Sinead MacDughlas's Blog, page 2

Chillin' with Zoe Adams

Things have been hopping over at Crushing Hearts and Black Butterfly Publishing in 2013!  In a little over 14 months, the company has grown to three imprints and 137 active publications, with more in process. Not bad for a small Indie Pub run by one incredible woman.

With all of the new authors and books, and me being so busy with a hectic home life and a few too many creative projects, it's not uncommon for scatterbrained me to miss a new face or title. When Zoe Adams joined the CHBB family, I'm embarrassed to say, I wasn't really paying attention. When her book release was announced, (May 31st, 2013, so get ready for it!), I woke right up!

Those who've been following my writing know that I have a published novella titled "Best Served Bloody", so the title of Zoe's CHBB debut, "Best Served Chilled",  grabbed my attention right away!   I had to learn more about the author and the book!

Zoe kindly agreed to an interview here, and despite delays and internet glitches, it's finally ready for all of you to read. I have to commend Zoe's patience. While I was nearly...

... Zoe was pretty "chill" about the whole thing. I couldn't let you miss the opportunity to meed Zoe, though. So grab a drink, maybe a snack, and settle in. You're about to meet a fascinating author, with a unique premise. You won't regret this.

Zoe Adams hails from a seaside town on the east coast of England. Books and writing are her passions, and this has led to her gaining a degree in Professional Writing. Zoe takes inspiration from different cultures and their rich mythology. This is evident in the Shōjō series, beginning with Best Served Chilled. When not reading or writing, Zoe indulges in a healthy obsession with anime, spending time with her family, and listening to a wide variety of influential music. Amongst other things anyway.

With her alternative mind, who knows what she will write next?
When you were just a little girl...

What’s the first book you remember reading, or having read to you as a child?

I will always remember my Mum reading me J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit to me at bedtime. She used to put on different voices for the characters and used to sing me ‘That’s What Bilbo Baggins Hates’. It’s a memory that will always remain with me. She’s a huge Tolkien fan. I think it really cemented my love of fantasy for me, even though it had been years since I returned to The Hobbit and other Tolkien books. 

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I was a really strange child! I went through wanting to be a fairy, a cat, a pop star, a Sailor Scout from Sailor Moon… I wanted to be a teacher and recite lessons to my teddy bears… And then I decided to be Matilda – the protagonist of the Roald Dahl classic, Matilda.
Quickie questions

 Non-alcoholic beverage of choice?

Tea! I love a cup in the morning, it helps me function. Some people have coffee, for me it is tea! The only problem is when I’m writing and I’ll make a drink… It either gets left in the kitchen or it’ll be on the coffee table. Cold. Yuck! 
No, no, NO! Wrong Adams!

Word that always makes you giggle?

Titmouse! It’s just something that gets me every time! My partner’s said it randomly in conversation to me, and I was like a schoolgirl giggling. You think that now I’m an author, I would become more mature but I’m really not. Titmouse. Haha!

Favourite dessert? 

I love vanilla ice cream, with chocolate crushed in it. Malteasers, Cadbury’s chocolate, Galaxy, Smarties… It is so unhealthy, but it tastes so yummy! Especially when you’re feeling grumpy or your day’s gone downhill, you can just crush whatever chocolate you have (or in my case smash it up with a rolling pin) and sprinkle it on top of some tasty scoops!

Musician crush?

I have had a crush on Wil Francis for eight years, and it will never fade. He was all Gothed up fronting Aiden. Then when he began the William Control side project, he began to look very suave… He’s also my idol and I’ve met him on three separate occasions (Sheffield William Control concert, Manchester Aiden concert and Download Festival William Control signing tent). He’s signed any merch, chatted and we’ve even had breakfast. He’s a genius of song writing.

Item you always misplace? 

A pen! Guaranteed that I have a stack of them in my pencil case when I start writing and I’ll go to make a note, and I won’t be able to find hide nor hair of a pen or pencil case. It’s either that or the cats steal them and hide them under the sofa or I’ll find them chewed up in pieces…

Fashion addiction? 

I don’t know whether it counts but cosplay! I love the art of the costumes and the accessories. I’m an otaku, which in Japanese means ‘person with obsessive interests, particularly anime and manga’. I have a habit of getting costumes, or partially costumes. I like to dress as the characters – I have been a neko-girl (cat-girl), Misa Amane from Death Note and have cross-played (dressed as the opposite gender) as Luffy from One Piece. My latest fashion addiction is Tony Tony Chopper’s hat from One Piece. It’s a big pink medical hat with antlers, because he’s a reindeer doctor!
Finish the sentence and explain

You could never pay me enough money to … 

Go cage diving with Great White Sharks. I absolutely hate them! I saw Jaws when I was little and have been terrified since of sharks. I thought I could get over my fear, writing about them at university, but sadly it didn’t work… I had a dream last night about the little buggers and I woke up in a real sweat!

The strangest dream I ever had was …

When I dreamed entirely in anime… Everyone was stylised as characters from animation and it was berserk! I felt like I had landed in one of my favourite shows, but it was still strange. The good thing is that it led to an idea for a novel I would one day love to write.
Either/Or

Morning person or night owl?

I’m a real… Night owl! I feel so alert and I can get loads of work done in an evening.

Green thumb or black thumb?

Just lately I’ve had a real interest in gardening, leading to my… Green thumb! I’ve planted my own vegetables and now how to care for various plants. Just hate the insects…

Bedtime! A little light, or total darkness?

At bedtime I like… Total darkness. It’s when all the ghoulies and ghosties come out to play! I like to be scared so being in the dark is great when you hear a noise outside.

Camera! Pose or run away?

When there’s a camera, I can’t help but… Pose! I love it when I’m in costume and can act like a character, it’s more fun. You forget everything and become immersed in who you are portraying. I would love to try alternative modelling, or even just modeling, but I’m quite insecure about my weight…

Hot tub or pool?

I would love my home to have a… Pool! My Mum always said I was a water baby. I might not be the best or the fastest swimmer, but I love spending time in it in the pool. I spend most of my time on holiday in the pool!
About "Best Served Chilled"

Life hasn’t been easy for Hiraku Michiyo. Struggling with the misery that dwells in her past and her present, she’s spending more time with a wine glass than real friends. One night, she meets the charismatic, Shoichi. Intrigued and a little frightened, she invites him home.

Yet little does she realise that the real horrors are just beginning. And escape is certainly not at the bottom of any bottle.

Who was your favourite character to write?

I loved writing Shoichi! He was so evil and vindictive. He is the evil voice in my head, the source of negativity to others, so putting those thoughts onto paper was a great experience. I wrote him to appear like a Harajuku Japanese model, so I spent a good deal of time researching male Japanese fashion and converting it into Shoichi. Being evil was great fun!

Which character has the most in common with you?

Hiraku is perhaps most like me. She’s an alcoholic, suffering from deep depression from her past. There were a lot of problems going on in my personal life when I began writing the novella, and I felt like it was all pouring out of me. Her thoughts are sometimes mine.

Why THIS story and not one of the others roaming around in your head?

That’s difficult to answer, because I start multiple stories all at the same time. I began writing the first chapter in a scriptwriting lecture and I only wrote a few hundred words. I’d sent it to a friend and he told me to continue, that I had talent. He was a Muse – keeping me going and focused on the novel. Now I see that it was all about my thoughts coming out and knowing out there, someone has had it tougher than me. And escape. Everything was escapism…

Will this be a series?  If yes, can you give us a teaser about where this is going in the next book?

This is the first in a trilogy! And I’m so thrilled about it. In the next book, Hiraku has been admitted to another mental institution and Shoichi just won’t leave her alone… Mentally and physically.

Do you write with music? If you do, can you give us the title and artist of five songs you feel had the most impact on your plot?

Ordinarily, I write with music. But for the novel, I wrote with the television on. When I look back at where I was mentally, there are five prominent songs for the novel… In no particular order:

1.  SCANDAL – SCANDAL BABY . A feisty little J-Pop track that gets me in the mood to write anything! Also featured as the title for the first professional university script I wrote.

2.  Sixx AM – Help is on the Way . A real rock track with a hell of a lot of meaning. Definitely how Hiraku feels at times…

3.  Bullet for my Valentine – Waking the Demon . Title is self-explanatory really. Inspirational for a certain naughty chapter.

4.  Black Veil Brides – Rebel Love Song . It was my song of the month. Not everyone likes them, but I do, and the song holds meaning to me. And potentially the character Ed too.

5.  UVERworld – D-Technolife . A J-Rock track that makes me want to punch and kick the world. Features in the anime Bleach and always makes me think of fighting. This track was at the forefront of my mind for a later chapter. 

If some Hollywood big-wig decided to make your book into a movie, who would be your dream-cast for the (3-5) main characters?

I would love Johnny Yong Bosch to appear as Shoichi, because he is such a talented voice actor! From evil to good, he’s great and has tons of experience.
Michelle Ruff as Hiraku, because her voice can be so solemn and emotional. She acted across from Bosch in many animes and games, so they’d have perfect chemistry.

And finally as Ed, I would have Troy Baker. He can portray so many emotions all at once and I think he could be a shoulder to cry on. Ruff and Baker have worked across from each other in the video game Catherine, so it would be good to reunite them.

Did you get into any kind of ritual while you were writing this book? Tell us about it. (Standard drink, snack, preparation etc.)

I didn’t have a ritual but I formatted the pages in Double Line Spacing, no line gaps, Courier New, 12pt, page numbers at the moment, draft number at the top. It was a habit I had got into at university, and it really rubbed off on me.

So what's next from the mind of Zoe Adams? 

At the minute, I’m working on Best Served Within, which is the second in the trilogy. After that, the last book which will be entertaining to write. And then, who knows? Maybe I’ll try and write about zombies or go real high fantasy? Only time will tell!
Connect with Zoe via:
Facebook Page
Twitter
Blog

Passion for the Past

How do you define a dear friend, whom you've never met in person? It's a difficult task. Texting isn't the same as face-to-face conversation. It lacks the nuances of tone of voice, facial expression and body language.

Luckily for me, many of my online friends are readers and writers. By examining their written work, or favourite reads, I can get a deeper sense of who these friends are. These interviews are my opportunity to give YOU a glimpse at a few of the wordsmiths I've had the pleasure of becoming friends with, online.

Take Elizabeth

No, not literally. Her husband wouldn't be impressed if you did, and I'd like to keep her around as well.

Elizabeth Lance is complex and passionate. Whether she's writing about the Fae or the Regency Era, supporting fellow authors, encouraging her students, or spending time with her family, she's giving everything she has to the task at hand — and it shows.
Recently, Elizabeth's debut Regency novel was nominated for the Best Indie Regency Historical Romance award from The Indie Romance Convention.

Courting Danger, Agents of the Crown, ran a tight race against a recent novel by a 30+ year veteran of the craft. Let me emphasize, it was Elizabeth's DEBUT novel. It came in second by only eighteen votes at the eleventh hour. If nothing else, that is an achievement that proves the passion Elizabeth pours into her work. 

Elizabeth A. Lance lives with her husband, Brandon, their two teens, lovingly nicknamed Princess and The Boy, and a menagerie of crazy animals. She is the author of  several short stories, the Young Adult series, Soul Mates as well as the Agents for the Crown, Regency series with Crushing Hearts & Black Butterfly Publishing. She loves to hear from her fans and can be reached at http://www.facebook.com/ElizabethAnneLance/

Now let's learn a little more about Elizabeth A Lance

When you were just a little girl …

What was your security ‘thing’ as a child? Did you have a blanket, or a stuffed animal? Did you bite your nails or suck your thumb? 

As a child I was a stuffed animal and babydoll fanatic! I had a few favorites, a doll named Bean Blossom, I have no idea where the name came from, but I thought it was pretty, and a large stuffed green frog I got from a childhood friend for my birthday. I loved them so much! I was devastated when they accidently got sent to the Goodwill when we moved. 

What’s the first book you remember reading, or having read to you as a child? 

I always loved Dr. Seuss, but the first chapter book I remember reading was Ramona and Beezus the summer after first grade.  That is when my love affair with books began. :D
Quickie questions 

Favourite junk food? 

Chocolate, anything Chocolate, but especially double fudge chocolate chip brownies :D

Guilty pleasure? 

My current guilty pleasure is to watch Downton Abbey, I just love that show! 

Favourite family activity?

When my family gets together we always play Rummikub  or Scrabble, I love family game time!

Favourite carnival ride? 

I LOVE roller coasters! 

Musician crush?

Adam Levine! Oh baby! :D
Finish the sentence

If I could be any animal I wanted, I’d pick

… a wolf, I have always thought them beautiful creatures.

If I could have any superpower, I’d choose

 … to be able to teleport! Then I could go anywhere in the world when I wanted :D
Either/Or

Television or movies? 

Television

Carnivore or herbivore?

Definitely Carnivore!

Schedule or wing it?

 Wing it!

Packrat or minimalist?

 Oh I’m a terrible Packrat!

Bedtime! A little light, or total darkness? 

Absolutely total darkness!

Hot tub or pool?

 Hot tub :D
About her Agents of the Crown series Courting Danger, Agents for the Crown
Ellen Montgomery wants nothing more than to live her life on her terms. However when her Father catches her riding his favorite stallion astride and in her brothers breeches no less, he decides to send Ellen to Paris for some much needed polish before the London Season. Ellen is soon fascinated with the Lords she meets, but only one makes her blood burn in more ways than one!

Christopher Fairfax, the new Earl of Durham has sworn off women, they are nothing but trouble. But he soon finds himself intrigued by his best friend’s younger sister, a wild little hellion who won’t listen to reason and won’t stay out of his head. 

Ellen and Christopher both find themselves courting danger when they find a common enemy in Lord Darby, a ruthless man wanted by the crown for murder. A man determined to gain Ellen’s hand and therefore her fortune in marriage by any means necessary. Ellen and Christopher must work together to stop him before it’s too late.


Artifice, 
Agents for the Crown
David Alexander Cole, the Earl of Whitborne is tired of his life as an agent, but when he meets an enchanting young miss with an unusual request he finds he cannot help but be intrigued.  Miss Joanna Deville enters his life like a whirlwind and he finds himself hard pressed not to help her in her quest for love, but soon finds himself entangled in a love triangle. The game is one of  deception,  make a certain gentleman jealous, and catch a jewel thief in the process,  but it goes awry when he finds himself falling in love with Joanna’s devastatingly beautiful best friend, Miss Arianna Channing.  What’s a spy to do when confronted with such Artifice… 

            Arianna Channing has always been the belle of the ball. Her entourage includes all of the most eligible gentlemen, and she enjoys  the power  her beauty has over them, but there is one… One delectable rake with the power to make her feel something more, something real and true, but he’s embroiled in a charade of love with her best friend. How can she ever convince the rakishly handsome Lord Whitborne to quit his deception and join her in a true romance…
Charade, 
Agents for the Crown
Jessica Farrington fell in love with Lord Ashley Sinclair the moment they were reacquainted. She only wishes that he actually felt the same desire for her, as she does for him.  Jessica soon finds that she must leave London when a letter arrives informing her of her father’s assassination attempt in Vienna.  Her best friends join her on her journey and she realizes that Ashley will be along as well. She is secretly thrilled, for it will afford her more time in his company. 

Enter Lord Knight, a handsome and romantic masked Romeo, who takes Jessica’s breath away. His late night visits to her balcony, and his stolen kisses have Jessica’s heart soaring.  His dancing grey eyes and wicked smile remind her so much of her love, but are her suspicions of her amorous Romeo correct?

Join Jessica and her friends as they travel to Vienna to unmask an assassin and find her heart’s desire.

Who was your favourite character to write?

 My favorite character, oh that is hard, so I’m actually going to say my favorite couple to write in the Agents for the Crown Series is Alex and Arianna.  I just love those two!

Which character has the most in common with you? 

I think there is a little of me in each of the girls, Arianna has my flirty fun side, Ellen has my temper, Jessica is my more awkward shy side, but I think Joanna is the most me. She’s curious and bright and a friend to everyone, she loves life and takes on challenges thrown her way and she knows where her heart lies.

Why THIS story and not one of the others roaming around in your head? 

This series has been In my head for about fifteen years, I HAD to get it written!  

I hear there's more to come, yet. Can you give us a teaser about where this is going in the next book?

For those of you that have been reading and following Joanna’s adventures, and I know you are dying to find out if she and Jonathon are going to finally figure things out… well you’ll get your wish. Book 4, Tangled, will be Joanna’s story. She is going to have some big life choices to make, and all while she is trying to catch an art thief… and that is all I’m going to say! :D

Do you write with music? If you do, can you give us the title and artist of five songs you feel had the most impact on your plot?

I do write with music and I create a playlist for each book. With book 4 I am listening to a lot of classical music, Beethoven, Vivaldi, Chopin, Debussy, but also some romantic music, such as Rod Stewart’s Great American Classics, the Bee Geez, Air Supply, the Moody Blues, and Barry White. I know, I’m a loon. LOL

Not at all! I'm rather taken with The Moody Blues, myself. Or perhaps I'm a loon, too. lol

If some Hollywood big-wig decided to make your book into a movie, who would be your dream-cast for the (3-5) main characters? 

Oh goodness! Okay let’s go with casting the girls and the lead male in Courting Danger…  Ellen Montgomery: Emma Watson ; Christopher Fairfax, Earl of Durham: Charles Hunnam; Joanna Deville: Anne Hathaway; Jessica Farrington: Julia Stiles; Arianna Channings: Jordan Brewster…  Of course none of them will be available when I’m ready to contact the BBC about making Courting Danger a movie LOL

Did you get into any kind of ritual while you were writing this book? Tell us about it. 

I have to have minimum a bottle of water and my music. Other than that, I’m good.

So what's next from the mind of Elizabeth Lance? Do you have any other projects you're working on? 

I just released a Regency Short Story called The Bloom, and I have two more Regency shorts in the works, one for Halloween and one for Christmas.

Note: Elizabeth forgot to mention "The Valentine", her other Regency short, currently in publication.

I also have the third book in my Soul Mates series, Magic, being released in July.
A few story ideas brewing in my head about the Mad Hatter, my favorite Alice in Wonderland character, as well as a Steampunk story. :D 

Thank you, Elizabeth, for giving us a little peek into your life.

Make a closer connection Amazon Author Page

Facebook Fanpage

Facebook Fanpage: Agents of the Crown

Goodreads Author Page

Elizabeth's Blog

Twitter

See the books we've mentioned Courting Danger

Artifice

Charade

The Valentine

The Bloom

Oh Crap! He's back!

Being a writer, I tend to be a little sadistic. I love to torture characters in the name of a good story. When I decided to add a few author interviews to the blog, with some of my favourite authors, I guess a little of that sadism carried over.

See, these interviews are often conducted via e-mail, so I conjured up a HUGE list of potential questions, separated into categories. I send this list to anyone who wants to be grilled on the blog, with instructions to pick a certain number of questions and send me back the answers.

In the process, it must have slipped my mind that the interviewees are writers too, and just as prone to sadistic torture.

Hence the two part interview with SJB Gilmour.
Sam couldn't pass up an opportunity to drive me a little mad, (okay, so a little more mad), by answering every single question I sent. Not only did he answer them, but he did so in such a way as to make it patently impossible for me to choose just a few.
  

If you have yet to meet Sam Gilmour, you're in for an wild ride here. If you'd like a full introduction, I urge you to check out Part One of this interview.
Otherwise, put on your helmet and grab the nearest "holy-shit" handles 'cause here we go with the second half of Sam's answers.

Sam's had his third double espresso, and he's running this show!   

When you were just a little boy …
Pick Two.

Two?  Pffft!

Tell us about your first pet …

Maddy was an adorable Rottweiler.  Gentle, kind, loyal but very hairy and slobbery.  On September 12, she knew something was wrong and charged the door as I went to go to work.  I had to bring her with me.  She died two years ago and I miss her every day.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I never really knew.  I’m not sure I do yet.
  

I like this answer! The way some authors talk, you'd think they were born knowing.

Naptime? Bitch, puh-lease! My editor is freaking out!

What was your favourite subject in grade school?

Girls.

Tell us about your first crush …

She’s on FB and though we’re not friends, she’s friends with one of my friends, so I won’t mention her name.  It was in Grade 2, and I thought the sun rose and set in her eyes.  That was until I changed schools and fell head-over heels in love with (name withheld), then (name withheld), (name withheld), then (name withheld).

Quickie questions.
Pick five and answer one of the two options:

Movie star crush? OR Musician crush?

I’m between crushes right now.  I used to have a thing for Pauley Perrette from NCIS, but that show’s jumped the shark and my interest has wilted like a balloon animal with a leak.

Favourite date activity? OR Favourite family activity?

That’s easy.  Visiting the relatives at the zoo.

Awe, Uncle Fred says you're #1. No, make that #2. Wait a second ...

Favourite carnival ride? OR Favourite carnival game?

I went bungee jumping once.  After that, everything sort of pales into insignificance…  Except that ride on top of that spire in Las Vegas.  Just  looking  at that thing makes me wish I was wearing adult nappies.

Word that always makes you cringe? OR Word that always makes you giggle?

Boobs.

Word you say far too often? OR Word you write far too often?

I first read that as “would you say you fart too often…? My answer would have been “I don’t fart often enough!”  But now I’ve re-read the question, with the notes from my proof-reader still hurting my noggin, I’d have to say “then”, “also” and “that” are all favourites I need to kill off.

Worst pick-up line you've ever heard? OR Best pick-up line you've  ever heard?

I once used a barbecued sausage as a cigar while I imitated Groucho Marx.  It actually worked – kind of.  I was too scared of leaving sausage-grease marks on her clothes to cop a feel.
  

Finish the sentence and explain.
Pick two:

If I couldn’t be a writer, but I could be anything else, I’d choose …

Supervillain.

If I could have any superpower, I’d choose …

I’ve already got it.  That’s nice underwear you’ve got on today.

Ha! I'm n— 
Never mind. 

If I knew the secret to immortality, I would …

Keep it to myself and breed humans according to my own special criteria, just like the great worm god-emperor did in Dune.

If I could switch lives with anyone for one day, I’d choose …

There’s a submission editor at Random House who really needs to re-think some of her decisions…
Meanwhile, at Random House ...

The #1 item on my bucket list is, (or would be) …

Northern Lights, baby.  I’d love to sit back and have a romantic dinner for two with Superwife while we watch the Aurora Borealis.

You could never pay me enough money to … 

Vote Labor.

I get irritated when the person I’m talking to …

Doesn’t genuflect low enough.

The strangest dream I ever had was …

All my dreams are strange, but one that sticks in my memory was when I was trapped in a haunted house, dressed in period costume while trying to call Susan Sarandon through a deodorant stick telephone.
   

The one cause I support the most is …

Usually I don’t, but I do give money to buskers or street performers.  Beggars get fuckall.

My funniest embarrassing moment was …

I was showing off in front of some girls at the beach when I was fifteen, by capering about on the stone wall of the promenade.  I spun then jumped off, head first into a light-pole.  The girls laughed, I saw stars.

My guilty pleasure is …

I don’t have guilty pleasures.  Why should I feel guilty about doing what feels good?  If you ask me, the folk who should feel guilty are the fear-mongers in churches who get about brow-beating everyone that they should feel bad for doing what comes naturally.

Soooo, Porn then. (refer back to Part One)

  

Either/Or
Pick five that you can answer with just one or the other. ;) 

Planner or pantser?

I’m definitely a pants man…  Oh you mean writing?  I pants my plots then plan the book.

Schedule or wing it?

*sings* I believe I can fly!

Bedtime! A little light, or total darkness?

Depends what I’m doing and with whom.

Dress up or dress down?

Dresses OFF!  And the pants too.  C’mon ladies, don’t be shy.

Student or teacher?

That depends.  Does the student get “punished” or does the teacher demand “extra effort” for better grades?

Hot tub or pool?

Who’s in it with me?
  

Hmmm... I'm sensing a trend here. Dammit Sam, turn OFF the porn and pay attention!

[image error] This is for your own good.

Homebody or traveller?

I have permanently itchy feet.  No seriously, this tinea cream is useless.

Camera! Pose or run away?

Hey, point that thing someplace else!  (Han always had the best lines.  You know, I reckon I could go a whole week saying nothing but Star Wars quotes and get along just fine.)

Adventure or security?

Life is short, but to die would be a great adventure.

Construction or demolition?

I play with Lego and Duplo with my kids and I can tell you it’s great fun both building stuff, and then smashing it to smithereens.

Now let's learn a little about your book, "Armies of Nine". 
Answer as many of these as you can, please. 

  

Do you write with music? If you do, can you give us the title and artist of five songs you feel had the most impact on your plot?

I give some characters theme music.  Mel has The Imperial March from Star Wars Empire Strikes Back.  Sarah has Kickstart My Heart by Motley Crue.  Mautallius has the Romper Stomper (sorry, couldn’t find it on iTunes) theme music.  Swapper has Dance Macabre Op 40.
It’s the thrilling conclusion to the Adventures of Sarah Coppernick trilogy!

Which character, from any of your books, has the most in common with you?

James,  from my Wolfenvald series.  His temper is most like mine, and he has the same (dis)respect for many of today’s PC morals.

What about sequels? C an you give us a teaser about where this is going

Swapper’s gory to the point that I’m nervous about my shrink ever getting his hands on it.  The sequel to The Borrowed Kitchen is gonna be a little creepier and with kinkier sex.  The two shorts will reveal sides of characters in my Wolfenvald series that have been hinted at but not fully explored.

If some Hollywood big-wig decided to make your book into a movie, who would be your dream-cast for the (3-5) main characters?

I’d like to see Emma Watson play Angela.  Bruce Willis for James.  Pierce Brosnan for Benjamin.  I don’t know any young actors who should play Sarah or Mel, but I’d love to see Keira Knightly play Cassandra, just so she could be a bitch and get about half naked.
Yeah, she looks thrilled.

Thank you again for dropping in for a visit, Sam. As much as I complain, (Now I know why he calls his spouse, "Superwife"), I had a great time with this!

Find out more about Sam and get links to his books here: http://www.amazon.com/SJB-Gilmour/e/B005321S10/ 

I hope you, dear reader, enjoyed Sam's visit as much as I did!

You just can't get too serious with Sam

   Welcome to the weird and wonderful world of writers again! Today I finally get to post an interview with another of my favourite Indie authors. Sam Gilmour is a blast to hang with on Facebook, and as a bonus he's also a rather brilliant writer. Let's navigate his mind together, shall we? Don't bother with a map or GPS. Just bring your sense of humour and a LOT of coffee. ;P

   I gave Sam a huge list of questions, and he kindly answered every single one. Normally, that would mean I'd have to pick and choose which to post, but I enjoyed all of his answers so much, (and he kept them short enough), that I had to share them all! However, there are so many questions, I've split this into two interviews. Watch for the second half of the questions, for each section, in two days!

First we learn about you: When you were just a little boy … Pick Two

Two?  Pffft!

What was your security ‘thing’ as a child? Did you have a blanket, or a stuffed animal? Did you bite your nails or suck your thumb?

I had a stuffed penguin.  Mum had to make several because I kept wearing them out.  And, yes, I REALLY wore them out.  Little boys will be little boys…

Don't I know it! More toys leave my house for the dump than for donations or hand-me-downs.

Sam in a moment of sedate reflection

Describe your earliest memory for us…

I’m standing before a great sea with all my people beside me.  We’re being chased by a horde of savages and there’s no escape.  But, I’m not going to let that stop me!  I spread out my arms and command the sea to part and it does!  We escape and when the barbarians chase us, I let the sea close again and they all drown.

See? This is one of the things I love about Sam. As serious as he is about his craft, he never forgets that fiction is supposed to be entertaining.

What’s the first book you remember reading, or having read to you as a child?

I started reading at about 5.  I worked through all of my mum’s Enid Blytons and Trixie Beldens and then moved on to Tolkein, Heinlein, MacCaffrey, Herbert etc.

What was your favourite cartoon show?

Wacky Races.
Yeah, I wanted to drive this car back then. Now I'm more about beefy, black cars.     

Quickie questions. Pick five and answer one of the two options:

Yee-ah. He didn't do that.

Alcoholic beverage of choice? OR Non-alcoholic beverage of choice?

Double espresso.  No sugar.

Favourite cuss? OR Favourite PG cuss?

“Fuck me drunk!”

Worst habit? OR Best habit?

Masturbation
   

Favourite junk food? Or Favourite healthy snack?

Junk food – Hamburgers & chips.

Favourite dessert? OR Favourite meal?

Oh man.  I’ll eat anything.  If it’s food and in front of me, it’s my favourite.
Nom, nom, nom!    

Fashion addiction? OR Gadget addiction?

I’m not sure if I have to have the latest gadget, but if my brother gets one, then I need to have the next one after that.  I MUST out-gadget him!

Item you always misplace? OR Item you’re never without?

Rule number 1 – Always carry a knife.

Pet peeve? OR Guilty pleasure?

I hate, HATE, HATE fucking your / you’re confusion.

Favourite time of day? OR Favourite time of night?

Coming home from work and getting the full-body tackle hug from the kids.  It just blows me away.

Finish the sentence and explain. Pick two:

 Nah, I’m answering more than two.  You pick which ones you like.  These are fun!

But I like them all, so I'm posting all of them. Just in two parts. lol

The oddest question anyone has ever asked me was …

It wasn’t a question but once in Times Square, A guy raced up to me and told me “Sean told me to tell you the sheep are on the moon!”  Then he ran away like he’d stolen something.  True story.

The one question no one has asked me that I'd like to answer is ...

Do you know how to get to Platform Nine and Three Quarters?
Could be fun ...    

If I believed in reincarnation and could choose my next life, I’d want to be …

Me.

If I could be any animal I wanted, I’d pick …

A hippogryff

If I had to pick an animal that most represents me now, I’d choose …

A short-tailed macaque.  Not the long-tailed; they’re vicious little buggers.

The theme song to my life as a drama series would be …

The theme from Doctor Who.

The theme song to my life as a sitcom would be …

   

If I was an existing children’s cartoon character, I’d be …

Hannibal Lecter.  What?  He’s not an existing cartoon character?  He bloody-well should be.  I’m gonna write a letter…
"He covets. That is his nature. And how do we begin to covet, Clarice?"

When I don’t know how to respond to something I …

The art of the non sequitur is a lot like the art of combing fish.  First you have to hold onto it really well, and make sure those spines don’t get you.  Then, holding the comb in your teeth, sing Soft Kitty until the fish calms down.  Remember, always comb with the scales, not against.

I think I learn best by …

The mistakes others make.

The toughest lesson I ever learned was … 

How to thicken gravy.  It’s really quite simple once you get the hang of it.  All you have to do is dissolve the cornflour in a little water first then add that to the gravy.

Yee-ah, I do that too, and it still doesn't work every time.

  

The most surprising thing I ever learned about myself was …

I don’t actually suck at this writing thing.

Either/Or
Pick five that you can answer with just one or the other. ;) 

Oh, you are so going to hate me now.  Tell you what; I’ll answer the lot and let you decide which to put in.

Coffee or tea?

Yes.

Morning person or night owl?

Morning for exercise, day for writing, night for watching b-grade movies or anything sci-fi.  I’d like to fit sleep in there somewhere, but I don’t get much of that so it doesn’t really count.

Television or movies?

I’ll be in either, just so long as the pay is good and I don’t have to star alongside Mel Gibson.

Green thumb or Black thumb?

Black thumb???  Aaargh!  It’s the plague!!!
"But I'm not dead yet!"

Opportunity or ingenuity?

I’d like to thank The Academy for all their hard work and for making my little idea become such a huge success.

Carnivore or herbivore?

Omnivore.

Introvert or extrovert?

Lady, the world fucking revolves around me!  You may all bask in my glory!

Brawn or brains?

Braaaaaaiinns!  *lurches like a zombie*

Packrat or minimalist?

I keep as much clutter as I can in this tiny little space…  That show Hoarders is my salvation.  Every time I wonder if I have too much crap, I watch that show and feel better about myself.

Eat in or take out?

Mmm… Fooooood!

Fast food or fine dining?

I want it fine and I want it fast!

City or country?

Finally a straight answer!  -  Country.

Tent or Hotel?

Do tents have wifi?
Nope, just WTF    

Now let's learn a little about your book, "Armies of Nine".
Answer as many of these as you can, please. 

Who was your favourite character to write?

Mel from my Wolfenvald series.  She’s a bit of a badass and has a very dim view of authority.

Why THIS story and not one of the others roaming around in your head?

Oh man, I have so many stories in my bonce…  It’s hard to keep track of them all.  I’m now writing them in the order they come to me.  This year, in this order, I’ll be writing/finishing Armies of Nine, Swapper, Mel’s story (title? – short story), Robert & Roberta’s story (title – short story) and (title?) sequel to The Borrowed Kitchen.
The thrilling conclusion to the Adventures of Sarah Coppernick trilogy!

Did you get into any kind of ritual while you were writing this book? Tell us about it. (Standard drink, snack, preparation etc.)

Play games, drink coffee, Facebook, scratch, watch porn, eat, drink coffee, Facebook, write, scratch, get mad when interrupted, eat, Facebook, pace, watch porn, drink tea, write.
You really have to cut back on the porn, Sam.    

   

So what's next from the mind of Sam Gilmour? Do you have any other projects you're working on? 

Other than what I’ve already mentioned, I’m working on a seekret project for an anthology being put together by some online folk I know *wink*, and I have a sci-fi space opera I’d like to put together.

Thanks for this, Sam. You never fail to entertain me. lol

When I asked Sam for a bio. this is what he had for me:

You can find my official bio here: http://www.amazon.com/SJB-Gilmour/e/B005321S10/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1

But that leaves a lot out.  After I finished high school (Wesley College, Melbourne), I tried University but gave that up for dealing opium in Burma.  Eventually I was arrested and imprisoned in a work camp, from where I was abducted by aliens.  The probing wasn’t so bad but they made me watch Sally Field movies until I really did think I could fly.  Then I was returned to Earth in a great crystal egg that landed in a hay-field in the corn-belt in America.  Wearing only some bright spandex, I escaped to a Tibetian monastery where I achieved true enlightenment.  Eventually, I returned to Australia as a stow-away on a ship smuggling whale meat and saws…
I live in Melbourne Australia with my wonderful wife and two fantastic daughters. I was raised in the family footwear business where I still work, but I've done a great deal besides. I've edited, researched, sub-edited and published. I've done a stint in the Royal Australian Navy, run a small café and pumped diesel at a bus depot. I'm a travel junkie, amateur birdwatcher and overall book and film nerd.

If you find Sam just as fun and interesting as I do, you CAN connect with him online. Here are a few links he supplied:

I Tweet @sjbgilmour https://twitter.com/sjbgilmour

I'm on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/SJB-Gilmour/155373837870604

I blog: h ttp://sgilmour.wordpress.com

My G+ profile is: https://plus.google.com/u/0/117902660405170807504/posts

You can also send me a request for a personalised Authorgraph signing at: http://www.authorgraph.com/authors/sjbgilmour

And give Sam's YA trilogy "The Adventures of Sarah Coppernick"  a look. You won't regret it.  I've read the first book, "Golden Mane", and I was seriously impressed. Enough that I plan to grab the paperbacks to save for when my children are older.

A Peek Behind the Time Traveller

Like many readers, I enjoy reading about the author as much as I enjoy reading their books. I love to learn more about the person behind the words. When I decided to feature an author or two on my blog, I wanted to make my interviews different. They aren't long but they don't ask the standard questions either. I hope they'll give readers a little peek at the person within the author behind the books.

Today we'll get a look into the mind of James D. Layton.  Meet the Author James D. Layton has been writing screenplays for over a decade, but turned to novels in 2012. He lives in England with his two sons Ettienne and Cody. He likes running and chocolate, and sometimes running with chocolate. His favourite book is Jurassic Park, his favourite film is Jaws and he listens to many types of music including; Jimmy Eat World, System of a Down and The Doors.

I was introduced to James, via Facebook, by the lovely and talented Linna Drehmel.
Since we've met, James has delighted and inspired me daily with his wit and  kindness. 

Find James here: Facebook Fan Page - Author James D Layton
Website - Orange Mangrove Publishing
Twitter - Tarantula Film
When you were just a little boy ...

What’s the first book you remember reading, or having read to you as a child?

Delights and Warnings. It's a book of folklore and tales, poems. I still have it now, and yes it still scares me a little haha

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Creative...... that's it. I've been a film director, custom doll maker, model car maker and now a writer so I think I succeeded.
Quickie Questions

Favourite carnival ride?

Roller coasters or Passage Du Terror type rides. I love being terrified. It's doesn't happen often enough though.

Favourite junk food?

Pizza without a second thought.

Favourite cuss? 

Cuntmuncher but I think I invented it.

Word that always makes you cringe?

When Americans say secon.... instead of second. Sorry America I love you really.

Worst habit? 

I crave junk food even after losing 30lbs and eating healthy I still find myself standing outside McDonald’s for some unknown reason.
Either/Or

Introvert or extrovert?

Introvert until ruffled, then an extrovert with a sharp tongue.

Student or teacher?

Teacher

Coffee or tea?

Tea.... I'm British shoot me.

Morning person or night owl?

Both, I get up at 5am to run but I also like staying up until the small hours watching bad movies and writing.

Television or movies?

Movies.... TV bores me,
Finish the sentence ...

If I could switch lives with anyone for one day, I’d choose ...

The love of my life. To walk a mile in her shoes and see the world through her eyes.

If I knew the secret to immortality, I would ...

Tell the love of my life so we could spend an eternity together.
About your writing ...

Who was your favourite character to write?

Eloise Crimson she's a total bad ass.

Which character has the most in common with you?

Eloise Crimson she's a total bad ass haha. No seriously we both have strong morals, both are very independent and we both love books.

Why THIS story and not one of the others roaming around in your head?

She called to me, and told me I would need 9 novels to tell her life story. I obeyed and followed her lead.

This is a series.  Can you give us a teaser about where this is going in the next book?

The first of nine books in the series, Eloise travels time, from Atlantis to Ancient Egypt to meeting Bram Stoker, she pretty much goes the whole hog as time travel goes. Starting in 1945 during the war and going way back to the crucifixion.

Do you write with music? If you do, can you give us the title and artist of five songs you feel had the most impact on your plot?

I don' need it to write, but I find it helps when I'm stuck. I listen to movie soundtracks, 300 and Beowulf have been helpful this time around. But I listen to everything from Fleetwood Mac to Slipknot.

If some Hollywood big-wig decided to make your book into a movie, who would be your dream-cast for the main characters?

Eloise Crimson (a younger Rachel Weisz) Dr Mark Fleming (David Tennant) Alan Turing (Giovanni Ribisi)

Did you get into any kind of ritual while you were writing this book? Tell us about it. 

I'm a full time father of two boys so rituals don't exist to me. I write when I can, as well as cooking, cleaning, washing, running and school activities. I'm always busy. 

So what's next from the mind of James D. Layton?

The second book in the series which is Eloise Crimson and the story of Salome. We go back to ancient Rome and follow the story of Salome, the step daughter of Herod Antipas as she demands the execution of St John the Baptist. In the first book the time travel experiment works and they stop Hitler but some of the jumpers get lost, Eloise has to go back in time and retrieve them. Problem is some of them don't want to come back to 1945. Causing majors problems for her. She's a great heroine and well worth following if you like strong female characters. I think of her as Indiana Jones in a skirt. 
Meet the Book Eloise sits at her dull little desk in her stuffy little office and watches her pencil tip snap for the final time. The war in Europe fills her mind with stories of adventure and heroism and yet for a 17 year old English girl, her pencil is probably the most dangerous thing she has ever held. It is 1945 and her only chance to escape the status quo of her existence is a small advert in a local shop window looking for war volunteers. She packs her bags. Waves her town goodbye and heads for the train station with a deep feeling that adventure awaits. Little does she know that less than 48 hours later she will be wrapped up in a world of time travel, romance and an epic journey of self discovery. She is thrown into the viper pit as time itself is split like a smashed water melon, and Eloise must embark on a death defying plot to stop Adolf Hitler in his tracks. Thrown back to 1935 with her fellow volunteers. The Nazi army baying for her blood is only half as heart stopping as the feeling inside... that she was born to do this.

Purchase it here: eBook -  Amazon.com

Paperback Version

An Author's Dedication

Dedication in "Roughing It" by Mark Twain Perhaps I'm an unusual reader, or maybe it's just that I'm nosy, but I always look for the dedication page in every book I read. I often wonder who Jane or John Doe is. Sometimes, depending on how vague the wording is, I wonder what the person or persons mentioned have done to warrant having a novel dedicated to them. Of course, being a writer I'd usually make up my own little back story to satisfy my curiosity. It's only recently that I've decided this makes me odd, since I've rarely seen any mention of the dedication in the hundreds of author interviews I've read. Am I the only one who wonders?

When I self-published "The Unscheduled Stops", I found the dedication one of the most difficult parts of publishing. Given the freedom, I'd have dedicated the book to every person who'd ever offered the slightest encouragement to me in my lifetime. (Thank goodness for the acknowledgement section. BTW, does anyone but me ever read that part, either?) It took some time to decide who I should include in the dedication. After all, most dedications are vaguely phrased, one-liners directed at a single person or entity. Curbing my Newbie enthusiasm turned out to be nearly impossible. Since the book is a collection of short stories I intended to "gift" to those early fans who were patiently waiting for my debut novel, I chose to dedicate the book to my four best friends, (my first non-family fans).

 "Learn To Love Me" wasn't much easier. The acknowledgements section in that book span three pages in the print edition. In the end, I chose to make the dedication to those who'd been my most ardent supporters for the longest period. 
Pretty straight forward, right?

But what is the real story behind it?

The first part of the dedication is pretty clear. Mom, Dad and Sis were always sure I'd make it. The second part, for my Gran, is more vague than you'd think. For those of you who may be as curious as I can be, I'll explain.

My parents divorced when I was very young. Nothing unusual there, since so many marriages end in divorce court. What makes my situation different, I suppose, is that my birth father took no interest in  me whatsoever. His parents, however, were devoted Grandparents. My paternal grandparents picked me up at the end of every school year and whisked me away to a cottage for the entire summer vacation. Now, my parents were rightfully diligent in teaching me to be hard-working, reliable and unselfish, but every summer I became a pampered princess in the indulgent custody of "The Grands". My every whim was catered too, usually without question. I'm sure it must have been a nightmare for my parents to reform me every fall. Thankfully, I'd been raised with a strong sense of gratitude and humility. It was odd, going from our blue-collar home, where every penny was hard-earned and had to be spent carefully, to my grandparents' white-collar opulence, where price was no object and quality the greatest concern. At least, price was no object when it came to buying things for me. The rest of the time, my grandparents were on the miserly side of prudent, a habit instilled in them at a young age by war rationing and their own blue-collar upbringing. The one commonality between the two households was the one constant in my life: words. My Mom and my Gran were equally avid readers. Both had a love of books and words, and both took every opportunity to encourage my own passion for reading and writing.

My Grandparents were fairly well-to-do in my opinion, but they'd worked for that status. Gran had worked a full-time job, rare for her generation, and she and Grandpa had saved and invested with great care. I suppose there were times in my adult life when I could have asked them for money. Perhaps it was pride that forestalled me, but I'd like to believe that it was my sense of honour, instead. I know that dropping out of high school nearly broke Gran's heart, and my failure to attend college couldn't have been any less disappointing. I struggled from one dead-end job to another, but I did my best to downplay my financial struggles to both of my grandparents, and after Grandpa's passing, to Gran. My dreams of writing for a living took a low place on my priority list while I grappled with the three D's in my early thirties: debt, depression and divorce.

As time slipped away from us all, Gran's health declined. Eventually I had to help her pick a nursing home, and as her mind began to slip I took on the role of Power of Attorney. I was pleased that Gran had stashed away a fair sum to sustain her. Over the last five years of Gran's long life, I did everything I could to convince her to spend her money on her own entertainment and comfort. A survivor of two World Wars, it wasn't easy to convince her. When Gran passed in 2010, her estate was left to several beneficiaries. I was one.

By that time, I'd been jobless for two years, caring for Gran and my two babies, (one and two years old by then). Most of the money Gran left to me went to easing the financial strain of our single-income family. A smaller portion went into the bank for emergencies and bought me my first laptop computer.

A week after I bought my Acer laptop, I stumbled over an old computer file I'd nearly forgotten about. It was full of creative writing bits from years before. Among them was a piece titled "Learn To Love Me".

I remembered my dreams of writing a book. I remembered my Gran's encouragement to write. I remembered how to pour my heart into words. After I'd read the piece, I started to edit it. When I'd finished editing, I began to expand on it. A month later, I had six chapters and a plan.
Gran in 2001 My Grandmother worked all of her life, squirreling away money as did so many of her generation. The remainder of that money is what made it possible for me to write again. Gran paid for my laptop, software, online memberships, cover art, editing fees, promotional items, swag ... Gran's money is what allowed me to stay home with my children until they go to school, taking a long-awaited shot at my lifelong dream of authorship. If it weren't for my Grandmother, none of my writing would ever have seen publication. You can thank or blame her, as you see fit. I'd like to hope she'd be proud of me for finally going for it, and pleased to be the financer behind it.

Are you a published author? Who or what was/is your debut book dedicated to? What's the story behind the dedication?  If you blog the answer, please link us all in the comments. I'd love to read it. :D

Aaargh! (A freewrite)

The Scream by Shayna Michaels

I'm slacking again. I seem to be running in circles all of the time and never finishing anything. I've been making promotional posters, trying to update the websites for Best Served Bloody, research for my next project, interviews, guest blogging, promotions... I'm just not doing the one thing that should be a priority: writing.

My non-writing life is a mess. My hubby has been in hospital twice with health issues, this on the heels of my own struggles with Bell's Palsy. By the way, I've regained about ninety-five percent of my facial muscle control. Unless you really look for signs, you'd never know I'd had it. Yay me!

My son had pneumonia in the middle of the summer. Since then he's had a bout of bronchitis and sliced open his scalp on his bookshelf/headboard, requiring four staples to correct a direct view of the skull bone beneath. Doctor's still haven't figured out exactly what's wrong with hubby and both children have had fevers and colds off and on since fall fell.

Now, with Christmas looming , there's shopping and decorating to do, family visits to prepare for and the myriad little things the season always brings. Those are all great excuses, aren't they?

That's really all they are though. I can come up with a million excuses not to write. I look at the clock when the children are tucked in and think, "Okay, I'll just take an hour to unwind and then get to work." I log in to Facebook/Twitter/Google +. Three hours later, I look at the clock again and think, "Well, it's too late to really get into anything now. I'll play a couple of rounds of word chains/sodukus/logic puzzles/spider solitaire/whatever, and then get to bed. I'll start early tomorrow and really get something done." Yeah, right! Five or six games later, I'm still wired. I can't sleep now, but I can't think straight either. "There's no point trying to write now."

Log back into Facebook/Twitter/Google +.  Roam around and read people's statuses. Browse their photo albums. Comment on a couple of things. Nobody's really around though because most of my online friends are writers and THEY are writing!

So why can't I write?  Am I just too lazy? Not really.

Am I short of inspiration? Nope.

Do I not have a story to write? Far from it! I have two books outlined and ready to go, and a folder full of concepts I have yet to tackle.

Am I overwhelmed? Maybe. Probably. Yes.

 About what? Well ...

1. There are so many things I need to do that I don't know where to start. Making lists is easy, but I can't put the items 'to do' in any kind of priority sequence.

2. I'm suspicious of my achievments. An oily voice in my mind still whispers that I don't deserve any of it, sometimes. It says that my books are tripe and the people who say otherwise are just being nice.

3. In those moments that I do believe in my work, I'm inclined to doubt my ability to repeat the process. What if I'm a "one hit wonder"? What if I don't have it in me to finish another book worth reading? What if I utterly crash and burn on the next one?

4. It took me over thirty years of dreaming before I got a book into publication. All of my life I've started projects and given up on them. I can't even finish crocheting an afghan I started four years ago. My children's baby books are mostly blank. Can I even finish another book? How can I expect to overcome a lifetime of abandoned ventures?

Ah, but this is different! This is a lifelong dream. Writing is the one thing I've always come back to, no matter what detours life throws at me. I have the stories, the characters and the skills I need to flesh them out. What I need is time.

What I need is to stop wasting time.

I need a mantra ...

"I can do this. I am a writer. Facebook is not my friend. Twitter is a time-sucking torrent. Google + is a noose for the muse. Focus. Write. Focus. Write."

That'll work.
Maybe
Maybe just one game of FreeCell ...

Throwing some light on the dark

Like many readers, I enjoy reading about the author as much as I enjoy reading their books. I love to learn more about the person behind the words. When I decided to feature an author or two on my blog, I wanted to make my interviews different. They aren't long but they don't ask the standard questions either. I hope they'll give readers a little peek at the person within the author behind the books.

DJ Shaw has graciously agreed to be the first of these interviews...

DJ Shaw belongs to the part of the Unseelie Sidhe that lives in Albuquerque, NM with her husband, The Vengeance Demon, Terminal, the beast who stole her heart, and together they have spawned five children.  They also own an Ocelot and four Hell Hounds.  She loves to write about the experiences of her Dark Brethren, and some of her own.  Please enjoy some of her adventures.  Let's find out a little more about her, shall we? When you were just a little girl ...
What did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be an actress. I had a flair for putting on shows for my mom, dad, grandmothers and aunt, and I was really good at keeping their attention. But I found when I was in second grade that I have stage fright, so acting was out. I did try again when I was 16, but nope still had it. lol. A part of me still wants to be an actress and I have played an extra in the Sci Fi channel’s original movie “The Lost Room” 8 years ago. Lol

Describe your earliest memory for us.
My earliest memory is when I was two years old. I was playing in the kitchen with my dollies while my mom was cooking bacon. It’s amazing to me even after all these years how vivid that memory is. My mom tripped over me and burned herself with bacon grease. It was bad enough that an ambulance had been called and they checked my mom out. She was okay, but I think that was the last time I played in the kitchen.
Quickie questions Item you always misplace?
My car keys  

Favorite junk food?
Potato chips

Musician crush?
Geoff Tate from Queensryche

Worst pick-up line you ever heard?
“Did it hurt…..when you fell from heaven?”

Favorite carnival game?
The dart game with the balloons
Either/Or
Coffee or tea?
Coffee

Morning person or night owl?
Night owl

Brawn or brains?
Brains

Bedtime! A little light, or total darkness?
A little light

Camera! Pose or run away?
Run away
Finish the sentence 
If I could have any superpower, I’d choose…
The shapeshifting ability, like Beast Boy from the Teen Titans. Because I have always wanted to be like the were animals or shape shifters. It would be awesome to be able to change myself into a wolf or panther.

My guilty pleasure is…
Chocolate

If I had to give up one of my five senses I'd choose ...
...my sense of smell, because to have to sacrifice anything else would make my writing a bit difficult for me to do, and this is something I am striving to make into a career.

I write because...
It is almost like a compulsion with me. I HAVE to write. If I don't write, I actually get a physical ache until I can write again. The voices in my head to really don't like to leave me alone either, until they feel their story has been told. It's like I'm Craig Ferguson, and I am giving an interview to whichever voice has demanded my attention on any given day.
To find out more about DJ Shaw, look here: https://www.facebook.com/WiccanLies

http://www.Twitter.com/Lovelyvisions

https://www.amazon.com/author/djshaw

http://dj-shaw.blogspot.com/

https://pinterest.com/lovelyvisions/

https://www.tumblr.com/blog/wiccan-lies

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5753289.D_J_Shaw

We also get a sneak peek at her upcoming book! 

Interview with the Dragon - Part 3

For those of you just joining us: you’ll want to scan the last two posts before you read today’s. This is the last part of a three part character interview/short story. You can find the first part here:  Part 1  and the second here: Part 2

For those of you rejoining us: you’ll remember I was undercover, and interviewing Mazar, (on the right). The US government recruited me to find out as much as I could about this male shifter.  When you were last with us, I had just wrapped up the actual interview, and Mazar had left the Great Hall.

Here we go!

Follow up notes: November 15, 2012

In our society, I’d likely judge Mazar harshly on first meeting. I’d probably file him under chauvinistic muscle-head and avoid him from then on. Having had a chance to speak with him in his own environment, however, has proven enlightening, to say the least. He is intelligent, charming and honourable, but I fear this is a man on the edge of some kind of breakdown. I would hate to witness it in person, if only because the thought of such a strong personality being brought to its knees is so depressing. I don’t know why the US government has taken such an interest in this shifter, but I can hope they are planning something to avoid such a pitiable outcome. I’m not sure my personal observations are required, or even wanted, but I will include them in my report, all the same.
                ~Sinead MacDughlas
 
Update: September 29, 2012

I would love to tell you what happened to Mazar not long after our one meeting, but it’s easy enough for you to find out for yourself. Just pick up a copy of The Dragon Dimension - Caught in Dragon Cove  by Ressa Empbra, and you can read all about it. You can get your copy on Amazon, by clicking HERE
Warning : There are adult situations and profanity in this book. I suggest you be (18) years or older, to read it.

The novel is available in other countries, as well. Just ask Ressa for the links. She'll be thrilled to provide them.

While Mazar isn’t the protagonist of the novel, he does play a major role in the events that unfold between the pages of this excellent Science-Fantasy novel.

Here's a little more information on the book and it's author...
Meet Ressa Empbra:

Ressa lives on the beautiful Western Slope of Colorado, and enjoys a moderately quiet life with her husband and their two-year old English Springer Spaniel, Stryder. Their three-grown kids and all their furry four-legged kids live nearby. She feels doubly blessed to also have in the area her parents, brother and sister in-law, sister and brother in-law, as well as her three nieces, two nephews, and two brand new great-nephews. Writing has become her passion over the last couple years, and self-publishing--as much of a trial as it's been--has also become quite the learning experience for her. Miss Empbra also has several more books in the works, which she hopes to have completed and released in the near future.
Book blurb:

Working for a covert government agency, Iax travels the world—and beyond. She also journeys out of this world to other Realms in various Dimensions, of which only a privileged few know. Her job: Putting a halt to imminent battles and wars—before it’s too late. Finding herself in a heated battle in the Dragon Cove Realm of the Dragon Dimension, Iax assumes the usual; get in, get the job done, get out. Easy-peasy. This mission is like no other, however, as it will change her life in ways she never could have imagined. Get Caught in the Dragon Cove where secrets and tempting passions lurking just out of sight, will be revealed.

What lucky, advance readers are already saying:

“Caught in the Dragon Cove is a wonderful ride from beginning to end, and I cannot wait for the second installment of this fabulous story!” ~ Elizabeth A. Lance, author

"Ms. Empbra makes the impossible seem possible, and in an ever-increasing market for the paranormal, I see her rising to the top with her characters emerging as the next TV series/movie franchise ensemble." ~ J.P. Grider, author
 
“This story made me laugh, made me cry, and even made me say 'oooh girl!!!' a time or two.” ~ Jody Cooley 

"For anyone who fell in love with Anne MacCaffrey's dragons of Pern and their riders, The Dragon Dimension will also be an instant hit, only they'll have to cope with Empbra's free use of profanity." ~ SJB Gilmour, author


Get connected with these links:
Facebook Author

Goodreads Author

Amazon Author

Google + Facebook Fanpage

Goodreads Book Page

Amazon Book Page

Twitter

Facebook Group Page

Ressa's Blog


e-mail
ressaempbra@yahoo.com

This book is just too beautiful not to have in print edition. So start saving your pennies! Meanwhile, go get the Kindle edition!

Interview with the Dragon - Part 2

For those of you just joining us: you’ll want to scan yesterday’s post before you read today’s. This is the second part of a three part character interview/short story. You can find the first part here: Part 1

Mazar. Taken with a hidden camera. For those of you rejoining us: you’ll remember I was undercover, and interviewing Mazar. The US government recruited me to find out as much as I could about this male shifter, and his motives, though the reason for their interest didn’t become apparent to me until very recently. To find out why they were so interested, you’ll have to get a copy of Ressa Empbra’s novel, ~The Dragon Dimension~ Caught in the Dragon Cove, which becomes available on Amazon tomorrow! I'll be providing the purchase link in part three of the interview series.

I’ll repost the last, unanswered question from yesterday’s post first. Here we go!

And what do you hope to find in your Truemate, Mazar? What type of female makes your blood run?

What type of female?
{He scrunches up his forehead while he thinks, and glances at the ceiling, as if searching for divine assistance}
Miss Sinelynn, pray you are not as impatient as I, for my answer will, indeed, be quite lengthly. I am not picky, nor do I have a specific 'type' in mind. Any unmated female will cause my blood to 'run' as you say.
{He shakes his head, with a rueful quirk of his mouth}
As for my own Truemate, all I ask, or rather, what I beseech Meynix day and night for, is to send me a feisty, strong female who will behave as obedient females should. One who will birth many strong, blessed younglings for us to quickly build our own large, solid family. We will have need of as many extra hands as possible, in order to do our share for the village. Our village is akin to an overlarge family, as I am certain yours is, and though most of us appear to be young, it is quite the opposite—as you already know. We must contribute to the well-being and welfare of all, most importantly, to those whom can no longer fend for themselves.

Back to my expectations in a Truemate; I am aware that female-young are required to have knowledge as to the many specific expectations of them. Not only in their youngling birth-homes, but when the time comes for them to take a Truemate as well. She must have knowledge of cooking, for as you can clearly tell, I am a rather large male, as are most of us. Between the warring, which is always raging somewhere here in the Dragon Cove Realm, and the sheer size of my fellow-warriors, we must always be at the ready. We also go through rigorous training sessions several hours each day, and with that comes all but unquenchable appetites.

She must also have knowledge of cleaning as there is always laundering, the home, and outdoor chores. Every Weyr is self-sufficient, and as such, we all have vast gardens from which to choose many fine edibles to go along with the succulent On'laque all males hunt and bring to share with the village. The females also partake in these things as we do not oft get warning
of any attacks or warring, so we must keep up our strengths. It is their  responsibility to care for and ensure all males are properly fed and cared for  at all times. It has been this way since before I was birthed.
{Barbaric, perhaps, but I’m told this dimension is very like an old feudal society. Their concept of male and female roles is, sadly, centuries behind ours. In our society, I'd be tempted to throttle him for this kind of chauvinistic idiocy, but I realize that this is what his society really does expect from their females. I try to reassure him with a smile, hoping I can keep the irritation and pity out of my eyes.}

You are an honorable and traditional male.
{I managed not to choke on that. lol}
That is as it should be. Breathe lad, I can see you are suffering, but Meynix has a plan for all of her creations. When your Truemate comes for you, she will be everything you did not know you wanted. I speak from experience. Even if you are invited to Weyr Dugalias, there is no guarantee the journey will not be in vain, but I have no doubt that Meynix will bless your patience one day. It will be worth every agonizing moment you have waited. Now tell me, how do you think your Chief will sing your praises to me? How would he have me describe you to our female-young?

I appreciate your experience, and you have my gratitude for your kindness, Miss Sinelynn.
{He gives me a little nod of his head, like a bow. I find it an ironic gesture of respect for a phony elder who’s really around two-hundred and seventy years younger than he is.}
I do all I can to be patient, although it becomes increasingly frustrating … the constant buzzing in my head, the fitful sleep-terrors. I shall continue to seek guidance from Meynix, and I shall not give up in my search for my Truemate. I cannot—will not—give up, if I can help myself!
{He’s stopped speaking, his hands are clenched into tight fists and his face taut. Mazar is definitely struggling with some kind inner turmoil. It looks almost physically painful.}
Apologies, this is not easy.
{He takes a deep breath, and the tautness leaves his face. His hands are relaxed again. Whatever it was, it’s passed.}
You believe my Chief will sing my praises? I can merely hope for such, as I have served our Weyr faithfully and fully my entire life. My training began upon my tenth age, and I was placed into service for my Chief by my fifteenth age. I am certain you can deduce how long that has been. I can only pray for high praises from him, to you.
{He’s tightening up again. This poor man! He looks like he’s in agony!}

Your modesty does you justice my lad, but it will not help you stand above the other male-young whom wish to impress our elders. I will speak to your Chief, and I am certain he will have words of praise for you, but you might wish to forward yourself, as well. Perhaps you would tell me what you can offer a potential Truemate? What are your strengths?

My strengths and what I have to offer my Truemate are, I will always keep her safe, fed, well-cared for, and above all else, loved. Never having had that particular relationship does not mean I do not have knowledge of how to treat and show my appreciation to my other half. My own mother was very loving and caring, and taught me well how to return such feelings. I am not much for dramatics or theatrics, all I can do is merely be myself. I pray that would be enough for a female to whom I shall forever be bonded.

I know nothing further that I can say to forward myself and my possible placement in your eyes, other than the fact that I need—more than the air I breathe—to find my Truemate. As it is now, I know not how much longer I can live my life in the manner I am and have been for such an overlong period of time. I pray my words will be well enough, but if not, I shall continue my search.
{His confidence has returned. Compared to some of the others I pretended to interview today, he’s rather modest. lol}

I told you we are a small and peaceful Weyr. If some of our unmated female-young are to come here, what new dangers and experiences should they prepare for? How will they be accepted into your Weyr, and prepared for life here? How would you help a Truemate to adapt? To deal with homesickness? To make her name and forge her place within your Weyr?

I will not lie and say there are no dangers here, they exist everywhere and can be quite numerous. I can tell you with full certainty, the best, most efficient way of keeping her safe is, I would personally ensure that she knows which places to and not to go, especially alone. Educating her on possible dangers could prove a never-ending and fruitless chore; however, ensuring she has full knowledge of where and what is safe, would be much more advantageous and reasonable way to introduce her to our lands and ways. She would be welcomed with open arms by all of our Weyr. We also have females aplenty who are always willing to offer a shoulder to cry upon, impart words of wisdom, or both to unburden a sad or heavy heart.

I would also take her on a lengthly and detailed tour of our entire territory, and show her all the inner workings inside the village itself, including my Chief’s Holdings. He has always been more than generous, caring, and had provided us with a far less problematic lifestyle than many Weyr have to endure. I cannot imagine him being any less of the upstanding male to her, that he always has been to us all. Any questions or  concerns she may have can be directed to anyone within the Weyr, as for the most part, we were birthed and have grown up here. There is most likely nothing any one member does not have knowledge of. Should she grow homesick or overly-sad, I would offer to journey with her to your Weyr, in hopes that her own could help soothe and comfort her. Pray that be the right thing to do, if such need should arise. Though, there are many things to keep one busy here, I do not see anyone having much time to become forlorn to begin with.

Alas, if she should, those are the things I would do in hopes of seeing her happy and wanting to remain here with myself and this Weyr, which would be hers as well if we were to become Truemates. I know not what more I have to offer her, other than myself, a long lifetime of love, and all the happiness one could possibly desire.
{He’s actually blushing now! I didn’t expect that.}
Apologies, if I have been too forward or open. Although, you did ask, Miss Sinelynn.
{There’s that respectful nod again.}
Do you wish to ask anything more of me—or have I forwarded myself in a good light?
{With a mischievous half-smile, he winks at me. He’s made me blush again, the cheeky bugger! lol. I wink back, slowly and smile right back.}

My advanced age has yet to make desire a stranger, young warrior. I think you have proven your sense of honour and purpose clearly. I will be interested in the council’s decision regarding you.
{I hope my smile is reassuring. His vulnerability is oddly endearing.}

I appreciate your kindness, Miss Sinelynn. Your honesty is both humbling and refreshing, and it has been my pleasure to spend this time with you. Should your council not choose me as a candidate for one of your female-young, I will understand. I wish you all much peace and happiness, and would hold no ill will against anyone. Gratitude, again, and pray Meynix bless you with a safe journey home.

May her blessings find you, as well, Mazar of Weyr Treuamarias.
{He gives me that bowing nod, one last time. When he rises, it’s in one fluid movement, and he leaves the room in long, swift strides. I don’t know whether he’s more nervous, now that the interview is over, or relieved.}

Tomorrow I'll provide my final notes on the interview, along with a introduction to Ressa's fabulous book, and the purchase link. Please, check back in for it. I hope you've enjoyed the interview so far. Working with Ressa on this has been a ton of fun! :D