C.J. Ives Lopez's Blog, page 10

Author Interview – R. Janet Walraven

R. Janet Walraven, M.Ed., is a retired 35-year teacher, K-12, and we had the pleasure of having this author interview – R. Janet Walraven for our blog. Check out this fantastic author and follow them for more amazing stories.

R. Janet Walraven, M.Ed., is a retired 35-year teacher, K-12. She is passionate about writing, gardening, children of all ages, art, the Ravens football team, and collecting ornamental hedgehogs from around the world. She writes in various genres.

Janet received a second-place award for Mainstream Short Story, A Deeper Wave, from Southwest Writers 2001 Contest. This gave her the confidence and incentive to continue writing. Connect for Classroom Success won a Silver Award with Readers’ Favorite International Book Awards (2022).

https://www.facebook.com/janetwalraven

Rainbow of Promise: A World War II Romance won The Loyal Lyre Award (2019, Historical Fiction). Hector and Heloise in Paris (2022) is her first children’s book, encouraging children of all ages to visit the Louvre and the great museums of the world.

https://www.facebook.com/janetwalraven

Her most recent book is Liam: The Boy Who Saw the World Upside Down (Narrative Non-Fiction, 2023). Janet enjoys meeting readers at book signings and traveling in Europe, Canada, and Mexico. She has three essays posted on Our Grandfathers’ Grain Elevators website. Her dad built the cement plant in Tijeras Canyon/Albuquerque (1958), and her parents owned The Texas Ann Motel (1958-1972), two blocks from Old Town, where McDonald’s is now.

https://ilovelucyandricky.fandom.com/wiki/Ethel%27s_Home_Town (Learn more about The Texas Ann Motel)

Having moved 79 times, she has decided to call New Mexico her home. She and her significant other, Mal Johnson, love adventures in The Land of Enchantment. Mal is her best critic and supporter.

When did you start writing?

I began writing in high school–mostly poetry. My serious writing came about in my early twenties after my father passed. I wrote the story of his untimely and questionable death and won a second-place award with Southwest Writers. That gave me the confidence to write for publishing.

What was it like growing up?

My father was a construction superintendent building mostly grain elevators; we moved 52 times all over the USA by the time I was a senior in high school. My mother considered it a great adventure, making her a wonderful teammate for my father. Changing schools and saying goodbye to friends was rather challenging. Fortunately, my two sisters and I were loved unconditionally by our excellent role-model parents–a tight-knit family.

How was your early life?

My grandmother lived in Bison, Kansas, so going “home” to Grandma’s was cherished. Moving an average of every eight months, I envied kids who lived in one place, making lifelong friends, and having that kind of stability. But my parents made up for it in many ways. We were exposed to many different cultures, and dialects, good and not-so-good teachers, and exciting adventures, and were blessed with learning always being encouraged.

What has been the biggest influence in your career?

The biggest influence in my 35 years of teaching was the student I wrote about in my recent book LIAM. Because he had been marginalized all of his life and was brought to me for a safe haven from bullying, I learned from him how important it is to truly connect with each individual student. He made a difference in my approach as an educator, and I am grateful.

Before that, I had several excellent teachers who role-modeled for me. Teaching is a challenging profession; I am grateful for those who influenced my choice of a career. My parents were instrumental in holding education standards very high; learning was of paramount importance.

Tell us about your newest release?

LIAM: The Boy Who Saw the World Upside Down is probably the most important book I’ll ever write. It’s a companion book to my first book Connect for Classroom Success. My mission is to help teachers find joy in teaching, thereby helping students find joy in learning. Liam came to me in 8th grade, having been labeled as “mentally retarded” and had been bullied all of his life. I was not a special education teacher so that became quite a challenge to decide how to handle the situation.

https://www.facebook.com/janetwalraven

The book takes me through that year and subsequent years, showing my own struggle as well as learning what I needed to do to realize Liam’s potential. It’s quite a story that gives hope to parents, children, and teachers who understand what marginalization can do to a child, and what can be done to help that child be successful.

Which book of yours would you call your favorite child?

Rainbow of Promise: A World War II Romance

What inspired you to write this book?

I wrote my parents’ love story as a legacy for my family, and for those who grew up with depression-era parents and fathers who were sent overseas during WWII. My parents had quite the chemistry and worked through many challenges, including my dad being sent to Europe near the end of WWII. My parents loved to dance so I incorporated many early 1940s songs into the story’s context. I very much immersed myself in the writing, doing a lot of research, recalling stories my parents told me, and being “in their heads” when writing their dialogue. I have to smile just thinking about what a joy it was to write their romantic story.

What are you usually found doing when you’re not writing?

I love to travel, garden, and read various genres. I also enjoy readings and book signings as well as participating in podcasts.

What does your writing space look like?

“Come into my parlor” is how I identify my very special place to write. I have a lovely cherrywood desk, bookcase, credenza, and small file cabinet. My stereo provides background music while I write. I look out through a large window, half of which is covered in a beautiful stained glass floral pattern. When I’m ruminating about my writing, I look out to a golden rose bush and privacy provided by a huge trumpet vine. I often get lost in time when “in the writing zone” and need to set a timer to remind me when to stop.

If you wrote your autobiography, what would you name it?

That’s a tough question. Maybe… “The Call of the Raven” … maybe.

How long did it take to write your novel, and what was your process?

I wrote short pieces on and off for my first book while I was still teaching. After retiring, I made writing my first priority, so I completed it in one year. After that, I’ve published a book each year. Each book has had a unique process.

My teacher-mentor book was full of true stories that took time to recall and be as authentic as possible. LIAM was in my head for many years; I lost contact with him and finally reconnected through a serious search. That, again, was my wanting to be as truthful as possible. I like writing dialogue to show what’s happening rather than simply telling a story.

My children’s book was the idea of my artist uncle, who wanted to illustrate a story about hedgehogs sneaking into the Louvre. Unfortunately, he passed suddenly. Because I wanted to complete the project in remembrance of him, a very good friend offered to do the illustrations based on the story I wrote. The goal is to motivate children to want to experience the great museums of the world.

https://www.facebook.com/janetwalraven

I never outline, though I sometimes need to make a timeline. I type very fast when I’m writing. The story often dictates to me as I write; I find that amazing, especially when introducing a new character whose name comes to me, and I don’t know how. It’s a wonderful feeling. As an English teacher, I know how to edit, but I’ve learned that I need Beta readers. I work with three people who are excellent at telling me what I need to “fix.” I appreciate that.

After dozens of edits, I have a photo-artist friend who helps me design the cover. Then I turn it over to a formatter who also finishes the interior and completes the cover design. Many details are required for publishing after the book is written. Most readers who’ve never written or published a book have no idea the stick-to-it-iveness that’s required. I love writing and don’t mind the editing process. I endure the rest of what it takes, including the hours and costs of marketing. I stick to my budget. I have no motivation to get rich or famous as a writer; I simply want readers to enjoy my books. That’s gratifying.

Favorite reads?

My most recent read is Boo Walker’s books, especially the Red Mountain series; he’s an amazing writer. Ann Boelter’s Viking Treasure Huntress series is a wonderful adventure. I often journal self-help books to keep centered, e.g. Joseph Campbell, Eckhart Tolle, John Bradshaw. Patrick Greenwood’s “Sunrise in Saigon“; Janis Wildy “The English Bookshop“; Debbie Seagle makes me laugh out loud; Stephanie Nici; Joy Castro; Laurie Wilhite’s “Paddle to the Pacific.:

My most inspirational books are by Wallace Stegner. How I would have loved to be in his writing classes at Stanford. And of course, almost all of the Classics; I grew up on those and taught many of them K-12.

Do you have any book recommendations?

I write a review for every book that I can give at least four stars. That’s very important to authors. Currently, my favorite recommendations are “Nena” and “Fiona” by Ann Boelter. She is a perfectionistic writer, and I appreciate the care she takes. Aside from Boo Walker’s “Red Mountain” series is “A Spanish Sunrise,” “The Singing Trees,” and “An Unfinished Story.” I could make a very long list. Authors I don’t recommend are those who do not edit well.

What’s your next big project?

I’m doing research for a prequel to my romance novel “Rainbow of Promise.” It’s the story of my German grandparents emigrating from Russia to America in the early 1900s. They had quite a romantic and challenging story. I’m doing a ton of research; it’s going to take time. I’m also working on an anthology of my own short stories and poetry; many are already written. I may finish that this year.

Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

Make the decision to stick to it. Learn as much as you can from other writers. Dozens of free writing workshops and podcasts are available and helpful. If you don’t know what you don’t know, find out! Grammar, punctuation, and how to write is very important. You will absorb and stumble against many writing rules. Learn them. Then, when you know what you didn’t know, follow your gut.

Once you know what the rules are, you can decide when to break them and do it your way. Rewrite, rewrite, rewrite. Use Beta readers. Put your ego aside and listen to what they say. Don’t get dissuaded or discouraged. Hang in there and make it your own. I often remind myself that it took Margaret Mitchell ten years to write “Gone with the Wind.”

Follow R. Janet Walraven

https://www.facebook.com/janetwalraven

https://www.linkedin.com/in/r-janet-w...

https://www.instagram.com/rjwalraven02/

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Author Interview – M.D. LaBelle

M.D. LaBelle is an internationally award-winning, best-selling author, and we had the pleasure of having this author interview – M.D. Labelle for our blog. Check out this fantastic author and follow them for more amazing stories.

https://www.mdlabelle.com/bookstore

M.D. LaBelle is an international award-winning, bestselling author of 36 books in various genres, including horror, erotica, thriller, fantasy, romance, and children’s. She is on all online bookstores and a few physical ones as well. Her works are also on over 200 paid web novel apps and websites.

Her website has a bookstore where you can purchase her eBooks at mdlabelle.com. While she spends most of her time writing, she is also a mother of six, living in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, where she graduated with an art degree from CMU and never left. To date, The Luna’s Mate and The Alpha King have sold well over a million copies between the bookstores and the paid web novel platforms.

https://www.mdlabelle.com/bookstoreWhen did you start writing?

I first published on Amazon in April 2021.

What was it like growing up?

I loved reading horror. I remember sitting in my room and reading for hours because I would get stuck in a book and unable to put it down. And when I found out they were having a writing competition in school, I entered with a vampire story. I won the Young Author’s award and continued to write short stories, but life caught up with me, and I stopped writing for years until my children were old enough to take care of themselves for the most part.

https://www.mdlabelle.com/bookstoreHow was your early life?

I loved to draw at a very young age, and I learned how to play the violin at age seven. I was winning competitions by ten years old, but I still loved to write and read horror stories. I’m also a cancer survivor. I was born with one of the rarest cancers in the world, so I went to St. Jude Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, where they saved my life.

What has been the biggest influence in your career?

My dreams. I have a goal to publish 100 works within five years.

https://www.mdlabelle.com/bookstore
Tell us about your newest release.

The Lake Part 3 is the finale of The Lake Trilogy. Laura is forced to return to Haven because she must fight the monster or die.

Which book of yours would you call your favorite child?

I love them all, but the one that brings tears to my eyes every time is, It Had To Be You.

https://www.mdl.abelle.com/bookstoreWhat inspired you to write this book?

I had a vivid dream about it and then woke up and created something beautiful.

What are you usually found doing when you’re not writing?

Making earrings, listening to music, making covers, art, etc. I also love to do things with my husband and children.

https://www.mdlabelle.com/bookstoreWhat does your writing space look like?

I sit on my couch with a blanket and usually a cat. The laptop is on my lap, and either music is playing or there is complete silence.

If you wrote your autobiography, what would you name it?

Miracles really do happen.

How long did it take to write your novel, and what was your process?

Usually, it takes a week or two, but my first novel took a year in my spare time. I didn’t publish it for a couple of years because I didn’t think anyone would want to read it, but with the constant prodding of my mom and sister, I finally did.

https://www.mdlabelle.com/bookstoreFavorite reads?

IT, by Stephen King, Anne Rice, V.C. Andrews, Dean Koontz

Do you have any book recommendations?

Phantoms, by Dean Koontz

https://www.mdlabelle.com/bookstoreWhat’s your next big project?

I am working on Just Love Me, the first book in the Bad Behavior series about a serial killer who kills her parents because of abuse, and then years later, she goes to bars and kills the men who love her, even if for only a few moments.

Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

Keep going, and never let anyone push you down. Just remember that you can’t please everyone.

https://www.mdlabelle.com/bookstore

Follow M.D.

mdlabelle.com/bookstore

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/%22M...

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The Journeys Begin: Ora by E.E. Byrnes

The Journeys Begin: Ora by E.E. Byrnes is a Young Adult Fiction Fantasy that is the first novella of the exciting prequel series to Jenelyn’s Journey. We had the pleasure of speaking with the author for our blog. Check out this fantastic author and follow them for more amazing stories.

https://linktr.ee/eebyrnes

Born in northern California, Erin specialized as an equestrian trainer in the Olympic disciplines, but her natural wanderlust and family history led her to Ireland, where she currently resides with her husband and three children. Surrounded by the natural splendor of the emerald coast, she embraced her love for the sprawling landscape through hiking.

With a particular interest in European culture and history, Erin moved into the world of literature to share her tales of journeys and adventures with fellow bookworms.

When did you start writing?

25 years ago

What was it like growing up?

I was busy with school, horseback riding, dog training, and writing books.

How was your early life?

I moved a lot as a child with my mom before we settled at my dad’s house for my teenage years. Despite this, I always had a few close friends and stayed active outside of school. I loved hiking, camping, and reading.

What has been the biggest influence in your career?

Watching other authors succeed and enjoying watching readers love my books.

Tell us about your newest release.

My newest release was The Journeys Begin: Ora last October. It’s the first novella of the prequel series to Jenelyn’s Journey. However, I have an upcoming release this summer or possibly early autumn, which is the second book of the Jenelyn’s Journey series. It’s called Curse of the Cheval Mallet and will follow Jenelyn to France.

https://linktr.ee/eebyrnesWhich book of yours would you call your favorite child?

The Black Stallion or Black Beauty. I can’t decide!

What inspired you to write this book?

I had the idea to write it when I was 12 years old. It just seemed like a fun idea where a girl travels the world and meets real-life legends in the countries she visits. Over the years, it’s evolved into a much deeper story than that, but the elements are the same.

What are you usually found doing when you’re not writing?

Baking, walking, or reading.

https://linktr.ee/eebyrnesWhat does your writing space look like?

I actually write at the coffee table in the living room since my husband works from home and needs the office space.

If you wrote your autobiography, what would you name it?

What’s the Worst That Can Happen?

How long did it take to write your novel, and what was your process?

Tom’s Song and Jenelyn’s Journey were both written when I was young, so it took me over 20 years to finally get them ready to publish. The Journeys Begin: Ora took me four months to write. I draw up a rudimentary outline and then the characters tell me the rest.

https://linktr.ee/eebyrnesFavorite reads?

Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series and many others. I’ll read anything aside from horror.

Do you have any book recommendations?

Tracey Chevalier’s Virgin Blue. I loved it.

What’s your next big project?

I’m currently writing the second book in The Journeys Begin series. It’s about Ora’s daughter and her Journey in 1888.

Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

Don’t lose hope, don’t stop writing, and don’t compare yourself with other authors.

Follow E.E.

https://linktr.ee/eebyrnes

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Inked Beauty by Cadace Blevins

Inked Beauty by Cadance Blevins is book two in the Wicked Inked Duet series; which the blurb and cover will be released TODAY.  We had the pleasure of speaking with the author for our blog. Check out this fantastic author and follow them for more amazing stories.

Candace Blevins writes urban fantasy, paranormal romance, contemporary BDSM romance, and two kick-ass motorcycle club series.

With more than fifty published novels, Candace continues to create stories with strong women, and she pulls from her vast knowledge of mythologies, ancient religions, and history to create a paranormal world that fits neatly into our real one. She lives with her husband of twenty-five years and their youngest daughter. Their oldest daughter has flown the nest, but frequently comes home for visits.

The family’s beloved, goofy, retired racing greyhounds are usually at her side as she writes, quietly keeping her company. Or sometimes not so quietly.

When did you start writing?

2007

What was it like growing up?

When I was seven, I remember going from a motorcycle race to a ballet recital, cleaning up as best as I could in the back of the huge old Thunderbird. My mom had me in ballet class, and my dad had me racing motorcycles. I think I was happiest when I was reading, though. My mom realized I was smarter than them before I started kindergarten, and they went into debt to purchase a set of encyclopedias and the Childcraft books that went with them. My parents made a ton of mistakes, but this was probably the best thing they ever did for me. I read and reread those encyclopedias until I went to a school with a decent library in the sixth grade, and I had access to a treasure trove of books. I was a brainiac cheerleader in high school, friends with the geeks and the popular kids. I’ve danced professionally, modeled for some big names, and worked as a professional juggler for a few years. Mostly, though, it’s my intelligence that’s paid the bills. Accountant, project manager for a commercial contractor, IT professional, and for a little over a decade now, author.

How was your early life?

I chose to stay single in my twenties, and I traveled the world and had a blast. Then I met my soul mate at twenty-eight, married at thirty, and became a mom for the first time at thirty-five. By the time I became a mother, I was ready to stay home and enjoy my children. But my twenties? Let’s just say there was a lot of fun to be had.

What has been the biggest influence in your career?

I wrote my first book because, at the time, BDSM books were written by people who had never felt the kiss of a whip or negotiated for a consensual power exchange. I’ve been in the lifestyle since my early twenties and was certain I could do better. After writing three stories I knew weren’t good enough, I thought the fourth might be. I submitted it to a few publishers, and three of them accepted it, I decided on the one I liked best, and the rest is history. My preferred genre when reading is urban fantasy and paranormal romance, and I eventually wrote the urban fantasy world I’d had in my dead for decades.

Tell us about your newest release.

I wrote a vampire from the very beginning who was terrifying, and only safe to be around because of his loyalty to the Master Vampire. Gavin was never intended to get a happily ever after, but more than a decade after I first wrote him, my muse told me who his true love was going to be. I argued, but the muse won, and so, we have Gavin’s story, which took two books to tell because he’s always been difficult.

http://candaceblevins.com/Which book of yours would you call your favorite child?

The final book in my urban fantasy series, UNHUMAN ACTS, though this seven-book series has to be read in order, so one must start with ONLY HUMAN and work your way to the end.

What inspired you to write this book?

I’ve had this paranormal world in my head for decades, with three kinds of vampires (because the mythologies don’t work if there’s only one kind) and shifters of every variety, not just werewolves. Also, gods and demigods, and a way to tie the Norse, Greek, Roman, Chinese, Incan, and other pantheons (and associated mythologies) together so they don’t conflict. I’ve gotten to know the main characters over the years, long before I thought I might ever write the story. And then, one day, I felt as if I’d grown enough as a writer to do my series justice, and I started writing it.

http://candaceblevins.com/What are you usually found doing when you’re not writing?

Reading, swimming, playing with the dogs, and spending time with my husband and kids. With one child grown and the other about to graduate high school, we’re entering a new phase of our lives.

What does your writing space look like?

Mostly, I either write in bed or my recliner. In the spring and fall, I occasionally take my laptop outside.

If you wrote your autobiography, what would you name it?

An Adventurous Life. Or maybe, Kinky Adventures.

How long did it take to write your novel, and what was your process?

I’ve been writing Gavin’s story on and off for years. It was in process before my dad died a year and a half ago, and then I just couldn’t finish a book. For a year, I wrote three to ten thousand words daily on a half-dozen books, but I couldn’t make it to the Happily Ever After for any of my couples. Finally, I wrote a follow-up book to a couple who’d already found their HEA, and that let me finish a book. I wrote a Christmas novel after that, then finished a dark romance I’d been working on for a while, then went back to Gavin’s story and finally managed to finish it. Generally speaking, my process is to get to know my characters, their backstory, their strengths, and their weaknesses — to live with them a while before I start writing their book. By the time I start writing, we’re good friends.

Favorite reads?

The Lord of the Rings, The Story of O, the In Death series, and so many more.

Do you have any book recommendations?

This is always a problem for me without some context. Tell me what you enjoy reading, and I’ll probably be able to tell you a few books you’ll enjoy, but without knowing your preferences, it’s hard. Maybe I’ll recommend Dune or TLoTR, or maybe I’ll recommend a Nalini Singh book, or a Jeaniene Frost one. Perhaps you’re looking for lighthearted and fun, in which case you might want to spend some time with Stephanie Plum.

What’s your next big project?

I started a long plot arc a few books ago, and I’ll tie it up in the next two books. I’ll be writing the stories for two more characters who’ve been around since the beginning, and making sure I get their stories exactly right is a big deal.

Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

Work on your craft, learn how to make use of constructive criticism, but hold onto your unique voice as you improve your skills. And if you go the self-publishing route, pay professionals to help you put a quality product out — that means an editor, formatter, and cover artist, at a minimum.

Follow Cadace:

You can visit Candace on the web at candaceblevins.com

feel free to friend her on Facebook at facebook.com/candacesblevins,

TikTok at tiktok.com/@candaceblevins,

Goodreads at goodreads.com/CandaceBlevins.

You can also join facebook.com/groups/CandacesKinksters to get sneak peeks into what she’s writing now, images that inspire her, and the occasional juicy teaser.

You can check out our magazine or write an article, we publish quarterly on Amazon, and it’s free for non-advertisers.

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Noon Moon by Blackie Williamson

Noon Moon by Blackie Williamson is a Paranormal Romance that helped Blackie express his creative side through a need to better his life, and we had the pleasure of speaking with the author for our blog. Check out this fantastic author and follow them for more amazing stories.

Blackie Williamson has released three hella-embarrassing, paranormal-romance novels, The Vampire and the Black of Night, ‘Til Undead Do Us Part, and Noon Moon. What could he say? He had bedbugs more than once and would’ve done anything to make decent money. Good thing they’re thinly-veiled horror novels! Along with this fantasy book, he plans to unleash a sci-fi novella next year. After that, anything goes. He had a horror short story, “Graveyard,” published in 100 Voices, Volume 2, from Centum Press, when he wrote under the pseudonym, Blackie Deth, then in his right mind.

https://www.amazon.com/Til-Undead-Do-Us-Part/dp/B08KTSBV4WWhen did you start writing?

Around 2018. I needed a way to bring in money because the apartment I live in had bedbugs more than once, so even though I’m a horror author, I decided to write in other genres, which has been a challenge. It hasn’t worked yet, but I’m keeping my hopes up.

What was it like growing up?

Great. Art has always been in my life, as I watched Trilogy of Terror and The Blob at a young age.

How was your early life?

Great. Immersed in horror, I’ve been inspired by the works of Stephen King, Dean Koontz, Jere Cunningham, and Chelsea Quinn Yarbro, all old-time authors.

https://www.amazon.com/Vampire-Black-Night-Blackie-Williamson-ebook/dp/B07WGRQZC1What has been the biggest influence in your career?

Chelsea Quinn Yarbro’s vampire works.

Tell us about your newest release?

Noon Moon takes us to Utqiagvik, Alaska–formerly Barrow–where there are 66 days of night. Aidan, a bullied high-school student, meets Jenlea, the girl of his dreams, who’s tough and hot enough to help him come into his own. Too bad she’s a vampire who’ll draw ancient nosferatu to kidnap them and force them to tap the vein instead of blood bags.

https://www.amazon.com/Noon-Moon-Blackie-Williamson/dp/B0B72K2GSGWhich book of yours would you call your favorite child?

‘Til Undead Do Us Part. The bad zombie apocalypse forces high-school student, Elle Heller, and her good-zombie boyfriend to bug out to the woods. I actually did research for this on You Tube. A lot of people believe an EMP will knock us off the grid, not a matter of if, but when. This novel creates a dread that one hasn’t felt since Frankenstein; or the Modern Prometheus.

What inspired you to write this book?

Honestly, I thought I wouldn’t have to worry about making money with the zombie genre.

What are you usually found doing when you’re not writing?

I’m into martial arts, weightlifting, fitness, and death/black/thrash metal. I have a one-man black-death-metal band.

https://www.amazon.com/One-Hundred-Voices-Vol-2/dp/1945737115What does your writing space look like?

Elaborate hutch packed with books as well as a desktop computer.

If you wrote your autobiography, what would you name it?

The Skin o’ My Teeth LIfe of a Desperate Writer.

How long did it take to write your novel, and what was your process?

A few months. One needs to know you can’t write a novel at NaNo in a month. NaNo no!

Favorite reads?

Darker Jewels, Dracula in London, Night Blooming, and A Flame in Byzantium by Chelsea Quinn Yarbro.

Do you have any book recommendations?

The Palace by Chelse Quinn Yarbro.

What’s your next big project?

A fantasy novel that goes buck-wild. It reads like a runaway train, steamrolling you through the whole book. I just finished editing it. It should be out in July.

Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

Read like a crazy man. That’s how you learn. Then slug through awful stories you write ’til you get good, which takes a couple of years.

Follow Blackie:

Twitter: @BlackieWFangs,

Instagram: blackienosferatu,

blackynosferatu.livejournal.com

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Grave Dangers

Grave Dangers by Maegan Beaumont

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


I finished reading Waiting in Darkness by Maegan Beaumont, the prequel to the first book in The Sabrina Vaughn Thriller.

https://www.amazon.com/Carved-Darkness-Sabrina-Vaughn-Thriller-ebook/dp/B07XFF1NGT

Now let me tell you, if I read the first story in this anthology and had to go out and get the series from this author, I’m going to read the rest of them; however, I needed to do a review of the anthology because I know I will take my time reading this whole freaking thing.

I’ve already started on the second story Black Hollow by S.K. Gregory, and I am halfway through, loving every minute. I think they pulled together every freaking fantastic thriller/horror author for this anthology because they wanted to make sure you read every page, and I’m here for it.

https://www.skgregory.com/

I’ve read so many anthologies, and you pick and choose which stories you like; it’s inevitable, but so far, I think I will enjoy all of them.

This is a must-read for all thriller and horror readers and needs all the accolades. I’m supremely impressed with this collection.

View all my reviews

Do you have a book review to share with The Authors Porch? Are you an avid reader who would love to share your reviews with an audience? Reach out to The Authors Porch at admin@theauthorsporch.com to see if we can collaborate on your review to be hosted on our blog. The world needs to hear more about great books, and maybe you are the person to introduce them to these books. Take a chance on yourself and your ability to influence the book world; you may be the next great book influencer. Some of the things we are looking for are positive reviews and people who can articulate what they liked about the book. We do not accept spoilers or negative reviews.

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DISCLAIMER: Book reviews are what help authors get noticed. CJ reviews books independently based on what she enjoys reading. The Authors Porch does not charge for book reviews and will never request compensation for CJ’s review. CJ does not solicit reviews nor accept review requests from any inbox. CJ’s reviews are solely at the discretion of her reading endeavors.

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Carved in Darkness

Carved in Darkness by Maegan Beaumont

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


I found this book by reading the prequel in the Grave Dangers anthology. I finished reading the prequel and fell on the floor trying to get this book. I was like; NO, don’t stop there; I need more.

So, of course, when this book was over, I did the same thing, LOL. You will, too, I promise. What a compelling story that makes you bite your nails, feel all the feels, and compels you to jump into the story with the characters.

The character development was so good that I adored Melissa and her journey, hated many men, and fell in love with others. I had mixed feelings about some of them (yes, I’m being vague; you must read to get your feelings; you can’t have mine, LOL).

I loved how the author made this story relatable. I know you’re wondering how can you say a murder mystery is relatable unless you’ve been through it; however, the scenes, the back story, and the situations are so commonplace yet well put together.

I’m looking forward to jumping into the next book to continue the storyline of this character and reading more of the anthology to see if I can find another series and author I fall in love with.

https://www.amazon.com/Muse-Sabrina-Vaughn-Thriller-Book-ebook/dp/B07XB4Z3HK

View all my reviews

Do you have a book review to share with The Authors Porch? Are you an avid reader who would love to share your reviews with an audience? Reach out to The Authors Porch at admin@theauthorsporch.com to see if we can collaborate on your review to be hosted on our blog. The world needs to hear more about great books, and maybe you are the person to introduce them to these books. Take a chance on yourself and your ability to influence the book world; you may be the next great book influencer. Some of the things we are looking for are positive reviews and people who can articulate what they liked about the book. We do not accept spoilers or negative reviews.

DISCLAIMER: Book reviews are what help authors get noticed. CJ reviews books independently based on what she enjoys reading. The Authors Porch does not charge for book reviews and will never request compensation for CJ’s review. CJ does not solicit reviews nor accept review requests from any inbox. CJ’s reviews are solely at the discretion of her reading endeavors.

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Cupboard Boy by PT Saunders

Cupboard Boy by PT Saunders is an autobiographical story about PT’s childhood, and we had the pleasure of speaking with the author for our blog. Check out this fantastic author and follow them for more amazing stories.

I’m a sixty-year-old ex-serviceman who suffers from PTSD due to my abusive childhood and military service with the Parachute Regiment and other Special Forces units. I served in Northern Ireland and was involved in the Battle for Mount Longdon in the Falklands War in 1982, where I witnessed and experienced some extremely dark moments.

In September 2011, My PTSD made my life unbearable to the point that I attempted to take my own life. Luckily, I had a great doctor who immediately arranged for me to spend a few nights in my local psychiatric unit. However, it was eight weeks before I was discharged.

In 2014 my psychiatrist suggested that if I were to write about my life experience, it might help me with the healing process. My first book, Cupboard boy, chronicles my childhood in an abusive household. I’ve written many more since then.

When did you start writing?

2016

What was it like growing up?

Terrible, My mum and dad divorced when I was aged two. A year later, my mother entered a relationship with a Black man. In the 1960s, racist Britain was not popular. As a result, my mother’s and father’s families disowned us. This allowed my new stepdad to physically and mentally abuse me and my siblings unchallenged.

http://www.ptsaunders.co.ukHow was your early life?

Dreadful see the above answer

What has been the biggest influence in your career?

The desire to promote awareness of the people living with PTSD and Complex PTSD

http://www.ptsaunders.co.uk
Tell us about your newest release.

Basic Training 2 Grounded. A sequel to Basic Training, Flying by the seat of his pants just when you thought a story couldn’t get any madder, and it’s safe to go back into the library. P T Saunders comes up with a second book in the series. Basic Training II Grounded picks up where the first book Basic Training Flying by The Seat of His Pants, ended. Having attempted to prove that A young Scallywag, Ben Baxter, didn’t have it in him to get into the Paras,’ Our fly decided to follow Ben throughout the grueling twenty-two-week training course. All was going well until some general swotted our fly just before the pass-off parade. In this book, our fly has been reincarnated into Sgt Maj Brynn Williams and the Sgt Major into a fly somewhat temporarily. Unable to come to terms with his reincarnation, our fly is sectioned under the mental health act. Where he meets a few, let’s say interesting Characters, such as Cowboy Dave, Sue, the boxer-short thief, and Spanish, a typically gobby-scouser. Upon his release from the hospital, he completes his mission of proving that Ben doesn’t have what it takes to be a Para. During that mission, he meets the Bus-Hag, Charlotte, the woman with more with a little extra anatomy, and a couple of drunks he nick-names Bill and Ben, the pissed-up men.

http://www.ptsaunders.co.ukWhich book of yours would you call your favorite child?

Cupboard Boy

What inspired you to write this book?

My Psychiatrist suggested that I try to write myself well.

What are you usually found doing when you’re not writing?

I tend to do a lot of DIY. (I don’t know. My wife finds so many Jobs). I also love walking along the Yorkshire coast.

What does your writing space look like?

A Box room with a desk, a chair, and my computer. No radio, no TV, No distractions.

If you wrote your autobiography, what would you name it?

From Fighter to Writer

http://www.ptsaunders.co.ukHow long did it take to write your novel, and what was your process?

It to a year to write Cupboard Boy. I simply wrote it from memory and didn’t have a plan of attack.

Favorite reads?

An Inspector Calls. J B Priestley

Do you have any book recommendations?

Insurrection By Dan Santos

What’s your next big project?

A horror, “The Girls Just Want to Have Fun.’

Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

When you come to a writing block, stop trying and take a walk. It works for me.

http://www.ptsaunders.co.ukFollow PT

www.ptsaunders.co.uk

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Love Beyond Borders by Joshua Campbell

Love Beyond borders by Joshua Campbell is a Historical Fiction Novel, and we had the pleasure of speaking with the author for our blog. Check out this fantastic author and follow them for more amazing stories.

My name is Joshua. Married and father of six children from four months to nine years. I am also a Historical-Fiction author, with my debut novel out now on Amazon, about a Union Soldier returning to the family homestead in Colorado from the Civil War in later 1865. I am starting my career a little later in life than I should have, but I think I may have more to offer it now than I may have before, and now aim to give it all I can. I am a History buff, and so my kids are growing up exposed to documentaries and conversations surrounding history

When did you start writing?

Been doing so, on and off, most of my life, but more formally since 2015.

What was it like growing up?

I am from Canada, and we moved across the country several times, so I got used to adjusting to new surroundings.

How was your early life?

Had various experiences between moving around, having farm animals at one point, and new kids around when my parents foster care.

What has been the biggest influence in your career?

My wife and her inspiration.

Tell us about your newest release.

It’s about a Union Soldier returning home from the Civil War, hoping for peace and normalcy, only to find family secrets that surface, delaying peace and tranquility while he and his family have to sort through it all.

https://www.amazon.com/Love-Beyond-Borders-Joshua-Campbell-ebook/dp/B0BTWJDZJ6Which book of yours would you call your favorite child?

The only one I have released so far – Love Beyond Borders

What inspired you to write this book?

My wife encouraged me to take my love of History and creative writing and combine them.

What are you usually found doing when you’re not writing?

Helping tend to our six children.

What does your writing space look like?

I’m usually at the dining room table to keep an ear and eye on the kids – especially if my wife is In our room to feed our 4-month-old.

If you wrote your autobiography, what would you name it?

“Off by a century” – as most of the time, I think I should have been in the 1800s…

https://www.amazon.com/Love-Beyond-Borders-Joshua-Campbell-ebook/dp/B0BTWJDZJ6.How long did it take to write your novel, and what was your process?

A few months. Read and researched what I needed as I went. Then I did a 3 run edit before releasing…

Favorite reads?

Left Behind, Lord Of The Rings

Do you have any book recommendations?

Aside from my book, the previously mentioned titles and anything by Tony Riches.

What’s your next big project?

5-book series of a guy on a mission that has jumped through time and to various places.

Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

Go for it – “Wherever you go, go with all your heart.” – Confucious. Don’t wait until everything’s perfect, start, and you can perfect things along the way…

Follow Joshua

https://www.facebook.com/HistoricalTw... https://www.facebook.com/groups/histo...

Twitter : @HistoricalTwists

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The Night Cometh by A.R. Braun

The Night Cometh by A.R. Braun is a Christian Horror Novel, and we had the pleasure of speaking with the author for our blog. Check out this fantastic author and follow them for more amazing stories.

Horror author. 24 short-story publications, fitness, weights, black belt, extreme metal. The Night Cometh, my new Christian horror novel, is live. MoMo was in Pekin.

When did you start writing?

As a teenager.

What was it like growing up?

It was a hell of abusive parents and bullying at school and in my neighborhood.

How was your early life?

Horrid. But I started watching horror movies at age five.

What has been the biggest influence in your career?

Ira Levin is my favorite author. Rosemary’s Baby, my new favorite, The Boys From Brazil—cloning little Hitlers—and The Stepford Wives.

Tell us about your newest release.

The Night Cometh novel is my first venture into Christian horror. It’s my The Green Mile.

https://www.amazon.com/Night-Cometh-R-Braun-ebook/dp/B0BQ8J9CCRWhich book of yours would you call your favorite child?

Only Women in Hell. My mind lurched when editing it.

What inspired you to write this book?

The real-life story of Joseph and Elisabeth Fritzl.

What are you usually found doing when you’re not writing?

Playing music and exercising. I’m a one-man black-death-metal band.

What does your writing space look like?

Just a small desk with a skull, my weapons, and a laptop. Nothing pretentious.

If you wrote your autobiography, what would you name it?

A Memoir of an Abused and Neglected Child. I have written the rough draft.

How long did it take to write your novel, and what was your process?

A few months. I came up with a 6-key plot-point outline. Butt in a chair and crank out a chapter daily, surprising myself.

Favorite reads?

The Boys From Brazil and Rosemary’s Baby by Ira Levin, The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson, Coffin County by Gary A. Braunbeck, and The Stand by Stephen King.

Do you have any book recommendations?

My Best Friend’s Exorcism by Grady Hendrix.

What’s your next big project?

A four-novel horror series about witchcraft.

Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

Read like a madman or -woman.

Follow A.R.

@ARBraun on Twitter

a.r._braun on Instagram

arbraun6667771.blogspot.com

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