Deliah Lawrence's Blog, page 7

It’s A Book Thing Presents: An Interview with K.L. Brady, author of The Nick Before Christmas

Author’s Bio: USA Today Bestselling author K. L. Brady is a D.C.native and award-winning author of 20 novels. She self-published her firstbook, THE BUM MAGNET, after an Oprah "live your best life" moment,which was picked up by Simon & Schuster in a two-book deal. She’s beenpublishing romantic comedies ever since.

 

K.L.is a Washington football fan and professed nerd-girl who loves all things StarTrek, Star Wars, and Big Bang Theory. She lives to write stories involvinghilarious quirky characters looking for love. She's hard at work on her nextseveral projects, including Sincerely, Santa, a heartfelt romanticcomedy that also celebrates the special friendship between her late mother andgrandmother.

 

Fun Fact: If K.L. could choose a superpower, she thinks she wouldbe a mind reader so she could embrace those who really care about her, and shecould cancel those who don’t. She figures out motives over time, but readingminds would make the process go much faster.

 

DeliahLawrence: What inspired you to write your book?

K.L.Brady: It’s truly a Generation X story. The core of this story is about a womanin search of her second act. She’s reached the big 5-0 on her birthday(Christmas in July) and part of her realizes she’s stuck. When you reach the ageof 50, you question what direction to take with the gas left in your tank. Areyou on the right path? Or have you been on your current path because it’scomfortable and easy?Personally,I live by walls and windows. If I feel like I’ve run into a wall—a roadblock, apoint at which I can go no further in a life decision—then I look for a window.

 

Well,our character was in the easy and comfortable space until she hit a big wall. A“heavenly presence” basically forces her to go look for and find a new windowby Christmas Eve or the rest of her life will be cursed. Given the crediblesource, she sets out to find her second act. During her journey for a newwindow, she meets a new man and confronts the one that got away, which is wherethe fun really begins.  With the clockticking from Christmas in July to Christmas, will she find her second act and her“person?”

 

Inaddition, like the heroine in this story, I lost my mom to cancer, and she diedso quickly that I never got the chance to say goodbye or thank her for all shegiven to me. When that happens, it leaves a void in your life. So, nestled inthis romantic comedy is a truly heartfelt goodbye from daughter to mother andvice versa.  

 

It’s funnythat my 20th book would follow the path of my first in that I drewheavily from personal experiences to derive the meat of the stories and thenwrapped fiction around them to make them more fun and less depressing forreaders. This was truly a labor of love, especially after going two yearswithout publishing.

 

DL: Howdo you handle writer’s block?

KLB: I’ll be honest, I’ve struggled with writer’s block. It’sa beast that hunts creatives at some point in their careers. I’ve experienced alot of upheaval over the past couple of years, personally and professionally (9to 5 versus writing). So, how do you write when your life is spinning andflipping and you’re upside down every day? It’s like my life gave me whiplashfor so long.

 

Ihave a few techniques to overcome a block – and it begins with making a habitof just writing every day. I pull up a story every day. Somedays I write aword. Somedays I write a paragraph. Somedays I write pages. The point is tonever break the habit of writing every day but give yourself the grace not tobe productive.

 

Sometimes,you have to change your location (I’ll go from my office to the deck).Sometimes, you have to change your writing tool. I use a MacBook, MacBook Air,Freewrite, digital notebook, pen and paper, whatever…as long as the words come,I don’t restrict myself.

Sometimes,you have to declutter. Even as I wrote this, I cleaned my bedroom, made my bed,and folded my laundry. Decluttering your space allows you to clear your mind ofresponsibilities and honey-dos, so you can connect with the creative part ofyourself.

 

DL: Whatis your writing process?

KLB: On my good days, I’m usually awake by 4 am. I jump outof bed, put on my writing clothes, pray (because my 9 to 5, good Lord), andthen I write for an hour or so before work. I save editing for after workbecause my job usually sucks the creativity from the marrow of my bones. 😊 After workis the perfect time to focus on mechanics.

 

DL: Whatwere some of the challenges when writing this book?

KLB: Sobbing. I cried a lot at the end, even though it makesme laugh, too. No book I’ve ever written has ever made me cry. They’ve all mademe laugh…this is the only one that chokes me up or brings tears. It’s morefunny than sad, but it’s got its moments.

 

DL: Isthere any particular author or book that influenced you in any way eithergrowing up or as an adult?

KLB: I’ve read black authors my entire life. One of myfavorites is Toni Morrison. Her prose is truly art. With that said, readingTerry McMillan’s Waiting to Exhale really helped me connect with myvoice…and realize that my voice was okay. I came to understand that I didn’thave to write like Toni Morrison to be a writer…or even to be read. It would bea long time before I wrote my first book (didn’t do so until I turned 40), butthat book was incredibly impactful in that I finally accepted that, for betteror worse, writing was my path to fulfillment.

 

DL: Whattips would you give to aspiring writers?

KLB: Write…every day to build your creative muscle so youwon’t be dependent on a “muse” to be productive.

 

Nevercompare yourself to other writers/authors, don’t compare your career to theirs.Their calling is not yours. Their path is not yours. Their vision is not yours.Only compare where you were yesterday to where you are today. Find your speciallane (whatever that looks like for you) and stay in it. The race is you againstyou. Otherwise, you’re setting yourself up to be constant defeated anddepressed.

 

Ifyou want to be productive, be a plottser (plotter and pantser). Plot yournovels so that you stay productive and have content to write to even when youdon’t feel like it…but allow yourself to change directions if your imaginationtakes you in a different direction. Don’t be chained to your outline butdevelop one.

 

So,keep writing. It’s that simple and that difficult.

 

DL: Whatare three books you’ll never part with?

KLB: I’llnever part with these books:

IKnow Why the Caged Bird Sings, MayaAngelou – What a voice!OnWriting, Stephen King – One of the bestbooks on the writing experience I’ve ever read.TheNine Lives of Christmas, SheilaRoberts – Helped me find my way into Christmas books.

DL: Wouldyou like to share an excerpt from The Nick Before Christmas?

 

KLB:Sure, here you go:

     Sashaapproached…and based on the sound of footsteps, she wasn't alone.

     "Nickie?Uh…You have company?"

     "Who?"

     Intothe threshold stepped Evan…and Jordan, both carrying sizeable brown shoppingbags scented with contents that smelled a whole lot like dinner.

     Evanghosted her for weeks, dropped off the radar. J. Dev blew her off and was offparading with Ava, or so she thought. Now both stood in her living room, in theflesh, at the same time. She had no idea how to handle this. Nickie had neverbeen a juggler so two potential courters in her presence, in her house, wasn'ta situation she expected to face. She couldn't have orchestrated this clusterif she tried.

     Theirfaces sapped the air out of her lungs. Laying the blame on Sasha wasn't anoption.

     Herstomach growled, reminding of her greatest need in the moment. If worse came toworst, Nickie pledged to keep the dinner and cannoli...and dump the twounexpected guests.

     "Jordan,Evan…what a surprise to welcome you…both…in my living room…right now,” Nickiesaid, her eyes volleying between them so as not to give one more attention thanthe other.

     Evanglanced at Jordan without speaking a single word, and Jordan returned thefavor. She suspected each was eager to learn what the other had to say.

 

DL: Whatnew projects are you currently working on?

KLB: I’m working on a small-town Christmas novel called Sincerely,Santa. Set in a town based on my old hometown of Bellaire, Ohio (Belle’sAire). It’s another romantic comedy with a fun meet cute. It’s about a woman whodoesn’t believe she deserves Christmas because she made one mistake—so shespends her time and effort gifting Christmas to everyone around her. At itscore, it’s a celebration of the friendship between my mother and grandmother.

 

DL: Wherecan readers learn more about you and purchase your book(s)?

KLB: Readers can get more information here:

Website: www.klbradyauthor.comFacebookPage: https://www.facebook.com/KLBRADYInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/klbrady_author/Bookbub:https://www.bookbub.com/profile/k-l-bradyAmazon:https://bit.ly/40UVJStGoodreads:https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2975069.K_L_BradyNewsletter:http://klbradyauthor.com/sign-up/

DL: Thanks so much for being here with us today. I know myreaders will enjoy getting to know you and your work.

KLB: Thanks so much for inviting me to participate on yourblog! 

A Review of The Broken Soul (A Sloane Monroe Mystery) by Cheryl Bradshaw and Janet Fix

This is the first time I’m reading anything by Cheryl Bradshaw and Janet Fix and it won’tbe the last. These two authors have teamed up to write a story that is chockfull of mystery, drugs, survival, and lifelong friendships.  

So, let’smeet Sloane, a private investigator and Maddie, a retired medical examiner. Twobest friends who are on vacation during the festival season (Mardi Gras) in NewOrleans. A place of fun, food, and seedy places. While waiting on Sloane toreturn with a Canal Street Daisy, a bourbon-based drink infused with orange andlemon, Maddie takes off to see what a couple was doing down a dark alleyway. Withina few minutes of checking on the young woman she found lying on the filthyground, someone from behind a dumpster pierces her neck with a needle and sheis shoved into the back of an old sedan.  

Panicensues when Sloane returns, and Maddie is nowhere to be found. Sloane asks aroundand is pointed in the direction of the alleyway where she finds the young woman still lying on the ground, Maddie’s phone,signs of a struggle, and a freshly used syringe. She dials 9-1-1 to get thewoman some help. Later the woman is identified as a college student who diedfrom an overdose. And this kicks off Sloane’s investigation to solve this mystery puzzleand find her friend. 

Overall,this was a quick read. I loved the mystery, pacing of the story, the dialogue,the descriptions, and Sloane’s investigative instincts. I also enjoyed readingabout the secrets being kept by some of the other characters. So, here’s toreading another story in the series. Two thumbs up!  

Rating: 4stars  

Some of myfavorite lines: 

He nodded.“Yup, yup. I seen her,” he said, pointing across the way. “Ran over there.”

“How longago?”

“Not long.Twenty, thirty minutes ago, I guess. I was curious about it, so I tried to keepan eye out.”

“Curiousabout what?”

“D’way shedarted across the street like dat. Looked upset.”

“Where didshe go after that?”

Heshrugged. “Dunno. I watched her for a minute, and then the floats and stuff gotin da way. Next time I looked, she’s gone.”

He spokewith the Yat dialect that was so common to the area—a local. I found itcharming and challenging to understand at the same time.

“Gone,” Irepeated, looking in the direction he was pointing.

Sureenough, no Maddie.

 

  

It’s A Book Thing Presents: An Interview with Diane Papalia Zappa, author of Dear Bobby: My Grief Journey

Author’s Bio: Diane Papalia Zappagrew up in Fort Lee, NJ. She graduated from Vassar College in 1968. She earnedan MS in Child Development and Family Relations and a PhD in Life-SpanDevelopmental Psychology from West Virginia University in 1970 and 1971,respectively.

She then joined thefaculty of the Department of Child and Family Studies at the University ofWisconsin-Madison, attaining the rank of full professor at age 30. While thereshe and co-author Sally Olds wrote A Child’s World (in its thirteenthedition) and Human Development (in its fifteenth edition). 

While at Wisconsin shemet Frank Zappa’s younger brother Bob, who was the marketing manager for one ofher textbooks. They married in 2015. 

Her first memoir, TheMarried Widow: My Journey with Bob Zappa, describes their relationshipsince meeting in 1986. Dear Bobby describes how she handled her grief after hedied in 2018. 

Deliah Lawrence: What inspired youto write your book?

Diane Papalia Zappa: This book, DearBobby: My Grief Journey, was inspired by reactions to my debut memoir, TheMarried Widow. Many widows told me that they found that book helpful incoping with the loss of a spouse or partner. So Dear Bobby was a naturaloutgrowth. In it I talk about what helped me cope, focusing on how writingletters to my late husband helped ease my pain. The centerpiece of this book is26 of those letters.   

DL: How do you handlewriter’s block?

DPZ: Before I actually sitdown to write, I like to mull things over in my mind. This may take time, butwhen I actually begin to write, the words flow quite easily. By approaching mywriting this way, writer’s block hasn’t been an issue.

 

DL:  What weresome of the challenges when writing this book?

DPZ: Writing the letterswas a very emotional experience since in them I tell Bobby how I’m doing andreminisce about things and experiences we shared. Some brought me to tears andreaders have told me the letters have brought them to tears as well.  

DL: What was the bestwriting advice you’ve ever been given?

DPZ: Write because youhave something to say, never for the royalties. The money may or may not comebut if you have a story to tell, let that be your motivation. 

DL: If you couldchoose a superpower, what would it be and why?

DPZ: I would choosedimension hopping: the ability to travel between different dimensions anduniverses. I’d love to be able to visit my husband in the afterlife and myfamily and friends on Earth!

 

DL: If you werehosting a dinner party which three authors would be your dream guests andwhy?

DPZ: I would invite mylate husband (who wrote Frankie and Bobby: Growing Up Zappa), his latebrother musician Frank Zappa (who wrote The Real Frank Zappa Book), andpsychic medium Matt Fraser (who wrote We Never Die: Secrets of the Afterlife).I had never met Frank and would love to see the brothers interact. Matt channeledBob in a private reading a couple years ago. And, of course, I’d love to haveanother dinner with Bobby. 

DL: What are three funfacts about yourself?

DPZ: 1. I haven’t driven acar since 1989 when I moved to Manhattan. 2. Mac and cheese is my favoritecomfort food. 3. British actor Martin Clunes (star of Doc Martin) was a friendof Bobby’s. He came over for a sushi dinner when he was filming in Manhattan.  

DL: Would you like toshare an excerpt from Dear Bobby? 

DPZ: Sure: 

After Bob died, I began to write himletters…. In my "Dear Bobby" letters, I share with him memories ofthings we enjoyed together and explain how I'm doing. Writing to him allows ourrelationship to continue. It helps keep our love alive. Here are two letters:  

July 28, 2019

Dear Bobby,

So, I think this will be my newproject. Writing to you as the spirit (so to speak) moves me. I really missbeing with you, having dinner, cooking, joking around, the cocktail hour. Thelittle things that make up a life together. I miss turning down the sheets withyou before we go out. I miss you turning on the music before we would go tosleep. I haven't been able to do that since you passed away. I miss you askingme if I'm cold and then turning your back to me to warm me up. I miss checkingif that solitary hair had grown back on your nose.

I simply miss vou.

Love,

Diane

 

May22, 2021

DearBobby,

One of the things Iremember most fondly is when we’d wake up together every morning, you rightnext to me. Before going to the kitchen to make your breakfast and my coffee,you’d hold me in your arms, brush my hair away from me face, and kiss me on theforehead. Then you’d murmur “Good morning, Mrs. Z.” It’s such a preciousmemory. And I miss it.

Love,

Diane 

DL: What new projectsare you currently working on?

DPZ: I have a new websitethat covers both Dear Bobby and The Married Widow. I plan to blogthere. I’d also love to write a third book, and I hope ideas will come after Isee reactions to Dear Bobby. 

DL:  Where canreaders learn more about you and purchase yourbook(s)? 

DPZ: Readers can get more informationhere:

Website: dianepapaliazappa.comAmazon Author Page:Diane Papalia ZappaFacebook: https://www.Facebook.com/diane.papaliaInstagram: dianezappa 

DL: Thanks so much forbeing here with us today. I know my readers will enjoy getting to know youand your work.

DPZ: Thank you!

 

 

It’s A Book Thing Presents: An Interview with David Swinson, author of Sweet Thing

Author’s Bio: David Swinson is a retired police detective from theMetropolitan Police Department in Washington, DC, having been assigned to MajorCrimes. Swinson is the author of the critically acclaimed Frank Marr Trilogy – TheSecond Girl, Crime Song and Trigger, and the standalone Cityon the Edge. He lives in Upstate New York.

 

Deliah Lawrence: What inspiredyou to write your book?

David Swinson: The song,“Sweet Thing” by Van Morrison. It’s both beautiful and sad.

 

Here's the Synopsis: In a red brickhouse on a tree-lined street, DC homicide detective Alex Blum stares at thebullet-pocked body of Chris Doyle. As he roots around for evidence, he finds anold polaroid: the decedent, arm in arm with Arthur Holland, Blum's informantfrom years ago when he worked at the Narcotics branch.

But Arthur has been missing for days. Blum’s only source: Arthur’s girl,Celeste—beautiful, seductive, and tragic—whom he can’t get out of his head.Blum is drawn to her and feels compelled to save her from Arthur’s underworld.As the investigation ticks on and dead bodies domino, Blum, unearths clues withdamning implications for Celeste. Swallowed by desire, Blum’s single misstepsends him tunnelling down a rabbit hole of transgression. He may soon find theonly way out is down below.

 

Set in 1999, Swinson, a former DCcop, offers a look back at a rougher, grittier, bygone DC replete with seedystrip clubs, pagers beeping, and Y2K anxiety. It’s here we’re taken insidesting operations, fluorescent-tinged interrogation chambers, and rooms thathave seen irreversible mistakes. At once authentic, gritty, tragic, andprofound, SWEET THING asks how far can you fall when the world teeters on theedge?

 

DL: What is your writing process?

SW: Music is essential. Ialways create a playlist for the books I write and then listen to them over andover. I’m inspired by music. It is an important part of my life. I take a lotof notes when listening to music and come up with characters before the story.After that, I try to sit down at the same time every day and hope for thebest. 

 

DL: Is there any particularauthor or book that influenced you in any way either growing up or as an adult?

SW: Without even having tothink about it I’d have to say To Kill a Mockingbird. I have read it numeroustimes and each time I get something new out of it. It is, in my opinion, theperfect book. It is so many genres put into one – Crime, Mystery, Suspense,Courtroom drama and so much more.

 

DL: What was the best writingadvice you’ve ever been given?

SW: A bestselling author, anda mentor of mine, told me years ago to always have a time designated forwriting, and to just sit and stare at the screen until something happens.Hopefully, what happens is wonderful.

 

DL: If you were hosting a dinnerparty which three authors would be your dream guests and why?

DS: Donna Tartt, because sheis absolutely brilliant; Stephen King, because I’d be an idiot not to invitehim, and if I could resurrect him from the dead, James Baldwin. He is one ofthe greatest American writers and I could learn so much from him.

 

DL: What tips would you give toaspiring writers?

DS: Don’t ever give up andnever realize the obstacles in your way because it will cripple you. Mostimportantly, read as much as you can.

 

DL: What are three books you’llnever part with?

DS: My hardcover firsteditions of The Friends of Eddie Coyle by George Higgins, The Poets and theLunatic, by G.K. Chesterton, and my paperback of To Kill a Mockingbird byHarper Lee.

 

DL: What’s your favorite linefrom a book?

DS: “Here at last is thething I was made for.” ― C.S. Lewis, The Problem of Pain

 

DL: What are three fun factsabout yourself?

DS: Three fun facts aboutmyself are:

I promoted alternative and punk rockconcerts in the eighties.I developed and produced a featurefilm for New Line Cinema and had the rights to a couple of very popular books,but quit and joined the police academy in Washington, DC and eventually becamea police detective.I wrote my first book when I wasseventeen and got my first rejection when I was eighteen. I have always wantedto be an author but did not get published until I was 51 years old.

DL: What new projects are youcurre ntly working on?

DS: I’m working on my nextbook, Hound of Heaven. It takes place in a small fictitious town in Upstate,New York. A retired homicide detective moves there after his father diesbecause he has to take care of his younger brother who suffers from severeagoraphobia and PTSD. It isn’t long before something bad happens and he findshimself assisting the very small local jurisdiction with the case.

 

DL: Where can readers learn moreabout you and purchase your book(s)?

 

DS: Readers can get moreinformation here:

Website: https://davidswinson.com/Amazon Author Page: https://a.co/d/g6LriOCFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sluglord.presentsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/d.swinson/Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/dashboard?ref=nav_profile_authordash

DL: Thanks for beinghere with us today. I know my readers will enjoy getting to know you and yourwork.

DS: Thank you so much foryour support! 

A Review of Night After Night (Seductive Nights Book 1) by Lauren Blakely

This isthe third contemporary romance novel I’ve read by Lauren Blakely. She knows howto turn up the heat between the sheets and wherever her characters can find aplace to sneak a kiss or two. So, let’s meet Julia, a sexy bar owner (Cubic Z) anda bartender who knows how to churn out her signature drink – the Purple Snow Globe.She has a sharp wit and knows how to deal with customers who try to hit on her.  

She’s alsolooking for a no strings relationship until McKenna, her sister plays matchmaker,and she meets Clay, a sexy entertainment lawyer. The chemistry between these twois hot and heavy. However, Julia is trying her best to shield her heart. She’s alsoin deep as a poker player in an underground poker ring run by Charlie, a manshe owes a lot of money all because of an ex-boyfriend. Because of this, she isalso shielding those she loves for fear of Charlie hurting them. 

Overall,this was a quick read. The sex scenes were well done. I enjoyed the characters,dialogue, and motivation. I also enjoyed the intrigue of danger lurking in theshadows because of the debt Julia owes to Charlie. And just when I was lookingto turn the pages to see what happens next (Charlie and Clay come face-to-face),the book ended and I was prompted to read the other book in the series. Anyway,two thumbs up for this first book in the series! 

Rating: 4stars  

Some of myfavorite lines: 

I couldact all prim and demure like I planned to just kiss Clay and send him on hisway. But the thought of getting hot and bothered and then forbidding anysouth-of-the-border activity had zero appeal to me. If I was going for him, Iwas going for all of him. I didn’t care if that made me look sex-hungry. I was.I was jonesing for the kind of roll in the hay that would demolish the tensionin my shoulders, let me forget the things I wanted to forget. I had so much troublein my life, no thanks to my ex, who’d left town and saddled me with all hisproblems. Life had been non-stop pressure and worry since then, and I needed abreak from it for just one night.

 

It’s A Book Thing Presents: An Interview with Natalina Reis, author of House of Blood and Whispers

Author’s Bio: Natalina Reis is an international bestseller who wrote her firstromance at the age of thirteen. Since then, she has published many romancesthat defy the boundaries of her genre. She enjoys writing all kinds of rebelsand outcasts into her stories and she always roots for the underdog.  

Natalina doesn’t believe you can have too manybooks or too much coffee. Chinese historical fantasy dramas are her (not so)guilty pleasure and she is pretty sure she could survive on lobster and bananasalone.

 

When she is not writing or stressing overlesson plans, she shares her life with her husband and two adult sons.

 

Note: The best writing advice she has ever beengiven is simple: just write. Nothing will happen if you don’t write, so sityour butt down somewhere and write.

 

Deliah Lawrence: What inspired youto write your book?

Natalina Reis: I wrote thisbook, House of Blood and Whispers, after I purchased a pre-made coverfrom my favorite cover artist Adriatica Creations. It’s funny but the picturejust called me, begging me to give it a story. Who am I to disobey?

 

DL: What elements do you thinkmake a good story?

NR: I love good characterdevelopment. I used to love TV shows like NCIS (the original) and Buffy theVampire Slayer but hate other forensic or paranormal shows and I alwayswondered why. What’s it about these particular shows that make me love them somuch while others in the same genre leave me meh? It’s the characters and theirrelationship with each other, the humor inserted here and there, the innerstruggles that those characters had to deal with, the mystery, and yes, a touchof romance always catches my attention.

 

I feel the same about books. I lovea book with characters that have believable and healthy relationships within aplot that takes them in a journey they won’t ever forget, be it an emotional oractual one. In a romance I want to see the love reflected in everyday acts, notjust when they are in bed: a here-you-can-have-the-last-bite-of-my-cake, ahave-my-coat-even-though-I’ll-freeze, aI’ll-sit-in-silence-with-you-until-you-feel-better type of thing.

 

DL: Is there any particularauthor or book that influenced you in any way either growing up or as an adult?

NR: As a kid I read all theclassics of crime literature and I fell in love with Agatha Christie. Her styleof writing, deceptively simple and easy to read really made an impression onme. In school we were reading all these flowery, complicated proses that arehailed as the classics and even though I loved many of them, it was thesimpler, more accessible writing that really attracted me as a reader and thenas a writer. 

Later, writers like Sophie Kinsella of romantic comedy fame, JaneAusten, and Kate Morton, all inspired me and taught me valuable lessons abouthow good writing can take all kinds of different forms. As you can tell by mychoices I am influenced by a lot of different genres, the reason why my bookstend to be a mash-up of romance, mystery, adventure, and social commentary.

 

DL: If you could choose a superpower,what would it be and why?

NR: I’m torn between flyingso I could go visit my mom and sister in Europe whenever I felt like and timemanipulation. I NEED more time to do all the things I need and want to do.

 

DL: What are three books you’llnever part with?

 

NR: Tough question. There areso many, but I’ll try to pick three. Harry Potter series (okay I know that ismore than one book but let’s say it’s a boxset, lol), The Hunger Games,and Sense and Sensibility. Phew, that was painful.

 

DL: What’s your favorite linefrom a book?

NR: “You love me. True orfalse?” “True” (The Hunger Games)

 

DL: What are three fun factsabout yourself?

NR: 1. I’m a language geekwho speaks five languages in varied states of fluency and is learning (ortrying to) Mandarin. 2. I used to teach medieval dancing as a medievalreenactor in Scotland and then Washington State. 3. I have crossed the CongoRiver in an overloaded, overcrowded ferry twice.

 

DL: Would you like to share anexcerpt from House of Blood and Whispers?

NR: Sure – here you go:

The weird daze that kept meprisoner had blurred the contours of my thoughts. No matter how many times Ishook my head to dispel the fuzziness that had taken residence in my brain, Icouldn’t clear it. It was as if something had anchored me to that spot. My legsand arms felt as heavy as my head. I couldn’t shake the feeling something waswrong but couldn’t muster the energy to fight it.

“We got her,” I heard anunfamiliar male voice say. “Jeonha, come see.”

My unfocused eyes couldn’tquite make out who was beside me, but two dark legs appeared in front of me.“This is her?” a low voice asked. The figure crouched beside me and studied myface. “She’s in bad shape.”

The voice told me it was amale, but all I could discern from his body and face was darkness. All of himwas dark, from the boots he wore to the hair on his head.

“Go get the carriage,” theman said, standing up. “Quick.”

My voice seemed to havevanished, and I couldn’t move as the stranger scooped me into his arms. Fearshould be filling me, but whatever was holding me in place didn’t allow me topanic. Instead, just like the man who was carrying me, everything around andinside me turned dark.

And I let the darkness takeme away.

 

DL: What new projects are youcurrently working on?

NR: I am working on an originstory/prequel to House of Blood and Whispers and also a new MMparanormal series that features mystery, humor and romance of course.

 

DL: Where can readers learn more aboutyou and purchase your book(s)?

NR: Readers can get more informationhere:

Website: https://natalinareis.comAmazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Natalina-Reis/e/B01ADQ9FJW/Facebook: https://bit.ly/FBNatalinaInstagram: https://bit.ly/ReisIGBlog: https://natalinareis.comBook Buy Links: AmazonKindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CGPFXWGWAll others: https://books2read.com/houseofbloodandwhispers

 

DL: Thanks so much for beinghere with us today. I know my readers will enjoy getting to know you and yourwork.

NR: Thank you so much for theopportunity!

 

It’s A Book Thing Presents: An Interview with Reverend Jennifer McSween, author of TRUE FORGIVENESS: The Proven Path From Pain To Power In 5 Simple Steps

Author’s Bio: Reverend Jennifer McSween is the InternationalBestselling Author of the book: TRUE FORGIVENESS: The Proven Path From Pain ToPower In 5 Simple Steps. Her first book, it’s about her struggling, searching,and discovering true forgiveness… healing the emotionally painful relationshipshe’d had with her mother since childhood.

 

Also, a Speaker, Podcast Host, andPersonal Transformation Strategist - spiritually oriented, open-minded, and matureadults reserve Rev. Jennifer’s services to help them be fearless andresilient, so they can live authentic, empowered, happy, deeply fulfillinglives… regardless of the circumstances, conditions, or even other people thatcome into their lives.

 

In addition to writing and helpingtransform lives, she offers an exclusive, concierge-style wedding officiatingservice, to couples who want to experience a unique, personalized, spiritualceremony. 

She is a contributing Author of theBestselling “GET PUBLISHED BUSINESS BOOK VOLUME 2” and “Creating Your LegacyJournal”. She is also a member of Bestselling Authors International.

Interviewed and featured in:

 

Write Now! Blog Radio 1/21/2021

https://bit.ly/AuthorRevJennMcSweenOnWriteNowRadio

 

PUBLISHED! MAGAZINE 7/21/2021

https://bit.ly/PUBMagzArt

 

Deliah Lawrence: What inspiredyou to write your book?

 

Reverend Jennifer McSween: That’sa great question and I cannot only tell you “What inspired me”… but the momentI had the inspiration. It was August 11, 2002 and I was in the WisconsinAirport during a 3-hour wait for a connecting flight home to Montréal. I wasreturning from Pathways of Light spiritual college in Keil, Wisconsin. I hadattended the In-Person Training section of my spiritual counselor trainingprogram.

 

The day before, August 10th, we wereOrdained. We had completed our training and were now Certified OrdainedMinisterial Counselors. One of the gifts we received from the Founders of thecollege, was a book titled “Inner Healing” by Dan Joseph.

 

I began reading that book whilewaiting for my flight. It was a little book and Dan wrote in a very clear,simple, and engaging manner that drew me in from the start. In his book, Danshared a 3-Step process he had developed for finding peace whenever he felttroubled.

 

Because Dan’s process was not onlysimple but practical, I applied it right then on a minor troubling situationthat came to mind. I immediately felt less troubled. I found that though DanJoseph’s process was simple, it was very effective.

As I read further, I found myselfthinking that I would love to write a similar book sharing simple, practical,spiritual processes. The more I thought about it, the greater the desire to doit became and the more excited I became.

 

Because, at that time I had alreadyrealized that my purpose was to help people heal and transform their lives.Writing and publishing a book would be yet another way to express my purpose. I knew then, without a doubt, Iwould one day write and publish a life transforming book.

 

DL: How do you handle writer’sblock?

 

RJM: Although, between 2013and March 10, 2017 I made several attempts to write this book, I wouldn’t saythat it was due to having writer’s block. I see writer’s block as staring at ablank screen or a blank page and having no idea what to say. With me, however,there was no shortage of ideas floating around in my head. The problem was, Ijust couldn’t get the ideas out of my head and onto the paper or screen infront of me. At the time, I thought it was “Imposter’s Syndrome.” However, Ilater came to realize that it was simply because I had not yet fully understoodand/or lived the idea or experience I wanted to share.

 

Because, on March 10, 2017, startingwith a blank page, I wrote the complete first rough draft in 27 days. Duringthose 27 days, there was not one day that I woke up not wanting to write. I maynot have written every day, not because I did not want to… but because I chosenot to.

 

I still don’t understand it myself.The moment I started writing on March 10th, it felt like I had become adifferent person. I literally woke up every day looking forward to writing thatday. I didn’t have to create mock-up images of my book to keep motivated orpromise myself some kind of reward to keep writing. I was naturally inspired.The ideas were easily flowing out of my head and I had this constant underlyingfeeling of joy. I remember wondering to myself during that time… “Who is thisperson?”

 

DL: What is your writing process?

 

RJM: Whatever I’m writing, mywriting process is the same. I start with pen and paper and do a brain dump,pouring out all the thoughts and ideas related to my topic on paper. They couldbe full sentences, phrases, related quotes, or even a single word. Nothing iscensured, if it comes to my mind, it goes onto the paper.

 

Then, I organize and group byrelated themes or ideas. These become chapters, headings, or sections. OnceI’ve finished organizing, I start writing. I write a first draft withoutediting. I then read what I’ve written and edit as I go. 

 

DL: Is there any particularauthor or book that influenced you in any way either growing up or as an adult?

 

RJM: Growing up, one bookthat influenced me most was Maya Angelou’s first book, I Know Why the CagedBird Sings. I read this book when I was sixteen years old and it helped meto feel truly worthy and valued. Skip ahead about 20 years… I get to see andhear Maya Angelou speak in person and it further reinforces my sense ofworthiness and value.

 

DL: What was the best writingadvice you’ve ever been given?

RJM: Well, the best writingadvice I’ve ever been given… not only got me started writing… but kept mewriting my book all the way to publication. And still guides all of my writingtoday. And, it came from the same person. Chandler Bolt, Founder of “Self-PublishingSchool.”

 

To this day I still can’t recall whosent me the email in February of 2017, promoting Chandler Bolt’s Webinar ongoing “From Blank Page To Published Author in 90 Days.” I attended that Webinarand what Chandler taught was to first, do a brain dump; then organize yourmaterial; then write your complete first draft without editing.

 

DL: What tips would you give toaspiring writers?

 

RJM: First, I would say makesure you’re writing for the “Right Reasons.” In other words, don’t writebecause you think it would give you credibility or make you feel worthy orsuccessful. Write only if it’s something you feel genuinely inspired to do. Away of expressing your purpose. Or… if you have a message to share or somethingthat would improve or transform the lives of others.

 

Here are 4 tips for writing withease and joy:

Don’t overthink it.Keep in mind you’re just ‘tellingyour story’, and it’s your story. You can tell it the way you want and usewhatever examples you choose. Remember… there is no one waiting inthe wings to “rap you on the knuckles” like a grade school teacher and judgewhat you have written as wrong or right. Not everyone will agree with yourideas or perspectives, but that’s okay. They can choose to write their own books and express their own ideas.Plus… they are not the ones for whom you are writing. There are those for whomyou are. 

DL: What are 3 fun facts aboutyou?

 

RJM: Three fun facts about myself are:

I consider myself to bethe only Black Person with no rhythm.I absolutely love Classic CountryMusic and I’m a big Willie Nelson Fan.I’m passionate about all thingsrelated to Ancient Egypt… so much so that I have a tattoo of the bust of QueenNefertiti on my right forearm.  

DL: Would you like to sharean excerpt from TRUE FORGIVENESS: The Proven Path From Pain To Power In 5Simple Steps?

 

RJM: Sure… here’s an excerptfrom the Back Cover material:

 

“Rightly understood, forgiveness isnot about denying you feel hurt, rationalizing, what happened, or looking forthe good that came from a painful experience. Forgiveness - True Forgiveness -is shifting your perception in such a way, that regardless of what happens orwhat you experience, the thought of judgement doesn’t occur in the first place.From this perspective… there is nothing to condemn, nothing or no one toaccuse, and no guilt to be felt."

In True Forgiveness: The Proven Path FromPain To Power In 5 Simple Steps, I share a simple, practical way to make thisradical shift in your perception so you can put an end to your struggle to findpeace and healing.

 

DL: What new projects are youcurrently working on?

RJM: I felt led to create a 5Book Series titled “The Other Way Series” with my first book “True Forgiveness”as Book #1. I’m currently working on the course for implementing book #1 and,I’m working on book #2 in the series. 

 

DL: Where can readers learn moreabout you and purchase your book(s).

 

RJM: Readers can get moreinformation here:

Author Page: https://bit.ly/IBAuthorRevJennFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thetfgvgrp - Please join my Facebook Group if youfeel so ledBook Buy Links: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07687NZ2Q

DL: Thanks so much for being here with us today. I know my readers willenjoy getting to know you and your work.

 

RJM:  Thank you for this wonderful opportunity!

 

  

                                      

 

 

 

 

  

A Review of Romeo’s Fight (A Mike Romeo Thriller, Book #4) by James Scott Bell

This isthe second Romeo thriller novel I’ve read by James Scott Bell. This time, Mike Romeo,an investigator for Rabbi Ira Rosen, Attorney-at-Law, former Mossad agent is inthe midst of trying to help Archie Jennison, an old friend (cage fighter) witha murder rap. Archie is also attached to an old unsolved Hollywood murder in aweird way – his father maybe the killer. While trying to get to the bottom of Archie’sdilemma’s, Mike is also trying to help some other folks: C Dog, the leader of apunk rock band (“Unopened Cheese”) to settle up with a loan shark he owesTwenty grand with penalty and interest, and Artra Murray, a doctor who runs apublic medical clinic who is on the verge of closing due to lack of funds.

ZaneDonahue, a rich and well connected (not all legal) cage fight promoter could bethe key to helping Mike solve the murder cases and help him out financially. ButZane is not a man to be trusted and Mike must use his instincts and intellectto outmaneuver him. Along the way, folks are hurt and Mike escapes from anattempt on his life because he was getting too close to finding out the truth. 

Overall,this was a quick and well-written read. I loved the intricacy of the storyline,the snappish dialogue (Mike never misses a beat to perplex folks around himwith his intellect – Shakespeare, Kierkegaard, Latin, etc.), well developed characters,and realistic fight scenes. There were many times I laughed out loud and sat onthe edge of my seat during tense moments. I enjoyed this novel especially theending with a twist. I will definitely read another novel showcasing Romeo’s wit,charming personality, and helpful disposition. A great read! Two thumbs up!  

Rating: 4stars  

Some of myfavorite lines: 

     “Why won’tyou consider fighting for me?” Donahue said. “That hundred grand is real cashmoney.”

     “I’m not aviolent person,” I said.

     Donahuesnorted. “I know your cage record. Funny, but I can’t find anything beforethat.” “Nothing funny about it,” I said.

     “You areapparently a man with a past. And you don’t want anybody to know about it.”

     “Life canonly be understood backward,” I said. “But it must be lived forward.”

     “You comeup with that?”

     “Kierkegaard.”

     He took alanguid pull on his cigar and let the smoke issue from his mouth like a geniefrom a lamp. “A fighter who reads Kierkegaard. You are going to make a lot ofmoney.”

It's A Book Thing Presents: An Interview with Shannon Wilkerson, author of Girl Go For It! The Single Black Woman’s Blueprint to Living Life Fearlessly

Author’s Bio: Shannon Wilkerson, anative Washingtonian, is an author and book strategy and productivity coach.She has dedicated her career to helping other women to be successful in their endeavorsand has built a business around the premise that, with the right tools, anyonecan succeed personally and professionally. Shannon enjoys solo travel,journaling and playing with her two children. 

DeliahLawrence: What inspired you to write your book?

ShannonWilkerson: I was inspired by the need that I saw among single black women,through watching interviews, having conversations and observation. A lot ofwomen were making decisions based on fear and believing the lie that there arecertain things that are just not for us. I wanted to squash that and see uselevated. 

Note: This book will be released in October 2023.

DL: How doyou handle writer’s block?

SW: Idon’t have writer’s block because I have developed an outlining strategy thathas eliminated that issue for me and for many of my clients as well. 

DL: Whatwere some of the challenges when writing this book?

SW: Ididn’t want my book to be negative. I wanted to focus on the positive and thethings that make us amazing. However, I had to also address the stereotypes andstigma that we have been labeled with. It was a challenge to create a balanceof the two. 

DL: What arethe keys to success in marketing your book(s)?

SW: Warmthe audience up with the prelaunch. Build anticipation. Use a professional forgraphics. Your image matters! Sell from your own website. 

DL: What tipswould you give to aspiring writers?

SW: Writewell, not fast! 

DL: What arethree fun facts about yourself?

SW: Threefun facts about myself are:

I love eatingbreakfast food for dinner.I like totravel alone.I text mymother and sisters at least 50x a day 

DL: What newprojects are you currently working on?

SW: I’vecreated a coaching program based on my book. I help women to get what they wantout of life by fearlessly going after it. 

DL: If youcould choose a superpower, what would it be and why?

SW: Iwould want the ability to read minds. That way I could see what actually holdspeople back from living life how they want to as their true self. 

DL: Ifyou were hosting a dinner party which three authors would be your dream guestsand why?

SW: My dream guests would be: 

MichelleObama - I just want to know what it was like being the first black family inthe white house.CynthiaBrazelton - She’s a woman of great faith and integrity and I enjoy her company.Tabitha Brown -I just love her energy and have interest in her story. 

DL: Wherecan readers learn more about you and purchase your book(s)?

SW: Readerscan learn more here:

Website: shanniwilke.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShanniWilke3/

DL: Thanksso much for being here with us today. I know my readers will enjoy getting toknow you and your work.

SW: Thank you!

 

It’s A Book Thing Presents: An Interview with Rita A. Gordon, author of 30 DAYS IN BELFAST

Author’sBio: Rita Gordon is a California native living in the Bay Area and aSan Francisco State University graduate. As an emerging voice in thecontemporary romance genre, Rita brings a fresh perspective to storytelling.Inspired by the power of love and the beauty of cultural exploration, herwriting captures the essence of human emotions, leaving readers spellbound witheach page turn. 

In addition to writing, Rita is an avid reader and has amassedan extensive collection of books that fill the rooms of her house. When notreading and writing, she travels, draws flower designs for her coloring books,or volunteers in her community. Her debut novel, 30 Days in Belfast, isavailable in print and e-book. 

DeliahLawrence: What inspired you to write your book?

Rita A.Gordon: I had been writing stories since college but never completed anentire novel. In 2016, I challenged myself to complete a novel in thirty daysbecause I read somewhere that was possible. Although I didn’t finish my storyin thirty days, I did complete it in about three months. Then I let it situntil 2019, when I started editing it. I believe the concept came from applyingmath to completing a novel. I thought if I wrote one day in my character’s lifeevery day over thirty days, I could finish the book in thirty days. It’s funnywhen I think back now. And Belfast happened to be the birthplace of the personwho was the inspiration behind the main male character on whom I was trying tobuild a backstory. 

DL: How doyou handle writer’s block?

RAG: Writer’sblock is a real thing. I step away from the writing and do other things. Ilisten to songs on the music playlist I created for the book I’m writing, whichhelps put me in the mood of the book and my characters. I also keep a Pinterestboard of my character inspiration and location settings. So, I keep the book’sPinterest board open while I write to keep me in the mood and setting. 

DL: Whatis your writing process?

RAG: Mywriting process aligns with how plotters write. I keep a spreadsheet thattracks the characters, ages, persona types, and family relationships. I alsoshow which future books they will appear in. I develop a spreadsheet that mapsout the scenes, and I create writing prompts that help me know what I shouldwrite about in each chapter. With 30 DAYS IN BELFAST, I kept acalendar that mapped out the days. A lot of activity happened in the book inthe morning, afternoons, and evenings, so I had to keep meticulous notes. 

DL: Whatwas the best writing advice you’ve ever been given?

RAG: The bestwriting advice I received is to simply write. Don’t worry about editing, etc.,while writing. Let the thoughts flow and put it on the page. Then, later, youcan go back and fix things as needed. I applied that to my current work inprogress, and it was amazing how fast I could put my thoughts on the page.

 

DL: If youwere hosting a dinner party, which three authors would be your dream guests andwhy?

RAG: Oh, thisis easy. Kennedy Ryan, because she was born to write. She’s the queen of proseand romance. Kenya Goree-Bell because she is unabashed—and I love it. Herenergy is contagious, and her stories are bold, creative, and smoking hot.Evelyn Sola because she has bewitched me with her stories. All three of theseauthors are on my auto-buy list. 

DL: Whatare the keys to success in marketing your book(s)?

RAG: This is atricky question since I self-published. A lot of marketing is based onalgorithms. So, for indie authors, if you post on social media, it’s essentialto get audience engagement in the form of likes, follows, subscribers, and,most importantly, reviews. People like to tell you in comments, emails, or DMshow much they like the book or your work, which we absolutely love, but ifreaders don’t go onto Amazon or Goodreads and leave a review, it doesn’t helpthe author get seen by more readers. So, the key is to get readers to postreviews and buy the book.

 

DL: What’syour favorite line from a book?

RAG: “Be withme always—take any form—drive me mad! Only do not leave me in this abyss, whereI cannot find you!” – Heathcliff, Wuthering Heights, by EmilyBrontë. 

DL: Wouldyou like to share an excerpt from 30 DAYS IN BELFAST?

RAG: Here is ablurb from the book. 

Just one distraction could lead tofailure—several may spell ruin.

As the daughter of the wealthiest Black man inthe country, Rose Ross struggles to make a name for herself as the COO of herfather’s tech company. She’s even forced to let go of a promising relationshipto focus on her career, but still cannot seem to escape her father’s legacy.Rose fears that if she remains at Rick Ross Enterprises, she will never riseabove the vast shadow his name casts. 

When her ailing friend reaches out to her forhelp, Rose doesn’t hesitate. She has just thirty days to curate the mostimportant charity art exhibition in Europe and break into a field she is trulypassionate about. However, just before she leaves for her flight to Belfast,her father informs her that she has only three weeks to decide whether she willsucceed him as CEO. 

With her concentration already split betweenone life-altering decision, Rose is stunned when she meets her friend’shandsome and overprotective brothers. Right away, she recognizes an undeniable,yet different, attraction to both. 

Her mind in turmoil, Rose’s focus is nowfractured among love and business. If she cannot make a decision—or if shemakes the wrong one—she will lose everything she has worked for and, perhaps,more. 

DL: Whatnew projects are you currently working on?

RAG: Mycurrent work in progress is a three-book fiction romance series. The first bookin the series is called SEVEN DAYS IN SEATTLE. This book is aboutan attorney who flies to Seattle the week before an important meeting to getaway following a breakup. Then, a stranger at a bar offers a prettydistraction, a one-night stand that turns into a week-long affair. They soondiscover fate is about to punish them for staying anonymous… by throwing theminto each other’s lives in the worst possible way. 

DL: Wherecan readers learn more about you and purchase your book(s)?

RAG: Readerscan get more information here:

Website: https://www.ritaagordon.com/[all my books and corresponding links to buy are here]AmazonAuthor Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/ritagordonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorritagordonInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/rgordonshaw/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authorritagordonBook Buy Links:Amazon: https://a.co/d/amRB9wXBarnes& Noble: https://bit.ly/30DIBbn

DL: Thanks somuch for being here with us today. I know my readers will enjoy getting to knowyou and your work.

RAG: Thank you!