Katheryn Lane's Blog, page 14
January 10, 2012
Music, World War II and a Russian Billionaire: Meet Julie Thomas
After Robert Collins' and Kevin Ashman's excellent guest posts about how history has influenced their books, I am pleased to be continuing this topic with author Julie Thomas who is talking today about her wonderful book, The Secret Keeper, and the amazing World War II story behind it.
Julie ThomasHello to all of Katheryn's readers from far-flung New Zealand and thank you so much for sharing a few minutes with me.
I have three books uploaded to Amazon and Smashwords, one is a novel, one is a book of short stories and one is a book of my late father's letters home from WWII, he was a Spitfire pilot in the UK and the Middle East. Today I am talking to you about my novel, The Secret Keeper. It's had five five-star reviews on Amazon and one on Smashwords and is free! It's number one for free Jewish fiction on Amazon and I suspect I am the only Gentile on the list. I uploaded it in early September and so far have had around 8,000 downloads.
What is The Secret Keeper about?
[image error] It's about a precious 1742 del Gesu violin and the people who loved her and lost her, found her and reclaimed her. It's also about Daniel Horowitz, a 14 year old American kid who loves to play baseball and yet stands on the verge of a career as a violin virtuoso. When his parents forbid him to play the sport he loves, he refuses to play the violin. His great-grandfather, Benjamin, was a banker in Berlin before the war and had his bank taken, his house looted by the Nazis and his family thrown into Dachau. Daniel's grandfather, Simon, was 18 in 1939 and he survived Dachau by playing the violin for the camp guards. In 1945 the violin was stolen by a Russian General and taken back to the Soviet Union. Now it belongs to a billionaire Russian ex-pat who is also a magnificent patron of the arts. The novel follows the quest to reclaim the violin and to persuade Daniel to play it. It also explores the question of ownership and proving a family history.
What inspired me to write it?
I read a magazine article about the thirteen violins that Guarneri del Gesu made in 1742, amongst the best violins ever made. Twelve of them are accounted for and one is still missing, believed looted and destroyed during the war. This is my account of what might have happened to it. I also have a nephew who is a brilliant violinist. His late mother was a music teacher and when he was 14 he wanted to play cricket, but his mother considered it too dangerous for his fingers. I wondered what would have happened if he'd refused to give up sport for music. The idea grew from that. The conductor is based on Placido Domingo, not only a magnificent singer but also a wonderful conductor, and is a kind of tribute to him. I researched as I wrote and it took seven years to complete. There are many historical figures woven in, Stalin, Marshall Zhukov, Dmitri Shostakovich etc. and the chapters set in Dachau are meticulously researched. The liberation chapter is based on a letter written by an American serviceman who was there that day.
Why do I write?
I can't remember a time when I didn't write. I was born with a serious heart defect which was corrected by surgery when I was four. I spent the first four years in bed and was a prodigious reader from a very early age. I recently found notebooks written in large print when I was about eight, featuring "my novel" about a Russian princess in a troika in the snow. I wrote a novel at 21 and another at 28, but The Secret Keeper is the first I have felt I could let others read. I've also written poetry, many short stories, advertising copy, company reports, and magazine and newspaper articles and have worked in the media for over 25 years, in radio, TV and film. I've written six feature film scripts and one short film and now it is time to write more books! So I recently semi-retired and moved two hours south, to the country and I can focus on writing fiction.
What am I doing now?
I've nearly finished the second draft of a novel called 'In Vino Veritas'. It's loosely based on a film script I wrote and is a black comedic drama set in a winery. It has at least seven murders, including one with a bottle of Petrus as the murder weapon. I'm hopeful that it will be ready for Amazon and Smashwords in about a month. I love my main character very much and am hoping he will become someone I can base a series around.
Advice on writing
Writers write. It's as simple as that. If you're having trouble just write about your day, your thoughts, your opinions, free write anything really and the creativity will start to flow. Choose words at random and make up lists of sentences containing that word, choose a one word answer and make up lists of questions. All these are creativity exercises.
Be disciplined. Create a writing time and physical space and do not let anyone or anything impose on you when you're there. Don't research, don't surf the net, and don't doodle, just write.
Remember you also need thinking time. I firmly believe in the power of the subconscious. I give creative problems to my subconscious and then I sleep or day dream or mediate and leave my brain free to bring the answer to me. It's amazing how many times I wake up refreshed and with the path laid out before me.
Thank you for spending a few moments learning about me. I invite you to find me at the links below and you will learn a little more!
Blog http://thomasbrowne.wordpress.com
Facebook http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=552039602&ref=profile
Twitter https://twitter.com/#!/JMT4159
Amazon Author page http://www.amazon.com/Julie-Thomas/e/B005LIQYII/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1
Smashwords Author page http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/juliethomas
Julie ThomasHello to all of Katheryn's readers from far-flung New Zealand and thank you so much for sharing a few minutes with me.I have three books uploaded to Amazon and Smashwords, one is a novel, one is a book of short stories and one is a book of my late father's letters home from WWII, he was a Spitfire pilot in the UK and the Middle East. Today I am talking to you about my novel, The Secret Keeper. It's had five five-star reviews on Amazon and one on Smashwords and is free! It's number one for free Jewish fiction on Amazon and I suspect I am the only Gentile on the list. I uploaded it in early September and so far have had around 8,000 downloads.
What is The Secret Keeper about?
[image error] It's about a precious 1742 del Gesu violin and the people who loved her and lost her, found her and reclaimed her. It's also about Daniel Horowitz, a 14 year old American kid who loves to play baseball and yet stands on the verge of a career as a violin virtuoso. When his parents forbid him to play the sport he loves, he refuses to play the violin. His great-grandfather, Benjamin, was a banker in Berlin before the war and had his bank taken, his house looted by the Nazis and his family thrown into Dachau. Daniel's grandfather, Simon, was 18 in 1939 and he survived Dachau by playing the violin for the camp guards. In 1945 the violin was stolen by a Russian General and taken back to the Soviet Union. Now it belongs to a billionaire Russian ex-pat who is also a magnificent patron of the arts. The novel follows the quest to reclaim the violin and to persuade Daniel to play it. It also explores the question of ownership and proving a family history.
What inspired me to write it?
I read a magazine article about the thirteen violins that Guarneri del Gesu made in 1742, amongst the best violins ever made. Twelve of them are accounted for and one is still missing, believed looted and destroyed during the war. This is my account of what might have happened to it. I also have a nephew who is a brilliant violinist. His late mother was a music teacher and when he was 14 he wanted to play cricket, but his mother considered it too dangerous for his fingers. I wondered what would have happened if he'd refused to give up sport for music. The idea grew from that. The conductor is based on Placido Domingo, not only a magnificent singer but also a wonderful conductor, and is a kind of tribute to him. I researched as I wrote and it took seven years to complete. There are many historical figures woven in, Stalin, Marshall Zhukov, Dmitri Shostakovich etc. and the chapters set in Dachau are meticulously researched. The liberation chapter is based on a letter written by an American serviceman who was there that day.
Why do I write?
I can't remember a time when I didn't write. I was born with a serious heart defect which was corrected by surgery when I was four. I spent the first four years in bed and was a prodigious reader from a very early age. I recently found notebooks written in large print when I was about eight, featuring "my novel" about a Russian princess in a troika in the snow. I wrote a novel at 21 and another at 28, but The Secret Keeper is the first I have felt I could let others read. I've also written poetry, many short stories, advertising copy, company reports, and magazine and newspaper articles and have worked in the media for over 25 years, in radio, TV and film. I've written six feature film scripts and one short film and now it is time to write more books! So I recently semi-retired and moved two hours south, to the country and I can focus on writing fiction.
What am I doing now?
I've nearly finished the second draft of a novel called 'In Vino Veritas'. It's loosely based on a film script I wrote and is a black comedic drama set in a winery. It has at least seven murders, including one with a bottle of Petrus as the murder weapon. I'm hopeful that it will be ready for Amazon and Smashwords in about a month. I love my main character very much and am hoping he will become someone I can base a series around.
Advice on writing
Writers write. It's as simple as that. If you're having trouble just write about your day, your thoughts, your opinions, free write anything really and the creativity will start to flow. Choose words at random and make up lists of sentences containing that word, choose a one word answer and make up lists of questions. All these are creativity exercises.
Be disciplined. Create a writing time and physical space and do not let anyone or anything impose on you when you're there. Don't research, don't surf the net, and don't doodle, just write.
Remember you also need thinking time. I firmly believe in the power of the subconscious. I give creative problems to my subconscious and then I sleep or day dream or mediate and leave my brain free to bring the answer to me. It's amazing how many times I wake up refreshed and with the path laid out before me.
Thank you for spending a few moments learning about me. I invite you to find me at the links below and you will learn a little more!
Blog http://thomasbrowne.wordpress.com
Facebook http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=552039602&ref=profile
Twitter https://twitter.com/#!/JMT4159
Amazon Author page http://www.amazon.com/Julie-Thomas/e/B005LIQYII/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1
Smashwords Author page http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/juliethomas
January 6, 2012
Ancient Rome, Murder Mystery and Adventure: An afternoon with Kevin Ashman
This afternoon author Kevin Ashman has kindly agreed to talk to me about his bestselling books and how he came to write them. Over to you Kevin!
Hi there to all Katheryn's readers and thanks for allowing me a few moments of your precious time.
First of all I would like to say I am a relative newcomer to writing, though have had some minor success, selling almost 8,000 copies since September 2011. Not life changing, but I am very grateful to all who have downloaded them so far.
Secondly, I would point out that the book overview below is not of my best seller Roman, but of my third book, Mortuus Virgo.
So, what is Mortuus Virgo about?
[image error] Mortuus Virgo is in my opinion the best book I have written so far. It is a modern day murder mystery, with clues that link back to the tragic life of one of Rome's most famous Vestal Virgins, Rubria. Her tale is a mixture of fact and fiction, and follows her life through a tumultuous period in Rome's history, when Nero was Emperor and Rome burned.
Mortuus Virgo also follows the adventures of India Sommers, a pretty librarian in modern day UK, who teams up with a special forces investigator, Brandon Walker to find the whereabouts of a missing VIP child. In order to unveil her whereabouts, they have to understand the history of a previously unknown cult, and follow the clues from an age before the pyramids, right up to modern day in a race against time. The themes throughout are mystery, tragedy and adventure tinged with unrequited love and follows both women's stories, (albeit two thousand years apart) before finally kitting them all together in the final outcome.
In itself, the story of the Vestal Virgins is both tragic and fascinating with many buried alive in the name of love, or indeed lust. (To read more, click here)
What inspired me to write Mortuus Virgo?
Of all my books, I believe Mortuus Virgo is by far the most riveting read. The story came to me while walking the dog one evening and I virtually ran back to the house to scribble the ideas down and started writing straight away. Though I knew the story I wanted to tell, the end was unclear, however, (and I know this is a cliché) that night, I dreamed the ending. It was as if India spoke to me from the blank pages of my PC. (Strange, but true.)
Why do I write?
I started writing last year, to fulfil a life long dream. Once I started, I didn't stop until I had written two books and even managed to get an agent. However, I withdrew from that arrangement as he wanted to change too many things and it wouldn't have been the book I had written. That could have been a costly mistake, but I subsequently put them on Amazon, and within weeks, Roman in particular had sold thousands.
I don't see myself as an author, but genuinely believe I can tell a good story with believable characters and an outcome that keeps people guessing. On average it takes about three months to draft a book and another one to edit. The sales are rising every day and I am very hopeful for the future.
What am I doing now?
I am halfway through the sequel to Mortuus Virgo, a quarter the way through the sequel to Roman. I also have a fist full of ideas drafted out for later on in the year. I am particularly pleased with all four book covers as they were done by my son, a third year graphic design student, though not without some serious nagging on my part.
Advice on writing.
There are many writers far more qualified than I to offer advice, and indeed, I think I have probably read most of it. However, if there is one piece of advice that holds true, at least for me anyway, and it is this. Don't think about writing, sit down and do it now. A thousand words, five hundred words, ten words, it doesn't matter, JUST WRITE SOMETHING!
Don't procrastinate, or worry that you don't know the full story yet, as it is very unlikely the whole plot will be clear to you in the beginning anyway. Often the characters lead the way and all we need to do as author's (or story tellers) is nudge them in the right direction.
Good luck to everyone with your hopes and dreams, whatever they may be.
Best regards,
Kevin
You can find my blog at http://kevin-ashman.blogspot.com or you can go straight to the books on Amazon.com at http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=ntt_at_ep_srch?_encoding=UTF8&sort=relevancerank&search-alias=books&field-author=Kevin%20Ashman
All the books will be available as paperbacks within the next few weeks.
I have also just started a new Author Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100003346868687&sk=wall
I would love some new friends and hope to see you there
Bio
I am a 49 year old man from South Wales in the UK. For those who don't know where that is, it is on the west coast of the UK facing across the sea to Ireland. I work full time as a project manager and write for two hours a night at my dining table, setting myself a minimum target of one thousand words a night on weekdays, and two thousand words a night on weekends. Not too onerous a task.
Hi there to all Katheryn's readers and thanks for allowing me a few moments of your precious time.
First of all I would like to say I am a relative newcomer to writing, though have had some minor success, selling almost 8,000 copies since September 2011. Not life changing, but I am very grateful to all who have downloaded them so far.Secondly, I would point out that the book overview below is not of my best seller Roman, but of my third book, Mortuus Virgo.
So, what is Mortuus Virgo about?
[image error] Mortuus Virgo is in my opinion the best book I have written so far. It is a modern day murder mystery, with clues that link back to the tragic life of one of Rome's most famous Vestal Virgins, Rubria. Her tale is a mixture of fact and fiction, and follows her life through a tumultuous period in Rome's history, when Nero was Emperor and Rome burned.
Mortuus Virgo also follows the adventures of India Sommers, a pretty librarian in modern day UK, who teams up with a special forces investigator, Brandon Walker to find the whereabouts of a missing VIP child. In order to unveil her whereabouts, they have to understand the history of a previously unknown cult, and follow the clues from an age before the pyramids, right up to modern day in a race against time. The themes throughout are mystery, tragedy and adventure tinged with unrequited love and follows both women's stories, (albeit two thousand years apart) before finally kitting them all together in the final outcome.
In itself, the story of the Vestal Virgins is both tragic and fascinating with many buried alive in the name of love, or indeed lust. (To read more, click here)
What inspired me to write Mortuus Virgo?
Of all my books, I believe Mortuus Virgo is by far the most riveting read. The story came to me while walking the dog one evening and I virtually ran back to the house to scribble the ideas down and started writing straight away. Though I knew the story I wanted to tell, the end was unclear, however, (and I know this is a cliché) that night, I dreamed the ending. It was as if India spoke to me from the blank pages of my PC. (Strange, but true.)
Why do I write?
I started writing last year, to fulfil a life long dream. Once I started, I didn't stop until I had written two books and even managed to get an agent. However, I withdrew from that arrangement as he wanted to change too many things and it wouldn't have been the book I had written. That could have been a costly mistake, but I subsequently put them on Amazon, and within weeks, Roman in particular had sold thousands.
I don't see myself as an author, but genuinely believe I can tell a good story with believable characters and an outcome that keeps people guessing. On average it takes about three months to draft a book and another one to edit. The sales are rising every day and I am very hopeful for the future.
What am I doing now?
I am halfway through the sequel to Mortuus Virgo, a quarter the way through the sequel to Roman. I also have a fist full of ideas drafted out for later on in the year. I am particularly pleased with all four book covers as they were done by my son, a third year graphic design student, though not without some serious nagging on my part.
Advice on writing.
There are many writers far more qualified than I to offer advice, and indeed, I think I have probably read most of it. However, if there is one piece of advice that holds true, at least for me anyway, and it is this. Don't think about writing, sit down and do it now. A thousand words, five hundred words, ten words, it doesn't matter, JUST WRITE SOMETHING!
Don't procrastinate, or worry that you don't know the full story yet, as it is very unlikely the whole plot will be clear to you in the beginning anyway. Often the characters lead the way and all we need to do as author's (or story tellers) is nudge them in the right direction.
Good luck to everyone with your hopes and dreams, whatever they may be.
Best regards,
Kevin
You can find my blog at http://kevin-ashman.blogspot.com or you can go straight to the books on Amazon.com at http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=ntt_at_ep_srch?_encoding=UTF8&sort=relevancerank&search-alias=books&field-author=Kevin%20Ashman
All the books will be available as paperbacks within the next few weeks.
I have also just started a new Author Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100003346868687&sk=wall
I would love some new friends and hope to see you there
Bio
I am a 49 year old man from South Wales in the UK. For those who don't know where that is, it is on the west coast of the UK facing across the sea to Ireland. I work full time as a project manager and write for two hours a night at my dining table, setting myself a minimum target of one thousand words a night on weekdays, and two thousand words a night on weekends. Not too onerous a task.
January 2, 2012
The New Death: An interview with author, James Hutchings
Today I have been given the opportunity to interview James Hutchings, author of The New Death and others. First of all James, can I ask how you become an author?
I did a Bachelor of Arts majoring in creative writing and media, but I didn't do anything with it after graduating. Years later I created a fantasy city called Teleleli or Telelee as a background for role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons. Once I finished I realised there wasn't any demand for it. My ex suggested I write stories instead, and that's how I got started. Along the way I realised that my poems were better received, so I'm concentrating on them now.
You have recently published the collection, The New Death and others. Could you tell us something about it?
It's a collection of stories and poems, 63 pieces in all. It's only a bit over 41,000 words in total, so most of them are quite short. Most of the stories are fantasy, but there's some 'general fiction' in there as well. The style ranges from funny to very grim. I'm much more influenced by older writers like Tolkien and Robert E. Howard. In fact I've never read any of the Harry Potter, Twilight or Game of Thrones series, or most other popular modern fantasy authors.
What inspired you to write it?
Some ideas just pop into my head, without me knowing where the idea comes from. Other ideas come from experiences in my life. For example a while ago I found three injured birds in the space of a few weeks. I took all of them to the local vet. As I was carrying one of them, I thought that the woman at reception might wonder where I was finding all these injured birds, and that was the inspiration for my story 'Lost, Feral or Stray'. I've written a lot about cats, based on having been a cat owner.
What is your favourite story, or poem in the book and could you give us an excerpt?
One of my favourites is 'The God of the Poor'. I'll give you the whole thing (like a lot of my stories it's very short).
The God of the Poor
In the beginning of the world the gods considered all those things which did not have their own gods, to decide who would have responsibility and rulership.
"I will rule all flowers that are sky-blue in colour," said the Sky-Father.
"I will listen to the prayers of migratory birds, and you all other birds," the goddess Travel said to him. And so it went.
At last all had been divided, save for one thing.
"Who," asked the Sky-Father, "shall have dominion over the poor?"
There was an awkward silence, until the Sky-Father said,
"Come - someone must. Those with no gods will grow restless and cunning, and in time will cast us down, and we shall be gods no more."
"Not I," said blind Justice, and her stony face flashed a momentary smirk at the thought. "Why not Fame or Fortune?"
"Darling I don't think so," said the sister goddesses together.
There was a long pause. The gods shuffled their feet and avoided one another's gaze. At last a voice broke the silence.
"I will," said Death.
Thank you very much for that story. What a great ending! What are you working on at the moment?
The main thing I'm working on right now is a poem set in the old West, called 'Confession of a Bounty Hunter'.
What are you reading at the moment?
I'm actually not reading anything at the moment. Writing is taking up what would otherwise be my reading time.
Who is your favourite author?
I don't think I have a single favourite, but I like a lot of stories by Clark Ashton Smith and Robert E. Howard.
When you are not writing or reading, what do you like doing in your free time?
My other main hobby is coding online games. I spent several years writing an online game called Age of Fable (www.ageoffable.net). I don't have any plans to do more on it, but it's still online, and you can play it for free. I'm currently working on an online 'card' game, like Yu-Gi-Oh or Pokemon. I've also done a few smaller projects. For example I did an online version of the computer game Oregon Trail.
Where can we buy your book?
Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/New-Death-others-ebook/dp/B005Q8Q8DY/ref=sr_1_sc_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1325506626&sr=1-1-spell
Smashwords:
http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/92126
Barnes & Noble:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-new-death-and-others-james-hutchings/1106579897
Where can people find out more about you?
I don't use facebook or twitter, but I have a blog. It's at www.apolitical.info/teleleli. I update it every day. Often it's more background for the fantasy world where a lot of my stories are set. I also put up details of giveaways of The New Death and others whenever there's one on.
Thank you very much James for taking the time to talk to me today and for the great short story!
I did a Bachelor of Arts majoring in creative writing and media, but I didn't do anything with it after graduating. Years later I created a fantasy city called Teleleli or Telelee as a background for role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons. Once I finished I realised there wasn't any demand for it. My ex suggested I write stories instead, and that's how I got started. Along the way I realised that my poems were better received, so I'm concentrating on them now.
You have recently published the collection, The New Death and others. Could you tell us something about it?
It's a collection of stories and poems, 63 pieces in all. It's only a bit over 41,000 words in total, so most of them are quite short. Most of the stories are fantasy, but there's some 'general fiction' in there as well. The style ranges from funny to very grim. I'm much more influenced by older writers like Tolkien and Robert E. Howard. In fact I've never read any of the Harry Potter, Twilight or Game of Thrones series, or most other popular modern fantasy authors.What inspired you to write it?
Some ideas just pop into my head, without me knowing where the idea comes from. Other ideas come from experiences in my life. For example a while ago I found three injured birds in the space of a few weeks. I took all of them to the local vet. As I was carrying one of them, I thought that the woman at reception might wonder where I was finding all these injured birds, and that was the inspiration for my story 'Lost, Feral or Stray'. I've written a lot about cats, based on having been a cat owner.
What is your favourite story, or poem in the book and could you give us an excerpt?
One of my favourites is 'The God of the Poor'. I'll give you the whole thing (like a lot of my stories it's very short).
The God of the Poor
In the beginning of the world the gods considered all those things which did not have their own gods, to decide who would have responsibility and rulership.
"I will rule all flowers that are sky-blue in colour," said the Sky-Father.
"I will listen to the prayers of migratory birds, and you all other birds," the goddess Travel said to him. And so it went.
At last all had been divided, save for one thing.
"Who," asked the Sky-Father, "shall have dominion over the poor?"
There was an awkward silence, until the Sky-Father said,
"Come - someone must. Those with no gods will grow restless and cunning, and in time will cast us down, and we shall be gods no more."
"Not I," said blind Justice, and her stony face flashed a momentary smirk at the thought. "Why not Fame or Fortune?"
"Darling I don't think so," said the sister goddesses together.
There was a long pause. The gods shuffled their feet and avoided one another's gaze. At last a voice broke the silence.
"I will," said Death.
Thank you very much for that story. What a great ending! What are you working on at the moment?
The main thing I'm working on right now is a poem set in the old West, called 'Confession of a Bounty Hunter'.
What are you reading at the moment?
I'm actually not reading anything at the moment. Writing is taking up what would otherwise be my reading time.
Who is your favourite author?
I don't think I have a single favourite, but I like a lot of stories by Clark Ashton Smith and Robert E. Howard.
When you are not writing or reading, what do you like doing in your free time?
My other main hobby is coding online games. I spent several years writing an online game called Age of Fable (www.ageoffable.net). I don't have any plans to do more on it, but it's still online, and you can play it for free. I'm currently working on an online 'card' game, like Yu-Gi-Oh or Pokemon. I've also done a few smaller projects. For example I did an online version of the computer game Oregon Trail.
Where can we buy your book?
Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/New-Death-others-ebook/dp/B005Q8Q8DY/ref=sr_1_sc_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1325506626&sr=1-1-spell
Smashwords:
http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/92126
Barnes & Noble:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-new-death-and-others-james-hutchings/1106579897
Where can people find out more about you?
I don't use facebook or twitter, but I have a blog. It's at www.apolitical.info/teleleli. I update it every day. Often it's more background for the fantasy world where a lot of my stories are set. I also put up details of giveaways of The New Death and others whenever there's one on.
Thank you very much James for taking the time to talk to me today and for the great short story!
December 31, 2011
Lisa's Way: Mixing Science Fiction and History
It's always great to hear from other authors and today I am rounding off the year with a guest post by Robert Collins, author of both history and sci-fi books. Over to you Robert!
My second published novel, Lisa's Way, is available once again. It's a science fiction novel. As such you wouldn't think it had much to do with history. But it was history that went into making the story what it is.
The novel began in high school as an idea that a friend and I came up with. We would write a post-apocalypse novel with ourselves and our friends as characters. Of course, it wasn't enough that we would survive; we'd also have to gain psychic powers.
Not long after high school the story became mine. I turned the real people into fictional characters and wrote the novel. The first draft wasn't very good, but I liked the idea, so I kept at it. One main character emerged: Lisa Herbert, the smart, caring, red-haired teenager. She would be the one to lead the effort to rebuild.
There was one problem: how would Lisa do it? The novel became short stories, then went back to being a novel. The question of how remained.
In 1992 I began my "other" writing career when I published my first "Touring Kansas Counties" book. From then to now I've been writing nonfiction about Kansas history as well as science fiction and fantasy.
While researching some of the TKC books, I came across the history of the Santa Fe Trail. The Trail ran from western Missouri to Santa Fe, New Mexico. It was rarely used as an emigrant trail; it was a commercial route used to ship goods. The Santa Fe Trail was so prosperous that it inspired the leaders of the Santa Fe railroad construct their line from Kansas to Santa Fe, and on to the Pacific.
Lisa's story was never too far from my mind at the time. During my research inspiration hit. Trade would be method Lisa would use to rebuild society. Trade would allow her to travel, to make friends, and to restore the connections that had been broken.Getting that idea allowed me to focus on a coherent plot for the novel. It still didn't quite work. The final piece was moving the setting from Earth in a near-ish future to outer space and a bit farther ahead. That's when the novel finally came together.
That's not the only instance of history helping me tell Lisa's story. One of the stories that will make up the second book was inspired by a true tale of a Kansas small town. A man came to town one day and killed another man who had recently settled in town. Capturing the murderer revealed a sordid link between the two. I'm presently working on the fourth book. One of the plot threads takes inspiration from the "Dodge City War of 1883". I can't say much about it now; if you're curious look it up.
History has inspired other genre stories. Several of the plots of my "Frigate Victory" science fiction stories come from Kansas history. I've recently written a fantasy story that combines magic with John Brown. All I need is a good character or story idea from the past, and I'm off.
There's a wealth of material waiting to be discovered. Time will tell if my research will result in fiction books that sell. Here's hoping it does!
You can find out more about Robert Collins and connect with him at:
Blog: http://robertlcollins.blogspot.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000601491928
Twitter: @robertLcollins
My second published novel, Lisa's Way, is available once again. It's a science fiction novel. As such you wouldn't think it had much to do with history. But it was history that went into making the story what it is.The novel began in high school as an idea that a friend and I came up with. We would write a post-apocalypse novel with ourselves and our friends as characters. Of course, it wasn't enough that we would survive; we'd also have to gain psychic powers.
Not long after high school the story became mine. I turned the real people into fictional characters and wrote the novel. The first draft wasn't very good, but I liked the idea, so I kept at it. One main character emerged: Lisa Herbert, the smart, caring, red-haired teenager. She would be the one to lead the effort to rebuild.
There was one problem: how would Lisa do it? The novel became short stories, then went back to being a novel. The question of how remained.
In 1992 I began my "other" writing career when I published my first "Touring Kansas Counties" book. From then to now I've been writing nonfiction about Kansas history as well as science fiction and fantasy.
While researching some of the TKC books, I came across the history of the Santa Fe Trail. The Trail ran from western Missouri to Santa Fe, New Mexico. It was rarely used as an emigrant trail; it was a commercial route used to ship goods. The Santa Fe Trail was so prosperous that it inspired the leaders of the Santa Fe railroad construct their line from Kansas to Santa Fe, and on to the Pacific.
Lisa's story was never too far from my mind at the time. During my research inspiration hit. Trade would be method Lisa would use to rebuild society. Trade would allow her to travel, to make friends, and to restore the connections that had been broken.Getting that idea allowed me to focus on a coherent plot for the novel. It still didn't quite work. The final piece was moving the setting from Earth in a near-ish future to outer space and a bit farther ahead. That's when the novel finally came together.
That's not the only instance of history helping me tell Lisa's story. One of the stories that will make up the second book was inspired by a true tale of a Kansas small town. A man came to town one day and killed another man who had recently settled in town. Capturing the murderer revealed a sordid link between the two. I'm presently working on the fourth book. One of the plot threads takes inspiration from the "Dodge City War of 1883". I can't say much about it now; if you're curious look it up.
History has inspired other genre stories. Several of the plots of my "Frigate Victory" science fiction stories come from Kansas history. I've recently written a fantasy story that combines magic with John Brown. All I need is a good character or story idea from the past, and I'm off.
There's a wealth of material waiting to be discovered. Time will tell if my research will result in fiction books that sell. Here's hoping it does!
You can find out more about Robert Collins and connect with him at:
Blog: http://robertlcollins.blogspot.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000601491928
Twitter: @robertLcollins
December 27, 2011
Babies, Writing and Travelling: An interview with Sarah Elle Emm
Today I am delighted to welcome Sarah Elle Emm, author of Marrying Missy. First of all Sarah, can I ask how you became an author, what inspired you?
Well, my mother's side carries the 'writing gene,' so honestly, I had no choice. Since I began to read, I have always appreciated being transported into the pages of a good book. I tried to write a story on Mom's typewriter when I was eight, but years later, observing Mom finish writing her first book, I was officially inspired. I began my first book about ten years ago when I was living in Germany, but the whole 'single girl, globe trotting' thing prevented me from finishing it right away. Years later, during my newborn baby's nap time, I finished writing my first novel. It was the perfect solution to the isolation I was suddenly feeling as a new parent and stay at home mom. I had no idea what a mom's group was at the time. My 'me' time, when my baby was asleep and my husband was working, turned into 'writing' time. Besides, I talk a lot. Sometimes, it's just easier to write it down rather than pour your heart out to someone, or talk them to death, lol. I needed an outlet for the thoughts in my head… So the fiction writing officially became a priority, second to keeping the new babe happy and healthy, of course.
You have recently published the novel, Marrying Missy. Could you tell us something about it?
Marrying Missy is a tale about a friendship put to the test, obsessions with the superficial of this world, betrayal, a troubled marriage, and love, but the inspiration for this book was, 'change.' Can people be freed of the philosophies, hate, ideas, and prejudices that their parents have taught them? Of course, the social issues, of which there are many, I tried to handle delicately, as I wanted to keep Marrying Missy a fun, page-turning, read. I wanted the reader to enjoy, and if their annoyance with Missy was what kept them going, then fine. There are "Missy Martins" all around the world, but I try to believe in a thing called, 'hope.' I hope for the future of children everywhere that the world we live in will continue to learn to be a place of acceptance of other people, regardless of our differences. Marrying Missy was the second novel I completed. I love the design of your book cover and have even listed on my page, Great Book Covers. Who did it and how much input did you have?
I have never met the graphic artist, but her name is Whitney Arvin. I am told she lives in Indiana. I was published by an Indiana press, Bird Brain Publishing, and they have worked with Ms. Arvin on some of their previous works. I got to approve, suggest, and give my opinion throughout the process, for which I am very grateful. I don't know who suggested the final cover, but I saw a photo of an actual bride transform into the final product. They let me choose between various covers with different color schemes near the end, and I loved the pink and blue. Thank you, by the way, for featuring my cover on Great Book Covers!
What are you working on at the moment?
Besides trying to get my kids to sleep past six a.m.? The second book in a Young Adult fantasy series. I am excited about this series, and I think the YA market will like it as well. One of those cliché dream moments happened to me for this one. Seriously, I was trying to nap for a minute while my youngest did about one year ago, and suddenly there they were, the crew of teenagers who make up this story, and I couldn't fill my notebook up with ideas and details fast enough. I am also editing a romantic suspense that takes place in the Virgin Islands, where I have been traveling to since I was fourteen-years-old and where I have also lived with my husband, which I hope to see in print very soon. I wrote both of these books last year after moving to Indianapolis from St. Thomas.
When you are not writing, what do you like doing in your free time?
Ha! Free time. I chase kids. Seriously, my three-year-old is like Forest Gump… Everywhere she goes, she is running, but instead of behaving politely when she stops running, she is usually pouring out a bag of flour or my coffee. Still, she is very adorable, so this makes up for the time I spend on my feet. In this present cycle of my life, I have a two hour window of personal time three times a week, and I have been spending these hours in the pool at the gym. I took up swimming laps about three months ago and am now swimming one mile at a time. I am slow, but it's a release of stress and strangely empowering. After I finish my swim, I temporarily, (thanks to those endorphins,) feel like I could kick someone's butt if I had to, which is oddly comforting. Truth be told, my limbs feel like Jello an hour later, and I can hardly walk to my refrigerator, much less kick butt. Still, I look forward to that swim… so for now, it's my 'free time.'
I believe you travel a lot. What is the most interesting country that you have visited and do you think you will do some travel writing in the future?
That's a great question. I don't think I can pick a country. The most interesting thing about traveling for me has always been observing and comparing other countries to one another. I have traveled around England, Western Europe, Mexico, Canada, the U.S.A., and the Caribbean, but there are so many places I still want to go, like New Zealand and Australia to start. I have an affection for Mexico, specifically, Guadalajara, and Puerto Vallarta, but mostly for Latino culture. I love the warmth and friendliness of the people in Mexico, the music, the style, the language, (hello, something about rolling your R's is so much fun,) the colorful clothing, and did I mention the warmth of the people? I am affectionate, so cultures in Europe and Latin America, where people kiss you two to three times on the cheek in greeting and hug make me happy. I have a soft spot for Italy. Something about standing in front of the statue of David or on the Spanish Steps is just surreal and romantic. In my fantasy world, I would live in Italy either part time or permanently, (after winning the lottery). I don't even speak Italian. Despite the language barrier in Italy, I still felt at home on all three trips. I tend to feel at home most anywhere I go, which is why I have always jumped on every opportunity to travel and live in a new place. Travel writing? Sure. Better, yet, kick Samantha Brown off of the Travel Channel, and give me her job. I want to get paid to eat, sleep and drink in hot spots around the globe.
What advice do you have for other authors out there?
It's difficult to not get caught up in people's opinions, but try and block the world out when you write. I sometimes allow myself to have a moment where I am obsessing about what someone said about my future in the industry or what so-and-so will think about my book, but then I have to take a deep breath and remind myself… I love to write. I love that feeling when suddenly the conversation or chapter just clicks and a smile crosses my face, "Yes, that's what I wanted!" It doesn't matter if I'm never a 'success' story. It only matters that I can keep writing and that I write what's in my heart. I think that's what we should all try to remember. Like Nike's 'Just do it' campaign, but for writer's instead… Just write.
Where can we buy your book?
Marrying Missy is available in paperback at www.barnesandnoble.com and www.Amazon.com. It is also in e-format for NOOK and Kindle at both websites. My website is updated regularly with book promos and info at www.SarahElleEmm.com.
Finally, do you have any parting comments that you would like to share with us?
Let me tell everyone about my monthly book drawing. Everyone who 'likes' my Facebook page, Sarah Elle Emm, is automatically entered in the monthly drawing for a free paperback copy of Marrying Missy. Also, in between the Forest Gump chasing, swimming, editing, writing, and driving my husband crazy, I write a weekly blog, My Name is Sarah, at www.SarahElleEmm.blogspot.com. Please stop by my blog, and join if you'd like. I'd also like to say a heartfelt thank you, to you, Katheryn, for welcoming me to your blog for this delightful conversation. This was a great experience! Now, back to those preschoolers. They are demanding chocolate milk!
Thank you so much Sarah for taking the time to chat with me about yourself and your work. I'll let you go and make chocolate milk. I'm going to head off and check out your blog.
December 22, 2011
All I want for Christmas is . . .
Is it too late to write my Christmas list? Maybe, and I'm a bit behind this year (again!), but better late than never, so here is my 'wish list' for Christmas 2011:
Top of the list has to be a Kindle Fire (no surprises there, but it will be a huge surprise if Santa can work out how to get one shipped to the Middle East).
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What would I put on it? I'd certainly get a Christmas book like A Victorian Christmas, which has both romance and recipes, and some sweet romance, such as Wife by Wednesday (great cover).
I would also love to go to the ballet, but the chances of Santa's magic bringing a ballet company to the desert are remote (though stranger things have happened). Therefore, I would have to watch a ballet on TV. The Nutcracker is a classic Christmas ballet and the Baryshnikov, Kirkland and Charmoli performance looks excellent.
Watching the ballet, and Christmas generally, wouldn't be complete without a box of chocolates, so I would ask for some of those as well!
For cooking I have always wanted a large Le Creuset pot, so that would also be on the list. I would use it to cook up a large stew/casserole with all the Christmas dinner left-overs.
For a bit of personal indulgence I would add a bottle of perfume, such as Romance by Ralph Lauren.
If money was no option, I would also add a diamond tennis bracelet (in my dreams!)
However, what I really want this Christmas is for my family and friends to have a safe and healthy festive season wherever they are in the world (and the tennis bracelet!)
What's on your Christmas list?
December 18, 2011
Great Book, Great Food! Author Shelli Johnson's Very Berry Coffee Cake Recipe
Shelli JohnsonI always love to combine books and food (for some examples on this blog see my interview with K. E. Saxon and Alle Wells' guest post) and today it is great to welcome author, Shelli Johnson. She is not only sharing a fantastic coffee cake recipe with me, but is also explaining how the recipe connects to her brilliant, novel, Small as a Mustard Seed, which was the grand prize winner of the Writers Digest International Self-Published Book Awards!
VERY BERRY COFFEE CAKE OR MUFFINS
Many thanks for this idea & for having me on your blog, Katheryn! This recipe is both for a crock-pot & for muffins. It ties into & was inspired by a pivotal scene in my novel, Small as a Mustard Seed .
THE EXCERPT ON WHICH THIS RECIPE IS BASED:
I sat at the kitchen table wearing frayed jeans and a blue sweater, my hair pulled back in a small ponytail. I hooked my bare heels on the bottom rung of the chair so my toenails, painted a bright, gaudy red, pointed at the linoleum. I sliced a circle from a log of summer sausage and nibbled on the edges. My mother in her robe and slippers, hair pinned back in a bun, moved from the kitchen counter to the refrigerator and back again. Her flurry of activity sent odors — honeydew melon, strawberry lotion, flour, and raw eggs — spinning through the air. Half her body bent into the refrigerator, she scoured the shelves, muttering, "Where is it? Where is it?"
"Where's what?" I said.
"The sour cream. Have you seen it?"
"Daddy finished it off yesterday with the potato chips."
She slammed the refrigerator, and the bottles inside the door clanked together. She stamped her foot and said, "Just how am I supposed to make muffins without sour cream?"
I shrugged. "Make them with butter."
She rolled her eyes dramatically then dismissed me with a few flaps of her hand. "Lord, you would think I spent all this time teaching you absolutely nothing. Sour cream makes it moist."
"Oh," I said.
AND HERE'S THE RECIPE:
Prep. time: 15 minutes. Serves 8 - 10 from the crock-pot (cake slices) & more if making muffins. Costs less than $10.
Shelli's delicious cakeYOU'LL NEED:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder1/2 teaspoon baking soda1/2 teaspoon salt1/2 cup shortening (softened)1 1/2 cups sugar3 eggs1 teaspoon vanilla extract1 teaspoon lemon extract3/4 cup sour cream2 6-ounce containers of fresh berries (a little over 2 cups) (I used blueberries & raspberries. I don't recommend frozen; I tried it & it didn't work out well)1 tablespoon butter (melted)2 tablespoons Sugar In The Raw (chunky granules of sugar)fresh berries to garnish (optional)
DIRECTIONS: In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.In another microwave-safe bowl, soften shortening in the microwave for about 20 seconds then add in sugar. Beat together with an electric mixer. When blended, add in eggs one at a time, mixing well between each egg. Add in vanilla extract & lemon extract, mix well. Add in sour cream & mix well.Add flour mixture slowly to shortening mixture, beating until blended.Add in berries & fold them in with a spoon (don't use the mixer to blend).Coat crock-pot with non-stick spray.Add batter to crock-pot in an even layer.Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 1/2 hours or until edges start to brown & a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. (If you're making muffins, preheat the oven to 350 degrees, spray muffin cups with non-stick spray or use liners, fill cups/liners 3/4 full, then bake for 30 minutes or until tops start to brown & a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean ~ I made large-sized muffins; if you're making smaller ones, it will probably take less time)Melt the one tablespoon of butter in the microwave. Use a pastry brush to brush the butter over top of the entire cake (or entire batch of muffins). Immediately sprinkle the two tablespoons of Sugar In The Raw over top of the entire cake (or entire batch of muffins).Turn off the crock-pot & remove the lid (& if you can, remove the ceramic ware from the heating element). Let cool for at least 30 -45 minutes then slice into servings ~ if you try to remove it too soon, while it's still warm, the cake will fall apart. Muffins can be served immediately.Serve with fresh berries as a garnish.Enjoy!Please keep in mind that cooking times may vary so the first time you make a recipe, keep an eye on the crock-pot (or the oven). You may need to adjust the amount of cooking time.
Thank you so much Shelli for the great recipe! If you would like to have a FREE copy of her award-winning novel,
Small as a Mustard Seed
, head over to her blog. Just go to Shelli Johnson before 25th December, 2011 & enter to win an ebook copy of her novel for Kindle.
December 16, 2011
Great Book Giveaway! Angels and Romance for Christmas
Christmas is just around the corner and the festive season is here! To celebrate, I am following up Ellen Gable's recent offer of a free copy of
What could be more suitable for Christmas than angels? I am offering all readers with the chance to win a FREE copy of Patti Robert's first book, Paradox - The Angels Are Here. I just love the cover of this paranormal romance and have even listed it on my Great Book Covers page. For more about the author, see my recent interview with the wonderful Patti Roberts at: The Angels Are Here.
And just in case you're feeling the cold this winter, I'm also offering you the chance to escape to the heat of the desert with a FREE copy of my own romance, The Royal Sheikh!
So how can you win not just one, but two free books this Christmas?
It's simple. Just leave a comment below before Christmas Day and follow this blog, if you aren't already. Out of the people that comment, one lucky person will be selected to receive both books. How simple is that?
December 14, 2011
Thrillers, Romance and the Paranormal: An interview with Mel Comley
As a romance author, I'm always thrilled to have the chance to talk with other romance writers, and today I've been lucky enough to get the chance to interview an author that I've long-admired, Mel Comley, who writes both thrillers and romance. First of all Mel, thank you for being here with me today. Can I start by asking you how you become an author?
Thanks for asking me to join you, Katheryn. I've always loved writing either short stories or just penning a diary every day. The opportunity arose to become a full-time author when we moved to France back in 2002. It wasn't possible to write before that as I used to work 70-80 hours a week as a Store Manager.
Living and writing in France certainly sounds more appealing! You first published the best-selling Lorne Simpkins thrillers. Could you tell us something about them?
They're gritty crime novels, two of which are based in London and the third is based in France. If you like Lynda la Plante novels with a touch of James Patterson's pace thrown in you'll like these.I believe you have recently published two very successful romances, A Time to Heal and A Time For Change. Why did you decide to move into romance?
I actually wrote my two romances about 8 years ago and recently re-edited them. I've tried to add a little suspense or mystery to the plot so my loyal thriller fans will still enjoy reading them. I've had positive reviews so far.You have also published a paranormal story, High Spirits, which was based on a true experience. Could you tell us a bit about it without giving too much away?
High Spirits is a true account of what happened when we moved to France and started renovating our first house here. It's a sad, spooky story which was a frightening ordeal to live through at the time. Sounds scary! As well as the above books, you have also written several short stories this year. How do you find time to write so much?
I write full-time, when I'm not trying to promote my books that is. Once you get into the swing of writing and you're disciplined, it becomes an addiction. I used to suffer with writer's block but not now, I put that down to writing every day, seven days a week. I'm serious about my career and find it fulfilling.
In addition to writing, as an indie author you must also have to spend time promoting your books. Do you have any top tips that you can share with other indie authors?
No one wants to see you flaunt your wares on the forums etc. The best thing a writer can do is write and interact with readers on the various forums available.
You do you have any other advice for aspiring authors?
Never give up. Em
What are you working on at the moment? Can we expect more thrillers, romance, paranormal, or all three?
I'm about a sixth of the way through Lorne Simpkins number 4. I have several new characters to create for this one for obvious reasons. ;-)
When you aren't writing, what do you like to do in your free time (if you have any!)?
I haven't got much spare time at the moment but when I have I like to potter in my garden. I have ¾ of an acre and usually win an award because it's so pretty in the summer, alas this wasn't the case this year.
A garden in France sounds idyllic, though I'm sorry you didn't get an award this year. With Christmas coming up, what's on your wish list?
[image error] Actually we've just treated ourselves to a T-Fal ActiFry so I can have proper chips without feeling guilty. As a writer I tend to spend most of the day at my desk so have to be careful about what I eat.
Where can we buy your books?
On Amazon here:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=mel+comley
For the Nook here:http://www.barnesandnoble.com/c/mel-comley
On Smashwords for all other ereaders:
http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/Melcom
My blogs are:
http://melcomley.blogspot.com/
and
http://melcomleyromances.blogspot.com/
Thank you so much Mel for taking the time to tell us about yourself and your great books. Have a wonderful Christmas in France! I'm off now to get myself a T-Fal ActiFry as well.
December 12, 2011
The Angels Are Here: An interview with author, Patti Roberts
Today I'm thrilled to have the chance to chat with the author Patti Roberts. First of all Patti, can I ask how you become an author, what inspired you?
[image error] Therapy. I was feeling very down and misplaced after a failed relationship and I wanted to do something positive…. I needed to do something positive. I wanted to herd up all my unresolved emotions and put them to good use. So I went out and bought a new laptop computer and started writing. Hence the reason Paradox is a dark read. A little bit EMO! Writing has been the best therapy and I have never been happier or more fulfilled! I highly recommend writing to anyone that finds themselves in a similar predicament. So to answer your question… That is how I became and Author and how the Paradox Series was born.
You have recently published two novels: Paradox - The Angles Are Here and Paradox – The Progeny of Innocence. Could you tell us something about them?
Paradox is a saga that spans over centuries to the present day. It is about a love that has no boundaries. A love that lasts forever... It is about two worlds. An Ancient World where powerful Beings from Ancient Civilizations still rule. A Realm Where Gods, Angels, Myths and Magic still exists. And a New World... where a young girl is trapped somewhere in-between the old and the new.These are listed as being Book 1 and Book 2 in the series. Does this mean we can expect a 3rd book?
You most certainly can. Book 3 (which is currently titled Paradox – Bound By Blood) will be released in 2012.
I love the design of your book covers. In fact, I've even featured your first book on my page, Great Book Covers. Did you design them yourself?
I purchased the artwork from Dreamstime.com and then added the text etc myself. There are so many talented artists out there!When you are not writing, what do you like doing in your free time?
I enjoy spending time with family and friends. A game of chess, a movie night, a BBQ on the patio, a good book…. The simple yet very rewarding things life has to offer.
What advice do you have for other authors out there?
Keep reading, keep writing. If writing is what you want to do, then don't let anyone tell you otherwise. And grow a thick skin – you will get some bad reviews, but rather than let them get you down, learn from them. Good reviews are great. However, bad reviews are good too - they can be a wealth of valuable information that will guide you into becoming a better writer. Here is a blog post I have written for this exact topic that has some great comments from other authors: Did you just receive a bad book review?
Where can we buy your book?
All the information to find my books in on the Paradox Series blog.
Finally, do you have any parting comments that you would like to share with us?
If you are a new writer and are looking for likeminded people and support in the writing community – Join Goodreads. I have made some wonderful friends there and their support has been amazing. The writing journey does not have to be taken alone J
That's great advice! Goodreads is an excellent online community. Thank you very much Patti for taking the time today to tell us about yourself and your great books.
