Aaron Speca's Blog: Me and My Others, page 5

Finding Fiction Friday - Hunter Jones

My goodness, the holidays are fast approaching!!  Thank you for taking time out of this busy season to come visit with this week's guest, author Hunter Jones.  Hunter is in the midst of a collaborative romance series - but I'll let her tell you all about that.  First, a brief self-introduction ... 

The art form I create when writing is much more interesting than anything you will ever know or learn about me. However, since you ask, I have lived in Tennessee and Georgia my entire life, except for one “lost summer” spent in Los Angeles. I was always a complex kid. My first published stories were for a local underground rock publication in Nashville. Since then, I have published articles on music, fashion, art, travel and history.
Hunter, please tell us about your journey in writing.  What made you decide to try to be published?
Oh, I’ve always written something, as far back as I can remember. Most of my published works have been articles on bands or music events, an occasional travel or art column for a newspaper or magazine—that type of writing. Then, a year and a half ago, I ruptured my Achilles tendon. In a split second my entire life changed. The injury led to two painful surgeries. I was bedridden until six months ago. During that process, I decided to try self-publishing. The writing gave me a creative outlet, it still does. The title of my blog, Exile on Peachtree Street, came from a conversation with a friend who asked me what it was like to be a recluse in Midtown Atlanta.
I was fortunate enough to meet Dean Walker of ExpatsPost.com via social media networking. He and MZ, the organizers of Expats Post, have given me a music/entertainment blog which has enabled me to meet, virtually, some of the top rising stars of music and theatre.
My debut novella was written during this phase. It was going to be a short story, became a 40,000 word novel, which I slashed to a 16,000 word novella two days before it was published. So, there you have it. I became a self-published indie writer to keep from being bored and depressed.
Tell us one thing about yourself that you think might surprise us.
I can read upside down.
Do you remember what it was like, the feeling you had when you learned your first book “Fables of the Reconstruction” was out there in the world?  Tell us about that book and the experience.
Well, Fables was not what I expected my first book to be, that’s for sure! It was initially written as a short story for an anthology. My concept was rejected, which was okay because The Story wanted to be told at that point. So the research began for the rest of the book.
I love the entire book process—how the characters “find” you, the creative aspect is my favorite. I hate edits, but they have to be done, don’t they? Choosing a cover is also great fun. That’s my visual guide for the entire story—whatever book it is. When Fables launched, I had no idea what to expect. It was all very surreal. When people bought it, I was absolutely amazed that in such a golden age of publishing, people actually wanted to read something I created. I’m so thankful for that—as thankful then as I am now.
Your latest release is “September Ends”, can you tell us a bit about it?
October 2013 sees the launch of a novel collaboration, SEPTEMBER ENDS, a contemporary romance with erotic and supernatural elements bound by poetry. This novel is written in collaboration with an anonymous English poet. It reveals the intricate web of passion and desire which entangles Liz Snow, Pete Hendrix and Jack O. Savage. The story is told through Liz Snow’s diary, Jack O. Savage’s poetry, and from letters sent across the Atlantic. Traveling throughout the lushness of a summertime in Tennessee and Georgia, September Ends journeys into the elegance of London’s West End and is finally settled in the countryside of Cornwall, England, a decade later. September Ends is a story of sin, redemption and salvation through love because love happens when we least expect it.
“September Ends” is your first foray into publishing a book for print.  How was that experience?
Thank you for asking. The paperback journey is much more detailed than I ever expected.
What do you have coming up next?
In January or February, the anonymous poet and I will reconnect to start working on the next September Story, Book 2 in the September Ends saga. In the meantime, I am attempting to write a Happily Ever After short story, which is a real stretch for me. Maybe I’ll publish something bizarre and Fablesque.  
If there is one character you’ve written or are writing that you would really like people to meet, who would it be and why?
Pierre von Minzle is just crazy and I love him! Jack O. Savage is such a beautiful character, too. The Fairy Godmother in my Happily Ever After is really unexpected, so stay tuned.


What other ideas do you have bouncing around in your head?
Are you sure you want me to answer this?
What about being published and the book industry in general has most surprised you?
The one thing you cannot overlook is the outpouring of support from other writers, authors, cover designers, editors, and bloggers. It is the most amazing part of this journey.
It’s obvious from your blog that you are a huge music fan.  Do you have some favorites to listen to while you are writing?
Great question Aaron. All the wires get crossed when I listen to music when writing. The listening has to come before or after the writing process.
To close the interview, I have ten questions for you, plus one.  Here they go!What is your favorite word?  LoveWhat is your least favorite word?  HateWhat turns you on? Music, good food, great red wine, Spain. Tall men with dark hair.  What turns you off? NegativityWhat sound or noise do you love? Chimes, running water, Tennessee rain, acoustic guitar.What sound or noise do you hate? The sound of a Life Force helicopter.What is your favorite curse word? Hmmm. I’m not really into colorful language so generally a well-emphasized damn or hell gets the needed reaction.What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? One that makes money!What profession would you not like to do? I could never be a nurse. They have to have a special place in Heaven. If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates? The party has already started...What question have you never been asked, that you wish someone would ask you? Will you take $5 million for the screen rights?
Hunter, thanks so much for spending time with us.  Can you let us know where to follow you, and where we can go to purchase your work?
TwitterFacebookPinterestAbout MeGoodreads
Amazon Author Page
September Ends:E-bookPaperback


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Patricia, Dawn, and I can also be followed here:    Facebook              Twitter
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Rudy and Trish are the main characters in Patricia and my published short stories in the "Evernight: Romance in a World of Darkness" anthologies.  You can get to know them as well as get 23 other great stories!  Here's where you can find them:
Evernight Volume 1:   Amazon       Evernight Volume 2:   Amazon       XoXo          ARe

Finding Fiction Friday - Rachel M Sparks

Today, I am very pleased to have author Rachel Sparks on the blog for Finding Fiction Friday! Rachel has written several romance books and her latest book "Love Makes You Whole" is due out this month.  First, a little about Rachel ...

Rachel Sparks grew up in South Carolina. With a degree in Early Childhood education and one in social work, she brings those skills to the table to write stories involving strong female characters, current social issues, a sprinkling of romance and powerful storylines. She has 8 published novels.
On the 2007 Preditors and Editors Readers Poll "Factor Of Love" ranked 14 out of 201 romance novels.
Rachel has appeared on WGGS-TV 16 Dove Broadcasting in November of 2006, February 2009 and March 2010.
Also, in March 2008, Rachel appeared on Your Carolina WSPA-TV 7.
Tell us one thing about yourself that you think might surprise us.
I have a tattoo of Ben Cartwright on my right leg
Do you remember what it was like, the feeling you had when you learned your first book was out there in the world?  What was it and what was it about?
My first book was "Innocent Hearts Of Courage". It was so thrilling when it came in the mail. But then every book I publish I get nervous and excited about it.
Innocent Hearts Of Courage: While investigating a homicide two detectives stumble across a drug ring. But when they discover who the supplier is and who they are using as dealers and runners...they must take on a huge corporation...a corporation that supposed to help but is killing instead. Along the way they must deal with the past and hurts in order to find peace and love...will they heal and find love or will they be destroyed like the system...
Tell us a bit about your latest book?  What’s it about, and what inspired it?
"Love Heals The Broken" was published last year. 
What would it take to break a man ... Benjamin Durham is proud of his three sons, Aaron, Ethan, and Tim; his daughter-in-law Ruby, and his twin grandsons Charles and Christopher. Things are going great on his 250,000 acre ranch and his family. Then tragedy strikes one after another. Can Ben’s faith and trust in God see him through? Or will the fires of hell be too much for one man.
What inspired me was that a friend and a relative was going through some tough situation so I decided to take it, twist and make a fiction novel out of it. I hoped it would help people.



What do you have coming up next?
The sequel to "Love Heals The Broken" called "Love Makes You Whole".
If there is one character you’ve written or are writing that you would really like people to meet, who would it be and why? 
Ben Durham because it shows that no matter how tough or even financially well off you are that the fires of Hell can still bring you down but if put your faith and trust in God and family you can come through
What other ideas do you have bouncing around in your head?
I have sketches and ideas for 4 more books…
According to your bio, you’ve appeared on a television show or two?  How was that experience?
Every time I appear, I am nervous just as the first time. But once it starts and I’m talking about my books, I’m fine.
To close the interview, I have ten questions for you, plus one.  Here they go!What is your favorite word? FaithWhat is your least favorite word?failureWhat turns you on? Nice people and true friendsWhat turns you off? People that take advantage of you in order to get what they want.What sound or noise do you love?Snow falling and birds chirpingWhat sound or noise do you hate?People arguingWhat is your favorite curse word?I don’t cussWhat profession other than your own would you like to attempt?  Can’t think of one…What profession would you not like to do?  ????If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates? Well done good and faithful servantWhat question have you never been asked, that you wish someone would ask you? Can’t think of one…
Rachel, thanks so much for spending time with us.  Can you let us know where to follow you, and where we can go to purchase your work?https://www.facebook.com/RachelSparksAuthorhttp://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2283843.Rachel_Sparkshttps://twitter.com/sparkstheauthorhttp://www.lulu.com/spotlight/romancesuspense
https://www.amazon.com/author/rachelsparks

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Patricia, Dawn, and I can also be followed here:    Facebook              Twitter
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Rudy and Trish are the main characters in Patricia and my published short stories in the "Evernight: Romance in a World of Darkness" anthologies.  You can get to know them as well as get 23 other great stories!  Here's where you can find them:
Evernight Volume 1:   Amazon       Evernight Volume 2:   Amazon       XoXo          ARe

Finding Fiction Friday - Stephen King

Today on Finding Fiction Friday, I am very pleased to welcome Stephen King!  Well, not that one, as he would be the first to tell you.  Stephen H. King is a writer and dean, and making a name for himself with his "Return of the Gods" series.  I hope you enjoy this visit!

A Mississippi native, TOSK (Stephen H. King) was moved in high school entirely against his will from the small town of Corinth to a city he ended up loving in southern California. A series of mostly unexplainable decisions led him through a strange sequence of events beginning at the United States Military Academy, where he double-majored in physics and electrical engineering, followed by a fairly short career as an Infantry officer and then an electronics technician, a product engineer, a carpenter's helper, and an elementary school janitor, before ending up on the faculty of a small college in Anchorage, Alaska.

During those years, he learned that reading science fiction and fantasy allowed him to escape the strangeness into the more understandable worlds crafted by Isaac Asimov, Piers Anthony, Marion Zimmer Bradley, and many other great writers. As time went on he began to mold his own worlds, and thus his novels were born.


Stephen now lives in Tennessee with his wife, daughter, and two white Chihuahuas that seem to enjoy morphing from therapuppies into miniature dragons at the sound of food being opened.

Stephen, please tell us about your journey in writing.  What made you decide to try to be published?

I’ve secretly enjoyed writing for a long time – since my composition course at West Point, I think, where I experienced my first real success at it.  I’ll never forget receiving that essay back, in fact.  We didn’t all have typewriters or computers back then, so everything was handwritten, and I looked down at the scribbled paper and was shocked by the A at the top.  “You – you – you thought it was good?” I remember asking, and I also remember the thrill I got when the professor nodded.

That said, I majored in engineering because, well, you know, I didn’t want to have to ask anybody if they wanted fries with their burger, and that’s what all the humanities majors have to look forward to, or so I’d been told.  Later it was a master’s degree in business, and then I started a Ph.D.  It was during the Ph.D. period that I realized that I was writing an awful lot anyway and figured I oughtta write something fun in my free time.

The dissertation experience isn’t quite as fundamentally frantic of a time as many think.  It’s more an extreme of the old “hurry up and wait” routine.  You rush out a chapter, send it to committee, and then wait for responses.  Once you receive those, after a wait that can be two weeks or more, you work as hard as you can to integrate those “suggestions” into your work as quickly as possible, and then send the results away for another waiting period.

My first two novels were written while waiting on committee.

We know what your bio says.  Tell us one thing about yourself that you think might surprise us.

Like many creative writers, I found myself gravitating toward a day-job career in teaching.  Unlike many creative writers, I had a mother who threatened to disinherit me if I ever became a teacher.  I did it anyway, but because I was a college teacher who made enough money to buy groceries and pay rent at the same time, it was okay with her.

Do you remember what it was like, the feeling you had when you learned the first novel in your “Return of the Gods” series was out there in the world?

Absolutely.  It’s an incredible feeling.  I had the cover on my cell phone, and everybody at work started complaining after a while because I’d break off in the middle of college-related discussions and ask if they’d seen my new book cover yet.  It really is that exciting.  And, um, occupationally hazardous, if you’re not careful.

Tell us a bit about “Return of the Gods”.  What’s it about, and what inspired it?

The novel, and the series, is, like so many other writers’ first works, sort of a quasi-autobiography.  It’s fantasy, of course, but I kinda wrote myself, personality-wise, into the main male character and, similarly, my wife into the protagonist.  I’ll leave it as an exercise for the reader to determine if I wrote anybody into the role of antagonist.

The first book is about Crystal, a college dean’s wife who survives a cataclysm (hence the name of the novel) through the powers of her husband, who exposes himself at that time as the God of War.  While Crystal comes to deal with the lie she’s been living, her husband’s ex-wife, the Goddess of Love, steps in and wants her old hubby back.

The remaining two books of the series, Ascension and Deception, take the story farther, introducing an entire pantheon of deities based loosely on the Greco-Roman model but also incorporating Norse and, in the third book, some of the Eastern gods.

What do you have coming up next?

My new series is the Dragon Queen saga.  In the first book a young girl reunites with her long-lost father and discovers that it is her destiny to be the queen of the elves.  It’s completed, and I’m deciding which publishing path to take with it while I write the second book, in which the future queen of the elves must undertake a dream quest in order to be completely accepted into elf society.

If there is one character you’ve written or are writing that you would really like people to meet, who would it be?

Gosh, that’s a tough one.  I think you really have to consider a character interesting and either very likeable, or very unlikeable, to write hundreds of thousands of words about their exploits.  In my first series, I think the God of War is probably the least interesting character, which was interesting to me because I started out considering him to be the protagonist.  His wife, Crystal, soon became the actual, obvious, protagonist, and she’s at the top of my list for people to meet.  Believe it or not, though, Aphrodite’s development over the series makes her a fascinating character as well.

That said, my current protagonist, Alyssa, is really, really cool.  She’s half smartass, half Mississippi girl, and all sass.  It’s not really surprising that the daughter of the king of the elves would be feisty, but as I’ve written the words out, she’s developed a personality that has blossomed so much that it has surprised even me.  I can’t wait till those books come out so you can meet her.

What other ideas do you have bouncing around in your head?

That’s part of the problem; I have too many ideas bouncing around to even really describe in detail, much less to make into books.  I have a sci fi work that was my first failed NaNo project; I’ve fixed what is effectively the first quarter of the story, and now I need to finish it.  As are most sci fi books, it’s a bit of a love story featuring a girl, a guy, and a bug.  I’m also working on a more serious novel about life in the country, with bacon.

What about being published and the book industry in general has most surprised you?

It didn’t solve my problems.  In fact, it made more.  When the publisher sent me the acceptance note, I rejoiced.  I started envisioning all of my student loans paid off and my family living in a great big home where I had my own room that could be entirely devoted to writing.  Little did I know that a major dispute over artwork would cause me to follow my own self-publishing path just a few months later.

You are also the dean of a university.  Do you still get to work with students much? How has that whole life experience been for you?

Every day, but I have to point out that for most college students, if the dean knows your name, you’re in trouble.  At the very small campuses where I worked in both Biloxi and Richmond, there wasn’t a lot of structure built up between the students and me, and so I worked with students frequently.  The bigger campus where I work now has more levels of education administration between us, so I spend more time there working with faculty, program directors, and associate deans.

That said, if it weren’t for the students, my job wouldn’t be nearly as awesome.

I worried that I was leaving teaching behind when I became a dean 8 years ago, but it’s turned out that I’m still a frequent teacher.  Now, though, I spend most of my time teaching faculty and other education administrators.

I have to ask, is it a good thing to share a name with that “other” Stephen King?

Absolutely!  And, absolutely not!  It’s mixed.  My name makes for an immediate talking point with people.  I always start my speeches to new students with “not the one who writes those books.”  They chuckle, the ice is broken, and I can then go on with telling them that they need to keep their butts in class.  Some jokes get kind of old, but to be honest, it’s good to have a way to initiate a smile at the beginning of every meeting.

I don’t know if it’s helped my books, though, and I’m okay with that.  Initially I introduced myself to the writing world under a pseudonym, but a few agents said, “Meh, why don’t you just use your name?”  It was easier that way, not having to re-create an identity with all my friends who already knew me as Stephen.  I used my middle initial, thinking that any of that “other” Stephen King’s fans would know his middle initial is E while mine is H.  Then I got a couple of reviews – 3 stars out of 5 – that said, in effect, “it’s a good book but he’s not Stephen King.”  Apparently, then, I was wrong in that thinking.

I tried going by my acronym: TOSK (The Other Stephen King).  But once again, nobody knew me as that; everybody who knew me, knew me as Stephen H. King.  So I shrugged, redid all my covers, and went back to just using my name.

To close the interview, I have ten questions for you, plus one.  Here they go!

What is your favorite word? – Tough question.  I have so many favorites, and when none of those will do I’m known for making one up.  Authorpreneur, for example, is one I melded into being.  My favorite real word, though, is probably onomatopoeia.  It’s got a cool meaning – a word that sounds like what it means, which is both practical and awesome – and it’s both fun to say and to spell.  I know it makes me a bit of a word nerd, but I love the four-vowel sing-song combo at the end.What is your least favorite word?  Very.  It’s very repetitive in my early first drafts.  It took me way too long to build up a good resistance to its use.  What turns you on?  An educated inquisitiveness and the desire to use it.What turns you off? Someone who knows what he/she knows regardless of any evidence to the contrary.What sound or noise do you love? The early morning sounds of the deep woods.  That, and/or a coffee pot gurgling to life.What sound or noise do you hate? The early morning sounds of a busy city.What is your favorite curse word?  Crap.  I know, it’s not really a curse word according to everybody, but that “walking the edge” feeling is why I love it so much.  What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?  Historian / history teacher.  I know, I was a good business and technology teacher, but history fascinates the crap (see?) out of me, and so many history teachers and books bludgeon the crap out of their students, resulting in too many people hating the topic.  If we just taught history from a socioeconomic point of view and forgot all the crappy dates, it would be so much better.  Oh, that, or chef.  I love cooking; it’s like real-life magic and makes people feel good.What profession would you not like to do? Just about anything boring and repetitive.  My first real job after I left the Army was warehouse supervisor, and though I appreciate and applaud the efforts of the folks who worked for me in that job, I couldn’t do what they did.  I mean, yeah, I could show somebody how to look at the order and pick two of this product or three of this other one, but if I had to do it for eight hours a day, five days a week, I would probably go insane.If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates?  “C’mon in, man, the ale is flowing freely, and you never have to worry about your liver again.”What question have you never been asked, that you wish someone would ask you?  “How’d you earn your first million bucks?” would be a nice start, but I’m not to that point yet.  
Stephen, thanks so much for spending time with us.  Can you let us know where to follow you, and where we can go to purchase your work?

Absolutely!  My author web site is located at http://www.theotherstephenking.com/, and on it you can always find news, links to my works, a link to my blog (http://theotherstephenkingonwriting.blogspot.com), and also my daughter’s beautiful artwork, some of which graces a few covers of mine.

On Facebook, you can find me at http://www.facebook.com/AuthorStephenHKing, and my Twitter account is @skingcharter.  Not that, um, I Tweet very much; I really don’t.  I used to be in an author’s collective where we all Tweeted each other’s stuff several times a week, and I found that pretty annoying.



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Patricia, Dawn, and I can also be followed here:    Facebook              Twitter
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Rudy and Trish are the main characters in Patricia and my published short stories in the "Evernight: Romance in a World of Darkness" anthologies.  You can get to know them as well as get 23 other great stories!  Here's where you can find them:
Evernight Volume 1:   Amazon       Evernight Volume 2:   Amazon       XoXo          ARe

Finding Fiction Friday - Firebrand Publishing COO Amy Cancryn

After a one-week break, Finding Fiction Friday is returning with a rare treat.  Instead of a new author, today we are pleased to welcome the COO of Firebrand Publishing, Amy Cancryn!  Firebrand presents a little bit different business model than either traditional publishing or vanity publishing.  Whether you are an author or a reader, I hope you will enjoy getting to know Amy and her vision.  First, a brief bio ...

Amy Cancryn is a little introverted, but fun (when she decides to loosen up a bit.) She fell in love with reading in elementary school and continued to devour books whether she worked for a toy store, retail clothing store, International Banking Company, sold cars or cosmetics.Amy has a seven year old daughter who is going on sixteen, and an almost two year old son who thinks he's mini Thor. Amy lives with her wonderful husband Gregory, who has to put up with Amy constantly forgetting their wedding anniversary. (He forgets too.)Amy works with her husband (and no, neither of them have tried to kill the other...yet) in a suburb outside of Atlanta, where they currently live.Her first children's book, Hope Learns To Jump Rope, releases November 2013.Amy, how did you get started in the publishing business?
Three years ago I finished my third novel and wanted to get it published. I had no idea where to start. I started doing research by googling every idea or question that came to me. I started to familiarize myself with the steps needed to get published.To get published I had to find a literary agent, they would have to sell my novel and I would then wait to get published. All the research led me to the conclusion it would take me between 5 - 10 years of querying, writing, etc, before I would possibly get published. The first-time authors who do get published right away are few.I also researched self-publishing and decided that was the right path for me.It was a ton of work, but I was able to publish my first book in 2011. It came out well, and my book sold well.Self-publishing is a lot of work. I published a few more books for close friends and realized I could help authors publish their books.I felt authors should be able to experience the benefit and opportunity that self-publishing offers whether they want to put in the time to learn and do it themselves. So a group of us created Firebrand Publishing, the “publishing house” for indie authors.We are their production house. Authors come to use and we produce their book to their specification.Hassle free self publishing.What genres does Firebrand Publishing work with?
Firebrand Publishing publishes all genre's.Thriller, Romance, Action, Horror, New Adult, Young Adult, Kid Lit, Children's picture books, Christian, everything.We have not been presented with a story or genre we will not publish. However, there are a few caveats, Firebrand Publishing will not publish. Books that glorify rape, incest, bestiality and or hate type books and stories.Tell us a bit about the philosophy behind Firebrand.  What makes it special, to you?
"Ebooks for dough, Print for show."Ebooks are the future. With ebooks, self publishers can compete alongside the biggest names in publishing and gain success. The profits from publishing will come from ebooks.All of our packages start with ebooks. Ebooks are the default.With ebooks and professional publishing of books, we feel our authors will recoup the investment made publishing their books, within 3-6 months, many times sooner.Ebooks are forever, like diamonds :)  So our authors continue to earn profits and royalties long after they have made back the investment from one of our packages.Professional book publishing, 100% royalties. We feel authors deserve to have their work published, and published to the highest standard. So much so, that we maintain a 100% money back guarantee. We work until our authors are thrilled with each phase of the book production process.If they aren't happy we will make as many revisions as necessary. Our authors have the final say.At Firebrand Publishing, we feel, if you pay to publish your book, you should receive all profits from the sale of your book. It's a simple concept, but everyone wants a piece of your royalties. Not us.We don't understand the concept of accepting payment to publish a book AND taking 30-45% of royalties. We feel that's a bad deal for authors. So, 100% royalties, Professional book publishing with a 100% money back if you are not happy with your book.If you could tell prospective authors one thing to NOT do, what would it be?
Don't give up. Keep going. You will get there. Never ever ever give up your dream of writing or publishing your book. People want to read it, people will love it. You are good enough and it matters what you write. Do you have any big news you’d like to share about Firebrand Publishing?  Any big stuff happening in the next few weeks or months?
At Firebrand Publishing, we are in the process of publishing 8 books in the next 2 months. We are over the moon ( cliche? :) ) We are very excited to present the work of our authors to the world.The first is a children's picture book, Hope Learns to Jump Rope, by me, Amy Cancryn, which releases November 26, 2013. The next is a cute story about a little boy and a lamp (Larry the Lamp) by Andy Fox.A memoir about a woman who was abandoned by her mother at an early age and how she has learned to cope called, Finding Anna.We have a Thriller/Horror story about a young twenty-something girl who takes a drug at a party and is never ever the same again called Dream Slave. An erotica called Spark (3 book series). I'll leave the description of that one out. This seems like a family blog :) Let’s just say, it’s very hot and exciting.A New adult story about a journalism student that gets too close to the wrong people.A follow up to Hope Learns to Jump Rope.And a beginner chapter book about two families that go on vacation to Paris and the mayhem that ensues....how many is that (counts fingers. I write, not that good at math)I think that's all of them.Plus we speak to prospective authors daily.Are there any recent developments in the publishing industry that have either surprised or inspired you?
I am surprised at the speed of change in the industry. What worked 6 months ago, may not work now. For instance amazon kdp select, when it first came to be, many authors were successful, now the kdp program is so saturated, success with it is a hit or miss.I am surprised about the merging in publishing. I am surprised that Penguin bought author solutions.I am surprised that self publishing has gained such prominence in the last few years.I love the fact that self published authors are finally earning a good living off the creativity of their work. We want to help more authors reach that level.To close the interview, I have ten questions for you, plus one.  Here they go!
What is your favorite word? SuccessWhat is your least favorite word? Can'tWhat turns you on? Porn. Clean version "Hard work and perseverance"What turns you off? Laziness"What sound or noise do you love? The laughter of my husband and kidsWhat sound or noise do you hate? ScreechingWhat is your favorite curse word? FuckWhat profession other than your own would you like to attempt? Engineer, OBGYN, Dancer in a dance troupe, Movie producer, BeyonceWhat profession would you not like to do? A port-o-potty worker. The person who cleans out the port-o-potties. I have a phobia of public restrooms.If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates? "Oh, you look like you've lost weight. Have you been working out?" while Frank Sinatra croons  "I did it my way"What question have you never been asked, that you wish someone would ask you? Can you hold this 10 million dollars for me?
Amy, thanks so much for spending time with us.  Can you let us know where to follow Firebrand Publishing?
Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, www.firebrandpublishing.com or call us 888-338-2767.Thank you for having me, this has been fun. If your readers have any questions, I'll be here all day to answer them.
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Patricia, Dawn, and I can also be followed here:    Facebook              Twitter
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Rudy and Trish are the main characters in Patricia and my published short stories in the "Evernight: Romance in a World of Darkness" anthologies.  You can get to know them as well as get 23 other great stories!  Here's where you can find them:
Evernight Volume 1:   Amazon       Evernight Volume 2:   Amazon       XoXo          ARe

Finding Fiction Friday - A.B. Shepherd

I love science fiction!  And as such, I am very pleased to have writer A.B. Shepherd here with us today.  Her first publication is the science fiction story "Lifeboat", but as you will see she has more going on than just that.

"Never stop dreaming or reading." - A.B. Shepherd

A.B. Shepherd grew up in Lansing, Michigan, but moved to Australia in 2009. She now lives in the Limestone Coast region of South Australia, with her husband and their imaginary friends. She can usually be found seaside at Port MacDonnell, or lost in a fantasy world.

"Lifeboat" is her debut novel. "The Beacon", her second novel, has an anticipated release date of Christmas 2013.

A.B., please tell us about your journey in writing.  What made you decide to try to be published?                                                                                           My journey has been a long one. I’ve always wanted to write, yet I always thought I had to have the whole story plotted out beforehand. That led to many stops and starts over the years because I just couldn’t figure out where to go. Basically, I got in my own way. Last year I discovered NaNoWriMo and decided to try something new - writing without plotting the entire story in advance. I “pantsed” it. I loved the experience and learned so much about myself and my writing in the process. Lifeboat is the end result of that experience.
We know what your bio says.  Tell us one thing about yourself that you think might surprise us.
Okay, here’s something that is not obvious based on my bio. I met my Australian husband online and moved here to marry him after only having spent 12 days together physically. How’s that? We did have a three year online relationship before that. Are you shocked? While I recommend doing it with eyes wide open, sometimes in life you just have to take a risk.
Do you remember what it was like, the feeling you had when you learned your first novel “Lifeboat” was out there in the world?
Honestly? It wasn’t the feeling when I learned it was out there, it was when the first person bought it. I cried. It was overwhelming. I thought, wow - this is real. I can call myself a writer now.
Tell us a bit about your story in “Lifeboat”.
Lifeboat is an alien abduction story that is a bit different than most. It is highly character driven. Cassie is in a bad place in her life. She’s lost her husband and young son and is extremely depressed. Her life has no focus. One night she sees a UFO and she becomes obsessed with them. She meets a couple of Ufologists and they become friends. But one fateful night she is abducted - or rescued - by the UFO because natural disasters have destroyed the Earth. She and some others are taken to a  new world where the human race can start again. But not everything is as it seems and people start disappearing. It’s a bit dark. A bit suspenseful. And highly entertaining. So far my readers have reported really enjoying it.
What do you have coming up next?
Something a little bit different than Lifeboat. I am about to release my second book on December 1st. It is also suspenseful and a little dark, but it is not science fiction and there are no aliens. It is a psychological thriller - and a novella. It is called The Beacon. I hope you will keep an eye out for it.
If there is one character you’ve written or are writing that you would really like people to meet, who would it be?
Oh boy. You know that is a really tough question Aaron. I think I would really like to meet MOST of my characters, except for one in The Beacon that I find a little scary. Okay, well there might be a couple in Lifeboat that are a bit scary for me as well. Hmmm.
What other ideas do you have bouncing around in your head?
I have a couple of other works in progress. One that I’ve kind of put on hold which is another psychological thriller, and the one I’m most excited about right now, which is a sequel to Lifeboat. When I finished Lifeboat I felt it was a stand-alone book and there was no way for me to write a sequel and I held onto that belief for a long time. I honestly think I was grieving the end of the book and wouldn’t let myself see beyond that. But not too long ago I came up with an idea for a sequel and I am really eager get those ideas written so I can share them with all the wonderful people who begged me for a sequel after they finished reading Lifeboat.
What about being published and the book industry in general has most surprised you?
Since I am self-published I will tell you that what I have found most surprising is how hard it is to get the word out about my book(s). I’ve had such great feedback and I think many people would enjoy them. It’s just a matter of helping those people find the book(s), and as a self-published author all the marketing falls on my shoulders. It is a part of the business I don’t enjoy much. I like the writing part best.
What other things besides writing do you have going on that keep you busy?
Besides writing? So my blog and my writing group don’t count. Okay, well I do a little bit of fiber crafting, and I spend a lot of time with my husband, and less time with family and friends. We live about 30- minutes away from the Southern Ocean and we like to spend time down there on the coast when the weather is nice. It is a special place for us. I like my life. It’s a good one.
To close the interview, I have ten questions for you, plus one.  Here they go!What is your favorite word?Periwinkle. I just like the way it sounds.What is your least favorite word?Impossible.What turns you on? Readers who tell me what they think of my writing - even if they don’t like it.What turns you off? Marketing my book(s).What sound or noise do you love?Laughter - especially my husband’s.What sound or noise do you hate?Almost everything mechanical.What is your favorite curse word?Fuck. I know it is pretty crude, but sometimes there is just no better word.What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? I love music. I’d  love to be a singer. I’m not good enough though.What profession would you not like to do? Plumbing. Ick.If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates? All the people you love are here waiting for you.What question have you never been asked, that you wish someone would ask you? I’m cheating a little on this one, because I have been asked it before but it’s been over 30 years ago. My brother used to ask me to sing for him while he played his guitar. He passed away, but I wish someone would ask me to sing for them.
A.B., thanks so much for spending time with us.  Can you let us know where to follow you, and where we can go to purchase your work?
You can catch me on my blog ... on Facebook ... or on Twitter 
And you can get Lifeboat now (and soon The Beacon) on Amazonin Trade paperback, Large print paperback, or Kindle.

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Patricia, Dawn, and I can also be followed here:    Facebook              Twitter
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Rudy and Trish are the main characters in Patricia and my published short stories in the "Evernight: Romance in a World of Darkness" anthologies.  You can get to know them as well as get 23 other great stories!  Here's where you can find them:
Evernight Volume 1:   Amazon       Evernight Volume 2:   Amazon       XoXo          ARe

Finding Fiction Friday - Haven Malone

I'm very pleased to introduce you to Haven Malone!  I met Haven online through our mutual friend, Denyse Bridger, I'm pretty sure before she was published.  So I'm very excited to add her to the long list of interviewees we have had here!  First, a little about her ...

Hi everyone. I am a mother of 3 daughters and 5 grandchildren. I am retired now with plenty of time on my hands. I pass a lot of time on facebook but also like to go to certain websites as well. I usually spend time with my grandchildren about every two weeks or so. They and my daughters are my life. Without them, I am nothing.  
Haven, please tell us about your journey to published writing.  What made you move in this direction?  Did you have someone encouraging you?
I can't say that it was  really a journey to published writing. I started through the encouragement of a good friend and mentor, Denyse Bridger. She encouraged me and helped me to write a  short story for an anthology. I never really expected to end up with a published story but Denyse was able to get me in a book with four other authors. That's where the ball started. I had lots of ideas in my head that I hope to spin into a book of my own.
We know what your bio says.  Tell us one thing about yourself that you think might surprise us.
I think the one thing that surprises people the most about me is that I am a 61 year old grandmother who enjoys reading and trying my hand at writing erotica.
Haven's story in this anthology is
published under the name Susan Van NortDo you remember what it was like, the feeling you had when you learned your first work was out there in the world?
When I was told that my story was picked for publication, I was ecstatic. I found out later in the evening and had to call my girls and tell them that their mother was about to become a published author. We were all screaming! Of course, it wasn't until the story was about to released to the public that I got very nervous and hoped that those who read it would not hate it!
Tell us a bit about your story in the anthology “Lost to the Night 2”.             That story is entitled The Ghostly Story and is about a young woman who inherits a house from an uncle that is occupied by several ghosts. It's all about her journey to deal with a situation that she had never encountered before.

What about your other publications?
I only have one other published story and it's titled "Victoria's Haunting." It's a paranormal story of love and loss.
If there is one character you’ve written or are writing that you would really like people to meet, who would it be?
I am currently working on a story entitled The White Queen. The lead character is Elissa and her daughter is Corinna. I plan to develop Corinna into a young woman of determination and think she would be the character I would want people to meet just because of her strength and determination to live her life her way.
What do you have coming up next?
I am currently working on a story with another author. The title is Murder in Wonderland and is based on the characters from the classic Alice in Wonderland but with a twist. We hope that this will published within the next six months.
What other ideas do you have bouncing around in your head?
Other ideas include expanding on short story I have entered into a contest called "The Ghost of Pere Cheney" and a Christmas story entitled "The Heart of Christmas."
What about being published and the book industry in general has most surprised you?
I guess the most surprising is the amount of self published in the market. I love that authors have this ability when they get far too many rejection letters. For me, Victoria's Haunting is a self published and I did that just to see where it would go. Unfortunately, it has not done much. So, likely next time I am ready to publish, I will send to as many publishers as necessary to see that happen.
What other things besides writing do you have going on that keep you busy?
Well, outside of spending time with my family, I enjoy watching hockey and the many new paranormal shows on television this season. I also like to cook for myself and my family.
To close the interview, I have ten questions for you, plus one.  Here they go!
What is your favorite word?  There are several that include publish, author, story, love, friendship, and many others really.What is your least favorite word?  Anything vulgar but I really hate the f word! Although I will admit I have used it a few times in my life.What turns you on?  A book that catches me in the very beginning and I have trouble putting it down.What turns you off? A book too full of sexual encounters. I want to see a plot.What sound or noise do you love?  I love piano music. It helps me think and relax.What sound or noise do you hate?  Someone playing their music so loud that all you can hear is the bass. What is your favorite curse word?  I don't have a favorite curse word.What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?  Anything public related.  Maybe a greeter for Walmart.What profession would you not like to do? The job I did for more than 20 years, housekeeping.If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates?  Come right in, the love of your life has been waiting for you.What question have you never been asked, that you wish someone would ask you?  Never really been asked any questions until now. So, I don't know of any I wish were asked of me.
Haven, thanks so much for spending time with us.  Can you let us know where to follow you, and where we can go to purchase your work?
It's been a pleasure spending time with you Aaron. Thank you so much for having me.
My links are:
Blog       Facebook       Twitter       Google+
Lost to the Night 2:  Amazon    All Romance
Victoria's Haunting:  Amazon
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Patricia, Dawn, and I can also be followed here:    Facebook              Twitter
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Rudy and Trish are the main characters in Patricia and my published short stories in the "Evernight: Romance in a World of Darkness" anthologies.  You can get to know them as well as get 23 other great stories!  Here's where you can find them:
Evernight Volume 1:   Amazon       Evernight Volume 2:   Amazon       XoXo          ARe

Finding Fiction Friday - Brandice Snowden

Paranormal/Fantasy author Brandice Snowden is here to spend some time with us!  Winner of the Nano-Virtuosos 2013 Competition, her first book, Demon's Veil, is out on Amazon.  Before you check it out, let's get to know her a little better ...


Brandice Snowden grew up around storytellers.  Tall tales, family curses, ghosts and goblins, stories of unending love (message her about it sometime, it’s an interesting story).  Soon even the numerous stories surrounding her weren’t enough.  So she started creating her own. She has been an artist, teacher, military wife, mother and now novelist.  She spends her free time indulging in her fantastical side, learning first hand skills her characters use in her books.  She has a passion for history and mythology and uses much of what she has learned to create new worlds. Brandice currently resides on the Texas/Oklahoma border with the love of her life and her children, of both two legged and four legged variety.
Brandice, welcome, talk to us a bit about your journey in writing.  What made you decide to write and eventually try to publish?
            I have always created in one form or another entire life.  I spent much of that creative energy telling stories.  Mostly it was short stories until one night I had a nightmare that just wouldn’t leave me; so I wrote it down.  My friends and family kept telling me that the story would make a great novel and I should write it.  I decided to give NaNoWriMo a try last November and that short story became the start of my novel.              The publishing came into play in the form of a contest, which I won.  I realized through that experience that this was what I had been missing.  Despite the hardship of finding time and the difficulties of the publishing process, I wanted and needed to continue writing.
We know what your bio says.  Tell us one thing about yourself that you think might surprise us.
            I actually know how to use a sword.  Through the Society for Creative Anachronism, I have been taught the art of a rapier.
Do you remember what it was like, the feeling you had when you learned your first book was out there in the world?
            I do.  It was a rush and at times it felt like I was watching someone else accomplish this and not me.
I love this cover! - AaronThe first book of your “Veil Prophecy” series is out, “Demon’s Veil”.  Please tell us a bit about the concept of this series and how it came about.
            I love mythology and I always wondered what the world might be like if myth was real and the majority of the world just didn’t know it.  The biggest issue was, how could such amazing beings stay hidden for so long.  That is why I came up with the idea of the Earth being a dimensional nexus between many different worlds and their being barriers or “veils” over the portals of these worlds.  We know that the veils open sometimes, otherwise we wouldn’t have the legends we do; and the series basically follows a group that has to protect our world as these veils open.




Did you find it a challenge combining something from a world we know (special ops) with the paranormal?
            Not really…coming from a military family I have heard a lot of crazy stories about what they have experienced in battle.  You would be surprised how many soldiers already have a strong belief in the paranormal in real life.  So it wasn’t really a crazy leap to combine the two.
If there is one character you’ve written or are writing that you would really like people to meet, who would it be?
            It’s not in this series, but I have a shape shifting dragon named Ladon that I am currently writing that I think a lot of people would love.  He’s a great mix of tough warrior and sarcastic softy at heart.
What do you have coming up next in the sequel?
            In the sequel we meet death himself, also known as Mort.  We get a clearer picture of who Mr. Raziel is and what his agenda is as well.
What other ideas do you have bouncing around in your head?
            Well I have already told you about my shape shifting dragon, but I have a few more things I am working on as well.  I have an epic fantasy based on the legends of King Arthur but set in a post-apocalyptic future where magic is reawakening into our world.  I have also been jotting down notes for a story involving alien werewolves.
What about being published and the book industry in general has most surprised you?
            I would have to say how many different paths to publishing there actually are.  I have also learned that in the beginning you may think you want one path until you are actually walking it.  The whole thing is a learning process and you have to find the niche that fits you best as an author.
What other things besides writing do you have going on that keep you busy?
            Mostly being a mom; but I make sure that I keep my life balanced.  My hobbies include the sword fighting as previously mentioned; but I also paint, sing, go on fossil hunts with the family, and I just recently started belly dancing classes.
To close the interview, I have ten questions for you, plus one.  Here they go!
What is your favorite word? indubitablyWhat is your least favorite word?Axe (as in “can I axe you a question?”)What turns you on? Intelligence and creativityWhat turns you off? Bigotry and intoleranceWhat sound or noise do you love?Rain on the roofWhat sound or noise do you hate?artilleryWhat is your favorite curse word?Sh*tWhat profession other than your own would you like to attempt? Pastry chefWhat profession would you not like to do? Office droneIf heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates? “Hey, sorry about the whole winning the lottery thing.  Acquisitions lost the paperwork and by the time they found it….well.”What question have you never been asked, that you wish someone would ask you? “What does the little voice in your head actually sound like?”  Just so you know his name is Velvet Blue and he is *Fabulous* and a very funny drunk. 
Brandice, thanks so much for spending time with us.  Can you let us know where to follow you, and where we can go to purchase your work? 
Facebook:     https://www.facebook.com/BrandiceSnowdenWriter
Twitter:https://twitter.com/brandicesnowden
I can be found on Amazon.



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Patricia, Dawn, and I can also be followed here:    Facebook              Twitter
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Rudy and Trish are the main characters in Patricia and my published short stories in the "Evernight: Romance in a World of Darkness" anthologies.  You can get to know them as well as get 23 other great stories!  Here's where you can find them:
Evernight Volume 1:   Amazon       Evernight Volume 2:   Amazon       XoXo          ARe




















More news will be coming soon.  Keep up with our books past, present, and future on our Book Page.

Finding Fiction Friday - William Vaughn

William Vaughn spent the first couple of decades of his life as an Army brat. He learned German in Kindergarten, Spanish in elementary school and Thai in High School. He flew helicopters in Viet Nam and fixed-wing planes in Texas. He got his start in the computer industry in the 70’s and retired from the technical side in 2010. He still keeps his hand in with periodic webinars. He’s been writing the whole time and over the years, he got a dozen books published by several mainstream publishers—they translated many of these books into a half-dozen languages. He started writing fiction about five years ago. He also loves taking pictures (especially scenery and wide vistas) and visiting Alaska.
William, welcome, talk to us a bit about your journey in writing.  What made you decide to write and eventually try to publish a fantasy series?
I’ve always been a story teller. There was never an event in my life that couldn’t stand a bit of embellishment. When I got back from Vietnam, I wrote quite a bit about the experience but set it aside—for about thirty years. I took up technical writing as a career at Microsoft but got extremely frustrated with the ‘politically correct’ police and began writing my own tongue-in-cheek versions of the documentation. While initially self-published (in the early 90’s) Microsoft Press, Apress and Addison-Wesley took notice and got me hooked. My books were wildly popular mainly because while technically top-notch, they were also funny in a geeky sort of way. I call this my ‘technical fiction’ days. After a while, I wanted to write something that would have a shelf life longer than a carton of eggs and something my grandkids would appreciate, so I began work on The Owl Wrangler—the first book in my series—The Seldith Chronicles.
We know what your bio says.  Tell us one thing about yourself that you think might surprise us.
Well, I’ve never been to an NFL game. But seriously, I’m an open book. Those that know me are rarely surprised at the directions I take in my writing, my daily life or the fact that I sing bass in the choir.
Do you remember what it was like, the feeling you had when you learned your first fiction book was out there in the world? 
It was amazing. It wasn’t like the joy of holding my first (screaming) daughter, but close. At last, I had something to leave behind.
Your fantasy series is called “The Seldith Chronicles”.  Please tell us a bit about the concept of this series and how it came about.
I’ve always had a very vivid imagination. When I watch any movie or read a book or visit an old castle in Europe I often think well ahead of the plot, trying to open old doors and imagining what life was like behind the scenes. When I read Harry Potter, I imagined the life of the lab rats and critters that Harry and his classmates experimented on. I saw them in a locker room under Hogwarts chatting about their day. A rat walks in with three tails and bemoans that George didn’t get the spell right again. I even wrote a few scenes but soon learned that ‘fan fiction’ is not where I wanted to go—I was too creative for that approach. I started over, but wondered how the owls in Harry Potter knew how to deliver mail. I decided that they must be ‘awakened’ (so they can speak and understand) and the story took off from there. Before long, I had over 250,000 words and the story wasn’t anywhere near ending. I took some classes at the University of Washington and did some considerable trimming. The result was The Owl Wrangler.

If there is one character you’ve written or are writing that you would really like people to meet, who would it be?
In Quest for The Truth, one of my favorite characters is Feesa. She’s a faerie whose family is forced into exile and must hide among the Seldith elves. Unfortunately, many fundamentalist Seldith hate and abhor faeries so she and her family must hide their identity.
What do you have coming up next?  Is it a sequel or something new?
I’m planning to take a short break and shift gears. I’ll be doing more marketing than writing but this should include some short stories. Yes, there is a Volume 4 as there are several story lines left hanging. Because the book is really a political allegory, the current situations generates many story ideas.
What other ideas do you have bouncing around in your head?
Well, there are four groups of Seldith now in the storyline. Each of these can lead the reader into new places. I’m thinking of having children discover and interact with the Seldith and help them discover technology. I’ve also started an entirely new post-apocalyptic novel but the storyline in Gravity gave away the initial scenes (where satellites are knocked out of orbit and the world has to deal with the lack of electronic gadgets and banking.) Perhaps I can integrate both into the same story. I have some experience with helicopter flying, electronics and computer programming which might be useful for some story lines.
What about being published and the book industry in general has most surprised you?
I’ve taken both routes. My first Hitchhiker’s Guide to VBSQL’ was self-published in 1992—long before anyone was doing this on their own. Microsoft Press picked me up after a few years and mainstream publishers have produced and marketed nine of my technical books since then. You could say that I know quite a bit about this (IMHO dying) industry. It seems these giant brick, mortar firms are mostly interested in working with established authors— ones with a guaranteed ROI—and who would blame them? It’s a tough business with retailers dropping like plague victims. While I’m world-famous as a technical writer, this adds very little to my credentials as a fiction writer. Yes, I’ve sent my query letters and even had several publishers show interest, but none of them have panned out. What are my plans? I intend to keep writing. I’m learning the best ways to use social media, I’m visiting all of the local independent bookstores and trying to project a ‘likeable’ public image. After all, readers buy the author. Getting them to pay for the first book is the trick.
What do you feel is the best thing, for you, in self-publishing your work?
It gives me something to do. It’s intellectually stimulating, challenging and does not involve a lot of bloodshed. I can teach, mentor and help others along the way which is also very gratifying. If I can say that I helped some seriously good writer get over a technical issue that stopped her from getting her book done, then I’ve done some good. I’m also learning a lot about the tools. At this point I would say my Photoshop skills are pretty good and I’m still learning.
What other things besides writing do you have going on that keep you busy?
We do quite a bit of cruising and travelling. This gives me an opportunity to take some really spectacular pictures—many of which I use for my book covers and illustrations. I also give a series of webinars, broadcast from my home office. These are fun and again, keep my mind sharp.
To close the interview, I have ten questions for you, plus one.  Here they go!
What is your favorite word? Gossamer (I use it far too often).What is your least favorite word?Suposebly.What turns you on? Seeing someone else smile.What turns you off? Ignorance, hatred and ignorant hatred.What sound or noise do you love?I’m an avid Pink Floyd fan, so music (most genres) but I also like Abba and Shania Twain.What sound or noise do you hate?Hip-hop/rap and bombs dropping.What is your favorite curse word?Pooched.What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? Graphic artist.What profession would you not like to do? Miner.If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates? “That will do pig, that will do.” ;)What question have you never been asked, that you wish someone would ask you? “Mr. Vaughn, will you accept the Nobel Prize in literature?”
William, thanks so much for spending time with us.  Can you let us know where to follow you, and where we can go to purchase your work?http://theowlwrangler.comhttp://williamvaughn.blogspot.com/http://facebook.com/owlwranglerhttps://twitter.com/VaughnWilliamhttp://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_0_14?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=william%20vaughn&sprefix=william+vaughn%2Caps%2C250#/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=seldith&rh=n%3A283155%2Ck%3Aseldith
(Or simply search for ‘Seldith’ on Amazon.)

My books are currently stocked at McDonald’s Book Exchange in Redmond, WA and at JJ Books in Bothell, WA. 
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Patricia and I can also be followed here:    Facebook              Twitter
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Rudy and Trish are the main characters in our two published short stories in the "Evernight: Romance in a World of Darkness" anthologies.  You can get to know them as well as get 23 other great stories!  Here's where you can find them:
Evernight Volume 1:   Amazon       Evernight Volume 2:   Amazon       XoXo          ARe

Finding Fiction Friday - RG Porter

RG Porter is an author of dark fantasy as well as horror and murder mysteries, all with a twist of the supernatural tossed in. For as far back as she can remember, she has always been drawn to coming up with wild adventures. Her dreams and nightmares just fueled her already creative juices.
R.G., welcome, talk to us a bit about your journey in writing.  What made you decide to write and eventually to try to publish? 
I’ve always told myself stories as I grew up. My imagination never stopped as a kid. As I got older, others told me I really should look at putting these stories down on paper. And thus began the journey to write my first novel.
We know what your bio says.  Tell us one thing about yourself that you think might surprise us. 
I play a lot of MMORPGs. I know many people think that a woman, especially an adult, could never play these games, but I love them. They are brilliant for fueling my imagination and allow me to put to image what I see in my head.
Do you remember what it was like, the feeling you had when you learned your first book was out there in the world? 
Excited and terrified. You put so much energy and hard work into getting it all right, that you hope others will enjoy what you’ve provided.
Let’s start with your “Darkness Unleashed” series.  Tell us a bit about that. 
That follows a group of people who come together to locate the source of an evil that has been unleashed from an enchanted sleep. They need to find the source and remove it from their world before everything is corrupted by the darkness forever.









What other books do you have out that you’d like to tell us about? 
I have a few different books out in varying genres. I have two horrors out (When Darkness Fallsand Deadly Descent) as well as more Fantasy novels and a couple Paranormal Mysteries. I’ll give you a bit about a couple of them.
Deadly Descent: Think of 28 Weeks Later but with the twist of being stuck hundreds of feet below the ocean’s surface on a scientific lab.







Keepers of Water: First in my Guardians of Nature series. Two worlds exists on one planet. One is destroying nature by overuse of natural resources which is causing the destruction of the parallel world. A few from that world decide to take matters into their own hands.
Blood Betrayal: Samantha Stone is an ancient. She’s also a detective for a very special paranormal unit that investigates questionable deaths. This case is no different.








If there is one character you’ve written or are writing that you would really like people to meet, who would it be and from what book?
Most of my characters I love in their own quirky way, but if I had to choose one, I would probably say Sam Stone. She is strong, funny and can be quite sarcastic. She takes no crap from anyone but is the first to be there to find the truth for the victim.
What do you have coming up next?  Is it a sequel or something new? 
This is a new stand-alone horror. I LOVE ghost hunting (series, movies etc) and was inspired to write something of my own. Judgement is the fruits of that labor. I’m shooting for a release date of Oct 15th, barring any major hiccups.
What other ideas do you have bouncing around in your head? 
Too many to count. I have a few follow-up books I need to write as well as a few new horrors as well. There is an outline for the next horror titled Reflections of Evil as well as the next in the Guardians of Nature series.
What about being published and the book industry in general has most surprised you? 
The support out there for those wishing to go the indie route is immense. I started out with small publishers and never considered (or knew) about the indie route until a friend told me about her experiences. I have to say, though it is much harder work-wise, it is also quite fulfilling.
You’ve lived a lot of places, what is your favorite so far and why? 
I adored growing up in Kansas, however, I’m excited to move overseas down the line. My husband is from the UK and the times we’ve visited over there I’ve loved it. So ask me that in a few years and it will probably change. J
What other things besides writing do you have going on that keep you busy? 
I’ve just launched a new creative endeavor. I’ve branched out into the cover art business. My website just went live Oct 6. I’m a glutton for punishment J
To close the interview, I have ten questions for you, plus one.  Here they go!What is your favorite word? DreamWhat is your least favorite word? FailureWhat turns you on? Creatively, storms.What turns you off? Personally, rudeness.What sound or noise do you love? Thunder. It’s beyond relaxing.What sound or noise do you hate? Fire alarms going off. Talk about ear piercing.What is your favorite curse word? Bullocks (but only when hubby says it. Love the accent)What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? I always wanted to work with animals. Maybe a marine biologist or something.What profession would you not like to do? Trash collector.If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates? Welcome, come see your family.What question have you never been asked, that you wish someone would ask you? Have a big producer ask me if they could produce one of my books. JR.G., thanks so much for spending time with us.  Can you let us know where to follow you, and where we can go to purchase your work?
FacebookWebsiteAmazonB&NSmashwordsTwitter
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Patricia and I can also be followed here:    Facebook              Twitter
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Rudy and Trish are the main characters in our two published short stories in the "Evernight: Romance in a World of Darkness" anthologies.  You can get to know them as well as get 23 other great stories!  Here's where you can find them:
Evernight Volume 1:   Amazon       Evernight Volume 2:   Amazon       XoXo          ARe

Finding Fiction Friday - Lauren Cude

Please join me in welcoming YA author Lauren Cude for today's Finding Fiction Friday segment!  First, I'll let her introduce herself ...

I went the university route and picked up three very expensive pieces of paper.  This led to the traditional stream of office jobs and eventually found me working as a project manager.   I quite enjoyed that actually, but decided it was time for a change.  In a complete turnover I leased a farm and opened a horseback riding school.   My time is now spent riding, writing and teaching.  It’s slightly crazy, but all kinds of fun.
Lauren, talk to us a bit about your journey in writing.  What made you decide to write and eventually to try to publish?
Several years ago I took a break from being an adult and went south for the winter to focus on horseback riding.  I started writing a blog at the request of those at home who wanted to live vicariously.  When I returned, a friend challenged me to participate in #fridayflash – which now a large group of writers, was then fairly small.  The challenge was to write a story under 1000 words and post on Friday.  The group was exceptionally welcoming and the writing continued.
We know what your bio says.  Tell us one thing about yourself that you think might surprise us.
My life is always a surprise – even to those who know me.  I’m known for making complete random changes just to keep life interesting.  There are too many amazing opportunities in this world to settle for being less than impassioned.
Do you remember what it was like, the feeling you had when you learned your first book was out there in the world?
It was very much like the day I found out I was accepted to the university program I wanted.  Excitement, disbelief, and terror all warring with each other.  It’s a powerful feeling.
Tell us a bit about your first book, “Beyond the Wall”.  What can the readers expect?
Beyond the Wall is a young adult fantasy novel.  My main character, Jezina, has grown up wanting to know what exists beyond her isolated village.  One night a visitor comes to the village and Jezina takes the opportunity to escape the town she'd known and discover a world beyond her imagining. Struggling to know where to turn in a world of friends, wizards, dragons, and others, Jezina must find the strength and wisdom to discover where she truly belongs.
If there is one character you’ve written or are writing that you would really like people to meet, who would it be and from what book?
From Beyond the Wall, I’d love to meet the professor.  I’m not sure I’d actually like him, but I think he’d be an interesting character to meet.   From my upcoming work – Lissa, my main character, is a riot.  I think she’d be a lot of fun to meet. 
On the extreme other end, Casey, a character from one I’ve written but not published yet, is absolutely terrifying and I’d really rather not run into her.  At least, not if she were having a bad day.
What do you have coming up next?  Is it a sequel or something new?
I’m really excited about the next one; it’s in the editing phase now.  It’s in the same genre, but not a sequel.  It’s going to be the first in a series though, and its sequel is now in progress.  I really enjoy several of the characters in this one so quite looking forward to it.
What other ideas do you have bouncing around in your head?
I have one in progress that’s of the crime-fiction genre.  First draft is done, but now it’s on hold until I have a few more of the YA fantasy out.  This one will attract a very different audience, so I’m holding it back for the moment.
What about being published and the book industry in general has most surprised you?
The amount of support from others in the industry. I’m still slightly overwhelmed by how helpful and supportive other writers are.  People I’d never met, who had no reason to help, went out of their way to help me get going and cheered me on after Beyond the Wall was actually real.  They answered questions about everything from finding an editor and cover artist to how one goes about publishing and marketing.  I found a whole new group of friends from this experience.  It was amazing.
What other things besides writing do you have going on that keep you busy?
I own and run a horseback riding school, so that consumes most of my time.
To close the interview, I have ten questions for you, plus one.  Here they go!
What is your favorite word?  Really?What is your least favorite word?   Can’t.What turns you on?   Romance.  Of the old fashioned sappy variety.  It’ll make me roll my eyes, but I’ll fall for it every time.What turns you off?  Ignorance.  In any form.What sound or noise do you love?  My text ringtoneWhat sound or noise do you hate?  My text ringtoneWhat is your favorite curse word?  Frig.  I don’t even know if that counts, but I use it all the time and it amuses me to no end.What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?  There’s not enough space or time for all the professions I’d like to attempt.  Any form of academics or research would be amazing, in pretty well any discipline.  More active careers - I’d love to learn to be a pilot.  Or maybe a deep sea diver.  Or any of the other professions you thought would be cool when you were five. What profession would you not like to do?  Telemarketing.  I don’t like annoying people, I really dislike sales, and I avoid calling people whenever possible.    Combining the three pretty much makes for my nightmare profession.If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates?   Welcome back.What question have you never been asked, that you wish someone would ask you?  That depends who’s doing the asking…


Lauren, thanks so much for spending time with us.  Can you let us know where to follow you, and where we can go to purchase your work?
Personal BlogWriting BlogFacebook
Beyond the Wall – paperbackEbook version available for Kobo and Kindle in their respective stores, and almost all other formats at Smashwords.

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Patricia and I can also be followed here:    Facebook              Twitter
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Rudy and Trish are the main characters in our two published short stories in the "Evernight: Romance in a World of Darkness" anthologies.  You can get to know them as well as get 23 other great stories!  Here's where you can find them:
Evernight Volume 1:   Amazon       Evernight Volume 2:   Amazon       XoXo          ARe