your favourite book series to read and why?RK: I took a chance on the 'The Remnant Chronicles' by Mary E. Pearson and love it for its fabulous plot twists, world building and beautiful prose.PB: What are your long-term ambitions with regards to writing?RK: In the future, I can see myself writing books in different genres. With short stories, I have dabbled with psychological thrillers and mysteries, and hence I would like to try writing novels in these genres. I am also dying to write a cyberpunk noir, but I guess, there’s still a lot for me to learn.PB: If you weren’t an author, what career would you be in?RK: I would have tried my hand at being a psychologist. This field intrigues me.PB: What’s the next target for you?RK: I want to focus on writing about mental health in the next two years and spread awareness on it. Having a good readership on it is what I desire next.PB: That's a very noble cause. Finally, tell us a random fact about yourself.RK: I have learned to say ‘I love you’ in nine languages but have refrained (failed actually) from using any of those since college.Thank you to Rajesh Konsam for talking to us today and giving such and interesting and disarmingly candid interview. It's been fun!If you would like to purchase Bittersweet, you can do so via the link below:AmazonHappy reading!Peter
June 11, 2020
Author Interview - Anjum Awasthi Malik
Hello all!It's time for another author interview, and today our brave interrogation subject is Indian romance author, Anjum Awasthi Malik!
PB: Hi! Welcome to pjbermanbooks.com. Tell us a bit about your background.AAM: My name is Anjum. I grew up in Punjab, India. At present, I am residing in Noida. I am an engineering postgraduate. Presently I am a full-time mom and part-time author. So far, I have written three books, and currently, I am working on my next.PB: What made you decide to become an author?AAM: I had this weird habit of imagining stories since I was young. Just one anecdote of conversation on my ear was enough to initiate a full story. I never told anyone because I found it abnormal. I mean, who carries imaginary people and their problems in their head? It never occurred to me that I could pen them down too. The first spark of writing the book began when I started reading, which was about five years ago, but still, I could not muster the courage to follow that path. Having studied technical books most of my life; it was not something I was supposed to do. Was it? At least, that's what I thought then. One day I came across an interview of a famous writer who had the same habit of imagining stories, and to get rid of them he started writing them. It's then I realized that it was a trait of a storyteller and not an abnormality. I decided to give it a try.PB: When did you first start writing?AAM: I started writing my first book in 2017, and it took me around 6 months to complete the book.PB: What was the first story that you can remember writing?AAM: 'The Twist of Fate', my first book, was the first story that I had penned down. Before that, I only wrote poems.PB: When you begin writing a new novel, do you always know the ending?AAM: In the beginning, I do have inkling about how the story will end, but when I reach a point in the story where characters get their own mind, I lose the control, and then it is the characters that start leading me towards an end. PB: If you could meet any of your characters, who would you meet, and what would you say to them?AAM: I think I have already met all the characters in my head and also had long conversations with them. Much more than what is reflected in the actual book. They may be fictitious for the readers but they are as real as the people around me.PB: Where did the idea for this series come from?AAM: As I said earlier, I had the habit of weaving stories. Once I watched an upcoming movie’s trailer and concocted the story in my head. When I actually watched the movie, I told my husband that the story in my mind was way better than the actual one. He jokingly told me, "Why don't you write it then?" That’s how the seed of ‘The Twist of Fate’ was planted.PB: Tell us about your recent novel, Those Eight Hours with Her.AAM: Sometimes when we are going through a lousy phase in life, we meet someone who says or do something that changes our perspective towards our current situation. This is the idea behind this story. It doesn't matter how much time we spend with someone, sometimes a moment is enough to alter lives.PB: Of all your achievements, which are you most proud of?AAM: The day I became mother, that’s the moment I am most proud of. You might laugh, but that was the only moment when I felt like I have done something that no one else has ever done.PB: Don't worry, as a father myself, I know what a special day that is! You've brought a totally unique human being into the world. It's a beautiful experience. But I digress. What is your favourite book series to read and why?AAM: It’s so difficult to choose one when there are so many wonderful books. I am not very fussy when it comes to books. I mostly read fiction. Give me a well written and engaging story, and I will end up liking it. I like reading stories that portray the true emotions and the situation where I can imagine myself. It forces me to think about how I would have reacted if met with the same kind of circumstances. There are plenty of books that had made me think that way.PB: What are your long term ambitions with regards to writing?AAM: After my first book, I never thought I would write the second. But my readers’ response to my first made me write another story. To be frank, it’s new territory for me and I am just going with the flow for now. I have no idea where I would be in future as a writer, but I do know that I still have several stories in my mind, and I plan to write them all.PB: If you weren’t an author, what career would you be in?AAM: I am an engineer by profession, and writing is my hobby. I do not see writing as my profession, because writing is my way of releasing emotions and I want to keep it that way. I know, the moment I start seeing it as my profession, I will start finding another way to release stress.PB: What’s the next target for you?AAM: Currently, I am working on two books. One is the part two of 'Those Eight Hours with Her', which I am writing from villain's POV and I am quite excited for this one. The other one is mystery/romance.PB: Tell us a random fact about yourself.AAM: I am quite resilient; I take pleasure in everything I do. But I am also fickle, once things get monotonous, I start getting bored. I enjoy everything that keeps me close to creativity, but nothing can hold me for long. Sometimes I like this tendency of mine because it makes me explore different fields, but sometimes it irritates me too.Thank you so much to Anjum Awasthi Malik for talking to us here at pjbermanbooks.com today!If you would like to purchase any of Anjum's books, you can do so here:AmazonInstagramTwitterGoodreadsFacebookUntil next time, happy reading everyone!Peter
PB: Hi! Welcome to pjbermanbooks.com. Tell us a bit about your background.AAM: My name is Anjum. I grew up in Punjab, India. At present, I am residing in Noida. I am an engineering postgraduate. Presently I am a full-time mom and part-time author. So far, I have written three books, and currently, I am working on my next.PB: What made you decide to become an author?AAM: I had this weird habit of imagining stories since I was young. Just one anecdote of conversation on my ear was enough to initiate a full story. I never told anyone because I found it abnormal. I mean, who carries imaginary people and their problems in their head? It never occurred to me that I could pen them down too. The first spark of writing the book began when I started reading, which was about five years ago, but still, I could not muster the courage to follow that path. Having studied technical books most of my life; it was not something I was supposed to do. Was it? At least, that's what I thought then. One day I came across an interview of a famous writer who had the same habit of imagining stories, and to get rid of them he started writing them. It's then I realized that it was a trait of a storyteller and not an abnormality. I decided to give it a try.PB: When did you first start writing?AAM: I started writing my first book in 2017, and it took me around 6 months to complete the book.PB: What was the first story that you can remember writing?AAM: 'The Twist of Fate', my first book, was the first story that I had penned down. Before that, I only wrote poems.PB: When you begin writing a new novel, do you always know the ending?AAM: In the beginning, I do have inkling about how the story will end, but when I reach a point in the story where characters get their own mind, I lose the control, and then it is the characters that start leading me towards an end. PB: If you could meet any of your characters, who would you meet, and what would you say to them?AAM: I think I have already met all the characters in my head and also had long conversations with them. Much more than what is reflected in the actual book. They may be fictitious for the readers but they are as real as the people around me.PB: Where did the idea for this series come from?AAM: As I said earlier, I had the habit of weaving stories. Once I watched an upcoming movie’s trailer and concocted the story in my head. When I actually watched the movie, I told my husband that the story in my mind was way better than the actual one. He jokingly told me, "Why don't you write it then?" That’s how the seed of ‘The Twist of Fate’ was planted.PB: Tell us about your recent novel, Those Eight Hours with Her.AAM: Sometimes when we are going through a lousy phase in life, we meet someone who says or do something that changes our perspective towards our current situation. This is the idea behind this story. It doesn't matter how much time we spend with someone, sometimes a moment is enough to alter lives.PB: Of all your achievements, which are you most proud of?AAM: The day I became mother, that’s the moment I am most proud of. You might laugh, but that was the only moment when I felt like I have done something that no one else has ever done.PB: Don't worry, as a father myself, I know what a special day that is! You've brought a totally unique human being into the world. It's a beautiful experience. But I digress. What is your favourite book series to read and why?AAM: It’s so difficult to choose one when there are so many wonderful books. I am not very fussy when it comes to books. I mostly read fiction. Give me a well written and engaging story, and I will end up liking it. I like reading stories that portray the true emotions and the situation where I can imagine myself. It forces me to think about how I would have reacted if met with the same kind of circumstances. There are plenty of books that had made me think that way.PB: What are your long term ambitions with regards to writing?AAM: After my first book, I never thought I would write the second. But my readers’ response to my first made me write another story. To be frank, it’s new territory for me and I am just going with the flow for now. I have no idea where I would be in future as a writer, but I do know that I still have several stories in my mind, and I plan to write them all.PB: If you weren’t an author, what career would you be in?AAM: I am an engineer by profession, and writing is my hobby. I do not see writing as my profession, because writing is my way of releasing emotions and I want to keep it that way. I know, the moment I start seeing it as my profession, I will start finding another way to release stress.PB: What’s the next target for you?AAM: Currently, I am working on two books. One is the part two of 'Those Eight Hours with Her', which I am writing from villain's POV and I am quite excited for this one. The other one is mystery/romance.PB: Tell us a random fact about yourself.AAM: I am quite resilient; I take pleasure in everything I do. But I am also fickle, once things get monotonous, I start getting bored. I enjoy everything that keeps me close to creativity, but nothing can hold me for long. Sometimes I like this tendency of mine because it makes me explore different fields, but sometimes it irritates me too.Thank you so much to Anjum Awasthi Malik for talking to us here at pjbermanbooks.com today!If you would like to purchase any of Anjum's books, you can do so here:AmazonInstagramTwitterGoodreadsFacebookUntil next time, happy reading everyone!Peter
June 7, 2020
Author Interview - Lane Mochow
Hello everyone,I hope you are all having a good week. Today's interview is with poet Lane Mochow.PB: Hi Lane! Welcome to pjbermanbooks.com. Tell us a bit about your background. 
LM: I am a poet attending Tennessee Technological University majoring in Journalism with minors in Sociology and Fine Arts.PB: What made you decide to become a poet?LM: I love the way poets use language to express ideas. I originally started writing because a friend from high school was in a writing club at school, and I wanted to hang out with her, so I started showing up. I loved the free-writes, and it made me want to pursue writing as a career.PB: When did you first start writing?LM: I first started writing my freshman year of high school when we were assigned to write short stories and poetry to express our interpretations of the novels we read (books such as the Odyssey, and Macbeth).PB: What was the first poem that you can remember writing?LM: I don’t remember all the lines, but it was a rhyming poem that somewhere had “little boys in dirty flack jackets”. It spoke about the idea of transcending the physical to reach nirvana, an idea I latched onto from my World History class.PB: Tell us a bit about your writing process.LM: The writing process is different for every person and every poem they write. For me, I experience something, be it love, depression, or something strange that happened, and just pour my heart out onto the page. Sometimes it includes line breaks, other times I wait and add them after. I wait a day or two, and then make more edits.PB: Tell us about your recent book. Where did the idea come from?LM: I started out having my poetry featured in Tennessee Magazine. Then one day I realized I had over fifty poems, and with the prodding of my friend’s mom Julie, I began to piece together the chapbook. She and I worked and reworked it, looking for spelling errors and clarifying ideas before “Ink” took its final form. It took over a year to find a publisher, and I couldn’t be happier with Poetic Justice Press. They gave me the freedom to design my book pretty much however I felt needed, and worked with me on fitting the longer lines into the page format.PB: How would you describe it to someone who hasn’t read it yet?LM: Ink is a self-reflective commentary on life. It covers mental illness primarily, with love and identity poems sprinkled in.PB: Of all the poems you have written, which is the most special to you?LM: I would say it is “I Came So Close”. The poem is simple, yet (at least for me) poignant. IT talks about the duality of loving someone and feeling emptiness so bad you feel as though death is your only choice. I’m not in that place anymore, thank goodness, but it is a reminder of everything I’ve powered through to find the place I am now.'I Came So Close'I came so closeTo deathTying the noose-knotWhite knuckled, but resolutePraying to God for it to end.To loveTying the marital knotSwelling in my chest,Praying to God for it to last.To think that the same hands that held himHeld the rope,Dropped the rope,Called my father.Really puts things into perspective.PB: Thought provoking stuff. Of all your achievements, which are you most proud of?LM: I would say I am most proud of publishing a book. It was a labor of love, and I am ecstatic with the way it turned out.PB: Who are your favourite poets?LM: I love so many poets, but three of my favorites are Rupi Kaur, John Ashbury, and Andrea Gibson. Rupi Kaur writes concretely and in a way anyone can relate to about what it Is like to be a woman in the 21st century. Conversely, John Ashbury uses complexity to make the reader sit and break down line by line what the author is trying to express. Andrea Gibson is a spoken word poet that uses powerful language to make the listener feel the emotions she feels.PB: What are your long term ambitions with regards to writing?LM: Professionally, I want to be an online journalist that gives voices to LGBTQ+ issues. Personally, I want to keep writing poetry that moves people, makes them feel what I am going through, and gives them someone to relate to. I want people to think “Yeah, that is exactly how that feels.”PB: If you weren’t an author, what career would you be in?LM: As I stated earlier, my goal is to be a journalist. I enjoy making art on the side. I may not be professional – grade, but you don’t have to be exceptional at something to enjoy it.PB: What’s the next target for you?LM: I am currently working on a full-length poetry book titled “Quill”. There will be three main sections: Feather, Carving, and Quill. The metaphor is that as the feather becomes the quill, so am I becoming a better version of myself.PB: Tell us a random fact about yourself.LM: I have hiked 69 miles of the Appalachian Trail with my fiancé, and plan to continue hiking for 5 more days in August (if COVID-19 dies down of course).We can only hope that things return to normal soon. What a great achievement doing all that hiking too!Thank you so much to Lane Mochow for talking to us today. If you would like to find out more about him or purchase his work, you can do so via the below links:InstagramAmazonUntil next time, happy reading everyone!Peter
LM: I am a poet attending Tennessee Technological University majoring in Journalism with minors in Sociology and Fine Arts.PB: What made you decide to become a poet?LM: I love the way poets use language to express ideas. I originally started writing because a friend from high school was in a writing club at school, and I wanted to hang out with her, so I started showing up. I loved the free-writes, and it made me want to pursue writing as a career.PB: When did you first start writing?LM: I first started writing my freshman year of high school when we were assigned to write short stories and poetry to express our interpretations of the novels we read (books such as the Odyssey, and Macbeth).PB: What was the first poem that you can remember writing?LM: I don’t remember all the lines, but it was a rhyming poem that somewhere had “little boys in dirty flack jackets”. It spoke about the idea of transcending the physical to reach nirvana, an idea I latched onto from my World History class.PB: Tell us a bit about your writing process.LM: The writing process is different for every person and every poem they write. For me, I experience something, be it love, depression, or something strange that happened, and just pour my heart out onto the page. Sometimes it includes line breaks, other times I wait and add them after. I wait a day or two, and then make more edits.PB: Tell us about your recent book. Where did the idea come from?LM: I started out having my poetry featured in Tennessee Magazine. Then one day I realized I had over fifty poems, and with the prodding of my friend’s mom Julie, I began to piece together the chapbook. She and I worked and reworked it, looking for spelling errors and clarifying ideas before “Ink” took its final form. It took over a year to find a publisher, and I couldn’t be happier with Poetic Justice Press. They gave me the freedom to design my book pretty much however I felt needed, and worked with me on fitting the longer lines into the page format.PB: How would you describe it to someone who hasn’t read it yet?LM: Ink is a self-reflective commentary on life. It covers mental illness primarily, with love and identity poems sprinkled in.PB: Of all the poems you have written, which is the most special to you?LM: I would say it is “I Came So Close”. The poem is simple, yet (at least for me) poignant. IT talks about the duality of loving someone and feeling emptiness so bad you feel as though death is your only choice. I’m not in that place anymore, thank goodness, but it is a reminder of everything I’ve powered through to find the place I am now.'I Came So Close'I came so closeTo deathTying the noose-knotWhite knuckled, but resolutePraying to God for it to end.To loveTying the marital knotSwelling in my chest,Praying to God for it to last.To think that the same hands that held himHeld the rope,Dropped the rope,Called my father.Really puts things into perspective.PB: Thought provoking stuff. Of all your achievements, which are you most proud of?LM: I would say I am most proud of publishing a book. It was a labor of love, and I am ecstatic with the way it turned out.PB: Who are your favourite poets?LM: I love so many poets, but three of my favorites are Rupi Kaur, John Ashbury, and Andrea Gibson. Rupi Kaur writes concretely and in a way anyone can relate to about what it Is like to be a woman in the 21st century. Conversely, John Ashbury uses complexity to make the reader sit and break down line by line what the author is trying to express. Andrea Gibson is a spoken word poet that uses powerful language to make the listener feel the emotions she feels.PB: What are your long term ambitions with regards to writing?LM: Professionally, I want to be an online journalist that gives voices to LGBTQ+ issues. Personally, I want to keep writing poetry that moves people, makes them feel what I am going through, and gives them someone to relate to. I want people to think “Yeah, that is exactly how that feels.”PB: If you weren’t an author, what career would you be in?LM: As I stated earlier, my goal is to be a journalist. I enjoy making art on the side. I may not be professional – grade, but you don’t have to be exceptional at something to enjoy it.PB: What’s the next target for you?LM: I am currently working on a full-length poetry book titled “Quill”. There will be three main sections: Feather, Carving, and Quill. The metaphor is that as the feather becomes the quill, so am I becoming a better version of myself.PB: Tell us a random fact about yourself.LM: I have hiked 69 miles of the Appalachian Trail with my fiancé, and plan to continue hiking for 5 more days in August (if COVID-19 dies down of course).We can only hope that things return to normal soon. What a great achievement doing all that hiking too!Thank you so much to Lane Mochow for talking to us today. If you would like to find out more about him or purchase his work, you can do so via the below links:InstagramAmazonUntil next time, happy reading everyone!Peter
June 5, 2020
King of the Republic Video Review by Therese Caruana
Hello everyone,Today I had the pleasure of viewing a wonderful video review of King of the Republic by fantasy author Therese Caruana.
To watch the video, follow the link below:YoutubeIf you haven't read the book yet, I sure hope this review convinces you to do so. You won't be disappointed!All the best,Peter
To watch the video, follow the link below:YoutubeIf you haven't read the book yet, I sure hope this review convinces you to do so. You won't be disappointed!All the best,Peter
June 4, 2020
Author Interview - Bina Pillai
Hello all,It's time for another interview, and today we are meeting Indian novelist, Bina Pillai.PB: Hello Bina! Welcome to pjbermanbooks.com. Tell us a bit about your background. 
BP: I was born in Trivandrum (Kerala) but I was brought up in Chennai (Tamilnadu), and New-Delhi. I am an alumnus of Good Shepherd Convent (Chennai) and Lady ShriRam college(New-Delhi). I had distinction in Economics in my first year of college, and I was in awe of my father. He loved art and culture which he inculcated in me.I was married off against my wishes at the age of 18 years, in the middle of my second year to a man 10 years older.However, that did not deter me from following my passion. I was not able to graduate but held senior positions in corporates, managed a library and I have been a crusader for social issues.I have been a committee member of our Housing society for eight years looking after facility management. I have two lovely children and three grand-children. My daughter graduated in Electronics Engineering, but passionate about teaching. She teaches Maths and Physics.My son has done an MBA, and is a private banker in a multinational bank.I was the citizen journalist on CNNIBN in 2008, because I wanted to create awareness about the lack of schools for Dyslexic children. My grandson is Dyslexic. I was delighted when I got a good school for children with Learning Difficulty next to my house three years later.I love cooking, painting, teaching, gardening, nature, photography, interior-designing, event management, and travelling. I have travelled widely and I enjoy learning about different cultures and traditions.PB: What made you decide to become an author?BP: I had a dream as a teenager to be an author someday. I was involved with my family and I didn’t get time to write but I didn’t give up. I thought I will write once I retire.PB: When did you first start writing?BP: Life has its own twists and turns so I was taken by surprise when I was diagnosed with Angina and 5 blocks in 2014. I was sixty years old, and had a By-pass surgery when I was not allowed to do most activities, and I seized that opportunity to write.PB: What was the first story that you can remember writing?BP: My first stint with writing was in 1969 when I was fifteen years old. I had written about women empowerment and sent it to the weekly magazine ‘Femina.’ It was returned back with a small message. “It’s written well but we are unable to accept the article as it is too ahead of times.”
I used to note down random thoughts in my diary. I remember writing about Amitabh Bachchan after seeing his first movie, Anand, how he would become a successful hero, and reign for a long time which would end the career graph of the superstar Rajesh Khanna. At the same time, I had also written about the Indian economy.Later, I wrote snippets on face book and gained confidence, when I had many followers who would appreciate my inspirational messages.PB: When you begin writing a new story, do you always know the ending?BP; The first thing I do is decide how I would begin my story and what would be the scene. Then I decide on the title of all the chapters and I write the story according to what fits into each chapter. Once all the chapters are decided I know the end. This way it becomes easy for me to maintain the perennial flow till the end of the story, and I do not need an editor to do that for me. However, I do need a good editor to edit my story because when your thoughts flow, and when you write around 80,000 words you can miss out on many intricate details and your grammar.PB: I know the feeling! I can relate to that. If you could meet any of your characters, who would you meet, and what would you say to them?BP: I would express my love to Arjun for taking that one decision which changed her life in Under The Mango Tree.PB: Where did the idea for come from?BP: Under The Mango Tree is inspired by my own life and the people around me. It’s partly biography, and I had to weave a story to make it thrilling for our readers. The book is set in an abusive marriage and chronicles Diya's strenuous journey from her teens to her sixties. It talks about the mental strength of a woman, as she fights hard to keep her spirit intact through it all, and becomes a winner with one mantra ‘I CAN.’ Its available on Amazon.PB: Tell us about your writing process.BP: I write every day when I feel at peace and my home is surrounded my nature. When I look around and see the beautiful hills, flowers, and the clear blue water, words flow from my heart. I wrote twenty thousand words of ‘Under the Mango Tree’ when I thought I should do a creative writing course. Two weeks later, I meet an author who was staying in our building but I had no clue she was conducting courses on Creative writing. So I got the opportunity to do this course. It was for a duration of six months, and while doing this course I wrote my poetry book, “Lyrical Rhythms of My Heart.” Till then I had not written poetry though I loved poetry during my school days.PB: Of all your achievements, which are you most proud of?BP: I became an author and fulfilled my dream. I won two awards for my poetry book. “Under The Mango Tree” is doing well and has got exceptional reviews.I hoisted the Indian national flag in August 2019 which was another dream I had, because my grand-father was a well-known public figure in Kerala and I wanted to be a bit like him.PB: What is your favourite book series to read and why?BP: I love reading fiction, thrillers, philosophy and self-help books. Fiction with a happy ending, sometimes you like to read stories which at the end of it brings a smile on our lips. Thrillers are intriguing and I love adventure and mystery. Self-help books helps me to become a better person. I love philosophy -our mind is mysterious, and I believe our mind is powerful.PB: What are your long term ambitions with regards to writing?BP: I want to write till I have life in me. I have two books in the pipeline. One is ‘Nuggets of Wisdom’ – a collection of short stories and ‘Mystical Dew-drops’(poetry). I'm an Associate editor for the Journal of Asian Art, Culture and literature.PB: If you weren’t an author, what career would you be in? 
BP: I would be a doctor or a counsellor. My son would often says I would have been an asset for the CBI or CIDJ.PB: What’s the next target for you?BP: The next target is to get my book of short stories published.PB: Tell us a random fact about yourself.BP: I keep my word and my strength is integrity. I feel very happy when people trust me completely. When I say NO everyone knows it means NO. I can laugh loudly even if they are laughing at me. I’m very intuitive, and I can read another’s mind.Thank you so much to Bina Pillai for taking the time to speak to us today! Don't forget, if you would like to purchase a copy of Under the Mango Tree, you can do so here:AmazonInstagramHappy reading!Peter
BP: I was born in Trivandrum (Kerala) but I was brought up in Chennai (Tamilnadu), and New-Delhi. I am an alumnus of Good Shepherd Convent (Chennai) and Lady ShriRam college(New-Delhi). I had distinction in Economics in my first year of college, and I was in awe of my father. He loved art and culture which he inculcated in me.I was married off against my wishes at the age of 18 years, in the middle of my second year to a man 10 years older.However, that did not deter me from following my passion. I was not able to graduate but held senior positions in corporates, managed a library and I have been a crusader for social issues.I have been a committee member of our Housing society for eight years looking after facility management. I have two lovely children and three grand-children. My daughter graduated in Electronics Engineering, but passionate about teaching. She teaches Maths and Physics.My son has done an MBA, and is a private banker in a multinational bank.I was the citizen journalist on CNNIBN in 2008, because I wanted to create awareness about the lack of schools for Dyslexic children. My grandson is Dyslexic. I was delighted when I got a good school for children with Learning Difficulty next to my house three years later.I love cooking, painting, teaching, gardening, nature, photography, interior-designing, event management, and travelling. I have travelled widely and I enjoy learning about different cultures and traditions.PB: What made you decide to become an author?BP: I had a dream as a teenager to be an author someday. I was involved with my family and I didn’t get time to write but I didn’t give up. I thought I will write once I retire.PB: When did you first start writing?BP: Life has its own twists and turns so I was taken by surprise when I was diagnosed with Angina and 5 blocks in 2014. I was sixty years old, and had a By-pass surgery when I was not allowed to do most activities, and I seized that opportunity to write.PB: What was the first story that you can remember writing?BP: My first stint with writing was in 1969 when I was fifteen years old. I had written about women empowerment and sent it to the weekly magazine ‘Femina.’ It was returned back with a small message. “It’s written well but we are unable to accept the article as it is too ahead of times.”I used to note down random thoughts in my diary. I remember writing about Amitabh Bachchan after seeing his first movie, Anand, how he would become a successful hero, and reign for a long time which would end the career graph of the superstar Rajesh Khanna. At the same time, I had also written about the Indian economy.Later, I wrote snippets on face book and gained confidence, when I had many followers who would appreciate my inspirational messages.PB: When you begin writing a new story, do you always know the ending?BP; The first thing I do is decide how I would begin my story and what would be the scene. Then I decide on the title of all the chapters and I write the story according to what fits into each chapter. Once all the chapters are decided I know the end. This way it becomes easy for me to maintain the perennial flow till the end of the story, and I do not need an editor to do that for me. However, I do need a good editor to edit my story because when your thoughts flow, and when you write around 80,000 words you can miss out on many intricate details and your grammar.PB: I know the feeling! I can relate to that. If you could meet any of your characters, who would you meet, and what would you say to them?BP: I would express my love to Arjun for taking that one decision which changed her life in Under The Mango Tree.PB: Where did the idea for come from?BP: Under The Mango Tree is inspired by my own life and the people around me. It’s partly biography, and I had to weave a story to make it thrilling for our readers. The book is set in an abusive marriage and chronicles Diya's strenuous journey from her teens to her sixties. It talks about the mental strength of a woman, as she fights hard to keep her spirit intact through it all, and becomes a winner with one mantra ‘I CAN.’ Its available on Amazon.PB: Tell us about your writing process.BP: I write every day when I feel at peace and my home is surrounded my nature. When I look around and see the beautiful hills, flowers, and the clear blue water, words flow from my heart. I wrote twenty thousand words of ‘Under the Mango Tree’ when I thought I should do a creative writing course. Two weeks later, I meet an author who was staying in our building but I had no clue she was conducting courses on Creative writing. So I got the opportunity to do this course. It was for a duration of six months, and while doing this course I wrote my poetry book, “Lyrical Rhythms of My Heart.” Till then I had not written poetry though I loved poetry during my school days.PB: Of all your achievements, which are you most proud of?BP: I became an author and fulfilled my dream. I won two awards for my poetry book. “Under The Mango Tree” is doing well and has got exceptional reviews.I hoisted the Indian national flag in August 2019 which was another dream I had, because my grand-father was a well-known public figure in Kerala and I wanted to be a bit like him.PB: What is your favourite book series to read and why?BP: I love reading fiction, thrillers, philosophy and self-help books. Fiction with a happy ending, sometimes you like to read stories which at the end of it brings a smile on our lips. Thrillers are intriguing and I love adventure and mystery. Self-help books helps me to become a better person. I love philosophy -our mind is mysterious, and I believe our mind is powerful.PB: What are your long term ambitions with regards to writing?BP: I want to write till I have life in me. I have two books in the pipeline. One is ‘Nuggets of Wisdom’ – a collection of short stories and ‘Mystical Dew-drops’(poetry). I'm an Associate editor for the Journal of Asian Art, Culture and literature.PB: If you weren’t an author, what career would you be in? BP: I would be a doctor or a counsellor. My son would often says I would have been an asset for the CBI or CIDJ.PB: What’s the next target for you?BP: The next target is to get my book of short stories published.PB: Tell us a random fact about yourself.BP: I keep my word and my strength is integrity. I feel very happy when people trust me completely. When I say NO everyone knows it means NO. I can laugh loudly even if they are laughing at me. I’m very intuitive, and I can read another’s mind.Thank you so much to Bina Pillai for taking the time to speak to us today! Don't forget, if you would like to purchase a copy of Under the Mango Tree, you can do so here:AmazonInstagramHappy reading!Peter
