Kevin Swarbrick's Blog, page 6
July 14, 2013
A start!: The lovely author, Carlyle Labuschagne is my eleve...
A start!: The lovely author, Carlyle Labuschagne is my eleve...
Hi everyone and thank you yet again for joining me on my 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour'.
I have been running a little behind today and I see Carlyle has arrived on time as usual. There is a not on my virtual desk... Right Carlyle has just nipped out to the virtual the pub on the corner to have a couple of spirits to steady her nerves! Here is little Bio about my next guest. I can't see Carlyle being too long.....
Another great interview not to be missed ;)
Hi everyone and thank you yet again for joining me on my 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour'.
I have been running a little behind today and I see Carlyle has arrived on time as usual. There is a not on my virtual desk... Right Carlyle has just nipped out to the virtual the pub on the corner to have a couple of spirits to steady her nerves! Here is little Bio about my next guest. I can't see Carlyle being too long.....
Another great interview not to be missed ;)
July 12, 2013
The lovely author, Carlyle Labuschagne is my eleventh guest @KevinSwarbrick 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour'. Another awesome interview!
Hi everyone and thank you yet again for joining me on my 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour'.
I have been running a little behind today and I see Carlyle has arrived on time as usual. There is a not on my virtual desk... Right Carlyle has just nipped out to the virtual the pub on the corner to have a couple of spirits to steady her nerves! Here is little Bio about my next guest. I can't see Carlyle being too long......
Carlyle Labuschagne is a South African Debut Author working her way into the hearts of international readers with her First Young Adult Dystopian Novel “The Broken Destiny. She is not only an author but works as a Sales Rep and Marketing Manager by day. She holds a diploma in creative writing through the writing school at Collage SA. Loves to swim, fights for the trees, food lover who is driven by her passion for life. Carlyle writes for IU e-magazine India, an inspirational non-profit magazine that aims at inspiring the world through words. The drive behind her author career is healing through words. Carlyle is also the founder of the first annual book drive – Help build a library in Africa project.
[image error]
Hey Carlyle, I was just looking around for you, I never thought you would be sitting outside on the steps, but it's cool with me if we do the interview here. It really is great to have you on here and full of life and full of smiles too. I hope the bar manager hasn't said too much about me! I take it he has, with the way you just crossed your legs! Can I help it if Louie was born for others to enjoy, 'Giggles'. I am glad you find it funny, we have a whole interview to get though yet, you really shouldn't listen to others when they say you need a drink first before coming on my tour, there is no fear only fun, 'Giggles'. I was just reading your bio out to everyone and I must say that's a very impressive bio indeed. I would class you as a true inspiration and your cause is an excellent one. I do wish you the very best in building this library.
“My goal as an Author is to touch people’s lives and help others love their differences and one another.”
Awesome goals you have there, but I hadn't finished what I was saying about the library and what a fantastic idea it all is :)
A firm believer in - YA saves!
I am a firm believer in YA saves. I used to say that to my partner. Your arse saves the day when you bring it my way! I am only playing... Damn I best not say that, 'Giggles'.
Sometimes in life we all want more than what we can have, but if you had one wish to have anything or anyone, what would that wish be and why?
Id wish to have my own publishing company in South Africa. The publishing industry is very conservative and limited in South Africa, in all my years of search there are few resources for self-publish authors. The book industry needs a boost. I’d like to open a small press (to begin with) hiring students and interns that not only are going in this very direction, but might not even be aware of all the opportunities such an industry can offer. With this start various programs for children and adults who are illiterate in rural areas. Give workshops, host competitions – give our youth in South Africa the opportunity, perhaps even build their dreams as authors, writers, publishers, agents, publicists etc. This industry has so much to offer witch I feel our country has only just touched upon.
It really does sound like a fantastic idea indeed, I do wish you the very best of luck on your venture and any support I can offer, then I am in :) I mean with links and shout outs. Just ask :)
I would like you to make a short story up using no more than 400 words containing every one of these 14 key words; Box, Game, Shower, Dad, Figure, Window, Government, Dog poo, Sex, Lamp, Spoon, Hole, Flames, Sheep!
The dog and sheep were at again last night. This kept dad a light sleeper as the Government had warned him about the noises that apparently scared our neighbours. So it was impossible to sneak Danny in through the passage windowfor our midnight sex game. So I had no other choice than sneak him through theshower window. But to our surprise dad had installed the sensors and the showerautomatically went on the second we came too close to it. As dad came hauling down the stairs we made a run for the lounge, but knocked over a damn lamp. We kept ourselves hidden behind a large box. If it were not for the flames that erupted I would have seen the dog poo Danny had trailed in. While dad ran for water, I ran for a spoon to dig up the freshly trudged poo. Mom came screaming from the study. Danny dug a hole in a pot plant for me to throw away the evidence smeared all over mom’s new white carpets. Light came on, a pale of water came down, and I still held the poo- filled- spoon – Busted!
LMAO! Midnight sex game to spooning the poo up and hiding it in a plant pot... Love it! I know we have all had crap in our life to deal with at some point, but that's a classic. You did leave one word out, and that was figure, maybe you have heard too much about Louie, and you didn't want to get him started by going on about figures! I can tell by the way you just looked at me that it's true! Damn, what has that bar manager been saying at all? It really does get me thinking....
When I first started writing I had a lot of negative people around me, I know I had to lose that energy in order to continue writing and fulfilling what others thought I couldn't do. Did you ever experience any of this when you first started writing or were you lucky enough to have the right support around you?
I've been very blessed in that my support system has been just as enthusiastic about my career as I have. But if anything the negative energy should be a motivation for you to keep at it. Best of luck Kevin – you made it and will keep at it!
That is awesome :) It is always good to hear about other authors and the support they have had. I know I had good friends around me at the time encouraging me not to give up and to follow this writing through. The support around me now is phenomenal. There are so many good hearts out there, which do want to see you succeed. What was a few supporters suddenly became thousands of supporters and some are very close friends. As for negative energy, you must let it motivate you. God knows I have learnt to stick by that rule. Don't get me wrong, it may motivate me, but positivity is always the best key to life :)
If you had a chance to run any country and make a difference, what country would it be and why?
Wow that could be messy indeed. IF I really had to choose to be a leader of a country it would be South Africa. Our Country has so much to give, and like most places it has its weaknesses, but I believe there are a few issues that seriously need to be considered, and by the looks of things have been over looked for far too loon.
What would you say the worst thing a reader has ever said to you and what was your reaction?
That they didn't get past the first page. LOL. I’d like to believe that everybody loves my book, but that’s just silly. I just replied with a thank you for your honesty, because truly it makes me that much stronger, and hard working. Good critique is amazing, but the bad really teaches me things. How otherwise would I know of my faults if no one tells me?
You look picture perfect to me! Oh sorry... I was getting side tracked then, we were on about the writing weren't we? Nice comeback to a not so nice comment, and all I can say is how the hell can anyone know what the story is going to be like from reading the first page!
I would like you to vision yourself walking down a busy high street with your partner and suddenly there was a noise that came from his bottom and people turned around looking at you, what would your reaction be and why?
Earthquake!
Shit where? You almost had me going then if it weren't for your cheeky grin I would have believed you, 'Giggles'...
Use only two words that would describe you?
Highly motivated.
I will drink to that later on and have words with the bar manager at the same time. No, I won't be rude, I will just ask for two drinks and sit in the corner hoping I might have some company, 'Hint, hint'...
Have you ever been…
A, The owner of a lonely heart.
B. The owner of a broken heart
C. None of the above?
If the answer is C, please can you tell the reader how you have done it, I can see the reader would be interested to know that one, I know I am.
D all of the above.
It's a sad life at times and those broken hearts always hurt, but boy I bet those heart breakers are kicking themselves now!
It's time for a little fun, I would like you to do the rhyme ‘Humpty Dumpty’. Using your own words and without holding back.
Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall.
Humpty Dumpty almost had a great fall.
But along came a spider and sat down beside her
Making her a new friend for the day.
But soon after the brat wanted a pony.
So the spider felt very crushed and lonely
And
Lol that was a great attempt, but you needed to use your own words like this.
Kevin Swarbrick looked at the clock,
Kevin Swarbrick had a big... 'Ok I hear you, point taken! 'Giggles'.
When you are writing, do you ever think, 'Erm my partner and I did that last night, that has to go into the story as?
If I tell you Id have to kill you!
You can do anything you want to me.... Did you say kill or frill, never mind I am not taking any chances on you killing me if that's what you said. I can now see you spooning bits of Kevin up of the carpet! Mmmmm now this is a lovely thought, 'Giggles'.
If you could be a musical instrument, what would you be and why?
Violin. Why not?
If you want to play with my strings, I will let you! No I wasn't being crude. There is a violin in that virtual cupboard just next to my set of keys to my Bentley and mention. I would love to hear you play some day :)
If you could change one thing about you as a person, what would that one thing be?
I can see you are thinking too much on this question, but the truth be known, I wouldn't change anything about you too.
You are one remarkable talented lady with a heart of gold towards others. What is there to change? My point yet again :)
I know we all remember our first kiss, would you say yours was a good experience or a bad one? Please explain why.
Oh no! I was the only girl at the party who had never kissed a boy before, so rumour got out, a bottle came out, and too many kisses later I apparently ended up with a boyfriend I never wanted, but was too shy to break his heart. We ended up dating for a while. Eventually I couldn't run anymore and had to tell him I was flattered but didn't really dig the kiss or him so much. I still feel horrible thinking about it.
Awww poor guy! He could be sitting at home with a lonely heart and it's all your fault, 'Giggles'. I know you wouldn't go around hurting people if there weren't a good reason to and the guy couldn't kiss! What's that all about? Never mind don't answer that. Poor guy lol...
Do you ever remember a part in your life that’s made a huge impact on you as a person. If so would you like to share that part with the reader?
All of my life has shaped and changed me. Everything I was, am , and will be gives me fuel for my writing career.
Nice answer. I share the same views, it's our past that has lead us here, so I will definitely drink to that later too. Well it is the weekend and I am allowed to let my hair down now and again. You have me thinking yet again...
Who inspired you to write or was it always a dream to be an author?
I've always written but it was only after reading Twilight (Big up to Steph) That I thought hey there is a huge story hiding inside here, the time is right to unleash it!
I am so happy that you did and I am very proud of you and your achievements. I must say I had that same feeling and it had to be unleashed! My story I am on about! 'Giggles'. It's been great fun having you here on my tour. I am all out of questions to ask you now, but there is one more thing..
Can you tell the reader about your latest work and also tell the reader where they can find you,
I am currently busy with book two in the Broken Trilogy. Releasing November the 1st. Entitled Evanescent a Broken Novel.Cover reveal takes place 31st of July.
The First book The Broken Destiny is available online bookstores, Barnes & Noble and if you are in South Africa – Exclusive books Clearwater mall Johannesburg or through any Exclusive books online store.
It does sound like a fantastic read. I know I have no more questions to ask you, but can you give us a blurb about, The Broken Destiny
Ava knows much more, and feels much more than she is allowed to. When she starts questioning her origins and the destruction of Earth, things go horribly wrong for her. She is saved by a Minoan boy from an attempted kidnapping on her life – the perpetrators are evil Zulus and their dark ancient magic. Humans and Minoans are forbidden to interact with each other, and as she is taken back to their village she finds out why – they know of her, her kind and her destiny to save a dying race. Ava must rid them from the Council’s ruling and free the galaxy of The Shadow. Her destiny is to rise above the fall, because within her soul is the key to an archaic weapon that has been missing in the mix of a genetic code since the time of the ancients. As the prophecy unfolds she learns of her bloodline – a bloodline that makes her less human than she could ever have imagined. She alone has the power to destroy or save, but the mind-shift is a horrible thing. Ava will become what she hates to save the ones she loves. Beaten, poisoned, possessed and betrayed by her own emotions, she has no choice but to rise above it all… for that is her Destiny.
[image error]
The Broken Destiny was voted #3 on the goodreads Debut list for 2012 :
http://www.goodreads.com/list/show/9748.YA_Debuts_2012#12537426
Twitter : http://twitter.com/#!/CarlyleL
Website : http://www.carlylelabuschagne.com/
Goodreads http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12537426-the-broken-destiny-1-in-the-broken-series
Facebook : http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Carlyle-Labuschagne/189835811074342
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Broken-Destiny-Book-One/dp/1612048722/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1347131640&sr=1-1&keywords=carlyle+labuschagne
Barnes and Nobles http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-broken-destiny-carlyle-labuschagne/1112448868?ean=9781612048727
Book Trailer http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FPWniWsvrk
Blog http://worldsawaybookblog.blogspot.com/
Fansite: http://www.thebrokenseriesfansite.com/
That sounds great Carlyle.... Carlyle! Carlyle... It looks like it's lights out for Carlyle... She has fallen asleep on the steps due to them virtual drinks! I know her husband will be picking her up very soon, so I will leave a note in her hand to say a big thank you for coming on my tour and for being such a great sport. It's been a pleasure and I do wish you all the success for the future. I hear that drink calling me now. Until next week that's us out of here. Have a great weekend and if you can't be good, then at least be careful ;)
Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour has it's own Facebook page for all my wonderful authors, please show your support and press that little like button, you all know its appreciated. Thank you :) https://www.facebook.com/KevinSwarbrickDeliciouslyScandalousBlogTour?ref=hl
For more information about me and my work, then please visit... http://kevinswarbrickauthor.weebly.com/https://authorcentral.amazon.co.uk/gp/profilehttps://authorcentral.amazon.com/gp/profile
I have been running a little behind today and I see Carlyle has arrived on time as usual. There is a not on my virtual desk... Right Carlyle has just nipped out to the virtual the pub on the corner to have a couple of spirits to steady her nerves! Here is little Bio about my next guest. I can't see Carlyle being too long......
Carlyle Labuschagne is a South African Debut Author working her way into the hearts of international readers with her First Young Adult Dystopian Novel “The Broken Destiny. She is not only an author but works as a Sales Rep and Marketing Manager by day. She holds a diploma in creative writing through the writing school at Collage SA. Loves to swim, fights for the trees, food lover who is driven by her passion for life. Carlyle writes for IU e-magazine India, an inspirational non-profit magazine that aims at inspiring the world through words. The drive behind her author career is healing through words. Carlyle is also the founder of the first annual book drive – Help build a library in Africa project.
[image error]
Hey Carlyle, I was just looking around for you, I never thought you would be sitting outside on the steps, but it's cool with me if we do the interview here. It really is great to have you on here and full of life and full of smiles too. I hope the bar manager hasn't said too much about me! I take it he has, with the way you just crossed your legs! Can I help it if Louie was born for others to enjoy, 'Giggles'. I am glad you find it funny, we have a whole interview to get though yet, you really shouldn't listen to others when they say you need a drink first before coming on my tour, there is no fear only fun, 'Giggles'. I was just reading your bio out to everyone and I must say that's a very impressive bio indeed. I would class you as a true inspiration and your cause is an excellent one. I do wish you the very best in building this library.
“My goal as an Author is to touch people’s lives and help others love their differences and one another.”
Awesome goals you have there, but I hadn't finished what I was saying about the library and what a fantastic idea it all is :)
A firm believer in - YA saves!
I am a firm believer in YA saves. I used to say that to my partner. Your arse saves the day when you bring it my way! I am only playing... Damn I best not say that, 'Giggles'.
Sometimes in life we all want more than what we can have, but if you had one wish to have anything or anyone, what would that wish be and why?
Id wish to have my own publishing company in South Africa. The publishing industry is very conservative and limited in South Africa, in all my years of search there are few resources for self-publish authors. The book industry needs a boost. I’d like to open a small press (to begin with) hiring students and interns that not only are going in this very direction, but might not even be aware of all the opportunities such an industry can offer. With this start various programs for children and adults who are illiterate in rural areas. Give workshops, host competitions – give our youth in South Africa the opportunity, perhaps even build their dreams as authors, writers, publishers, agents, publicists etc. This industry has so much to offer witch I feel our country has only just touched upon.
It really does sound like a fantastic idea indeed, I do wish you the very best of luck on your venture and any support I can offer, then I am in :) I mean with links and shout outs. Just ask :)
I would like you to make a short story up using no more than 400 words containing every one of these 14 key words; Box, Game, Shower, Dad, Figure, Window, Government, Dog poo, Sex, Lamp, Spoon, Hole, Flames, Sheep!
The dog and sheep were at again last night. This kept dad a light sleeper as the Government had warned him about the noises that apparently scared our neighbours. So it was impossible to sneak Danny in through the passage windowfor our midnight sex game. So I had no other choice than sneak him through theshower window. But to our surprise dad had installed the sensors and the showerautomatically went on the second we came too close to it. As dad came hauling down the stairs we made a run for the lounge, but knocked over a damn lamp. We kept ourselves hidden behind a large box. If it were not for the flames that erupted I would have seen the dog poo Danny had trailed in. While dad ran for water, I ran for a spoon to dig up the freshly trudged poo. Mom came screaming from the study. Danny dug a hole in a pot plant for me to throw away the evidence smeared all over mom’s new white carpets. Light came on, a pale of water came down, and I still held the poo- filled- spoon – Busted!
LMAO! Midnight sex game to spooning the poo up and hiding it in a plant pot... Love it! I know we have all had crap in our life to deal with at some point, but that's a classic. You did leave one word out, and that was figure, maybe you have heard too much about Louie, and you didn't want to get him started by going on about figures! I can tell by the way you just looked at me that it's true! Damn, what has that bar manager been saying at all? It really does get me thinking....
When I first started writing I had a lot of negative people around me, I know I had to lose that energy in order to continue writing and fulfilling what others thought I couldn't do. Did you ever experience any of this when you first started writing or were you lucky enough to have the right support around you?
I've been very blessed in that my support system has been just as enthusiastic about my career as I have. But if anything the negative energy should be a motivation for you to keep at it. Best of luck Kevin – you made it and will keep at it!
That is awesome :) It is always good to hear about other authors and the support they have had. I know I had good friends around me at the time encouraging me not to give up and to follow this writing through. The support around me now is phenomenal. There are so many good hearts out there, which do want to see you succeed. What was a few supporters suddenly became thousands of supporters and some are very close friends. As for negative energy, you must let it motivate you. God knows I have learnt to stick by that rule. Don't get me wrong, it may motivate me, but positivity is always the best key to life :)
If you had a chance to run any country and make a difference, what country would it be and why?
Wow that could be messy indeed. IF I really had to choose to be a leader of a country it would be South Africa. Our Country has so much to give, and like most places it has its weaknesses, but I believe there are a few issues that seriously need to be considered, and by the looks of things have been over looked for far too loon.
What would you say the worst thing a reader has ever said to you and what was your reaction?
That they didn't get past the first page. LOL. I’d like to believe that everybody loves my book, but that’s just silly. I just replied with a thank you for your honesty, because truly it makes me that much stronger, and hard working. Good critique is amazing, but the bad really teaches me things. How otherwise would I know of my faults if no one tells me?
You look picture perfect to me! Oh sorry... I was getting side tracked then, we were on about the writing weren't we? Nice comeback to a not so nice comment, and all I can say is how the hell can anyone know what the story is going to be like from reading the first page!
I would like you to vision yourself walking down a busy high street with your partner and suddenly there was a noise that came from his bottom and people turned around looking at you, what would your reaction be and why?
Earthquake!
Shit where? You almost had me going then if it weren't for your cheeky grin I would have believed you, 'Giggles'...
Use only two words that would describe you?
Highly motivated.
I will drink to that later on and have words with the bar manager at the same time. No, I won't be rude, I will just ask for two drinks and sit in the corner hoping I might have some company, 'Hint, hint'...
Have you ever been…
A, The owner of a lonely heart.
B. The owner of a broken heart
C. None of the above?
If the answer is C, please can you tell the reader how you have done it, I can see the reader would be interested to know that one, I know I am.
D all of the above.
It's a sad life at times and those broken hearts always hurt, but boy I bet those heart breakers are kicking themselves now!
It's time for a little fun, I would like you to do the rhyme ‘Humpty Dumpty’. Using your own words and without holding back.
Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall.
Humpty Dumpty almost had a great fall.
But along came a spider and sat down beside her
Making her a new friend for the day.
But soon after the brat wanted a pony.
So the spider felt very crushed and lonely
And
Lol that was a great attempt, but you needed to use your own words like this.
Kevin Swarbrick looked at the clock,
Kevin Swarbrick had a big... 'Ok I hear you, point taken! 'Giggles'.
When you are writing, do you ever think, 'Erm my partner and I did that last night, that has to go into the story as?
If I tell you Id have to kill you!
You can do anything you want to me.... Did you say kill or frill, never mind I am not taking any chances on you killing me if that's what you said. I can now see you spooning bits of Kevin up of the carpet! Mmmmm now this is a lovely thought, 'Giggles'.
If you could be a musical instrument, what would you be and why?
Violin. Why not?
If you want to play with my strings, I will let you! No I wasn't being crude. There is a violin in that virtual cupboard just next to my set of keys to my Bentley and mention. I would love to hear you play some day :)
If you could change one thing about you as a person, what would that one thing be?
I can see you are thinking too much on this question, but the truth be known, I wouldn't change anything about you too.
You are one remarkable talented lady with a heart of gold towards others. What is there to change? My point yet again :)
I know we all remember our first kiss, would you say yours was a good experience or a bad one? Please explain why.
Oh no! I was the only girl at the party who had never kissed a boy before, so rumour got out, a bottle came out, and too many kisses later I apparently ended up with a boyfriend I never wanted, but was too shy to break his heart. We ended up dating for a while. Eventually I couldn't run anymore and had to tell him I was flattered but didn't really dig the kiss or him so much. I still feel horrible thinking about it.
Awww poor guy! He could be sitting at home with a lonely heart and it's all your fault, 'Giggles'. I know you wouldn't go around hurting people if there weren't a good reason to and the guy couldn't kiss! What's that all about? Never mind don't answer that. Poor guy lol...
Do you ever remember a part in your life that’s made a huge impact on you as a person. If so would you like to share that part with the reader?
All of my life has shaped and changed me. Everything I was, am , and will be gives me fuel for my writing career.
Nice answer. I share the same views, it's our past that has lead us here, so I will definitely drink to that later too. Well it is the weekend and I am allowed to let my hair down now and again. You have me thinking yet again...
Who inspired you to write or was it always a dream to be an author?
I've always written but it was only after reading Twilight (Big up to Steph) That I thought hey there is a huge story hiding inside here, the time is right to unleash it!
I am so happy that you did and I am very proud of you and your achievements. I must say I had that same feeling and it had to be unleashed! My story I am on about! 'Giggles'. It's been great fun having you here on my tour. I am all out of questions to ask you now, but there is one more thing..
Can you tell the reader about your latest work and also tell the reader where they can find you,
I am currently busy with book two in the Broken Trilogy. Releasing November the 1st. Entitled Evanescent a Broken Novel.Cover reveal takes place 31st of July.
The First book The Broken Destiny is available online bookstores, Barnes & Noble and if you are in South Africa – Exclusive books Clearwater mall Johannesburg or through any Exclusive books online store.
It does sound like a fantastic read. I know I have no more questions to ask you, but can you give us a blurb about, The Broken Destiny
Ava knows much more, and feels much more than she is allowed to. When she starts questioning her origins and the destruction of Earth, things go horribly wrong for her. She is saved by a Minoan boy from an attempted kidnapping on her life – the perpetrators are evil Zulus and their dark ancient magic. Humans and Minoans are forbidden to interact with each other, and as she is taken back to their village she finds out why – they know of her, her kind and her destiny to save a dying race. Ava must rid them from the Council’s ruling and free the galaxy of The Shadow. Her destiny is to rise above the fall, because within her soul is the key to an archaic weapon that has been missing in the mix of a genetic code since the time of the ancients. As the prophecy unfolds she learns of her bloodline – a bloodline that makes her less human than she could ever have imagined. She alone has the power to destroy or save, but the mind-shift is a horrible thing. Ava will become what she hates to save the ones she loves. Beaten, poisoned, possessed and betrayed by her own emotions, she has no choice but to rise above it all… for that is her Destiny.
[image error]
The Broken Destiny was voted #3 on the goodreads Debut list for 2012 :
http://www.goodreads.com/list/show/9748.YA_Debuts_2012#12537426
Twitter : http://twitter.com/#!/CarlyleL
Website : http://www.carlylelabuschagne.com/
Goodreads http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12537426-the-broken-destiny-1-in-the-broken-series
Facebook : http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Carlyle-Labuschagne/189835811074342
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Broken-Destiny-Book-One/dp/1612048722/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1347131640&sr=1-1&keywords=carlyle+labuschagne
Barnes and Nobles http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-broken-destiny-carlyle-labuschagne/1112448868?ean=9781612048727
Book Trailer http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FPWniWsvrk
Blog http://worldsawaybookblog.blogspot.com/
Fansite: http://www.thebrokenseriesfansite.com/
That sounds great Carlyle.... Carlyle! Carlyle... It looks like it's lights out for Carlyle... She has fallen asleep on the steps due to them virtual drinks! I know her husband will be picking her up very soon, so I will leave a note in her hand to say a big thank you for coming on my tour and for being such a great sport. It's been a pleasure and I do wish you all the success for the future. I hear that drink calling me now. Until next week that's us out of here. Have a great weekend and if you can't be good, then at least be careful ;)
Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour has it's own Facebook page for all my wonderful authors, please show your support and press that little like button, you all know its appreciated. Thank you :) https://www.facebook.com/KevinSwarbrickDeliciouslyScandalousBlogTour?ref=hl
For more information about me and my work, then please visit... http://kevinswarbrickauthor.weebly.com/https://authorcentral.amazon.co.uk/gp/profilehttps://authorcentral.amazon.com/gp/profile
July 10, 2013
The lovely author, Carlyle Labuschagne is my eleventh guest @KevinSwarbrick 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour'. Another great interview! Coming soon 12/7/13 :)
Thank you for joining on my 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour'. I will have the lovely author, Carlyle Labuschagne on my tour this week. This is another great interview not to be missed.'Giggles'. Coming soon 12/7/2013 :)
I would like to take a minute and give you all a little recap on what my tour is about, I know that in last weeks post I offended certain people. How? I am still not sure on! This was last weeks post http://kswarbrick.blogspot.co.uk/2013/07/the-lovely-author-kathleen-smith-is-my.html My aim is not to offend anyone and when I heard the news I have offended someone, I wasn't happy due to the fact of all the hard work that does go into these post and to tell you the truth I got offended by the comment. My aim on this tour is to have a laugh and be serious at the same time and just be me with my guest. I won't go on to much, but this is the recap what my tour is all about >>>> For every one who has read my post will know I have never interviewed any authors yet, which is crazy considering I know thousands, but for some time now I have been giving it some thought and like my work I wanted these interviews to be different and unique. I want them each to have their own individuality to match the author's personality who do participate.
I want to do an interview that put the author's mind to the test and also to show the readers how awesome their creative minds really are.
I want the interview to be funny, sexy and just basically kept real; I don’t want the author holding back thinking, ‘Should I write this?’ The whole idea of these interviews is to take the authors' mind in a whole new direction and learn more about their bubbly personality and how their mind's work, 'with no holding back'.
I have many great awesome authors lined up who are more then wiling to put this challenge and their mind's to the test. I know I can't wait to find out what their answers are going to be... This really is one blogspot not to be missed ;)
Carlyle Labuschagne will be joining me very soon, but be warned it could get messy ;)
@KevinSwarbrick 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour' is brought to you by 'Passion'
https://authorcentral.amazon.co.uk/gp/profile
Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour has it's own Facebook page for all my wonderful authors, please show your support and press that little like button, you all know its appreciated. Thank you :) https://www.facebook.com/KevinSwarbrickDeliciouslyScandalousBlogTour?ref=hl
To find a little more out about my novel, I am hanging with the man himself, Denis Campbell >> @UKProgressive: Part one > The 'Passion' of Author @KevinSwarbrick on @BookViewTV-we discuss relationship perils. Please subscribe :) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iC9aqTAqLC0&feature=youtu.be
Visit my website for more information :)http://kevinswarbrickauthor.weebly.com/
I would like to take a minute and give you all a little recap on what my tour is about, I know that in last weeks post I offended certain people. How? I am still not sure on! This was last weeks post http://kswarbrick.blogspot.co.uk/2013/07/the-lovely-author-kathleen-smith-is-my.html My aim is not to offend anyone and when I heard the news I have offended someone, I wasn't happy due to the fact of all the hard work that does go into these post and to tell you the truth I got offended by the comment. My aim on this tour is to have a laugh and be serious at the same time and just be me with my guest. I won't go on to much, but this is the recap what my tour is all about >>>> For every one who has read my post will know I have never interviewed any authors yet, which is crazy considering I know thousands, but for some time now I have been giving it some thought and like my work I wanted these interviews to be different and unique. I want them each to have their own individuality to match the author's personality who do participate.
I want to do an interview that put the author's mind to the test and also to show the readers how awesome their creative minds really are.
I want the interview to be funny, sexy and just basically kept real; I don’t want the author holding back thinking, ‘Should I write this?’ The whole idea of these interviews is to take the authors' mind in a whole new direction and learn more about their bubbly personality and how their mind's work, 'with no holding back'.
I have many great awesome authors lined up who are more then wiling to put this challenge and their mind's to the test. I know I can't wait to find out what their answers are going to be... This really is one blogspot not to be missed ;)
Carlyle Labuschagne will be joining me very soon, but be warned it could get messy ;)
@KevinSwarbrick 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour' is brought to you by 'Passion'
https://authorcentral.amazon.co.uk/gp/profile
Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour has it's own Facebook page for all my wonderful authors, please show your support and press that little like button, you all know its appreciated. Thank you :) https://www.facebook.com/KevinSwarbrickDeliciouslyScandalousBlogTour?ref=hl
To find a little more out about my novel, I am hanging with the man himself, Denis Campbell >> @UKProgressive: Part one > The 'Passion' of Author @KevinSwarbrick on @BookViewTV-we discuss relationship perils. Please subscribe :) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iC9aqTAqLC0&feature=youtu.be
Visit my website for more information :)http://kevinswarbrickauthor.weebly.com/
July 5, 2013
The lovely author, Kathleen Smith is my tenth guest @KevinSwarbrick 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour'. Another great interview not to be missed ;)
Once again thank you for joining me on my, 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour'. I have been very surprised to see the amount of support there has been. I wont be thanking the authors this week, they already know how grateful I am for having them on here ;) Really though, I will thank you the reader for following this tour each week, and enjoying the interviews as much as you are doing. I never knew it would be this successful, OK I might of had a little idea or I wouldn't have done it, 'Giggles'. Really though, you're amazing!! Thank you to you all for your time including my guest :) Here's a little about my next guest. Yes there was a note in my virtual office just incase ;)
Kathleen Smith is a mother of 3 and lives in Upstate New York. She has a desire to share her story in hopes that it will help others understand what feelings one has when going through miscarriages
Kevin, thanks for the opportunity
Hey, please take a seat Kathleen, it really is great to have you here. I will have to get on with the first question as my virtual mind is running a little behind on things at this end. I am all on track now and ready to go, but first let me have a sip of my virtual beer... Just what I needed :)
Sometimes in life we all want more than what we can have, but if you had one wish to have anything or anyone, what would that wish be and why?
I really have everything I think I could possibly want or need. However when it comes to my book, Where should I start?! Picking one thing is really hard. The fact that people are reading my book is still amazing to me. I do wish that I could go on a Talk Show like “The Today Show” and talk about my book, why I wrote it, how it helped me get through my own miscarriages. How it’s helped other women to get through their miscarriages. I would like to be able to share my experiences with a wider audience.
There is nothing stopping you doing that, its a story so many people can relate too. In my story 'Passion' my partner at the time had a miscarriage only for me to find out at later date, it was all some twisted sick game that was going on in her mind, that was just a pinch of what happened, but boy writing it all down for me and knowing that people are relating to it is an awesome feeling. I am sorry for your tragic losses, but I am glad you are strong enough to share your experiences with others
I would like you to make a short story up using no more than 400 words containing every one of these 14 key words; Hen, Game, Nail, Cock, Figure, Window, Government, Dog poo, Sex, Lamp, Spoon
That short story isn't going to happen.
...Ok Kathleen, I will do it for you, but be warned, 'Giggles'... We just couldn't believe what we were hearing, the sounds of the audience when their faces dropped when I told them there was no story. It was like they all received a DM from the Government, I tried to explain why, but then I could see a couple in the back row making out and having sex! I stood there on stage and I couldn't believe what I was seeing. I walked out in disbelieve and thought 'that's it I am going home!' When I left this building there was a hen party over the road, these women had a blow up cock in their hands playing some kind of game. I could see through the pub window near what appeared to be an open flame fire, I could see a lady figure all over some guy. Just then 'splat' I felt my foot land in something moist, I looked down and I had stood in some dog poo. I looked back at the pub to see what it was called, 'The Golden Spoon'. It looked like a right shit hole. I made my way to my car only to find I had a flat Tyre with a nail sticking out, the other three wheels where gone! That's the last time I do a show in Bradford! That was so easy, 'Giggles' ;)
When I first started writing I had a lot of negative people around me, I know I had to lose that energy in order to continue writing and fulfilling what others thought I couldn't do. Did you ever experience any of this when you first started writing or were you lucky enough to have the right support around you?
When I decided to start writing my book nobody knew I was doing it. I made the decision not to tell ANYONE except for my husband. He was very supportive of it and me. I didn't want anyone else to know about it until I was completely finished and published in fear that I wouldn't or couldn't finish it.
I can understand that, I know I did the opposite, I think I took my Facebook on my journey at the time, I had written a blog post and did what promotion I could at the time before the story was even finished:)
If you had a chance to run any country and make a difference, what county would it be and why?
The United States, and I have a few conservative political agenda items I would like to put in place.
That sounds interesting, but like the story as you say; it isn't going to happen. 'Giggles'.
What would you say the worse thing a reader has ever said to you and what was your reaction?
The Worse thing a reader has ever said (written) about my book was the bad review my book got on Amazon. It just about made me cry. The title of the review was “Don’t Bother”, and of course they gave me one star. It came down to them having a different worldview than I have, and they didn't agree with how I dealt with my experiences in my book.
What is wrong with some people? We are all individuals with our own experiences, some people will relate to them and others won't. A very wise man once said to me, 'Don't let a few bad apples get to you'. You're an inspiration to others and boy you will get bad apples along the way. I could write a list of bad apples, but I will save them for the characters in my books. Speaking bad apples...
I would like you to vision yourself walking down a busy high street with your partner and suddenly there was a noise that came from his bottom and people turned around looking at you, what would your reaction be and why?
I would probably smile and ignore it.
'Giggles', Smiles are always good, now...
Use only two words that would describe you? I’m not good at describing myself. Maybe you should ask my husband J. He would say persistent and persistent.
Have you ever been…
A, The owner of a lonely heart
B. The owner of a broken heart
C. None of the above?
I don’t know
Let me finish, 'Giggles'. If the answer is C, please can you tell the reader how you have done it, I can see the reader would be interested to know that one, I know I am.
I am going into my nineteenth year of marriage... I don’t remember having an A, I don’t remember having a B.... I am quite pleased with the current situation.
Now that is awesome and all I can say is how lucky you have been. Broken hearts are never any fun. I think mine is made of stone now, ok it's not that bad, but still it's a hard nut to crack. Lets move on from nuts...
Its time for a little fun, I would like you to do the rhyme ‘Humpty Dumpty’. Using your own words and without holding back....
You certainly do ask interesting questions. Or perhaps just unusual. Or perhaps you are just British? Maybe I’m just having some cultural confusion.
Awww no so that's your way of telling me I have to do it. I thought every one knows, Humpty Dumpty. He's that chubby dude that fell off the wall, and all the kings horses and all the king's men, couldn't put chubby together again. Something like that. It could be a culture confusion though, even I don't understand my own little world. Still this little world has brought me here chatting with you, so it's not all bad. I will do the rhyme now before I forget, 'Kev's Style'...
Kevin, Kevin no holding back
Kevin, Kevin got a good slap,
All the women and all the men wanted to do it all over again!
Or you could have,
Kevin Swarbrick writes it all,
cause he knows he can never fall.
He used to let the negative drive him down, but he knew the positives would soon be around!
Sorry I am just showing off now, something us Brits tend to do, 'giggles'.
When you are writing, do you ever think, 'Erm my partner and me did that last night, that has to go into the story as?
Sorry, I don’t think this one applied. Of course, my book is mostly about my husband and I, and the situations we went through in our life—so perhaps I did do this at one time.
'Slapping myself on my fore head very hard'. I know it was a silly question. Why did I even ask? I am all nervous now what else to ask you, my heart is beating like a drum...
If you could be a musical instrument, what would you be and why?
The Saxophone. I love the way it sounds.
It sure does sound great, I have watched Lisa play that on the Simpson's and it sounds great. Oh my did I just give a confession that I watch the Simpson's. Shhh let's keep that between us two. Not that I have the time to watch any TV these days. My life is at a full steam juggling mode at this end...
If you could change one thing about you as a person, what would that one thing be?
I wouldn't mind being a little taller.
I ditto that. Where are you? Only joking, I am only 5 foot 7 inches, my hair makes me 5.8, 'Giggles'. It was a good job I was sitting down for my fist kiss. We were the same height...
I know we all remember our first kiss, would you say yours was a good experience or a bad one? Please explain why.
It was great! It was with my husband when we went for our first date together on a country road and it started to rain. Then next thing we knew the birds were chirping.
Erm that sounds like you had a night of wild fun to me. Awesome... I know my first kiss I would of rather had a soaking wet sponge chucked in my face. Still I was a kid lol...
Do you ever remember a part in your life that’s made a huge impact on you as a person. If so would you like to share that part with the reader?
The biggest thing that made a huge impact on my life was when I made the decision to live my life for Christ no matter what. I grew up in a traditional Roman Catholic home, where a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, a more “evangelical” style Christianity was not emphasized. When I was 8 my parents really started to question what they believed—our home life changed. We went from going to Catholic Mass to going to a Pentecostal style church—imagine going from quiet priests, to people with their hands in the air and a band up front! It was quite the experience. I wasn't sure what I wanted for myself—and at 8 that can be tough. This new church emphasized Jesus as a person, as someone to have a relationship with, and when I was 9 I chose to have faith in that saviour, not the “religion” of Catholicism I had known before. It changed my life—even at such a young age. I go through things everyday that I know are different because of that decision.
Wow, that really is a change, I have never been a religious person as such, every time I said a prayer it never was answered and He just dealt me more rubbish to deal with! I sort of lost my faith in God back then, but now my eyes are open and I do see a new a bigger picture towards life. There is a part in my book where I say, 'she was like an angel sent down to me'. I can honestly say that maybe she was, maybe this was God's way of making me venture on this writing journey and giving me the right kick up the arse I needed to get these fingures working some magic. All I know is I do have my faith back and I wouldn't mind jumping up and down in a church clapping my hands and singing that I have, and on that note before I go too deep...
Who inspired you to write or was it always a dream to be an author?
I wanted to write a book about what it was like to go through have miscarriages with my husband. He didn't want to write a book with me and I didn't feel like it was something I could do on my own so I just kept dreaming about it. One day after talking with a friend of my who had her own miscarriage, realizing that we both had the same feelings and questions I then realized writing a book about how I got through my own 3 miscarriages was something I wanted to do on my own. I wanted other women to realize they aren't alone. There many, many women who have had at least one miscarriage and they need to know they’re not alone. My book let’s them realize this and I share how I got through my own miscarriage, kept my marriage together and strengthened my relationship with God. Both things not easy to do during and after miscarriages, yet I did it.
I can understand that, to me your heart was hurting and it was crying out to write, you wanted others to feel the pain and suffering that you felt and I can say that this is God's way of making you the person you are today, no matter how horrific it all must have been, you are here to share your story. Since coming into this author business, I have read so many different stories on how people became to be an author, and each one is so unique, but yet with all the hurt or even fun times as some cases may be, we all share the same passion and that passion is for writing and helping others overcome their ordeals. I do think that is pretty awesome. I know your story will capture hearts of millions and hopefully billions out there, just don't let bad apples stop you doing that. Like I said you are an inspiration to many out there including myself, and I do wish you all the success and happiness this world has offer, but before I do that......
Can you tell the reader about your latest work and also tell the reader where they can find you.
WebSite http://kathleensmith.org
(See last answer for info on my latest, and only work—to find out more about me, here are some links)
Links Kindle, http://bit.ly/mamkindle , Nook http://bit.ly/mamnook , Paperback http://bit.ly/mamamzn and iBookstore http://bit.ly/mamibookWebsite http://kathleensmith.orgGoodreads, http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5223621.Kathleen_SmithFacebook, http://bit.ly/mamfb Twitter, https://twitter.com/srkbear
Kevin, thanks for the opportunity!
It has been a pleasure to have you here and like I said before you are an inspiration to many out there including me. Keep up the fantastic work and I wish you and your husband and wonderful happy prospect life together... Until next week that's me and Kathleen out of here. We hope you enjoyed the interview and we would also like to wish you a wonderful weekend :)
Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour has it's own Facebook page for all my wonderful authors, please show your support and press that little like button, you all know its appreciated. Thank you :) https://www.facebook.com/KevinSwarbrickDeliciouslyScandalousBlogTour?ref=hl For more information about my work please visit https://authorcentral.amazon.co.uk/gp/profile
http://kevinswarbrickauthor.weebly.com/
Kathleen Smith is a mother of 3 and lives in Upstate New York. She has a desire to share her story in hopes that it will help others understand what feelings one has when going through miscarriages
Kevin, thanks for the opportunity
Hey, please take a seat Kathleen, it really is great to have you here. I will have to get on with the first question as my virtual mind is running a little behind on things at this end. I am all on track now and ready to go, but first let me have a sip of my virtual beer... Just what I needed :)
Sometimes in life we all want more than what we can have, but if you had one wish to have anything or anyone, what would that wish be and why?
I really have everything I think I could possibly want or need. However when it comes to my book, Where should I start?! Picking one thing is really hard. The fact that people are reading my book is still amazing to me. I do wish that I could go on a Talk Show like “The Today Show” and talk about my book, why I wrote it, how it helped me get through my own miscarriages. How it’s helped other women to get through their miscarriages. I would like to be able to share my experiences with a wider audience.
There is nothing stopping you doing that, its a story so many people can relate too. In my story 'Passion' my partner at the time had a miscarriage only for me to find out at later date, it was all some twisted sick game that was going on in her mind, that was just a pinch of what happened, but boy writing it all down for me and knowing that people are relating to it is an awesome feeling. I am sorry for your tragic losses, but I am glad you are strong enough to share your experiences with others
I would like you to make a short story up using no more than 400 words containing every one of these 14 key words; Hen, Game, Nail, Cock, Figure, Window, Government, Dog poo, Sex, Lamp, Spoon
That short story isn't going to happen.
...Ok Kathleen, I will do it for you, but be warned, 'Giggles'... We just couldn't believe what we were hearing, the sounds of the audience when their faces dropped when I told them there was no story. It was like they all received a DM from the Government, I tried to explain why, but then I could see a couple in the back row making out and having sex! I stood there on stage and I couldn't believe what I was seeing. I walked out in disbelieve and thought 'that's it I am going home!' When I left this building there was a hen party over the road, these women had a blow up cock in their hands playing some kind of game. I could see through the pub window near what appeared to be an open flame fire, I could see a lady figure all over some guy. Just then 'splat' I felt my foot land in something moist, I looked down and I had stood in some dog poo. I looked back at the pub to see what it was called, 'The Golden Spoon'. It looked like a right shit hole. I made my way to my car only to find I had a flat Tyre with a nail sticking out, the other three wheels where gone! That's the last time I do a show in Bradford! That was so easy, 'Giggles' ;)
When I first started writing I had a lot of negative people around me, I know I had to lose that energy in order to continue writing and fulfilling what others thought I couldn't do. Did you ever experience any of this when you first started writing or were you lucky enough to have the right support around you?
When I decided to start writing my book nobody knew I was doing it. I made the decision not to tell ANYONE except for my husband. He was very supportive of it and me. I didn't want anyone else to know about it until I was completely finished and published in fear that I wouldn't or couldn't finish it.
I can understand that, I know I did the opposite, I think I took my Facebook on my journey at the time, I had written a blog post and did what promotion I could at the time before the story was even finished:)
If you had a chance to run any country and make a difference, what county would it be and why?
The United States, and I have a few conservative political agenda items I would like to put in place.
That sounds interesting, but like the story as you say; it isn't going to happen. 'Giggles'.
What would you say the worse thing a reader has ever said to you and what was your reaction?
The Worse thing a reader has ever said (written) about my book was the bad review my book got on Amazon. It just about made me cry. The title of the review was “Don’t Bother”, and of course they gave me one star. It came down to them having a different worldview than I have, and they didn't agree with how I dealt with my experiences in my book.
What is wrong with some people? We are all individuals with our own experiences, some people will relate to them and others won't. A very wise man once said to me, 'Don't let a few bad apples get to you'. You're an inspiration to others and boy you will get bad apples along the way. I could write a list of bad apples, but I will save them for the characters in my books. Speaking bad apples...
I would like you to vision yourself walking down a busy high street with your partner and suddenly there was a noise that came from his bottom and people turned around looking at you, what would your reaction be and why?
I would probably smile and ignore it.
'Giggles', Smiles are always good, now...
Use only two words that would describe you? I’m not good at describing myself. Maybe you should ask my husband J. He would say persistent and persistent.
Have you ever been…
A, The owner of a lonely heart
B. The owner of a broken heart
C. None of the above?
I don’t know
Let me finish, 'Giggles'. If the answer is C, please can you tell the reader how you have done it, I can see the reader would be interested to know that one, I know I am.
I am going into my nineteenth year of marriage... I don’t remember having an A, I don’t remember having a B.... I am quite pleased with the current situation.
Now that is awesome and all I can say is how lucky you have been. Broken hearts are never any fun. I think mine is made of stone now, ok it's not that bad, but still it's a hard nut to crack. Lets move on from nuts...
Its time for a little fun, I would like you to do the rhyme ‘Humpty Dumpty’. Using your own words and without holding back....
You certainly do ask interesting questions. Or perhaps just unusual. Or perhaps you are just British? Maybe I’m just having some cultural confusion.
Awww no so that's your way of telling me I have to do it. I thought every one knows, Humpty Dumpty. He's that chubby dude that fell off the wall, and all the kings horses and all the king's men, couldn't put chubby together again. Something like that. It could be a culture confusion though, even I don't understand my own little world. Still this little world has brought me here chatting with you, so it's not all bad. I will do the rhyme now before I forget, 'Kev's Style'...
Kevin, Kevin no holding back
Kevin, Kevin got a good slap,
All the women and all the men wanted to do it all over again!
Or you could have,
Kevin Swarbrick writes it all,
cause he knows he can never fall.
He used to let the negative drive him down, but he knew the positives would soon be around!
Sorry I am just showing off now, something us Brits tend to do, 'giggles'.
When you are writing, do you ever think, 'Erm my partner and me did that last night, that has to go into the story as?
Sorry, I don’t think this one applied. Of course, my book is mostly about my husband and I, and the situations we went through in our life—so perhaps I did do this at one time.
'Slapping myself on my fore head very hard'. I know it was a silly question. Why did I even ask? I am all nervous now what else to ask you, my heart is beating like a drum...
If you could be a musical instrument, what would you be and why?
The Saxophone. I love the way it sounds.
It sure does sound great, I have watched Lisa play that on the Simpson's and it sounds great. Oh my did I just give a confession that I watch the Simpson's. Shhh let's keep that between us two. Not that I have the time to watch any TV these days. My life is at a full steam juggling mode at this end...
If you could change one thing about you as a person, what would that one thing be?
I wouldn't mind being a little taller.
I ditto that. Where are you? Only joking, I am only 5 foot 7 inches, my hair makes me 5.8, 'Giggles'. It was a good job I was sitting down for my fist kiss. We were the same height...
I know we all remember our first kiss, would you say yours was a good experience or a bad one? Please explain why.
It was great! It was with my husband when we went for our first date together on a country road and it started to rain. Then next thing we knew the birds were chirping.
Erm that sounds like you had a night of wild fun to me. Awesome... I know my first kiss I would of rather had a soaking wet sponge chucked in my face. Still I was a kid lol...
Do you ever remember a part in your life that’s made a huge impact on you as a person. If so would you like to share that part with the reader?
The biggest thing that made a huge impact on my life was when I made the decision to live my life for Christ no matter what. I grew up in a traditional Roman Catholic home, where a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, a more “evangelical” style Christianity was not emphasized. When I was 8 my parents really started to question what they believed—our home life changed. We went from going to Catholic Mass to going to a Pentecostal style church—imagine going from quiet priests, to people with their hands in the air and a band up front! It was quite the experience. I wasn't sure what I wanted for myself—and at 8 that can be tough. This new church emphasized Jesus as a person, as someone to have a relationship with, and when I was 9 I chose to have faith in that saviour, not the “religion” of Catholicism I had known before. It changed my life—even at such a young age. I go through things everyday that I know are different because of that decision.
Wow, that really is a change, I have never been a religious person as such, every time I said a prayer it never was answered and He just dealt me more rubbish to deal with! I sort of lost my faith in God back then, but now my eyes are open and I do see a new a bigger picture towards life. There is a part in my book where I say, 'she was like an angel sent down to me'. I can honestly say that maybe she was, maybe this was God's way of making me venture on this writing journey and giving me the right kick up the arse I needed to get these fingures working some magic. All I know is I do have my faith back and I wouldn't mind jumping up and down in a church clapping my hands and singing that I have, and on that note before I go too deep...
Who inspired you to write or was it always a dream to be an author?
I wanted to write a book about what it was like to go through have miscarriages with my husband. He didn't want to write a book with me and I didn't feel like it was something I could do on my own so I just kept dreaming about it. One day after talking with a friend of my who had her own miscarriage, realizing that we both had the same feelings and questions I then realized writing a book about how I got through my own 3 miscarriages was something I wanted to do on my own. I wanted other women to realize they aren't alone. There many, many women who have had at least one miscarriage and they need to know they’re not alone. My book let’s them realize this and I share how I got through my own miscarriage, kept my marriage together and strengthened my relationship with God. Both things not easy to do during and after miscarriages, yet I did it.
I can understand that, to me your heart was hurting and it was crying out to write, you wanted others to feel the pain and suffering that you felt and I can say that this is God's way of making you the person you are today, no matter how horrific it all must have been, you are here to share your story. Since coming into this author business, I have read so many different stories on how people became to be an author, and each one is so unique, but yet with all the hurt or even fun times as some cases may be, we all share the same passion and that passion is for writing and helping others overcome their ordeals. I do think that is pretty awesome. I know your story will capture hearts of millions and hopefully billions out there, just don't let bad apples stop you doing that. Like I said you are an inspiration to many out there including myself, and I do wish you all the success and happiness this world has offer, but before I do that......
Can you tell the reader about your latest work and also tell the reader where they can find you.
WebSite http://kathleensmith.org
(See last answer for info on my latest, and only work—to find out more about me, here are some links)
Links Kindle, http://bit.ly/mamkindle , Nook http://bit.ly/mamnook , Paperback http://bit.ly/mamamzn and iBookstore http://bit.ly/mamibookWebsite http://kathleensmith.orgGoodreads, http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5223621.Kathleen_SmithFacebook, http://bit.ly/mamfb Twitter, https://twitter.com/srkbear
Kevin, thanks for the opportunity!
It has been a pleasure to have you here and like I said before you are an inspiration to many out there including me. Keep up the fantastic work and I wish you and your husband and wonderful happy prospect life together... Until next week that's me and Kathleen out of here. We hope you enjoyed the interview and we would also like to wish you a wonderful weekend :)
Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour has it's own Facebook page for all my wonderful authors, please show your support and press that little like button, you all know its appreciated. Thank you :) https://www.facebook.com/KevinSwarbrickDeliciouslyScandalousBlogTour?ref=hl For more information about my work please visit https://authorcentral.amazon.co.uk/gp/profile
http://kevinswarbrickauthor.weebly.com/
July 4, 2013
The awesome author, Kathleen Smith will be my tenth guest @KevinSwarbrick 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour'. Another great interview not to be missed ;)
Thank you for joining me yet again on my 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour'. Tomorrow 5/7/2013!! I will have the great author, Kathleen Smith with me to take on some of my tricky questions. See how Kathleen gets on in this interview ;) I know it's a great interview with some awesome answers. This is one not to be missed yet again, 'Giggles'.
@KevinSwarbrick 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour' is brought to you by 'Passion'
https://authorcentral.amazon.co.uk/gp/profile
Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour has it's own Facebook page for all my wonderful authors, please show your support and press that little like button, you all know its appreciated. Thank you :) https://www.facebook.com/KevinSwarbrickDeliciouslyScandalousBlogTour?ref=hl
To find a little more out about my novel, I am hanging with the man himself, Denis Campbell >> @UKProgressive: Part one > The 'Passion' of Author @KevinSwarbrick on @BookViewTV-we discuss relationship perils. Please subscribe :) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iC9aqTAqLC0&feature=youtu.be
Visit my website for more information :)http://kevinswarbrickauthor.weebly.com/
@KevinSwarbrick 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour' is brought to you by 'Passion'
https://authorcentral.amazon.co.uk/gp/profile
Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour has it's own Facebook page for all my wonderful authors, please show your support and press that little like button, you all know its appreciated. Thank you :) https://www.facebook.com/KevinSwarbrickDeliciouslyScandalousBlogTour?ref=hl
To find a little more out about my novel, I am hanging with the man himself, Denis Campbell >> @UKProgressive: Part one > The 'Passion' of Author @KevinSwarbrick on @BookViewTV-we discuss relationship perils. Please subscribe :) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iC9aqTAqLC0&feature=youtu.be
Visit my website for more information :)http://kevinswarbrickauthor.weebly.com/
June 29, 2013
A start!: The awesome author, Justin Bog is being interviewe...
A start!: The awesome author, Justin Bog is being interviewe...: Once again thank you for joining me and my wonderful guest each week on my '@KevinSwarbrick Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour'. I promised you the reader lots of laughs, I promised you plenty of creative minds and I also promised you that I would show the personality behind the author's mind! I am delighted to say that I have achieved that with the fantastic guest that I have had on here each week. I was asked by one person, 'what is your aim in this and why are you helping other authors promote their work when you have your own to do?'. I did reply to the question, stating that he must not been following my tour. I am a true believer in support and without that support I wouldn't be here today. In the time that I have been self published, I have seen authors write their work and just give up, not realising how much work is actually involved; I know I do have a long way to go yet. People think you write a book and that's it, everyone will read your story and know your name! Erm... Think again! Anyone in this business will know there is a hell of a lot more to it than just writing a book, and I for one take my hat off to all authors out there for not giving up...
Now my next guest is another awesome author who did just that and not give up... Wait just let me take this call... "Hi mate where are you? The virtual tour has started.... What do you mean you're at the pub and you left the bio on my desk... Wait I see it now, just hurry back mate, you don't need a drink to be on here, just be yourself.... Yes I will explain. Catch you soon". Ok everyone I do apologise for Justin Bog being a little late, here is a little bit about today's awesome author, Justin Bog...
Now my next guest is another awesome author who did just that and not give up... Wait just let me take this call... "Hi mate where are you? The virtual tour has started.... What do you mean you're at the pub and you left the bio on my desk... Wait I see it now, just hurry back mate, you don't need a drink to be on here, just be yourself.... Yes I will explain. Catch you soon". Ok everyone I do apologise for Justin Bog being a little late, here is a little bit about today's awesome author, Justin Bog...
June 27, 2013
The awesome author, Justin Bog is being interviewed @KevinSwarbrick 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour'
Once again thank you for joining me and my wonderful guest each week on my '@KevinSwarbrick Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour'. I promised you the reader lots of laughs, I promised you plenty of creative minds and I also promised you that I would show the personality behind the author's mind! I am delighted to say that I have achieved that with the fantastic guest that I have had on here each week. I was asked by one person, 'what is your aim in this and why are you helping other authors promote their work when you have your own to do?'. I did reply to the question, stating that he must not been following my tour. I am a true believer in support and without that support I wouldn't be here today. In the time that I have been self published, I have seen authors write their work and just give up, not realising how much work is actually involved; I know I do have a long way to go yet. People think you write a book and that's it, everyone will read your story and know your name! Erm... Think again! Anyone in this business will know there is a hell of a lot more to it than just writing a book, and I for one take my hat off to all authors out there for not giving up...
Now my next guest is another awesome author who did just that and not give up... Wait just let me take this call... "Hi mate where are you? The virtual tour has started.... What do you mean you're at the pub and you left the bio on my desk... Wait I see it now, just hurry back mate, you don't need a drink to be on here, just be yourself.... Yes I will explain. Catch you soon". Ok everyone I do apologise for Justin Bog being a little late, here is a little bit about today's awesome author, Justin Bog...
It comes as no surprise that Justin pursued an English Degree at the University of Michigan, followed by Film and Music Appreciation classes---finally graduating from Bowling Green State University with an MFA in Fiction Writing. After teaching creative writing, Justin began apprenticing in a number of bookstores and editing fiction. Currently residing in the San Juan Islands just north of Seattle, Justin has the opportunity to focus on his own novels and short stories, while contributing commentary and reviews of Pop Culture. Justin continues to engage his life long passion for writing in combination with his curious mindset as the Senior Contributor and Editor at In Classic Style. Sandcastle and Other Stories was his first book, followed by the literary suspense eNovella, The Conversationalist. Look for Justin Bog's first novel, Wake Me Up, a psychological family drama, to be published by Green Darner Press in January 2014.
Hey Justin take a seat, good to see you my friend. I was just about to say what an awesome bio you have there and how delighted I am to have you here. It is awesome that you have achieved the goal you set out to do. I have seen how hard you have worked in the time I have known you. I have watched you grow and to see you where you are now makes me very proud indeed. I am biting my nails here a little mate, I might have to stop this interview if you get all intellectual on me... You are talking to a Salford boy whose upbringing wasn't the best, but that's another story that we all get to read in the near future, but...
Sometimes in life we all want more than what we can have, but if you had one wish to have anything or anyone, what would that wish be and why?
I’d like to have back what I've lost these past five years, since the economic crunch blasted through what I thought was sound footing beneath my family structure. Hoping the surprising interest that has come from sharing my writing with the outside world continues, and begins to lessen the stress. I have always lived in the present. I'm not much of a futurist (unless writing fiction), and I seldom live in the past, so this helps. I remain an eternal optimist though despite hardship.
I can relate to that Justin. My mum left when I was 11 and then my dad got re-married to what he thought was a nice person. That nice person along with bullies at school and the rest that went on in my life back then, did turn my life upside down. I am not one to forget the past if the past has hurt you that much, ok you can move on from that and turn the other cheek and be a stronger person as I am, but the hurt is still there, writing for me took this hurt away and I was heard. Well by most people apart from the people that still don't want to hear, but that's another story in progress! Speaking of stories...
I would like you to make a short story up using no more than 400 words containing every one of these 14 key words; Hen, Game, Nail, Cotton, Figure, Window, Government, Dog poo, Sex, Lamp, Spoon, Knife, Moon, DM!
The Apple
I continue to cotton to the old ways like any yapping dog that poos in public too often. My wife changed. A Game.
She bobs her hen-like head to the mighty iPhone every Goddamn second. I picture her head pounding in the nails on my coffin, and this macabre image soothes me.
“Just got a DM from Catherine. The grandkids are figure skating! Here’s Emma!”
She thrusts the iPhone screen in front of my face, a desperate habit: “Here: look!” I see our only son’s daughter smiling wide, and then, my grandson’s image, an insolent stare, tiny arms crossed, slumped after a fall on the ice, grandkids chirping with future needs. (During one drunk visit, my son confessed Catherine forced him to get snipped after the second kid, that the sex dwindled. I turned away, embarrassed, unable to say anything fatherly to guide him---poured more good scotch. We had our concerned-parent sex talk long ago now. I felt my weak and prudish nature rise.)
“Bully for them.”
She goes back to her texting. I want to tell her the government is listening to her blather. We sit in the dark, the iPhone screen brightening the dim living room. The sliver moondisappears from window view as I turn on the side-table lamp, and even this weakens me. I sit in my chair and begrudge every thing and every single person chasing dwindling dreams.
“Do you want me to turn the television on? Refresh your drink?”
“No,” I say. I don’t mean to hurt my wife’s feelings. She can’t understand where my mind is.
I picture a last supper. It’s coming soon enough. Silver forks, knives, and spoons lined up, the good china from our wedding (long ago) placed in perfect order on the English antique table, and what my wife would serve. Does she know I hate the rubbery taste of chicken now? My taste buds have vanished. What would make me happy at this point? The most flavorful apple. I want my family there around the table when I serve them slices I’ll cut like I used to cut the Sunday roast.
“What’re you thinking?” Her tone’s cautious.
“About apples.”
She takes my hand, leaving her iPhone. Presses too tight as we make eye contact. Seconds pass. I can see her worries.
“I’ll get you one.” She’s happy doing something so simple for me while she still can.
I enjoyed the story Justin, and boy you can tell a good one, but you didn't answer the question right, I think you have the pub on the brain at the moment. Try to relax and please can you put your iPhone down when we are chatting. I can see this being a long night if you're on that all the time. 'Giggles'...
When I first started writing I had a lot of negative people around me, I know I had to lose that energy in order to continue writing and fulfilling what others thought I couldn't do. Did you ever experience any of this when you first started writing or were you lucky enough to have the right support around you?
I was very lucky my parents were both creative artists, painters, teachers; they met in grad school as they pursued degrees. They understood how hard any creative field is and would always be truthful and honest. I saw how much work an obsessed artist can accumulate, and how difficult it is to get anyone to notice. I've had several writing mentors over the years as well, and my fair share of other peers who could not be bothered to inspire or help in any way, but no one is obliged to offer assistance whatsoever. The hard turn-backs become life lessons in any writer’s life, and we can use them to build characters that have both strengths and weaknesses.
You are very lucky to have great support. I know I have come out of the woodwork so to speak with my writing. I never started writing until three years ago, I was never good at it because it was a fear of mine and now it's a passion. When I first started telling friends and family what my aim was, all I seemed to get was put down for my achievements and goals, my true family and friends never went away and have been a rock to me when I have hit my lowest points in life and they have always believed and cared about me. Even when my work was published I still got put down because there were grammar mistakes in their eyes! 'This is Kev, he can't write?' Oh please, the reason why I haven't before is because I had no one to push me in the RIGHT direction and to show me a new way of life, my life was filled with negative energy. 'People'. I have been a survivor through life since my teens, I was always trying my best to please everyone around me, I got in with bad crowds and also good crowds, but always wearing my heart on my sleeve when it came to women, but boy I have learnt from that too. I know everyone is not the same and like I said I have learnt the hard way... Sorry, I am getting a little deep now, that's me saying it and not Louie. On that note let's move on, I have a pint calling! 'Giggles'.
If you had a chance to run any country and make a difference, what county would it be and why?
Well, at this moment with all of the hatred forming their government policy towards homosexuals, I’d very much love to begin to shape social policy in Uganda. The country has been trying since 2009 to pass laws saying it is okay to execute its gay citizens, and it’s backed by almost 90% of the country. Here’s a link for the complete story: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uganda_Anti-Homosexuality_Bill
I personally think there is a lot more to worry about in life than homosexuals, the government does need to wake up. It's 2013 and if the same sexes are happy together then so be it. They're not doing anyone any harm. Ok some people might not like to see that kind of thing, but in my eyes it's each to their own and if that makes them happy then so be it what's the problem... One second just let me take a quick read at your link before I go on anymore... It states in there they could get up to 14 years in prison for homosexuals. Now that kind of reminds me of a program, Cila Black used to do years ago, what was it called... Yes that's it. Blind Date. 'Giggles'. Sorry I had to slip that one in :)! I will move on, I can see you're not impressed, but you are on my 'Delicioulsy Scandalous Blog Tour' after all, 'Giggles'...
What would you say the worse thing a reader has ever said to you and what was your reaction?
A good friend told me she had to stop reading Sandcastle and Other Stories after finishing the second story because she became too disturbed. I took this as a positive comment even though I did say: Well, if you continue reading, there are six tales ahead that aren’t in the literary suspense world that you may like---but skip stories 8 and 9! I like that the writing, the stories, made someone feel anything. Another person, someone I don’t know, said my stories crossed moral and ethical boundary lines. I disagree, but welcome that point of view since it’s so different from my own.
That's the problem with some people, they don't read on. One thing I have learnt is to take constructive criticism on board, anything else just goes over my head these days. Speaking of over your head...
I would like you to envision yourself walking down a busy high street with your partner and suddenly there was a noise that came from your partners bottom and people turned around looking at you. What would your reaction be and why?
Total chagrin on my part, and I’d probably duck my head and walk faster . . . it isn't something I would speak to my partner about until later when we could both laugh.
Now that's interesting, I know I would have to make some kind of joke, after all you're already in the spot light. I would probably look at the person standing in front, I would turn to my partner and save her the embarrassment, take her hand and point to the person in front moving her away very fast from this tragic ordeal, but at the same time I would be giggling, after all we all know if you smile then the world smiles with you. This happened last weekend to me, it wasn't wind, but I would still like to share. I was dinning out and we ordered the same chicken dinner, the waitress came over with the dinners and asks whose was whose? I sat there with a smile on my face thinking 'she is joking right?' and my friend I was with said, 'yes that was hers'. The waitress placed both dinners down on the table before going to walk off, but I had to say, "Sorry love but mine is the chicken." She apologised and picked the plate up before realising that they where both the same dinners. We all laughed of course :)
Use only two words that would describe you?
Perfectionist
Appeasing
You can be a perfectionist, but it still doesn't mean it's going to be perfect all the time. You just have to do your best :) Great choice of words though mate, but...
Have you ever been…
A. The owner of a lonely heart
B. The owner of a broken heart
C. None of the above?
If the answer is C, please can you tell the reader how you have done it, I can see the reader would be interested to know that one, I know I am.
A, The owner of a lonely heart --- I was a lonely kid, teenager, and young adult, and didn't make friends easily, still don’t. Never dated, or pursued dating, but I met my mate almost 25 years ago, and we've had a wonderful journey together, ups and downs with outside stresses, but nothing major internal to our relationship. We laugh a lot.
I met my first mate over 25 years ago, well they came in a pack of 3 and were called mates. I thought you had to blow them up at the time. I now know later in life why they are called mates with plenty of ups and downs just like mates. Saying that, I thought to keep one in your pocket for 25 years is a long time to be talking to one. I know you said you were a lonely teenager, but I think it could be out of date now mate! 'Giggles'. Sorry I had to get that in ;) Really though I can ditto what you're saying about teenage years. I wasn't popular back then too :( 25 years is a long time together and if you are both still laughing and joking after 25 years, then I think you have met your mate :)
It's time for a little fun, I would like you to do the rhyme ‘Humpty Dumpty’. Using your own words and without holding back.
Zippy and Kipling howled at the coyotes from their perch in a row,
Zippy and Kipling’s coyotes ripped them to shreds in the back meadow.
All the veterinary surgeons and all the dissembling animal experts
Didn't believe how Zippy and Kipling could remain so stoic and alert.
Lmao!! I love the rhyme and I love Zippy and Kipling, they are so adorable Justin. Speaking of adorable..
When you are writing, do you ever think, 'Erm' my partner and me did that last night, that has to go into the story as?
I felt this way more in the early days, when I was trying to create story after story. Now, I think more about a character, and the character’s need, or want. Each character has something he or she craves, wants, needs, and the story part happens when the characters succeed or fail in their journey. But most of my writing isn't autobiographical. Settings are more closely linked to my real life.
Sounds great to me, I am working on a little fiction at this end also, but I do need to finish a couple more non-fiction first, mind you. As we're speaking fiction...
If you could be a musical instrument, what would you be and why?
I would want to be a piano. It’s a tough instrument to master well. But once someone takes the time to learn, with year’s of practice, beautiful music can pour forth.
It sounds good to me. Everything in life does take a lot of practice, but it's never to late to start learning :) ...
If you could change one thing about you as a person, what would that one thing be?
Not to be so hard on myself. I'm my worst critic, and this stems from my tendency to be a perfectionist. It’s held back my writing at times since I never believe anything I write is good enough.
I know you can beat yourself up too much in life on how perfect something should be and how good it should be, that's the one reason I would have never dreamed of writing until 3 years ago. Like I said writing was my fear and the only thing I would write would be invoices and estimates, but I am making up for all that lost time now. What was once a huge fear is now a passion and a great talent I never knew was there until my story was being written, the main character in my book was the main inspiration behind all this new journey. After it all came to an end, the first story I was working on when I was with her got put on hold. My heart had to tell the story where it was all still very raw with the pain and emotions still up in the air. I typed my heart away and it came out so natural. It was then my true friends around me that spotted the talent and gave me the confidence and support I needed to believe in myself and to push my writing further, I felt great that other people could relate to my story...
I know we all remember our first kiss, would you say yours was a good experience or a bad one? Please explain why.
My first kiss was a good experience because I've never had a memorably bad experience, but I don’t remember it well at all, or who it was with . . . probably with someone else just as lonely as I was.
Are you sure you want to be a piano, I can get the violins out here if you like for both our stories! It's true what they say, after a drink those lonely times do come back to haunt you. I might as well ask you this question were you spilling the beans in a manner of speaking. 'Giggles'...
Do you ever remember a part in your life that’s made a huge impact on you as a person? If so would you like to share that part with the reader?
I was a voracious reader, and read books and comic books daily for decades, all my life, and I knew I wanted to write my own stories early on, and began to force myself to write stories, even if the result was mediocre. As I continued to write and write, the technique improved and I was able to submit writing for admission into a higher level undergraduate creative writing class as a University of Michigan sophomore. From that moment on I always took writing classes. They were freeing, and I produced a lot of work, and learned from really terrific professors what rules were for, and when they could be bent just enough. Reading short fiction along with these classes helped point out technique and people who mastered and improved and jumped off from any of the set rules. I like authors who take risks. So, this early education was crucial to my own development.
It does sound fantastic Justin, I wish I did have those chances in life back then, I went to art collage after leaving school; don't get me wrong, back then art was the only thing I enjoyed doing and was great at it too, it was a way of slipping in my own little world and becoming one with what I was drawing at the time. My passion back then was art... But things change and circumstances get in the way at times and stop you being that person you are meant to be. All I can say my past may have been an eye opener to many, but it is my past that has lead me here and made me the person I am with many fantastic stories to tell. Am I bitter? Am I hell, I'm more of a lager man myself, 'giggles'...
Who inspired you to write or was it always a dream to be an author?
My parents inspired me to be a creative writer, as I said, but other writers I respected and learned from were: Rachel Ingalls, Shirley Jackson, Raymond Carver, John Cheever, Stephen King, Peter Straub, Cris Freddi, Ray Bradbury, Margaret Atwood
Your family sounds awesome Justin and I know they will all be very proud of you and your achievements as I am mate. You're a great guy and It's has been a real pleasure having you on my tour Justin, even though your answers got me reminiscing for a moment! Don't worry I have given my head a good wobble and I am Ok now... I will race you to the virtual pub mate, but before we do that though...
Can you tell the reader about your latest work and also tell the reader where they can find you.
My new book is a literary suspense novella called The Conversationalist, and it is the story of a young single man who seeks human companionship but doesn’t know how to date well (not autobiographical hehe) . . . it begins during one such date, and the man does something very rude . . . as the days pass after this date, someone begins to try to teach him a lesson.Here’s the book description:The Conversationalist---a novella of literary suspenseThere's something wrong with Patrick. People whisper about him; most want to help him, as if he's a songless bird with a broken wing, make him a project, set him up on a date with a best friend . . .On one such date, Wendy sits across from Patrick and tells him she's afraid to die. She wonders what it's like. What if this is all there is? "My mother died a year ago . . . horribly," she says. Patrick listens; it's all he's pretending to do.There's something wrong with the way Patrick treats the women he dates, his friends, his family . . . no one can ever get close to Patrick, and no one will ever be able to uncover his secret.Enter Justin Bog's dark world and strike up a dialogue with The Conversationalist.Included: a Foreword by Rachel Thompson, author of Broken Pieces, and a bonus short story, Mothers of Twins, from Justin Bog's first collection of psychological tales, Sandcastle and Other Stories.Links.
Website www.justinbog.com Goodreads, http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5832178.Justin_Bog Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/JustinBog1 Twitter, https://twitter.com/JustinBog Amazon Author Page, http://www.amazon.com/Justin-Bog/e/B0081R77IC/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1
Thank you once again for taking the time out and reading this interview. I must say it did get me thinking a lot. One reason I beat Justin to the pub. That guy can get me thinking to much, but in a good way of course... "Can I help you Sir?" "Yes can I have two pints of larger and a packet of crisp please?" "That's £8.20 please Sir" ..... I reached down in my pocket and thought, 'Damn, my money is in the virtual office, Justin said on my Virtual phone, that he would get the beers in tonight. This is not good for the simple reason he has no idea where this pub is... I can't just think he's here. It doesn't work like that, he has to be here as the bar staff still need paying you know ;) Until next week have a fantastic weekend and be safe ;)
Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour has it's own Facebook page for all my wonderful authors, please show your support and press that little like button, you all know its appreciated. Thank you :) https://www.facebook.com/KevinSwarbrickDeliciouslyScandalousBlogTour?ref=hl For more information about my work please visit https://authorcentral.amazon.co.uk/gp/profile
Now my next guest is another awesome author who did just that and not give up... Wait just let me take this call... "Hi mate where are you? The virtual tour has started.... What do you mean you're at the pub and you left the bio on my desk... Wait I see it now, just hurry back mate, you don't need a drink to be on here, just be yourself.... Yes I will explain. Catch you soon". Ok everyone I do apologise for Justin Bog being a little late, here is a little bit about today's awesome author, Justin Bog...
It comes as no surprise that Justin pursued an English Degree at the University of Michigan, followed by Film and Music Appreciation classes---finally graduating from Bowling Green State University with an MFA in Fiction Writing. After teaching creative writing, Justin began apprenticing in a number of bookstores and editing fiction. Currently residing in the San Juan Islands just north of Seattle, Justin has the opportunity to focus on his own novels and short stories, while contributing commentary and reviews of Pop Culture. Justin continues to engage his life long passion for writing in combination with his curious mindset as the Senior Contributor and Editor at In Classic Style. Sandcastle and Other Stories was his first book, followed by the literary suspense eNovella, The Conversationalist. Look for Justin Bog's first novel, Wake Me Up, a psychological family drama, to be published by Green Darner Press in January 2014.
Hey Justin take a seat, good to see you my friend. I was just about to say what an awesome bio you have there and how delighted I am to have you here. It is awesome that you have achieved the goal you set out to do. I have seen how hard you have worked in the time I have known you. I have watched you grow and to see you where you are now makes me very proud indeed. I am biting my nails here a little mate, I might have to stop this interview if you get all intellectual on me... You are talking to a Salford boy whose upbringing wasn't the best, but that's another story that we all get to read in the near future, but...
Sometimes in life we all want more than what we can have, but if you had one wish to have anything or anyone, what would that wish be and why?
I’d like to have back what I've lost these past five years, since the economic crunch blasted through what I thought was sound footing beneath my family structure. Hoping the surprising interest that has come from sharing my writing with the outside world continues, and begins to lessen the stress. I have always lived in the present. I'm not much of a futurist (unless writing fiction), and I seldom live in the past, so this helps. I remain an eternal optimist though despite hardship.
I can relate to that Justin. My mum left when I was 11 and then my dad got re-married to what he thought was a nice person. That nice person along with bullies at school and the rest that went on in my life back then, did turn my life upside down. I am not one to forget the past if the past has hurt you that much, ok you can move on from that and turn the other cheek and be a stronger person as I am, but the hurt is still there, writing for me took this hurt away and I was heard. Well by most people apart from the people that still don't want to hear, but that's another story in progress! Speaking of stories...
I would like you to make a short story up using no more than 400 words containing every one of these 14 key words; Hen, Game, Nail, Cotton, Figure, Window, Government, Dog poo, Sex, Lamp, Spoon, Knife, Moon, DM!
The Apple
I continue to cotton to the old ways like any yapping dog that poos in public too often. My wife changed. A Game.
She bobs her hen-like head to the mighty iPhone every Goddamn second. I picture her head pounding in the nails on my coffin, and this macabre image soothes me.
“Just got a DM from Catherine. The grandkids are figure skating! Here’s Emma!”
She thrusts the iPhone screen in front of my face, a desperate habit: “Here: look!” I see our only son’s daughter smiling wide, and then, my grandson’s image, an insolent stare, tiny arms crossed, slumped after a fall on the ice, grandkids chirping with future needs. (During one drunk visit, my son confessed Catherine forced him to get snipped after the second kid, that the sex dwindled. I turned away, embarrassed, unable to say anything fatherly to guide him---poured more good scotch. We had our concerned-parent sex talk long ago now. I felt my weak and prudish nature rise.)
“Bully for them.”
She goes back to her texting. I want to tell her the government is listening to her blather. We sit in the dark, the iPhone screen brightening the dim living room. The sliver moondisappears from window view as I turn on the side-table lamp, and even this weakens me. I sit in my chair and begrudge every thing and every single person chasing dwindling dreams.
“Do you want me to turn the television on? Refresh your drink?”
“No,” I say. I don’t mean to hurt my wife’s feelings. She can’t understand where my mind is.
I picture a last supper. It’s coming soon enough. Silver forks, knives, and spoons lined up, the good china from our wedding (long ago) placed in perfect order on the English antique table, and what my wife would serve. Does she know I hate the rubbery taste of chicken now? My taste buds have vanished. What would make me happy at this point? The most flavorful apple. I want my family there around the table when I serve them slices I’ll cut like I used to cut the Sunday roast.
“What’re you thinking?” Her tone’s cautious.
“About apples.”
She takes my hand, leaving her iPhone. Presses too tight as we make eye contact. Seconds pass. I can see her worries.
“I’ll get you one.” She’s happy doing something so simple for me while she still can.
I enjoyed the story Justin, and boy you can tell a good one, but you didn't answer the question right, I think you have the pub on the brain at the moment. Try to relax and please can you put your iPhone down when we are chatting. I can see this being a long night if you're on that all the time. 'Giggles'...
When I first started writing I had a lot of negative people around me, I know I had to lose that energy in order to continue writing and fulfilling what others thought I couldn't do. Did you ever experience any of this when you first started writing or were you lucky enough to have the right support around you?
I was very lucky my parents were both creative artists, painters, teachers; they met in grad school as they pursued degrees. They understood how hard any creative field is and would always be truthful and honest. I saw how much work an obsessed artist can accumulate, and how difficult it is to get anyone to notice. I've had several writing mentors over the years as well, and my fair share of other peers who could not be bothered to inspire or help in any way, but no one is obliged to offer assistance whatsoever. The hard turn-backs become life lessons in any writer’s life, and we can use them to build characters that have both strengths and weaknesses.
You are very lucky to have great support. I know I have come out of the woodwork so to speak with my writing. I never started writing until three years ago, I was never good at it because it was a fear of mine and now it's a passion. When I first started telling friends and family what my aim was, all I seemed to get was put down for my achievements and goals, my true family and friends never went away and have been a rock to me when I have hit my lowest points in life and they have always believed and cared about me. Even when my work was published I still got put down because there were grammar mistakes in their eyes! 'This is Kev, he can't write?' Oh please, the reason why I haven't before is because I had no one to push me in the RIGHT direction and to show me a new way of life, my life was filled with negative energy. 'People'. I have been a survivor through life since my teens, I was always trying my best to please everyone around me, I got in with bad crowds and also good crowds, but always wearing my heart on my sleeve when it came to women, but boy I have learnt from that too. I know everyone is not the same and like I said I have learnt the hard way... Sorry, I am getting a little deep now, that's me saying it and not Louie. On that note let's move on, I have a pint calling! 'Giggles'.
If you had a chance to run any country and make a difference, what county would it be and why?
Well, at this moment with all of the hatred forming their government policy towards homosexuals, I’d very much love to begin to shape social policy in Uganda. The country has been trying since 2009 to pass laws saying it is okay to execute its gay citizens, and it’s backed by almost 90% of the country. Here’s a link for the complete story: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uganda_Anti-Homosexuality_Bill
I personally think there is a lot more to worry about in life than homosexuals, the government does need to wake up. It's 2013 and if the same sexes are happy together then so be it. They're not doing anyone any harm. Ok some people might not like to see that kind of thing, but in my eyes it's each to their own and if that makes them happy then so be it what's the problem... One second just let me take a quick read at your link before I go on anymore... It states in there they could get up to 14 years in prison for homosexuals. Now that kind of reminds me of a program, Cila Black used to do years ago, what was it called... Yes that's it. Blind Date. 'Giggles'. Sorry I had to slip that one in :)! I will move on, I can see you're not impressed, but you are on my 'Delicioulsy Scandalous Blog Tour' after all, 'Giggles'...
What would you say the worse thing a reader has ever said to you and what was your reaction?
A good friend told me she had to stop reading Sandcastle and Other Stories after finishing the second story because she became too disturbed. I took this as a positive comment even though I did say: Well, if you continue reading, there are six tales ahead that aren’t in the literary suspense world that you may like---but skip stories 8 and 9! I like that the writing, the stories, made someone feel anything. Another person, someone I don’t know, said my stories crossed moral and ethical boundary lines. I disagree, but welcome that point of view since it’s so different from my own.
That's the problem with some people, they don't read on. One thing I have learnt is to take constructive criticism on board, anything else just goes over my head these days. Speaking of over your head...
I would like you to envision yourself walking down a busy high street with your partner and suddenly there was a noise that came from your partners bottom and people turned around looking at you. What would your reaction be and why?
Total chagrin on my part, and I’d probably duck my head and walk faster . . . it isn't something I would speak to my partner about until later when we could both laugh.
Now that's interesting, I know I would have to make some kind of joke, after all you're already in the spot light. I would probably look at the person standing in front, I would turn to my partner and save her the embarrassment, take her hand and point to the person in front moving her away very fast from this tragic ordeal, but at the same time I would be giggling, after all we all know if you smile then the world smiles with you. This happened last weekend to me, it wasn't wind, but I would still like to share. I was dinning out and we ordered the same chicken dinner, the waitress came over with the dinners and asks whose was whose? I sat there with a smile on my face thinking 'she is joking right?' and my friend I was with said, 'yes that was hers'. The waitress placed both dinners down on the table before going to walk off, but I had to say, "Sorry love but mine is the chicken." She apologised and picked the plate up before realising that they where both the same dinners. We all laughed of course :)
Use only two words that would describe you?
Perfectionist
Appeasing
You can be a perfectionist, but it still doesn't mean it's going to be perfect all the time. You just have to do your best :) Great choice of words though mate, but...
Have you ever been…
A. The owner of a lonely heart
B. The owner of a broken heart
C. None of the above?
If the answer is C, please can you tell the reader how you have done it, I can see the reader would be interested to know that one, I know I am.
A, The owner of a lonely heart --- I was a lonely kid, teenager, and young adult, and didn't make friends easily, still don’t. Never dated, or pursued dating, but I met my mate almost 25 years ago, and we've had a wonderful journey together, ups and downs with outside stresses, but nothing major internal to our relationship. We laugh a lot.
I met my first mate over 25 years ago, well they came in a pack of 3 and were called mates. I thought you had to blow them up at the time. I now know later in life why they are called mates with plenty of ups and downs just like mates. Saying that, I thought to keep one in your pocket for 25 years is a long time to be talking to one. I know you said you were a lonely teenager, but I think it could be out of date now mate! 'Giggles'. Sorry I had to get that in ;) Really though I can ditto what you're saying about teenage years. I wasn't popular back then too :( 25 years is a long time together and if you are both still laughing and joking after 25 years, then I think you have met your mate :)
It's time for a little fun, I would like you to do the rhyme ‘Humpty Dumpty’. Using your own words and without holding back.
Zippy and Kipling howled at the coyotes from their perch in a row,
Zippy and Kipling’s coyotes ripped them to shreds in the back meadow.
All the veterinary surgeons and all the dissembling animal experts
Didn't believe how Zippy and Kipling could remain so stoic and alert.
Lmao!! I love the rhyme and I love Zippy and Kipling, they are so adorable Justin. Speaking of adorable..
When you are writing, do you ever think, 'Erm' my partner and me did that last night, that has to go into the story as?
I felt this way more in the early days, when I was trying to create story after story. Now, I think more about a character, and the character’s need, or want. Each character has something he or she craves, wants, needs, and the story part happens when the characters succeed or fail in their journey. But most of my writing isn't autobiographical. Settings are more closely linked to my real life.
Sounds great to me, I am working on a little fiction at this end also, but I do need to finish a couple more non-fiction first, mind you. As we're speaking fiction...
If you could be a musical instrument, what would you be and why?
I would want to be a piano. It’s a tough instrument to master well. But once someone takes the time to learn, with year’s of practice, beautiful music can pour forth.
It sounds good to me. Everything in life does take a lot of practice, but it's never to late to start learning :) ...
If you could change one thing about you as a person, what would that one thing be?
Not to be so hard on myself. I'm my worst critic, and this stems from my tendency to be a perfectionist. It’s held back my writing at times since I never believe anything I write is good enough.
I know you can beat yourself up too much in life on how perfect something should be and how good it should be, that's the one reason I would have never dreamed of writing until 3 years ago. Like I said writing was my fear and the only thing I would write would be invoices and estimates, but I am making up for all that lost time now. What was once a huge fear is now a passion and a great talent I never knew was there until my story was being written, the main character in my book was the main inspiration behind all this new journey. After it all came to an end, the first story I was working on when I was with her got put on hold. My heart had to tell the story where it was all still very raw with the pain and emotions still up in the air. I typed my heart away and it came out so natural. It was then my true friends around me that spotted the talent and gave me the confidence and support I needed to believe in myself and to push my writing further, I felt great that other people could relate to my story...
I know we all remember our first kiss, would you say yours was a good experience or a bad one? Please explain why.
My first kiss was a good experience because I've never had a memorably bad experience, but I don’t remember it well at all, or who it was with . . . probably with someone else just as lonely as I was.
Are you sure you want to be a piano, I can get the violins out here if you like for both our stories! It's true what they say, after a drink those lonely times do come back to haunt you. I might as well ask you this question were you spilling the beans in a manner of speaking. 'Giggles'...
Do you ever remember a part in your life that’s made a huge impact on you as a person? If so would you like to share that part with the reader?
I was a voracious reader, and read books and comic books daily for decades, all my life, and I knew I wanted to write my own stories early on, and began to force myself to write stories, even if the result was mediocre. As I continued to write and write, the technique improved and I was able to submit writing for admission into a higher level undergraduate creative writing class as a University of Michigan sophomore. From that moment on I always took writing classes. They were freeing, and I produced a lot of work, and learned from really terrific professors what rules were for, and when they could be bent just enough. Reading short fiction along with these classes helped point out technique and people who mastered and improved and jumped off from any of the set rules. I like authors who take risks. So, this early education was crucial to my own development.
It does sound fantastic Justin, I wish I did have those chances in life back then, I went to art collage after leaving school; don't get me wrong, back then art was the only thing I enjoyed doing and was great at it too, it was a way of slipping in my own little world and becoming one with what I was drawing at the time. My passion back then was art... But things change and circumstances get in the way at times and stop you being that person you are meant to be. All I can say my past may have been an eye opener to many, but it is my past that has lead me here and made me the person I am with many fantastic stories to tell. Am I bitter? Am I hell, I'm more of a lager man myself, 'giggles'...
Who inspired you to write or was it always a dream to be an author?
My parents inspired me to be a creative writer, as I said, but other writers I respected and learned from were: Rachel Ingalls, Shirley Jackson, Raymond Carver, John Cheever, Stephen King, Peter Straub, Cris Freddi, Ray Bradbury, Margaret Atwood
Your family sounds awesome Justin and I know they will all be very proud of you and your achievements as I am mate. You're a great guy and It's has been a real pleasure having you on my tour Justin, even though your answers got me reminiscing for a moment! Don't worry I have given my head a good wobble and I am Ok now... I will race you to the virtual pub mate, but before we do that though...
Can you tell the reader about your latest work and also tell the reader where they can find you.
My new book is a literary suspense novella called The Conversationalist, and it is the story of a young single man who seeks human companionship but doesn’t know how to date well (not autobiographical hehe) . . . it begins during one such date, and the man does something very rude . . . as the days pass after this date, someone begins to try to teach him a lesson.Here’s the book description:The Conversationalist---a novella of literary suspenseThere's something wrong with Patrick. People whisper about him; most want to help him, as if he's a songless bird with a broken wing, make him a project, set him up on a date with a best friend . . .On one such date, Wendy sits across from Patrick and tells him she's afraid to die. She wonders what it's like. What if this is all there is? "My mother died a year ago . . . horribly," she says. Patrick listens; it's all he's pretending to do.There's something wrong with the way Patrick treats the women he dates, his friends, his family . . . no one can ever get close to Patrick, and no one will ever be able to uncover his secret.Enter Justin Bog's dark world and strike up a dialogue with The Conversationalist.Included: a Foreword by Rachel Thompson, author of Broken Pieces, and a bonus short story, Mothers of Twins, from Justin Bog's first collection of psychological tales, Sandcastle and Other Stories.Links.
Website www.justinbog.com Goodreads, http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5832178.Justin_Bog Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/JustinBog1 Twitter, https://twitter.com/JustinBog Amazon Author Page, http://www.amazon.com/Justin-Bog/e/B0081R77IC/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1
Thank you once again for taking the time out and reading this interview. I must say it did get me thinking a lot. One reason I beat Justin to the pub. That guy can get me thinking to much, but in a good way of course... "Can I help you Sir?" "Yes can I have two pints of larger and a packet of crisp please?" "That's £8.20 please Sir" ..... I reached down in my pocket and thought, 'Damn, my money is in the virtual office, Justin said on my Virtual phone, that he would get the beers in tonight. This is not good for the simple reason he has no idea where this pub is... I can't just think he's here. It doesn't work like that, he has to be here as the bar staff still need paying you know ;) Until next week have a fantastic weekend and be safe ;)
Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour has it's own Facebook page for all my wonderful authors, please show your support and press that little like button, you all know its appreciated. Thank you :) https://www.facebook.com/KevinSwarbrickDeliciouslyScandalousBlogTour?ref=hl For more information about my work please visit https://authorcentral.amazon.co.uk/gp/profile
The awesome author, Justin Bog will be interviewed @KevinSwarbrick 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour' 28/6/2013 ;)
The awesome author, Justin Bog will be ninth guest on my 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour'. Yes there is more giggles to come :) Sneak preview.....
Once again thank you for joining me and my wonderful guest each week on my '@KevinSwarbrick Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour'. I promised you the reader lots of laughs, I promised you plenty of creative minds and I also promised you that I would show the personality behind the author's mind! I am delighted to say that I have achieved that with the fantastic guest that I have had on here each week. I was asked by one person, 'what is your aim in this and why are you helping other authors promote their work when you have your own to do?'. I did reply to the question, stating that he must not been following my tour. I am a true believer in support and without that support I wouldn't be here today. In the time that I have been self published, I have seen authors write their work and just give up, not realising how much work is actually involved; I know I do have a long way to go yet. People think you write a book and that's it, everyone will read your story and know your name! Erm... Think again! Anyone in this business will know there is a hell of a lot more to it than just writing a book, and I for one take my hat off to all authors out there for not giving up...
@KevinSwarbrick 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour' is brought to you by 'Passion'
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Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour has it's own Facebook page for all my wonderful authors, please show your support and press that little like button, you all know its appreciated. Thank you :) https://www.facebook.com/KevinSwarbrickDeliciouslyScandalousBlogTour?ref=hl
To find a little more out about my novel, I am hanging with the man himself, Denis Campbell >> @UKProgressive: Part one > The 'Passion' of Author @KevinSwarbrick on @BookViewTV-we discuss relationship perils. Please subscribe :) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iC9aqTAqLC0&feature=youtu.be
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June 20, 2013
The awesome author, Minnie Lahongrais is being interviewed @KevinSwarbrick 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour' . This is one interview not to be missed! :)
My eighth guest is the amazing lovely author, Minnie Lahongrais :)
I tend to go on about supporting in my blogs a lot, and I do also thank the authors and friends who have been there for me and who continue to show their support along with their friendship that is truly valued. You all know you have my support all the way :) Minnie is another awesome author and friend, I would like to thank for the wonderful support that Minnie has shown towards me and many others out there in the author world. One great lady and one great interview with great answers, great story, great rhyming! What can I say other than we both hope you enjoy the real us and have plenty of giggles... Minnie is now in the place and is on time... It's great to see you Minnie, please take a seat and tell the reader a little about yourself.
I was born a poor black child… Oh, no. Wait. That’s from that Steve Martin movie, “The Jerk.” Sorry. Let me start again….I’m a Native New Yorker, born and raised in an area called “Spanish Harlem” or “El Barrio.” In essence, I’m a “NuYorican.” Currently, I live in the very culturally diverse Northwest Bronx. I work days as a litigation secretary at an international law firm. When I’m not working, writing or working on my upcoming radio show with All Media Radio, I love to spend time with my daughter and mygrandson for they make my life complete.
Hey Minnie, great introduction you have going on there, Media Radio, I like the sound of that. I did almost start singing the song 'I'm A Native New Yorker' when you said that, 'giggles' I must say you do look very nice considering you are only coming on my virtual tour. Ok stop looking at me like that, I know we will end up going for a drink later, it would be rude not to as...
Sometimes in life we all want more than what we can have, but if you had one wish to have anything or anyone, what would that wish be and why?
I believe in reincarnation. I thought I’d mention that, just in case my wish comes true!
My wish is to be happily married to Denzel Washington. Pauletta can have him in this lifetime; I wouldn't want to break up a happy home. Why you ask? I've lusted over this man since 1989 when he appeared in “Glory” and have followed his career since then. I've always loved a man of strong will and determination and for that reason he has even made several appearances in my dreams.
All jokes aside though, I have actually met him twice and both times he left me speechless. Now you know he’s hot, because making me speechless is hard to do!
'Giggles' Now that is awesome, you say you have met him twice and he has left you speechless, we have only come to the first question and already you are getting all hot under the collar and giving us all ideas what was in your mouth at the time! I would like to hear those dreams one day, but only appearing seven times isn't good. Now Pamela Anderson has visited me that many times with Beyonce that I've lost count. I have told them both in my dreams that we best not meet in public and that's my reason they never have never met me at all. Saying that, I was married to them both in my past life, but they didn't look like that then mind you; they were really scary and there was no divorce back then, just witches and these days I just meet... Oh well there's my short story and you're not getting me started on my dreams lol...
I would like you to make a short story up using no more than 400 words containing every one of these 14 key words; Bra, Game, Toe, Pedestrian, Rope, Window, Government, Cat poo, Sex, Limp, Job, Knife, Sun, DM!
Ugh!! Ok! Here’s my attempt at this:
I awoke with a start. Damn it!! I didn't hear the alarm go off!I hate my job and I’m at the end of my rope. I don’t know what I’m going to do about this. I really dislike the fact that I am beholden to this godforsakengovernment job where my sole purpose is to investigate and track down deadbeat dads! If only they’d use a condom instead of having raw sex, they wouldn’t have to run from their responsibilities and play this game of hide and seek with me.These resentful thoughts ran through my head every time I overslept. But on this day, I had decided I wouldn't go crazy. I was going to take my time cleaning Bosco’s cat poo from his litter box then treat myself to a long, hot shower.Refreshed, I headed into the kitchen to make coffee. My blackberry sat just blinking away on the tabletop. I ignored it and opted instead to make breakfast before checking it. Coffee brewing, I grabbed an onion, a pepper, an egg, some broccoli and a knife and set about slicing veggies for my omelette. Out of the corner of my eye, I could see the insistent red flashing light like a warning.Quickly scrambling the egg, I poured it into the pan and threw the veggies in. Half-heartedly, I shuffled over to the table when I tripped over my own feet and stubbed my toe against the baseboard! What a klutz! Angry and thoroughly frustrated now, I snatched the bane of my existence and the reason for my accident off the table and headed to the window with a limp, absentmindedly pulling up my bra strap. It had slid off my shoulder when I bent over to hold my probably broken toe.The sun shone brightly in my face. I closed my eyes and let its rays warm over me. When I opened them again, I watched as pedestrian after pedestrian boarded the bus across the street and wished I wouldn't have to do the same. My blackberry beeped again, bringing me back to reality. I looked down at the notifications alerting me of unread Twitter messages, among them, a DM from Kevin. It read:“Good morning Sweetie! You promised me a day at the beach. Today’s the perfect Saturday for it! How about I pick you up in 20?”Saved by Kevin! It’s Saturday! I don’t have to work!
Lmao I must say I loved the story, hot sex, omelette, blackberry phones, broken toes and a text from Kevin to go to the beach! 'Priceless and I love it ;)'. Now lets get grumpy, but in a good way of course...
When I first started writing I had a lot of negative people around me, I knew I had to lose that energy in order to continue writing and fulfilling what others thought I couldn't do. Did you ever experience any of this when you first started writing or were you lucky enough to have the right support around you?
Negative people will always be around. There have always been less than positive people in my whole life. If anyone around me had anything negative tosay about my writing, I didn't know about it. It could be that I didn't hear it because I chose not to.
Frankly, I don’t let it get to me. If you have a dream that you are passionate about, then that dream needs fulfilling. Follow your dreams and do not let anything or anyone stand in your way.
Personally, writing serves as my therapy. It helps cleanse my soul. I can only hope people enjoy my stories and that my stories help them escape whatever their reality is every once in a while.
I can relate to what you are saying there big time. At first though I did take it badly; here is this guy who wasn't good at reading and writing and is now writing books and re-educating himself all over again. This wasn't an achievement to some people who were meant to be close! I must admit I have had it all at both barrels when I first started writing, but the true support and the right people did shine through, you are one of those people, Minnie. A good heart, a good soul and a good woman. Basically you're all good. Speaking of good...
If you had a chance to run any country and make a difference, what country would it be and why?
Though Puerto Rico is not a country – it is a commonwealth of the United States – I would want to be its governing head. My parents came to New York from Puerto Rico in 1948. Growing up I got a romanticized view of the island and held on to that vision for the first 14 years of my life. My first visit there was fun because it was new and exciting but each time I returned, I disliked it more and more.
As the governing authority in Puerto Rico, the first thing I would do is try to change the mentality of the island’s inhabitants and teach them to be more open minded towards others. I would stress healthy eating and I would encourage more creativity.
Life is hard in Puerto Rico right now – at least it is in areas away from the metropolitan area. I would try to do everything I could to make the islands less dependent on government-run programs and become more self sufficient. I would endeavour to encourage a more entrepreneurial spirit.
Now that does sound like a good plan of action. It's a shame I am in England though, I really would vote for you. There is that much going on around the world and in this country too, it really is a hard question to answer, but boy you just put your little stamp on the United States and you have my support. Not bad just from a blog post if you ask me Lol...
What would you say the worse thing a reader has ever said to you and what was your reaction?
Everyone has their own opinion. Both “Sinner’s Ride” and “Divergent Lives” has struck chords in people. Granted, both stories are extremely graphic tovarying degrees, but both stories are fiction borne of my imagination.
I say, it’s all relative and I just keep it moving. Neither story is for everyone. I get it. But you can’t please everyone. I learn something from every comment – good or bad – whether it’s about me, the writing or the person making the comment, I always learn something new.
What I have read so far, your stories do draw me in and you do have one awesome mind ticking away up there. I for one am glad you do write it all down, and no we are never going to please everyone. When you say you learn something all the time, I can relate to that too, but it does bring me back to what I was saying to some of my other guests about constructive criticism anything else I don't learn from. Well I do learn a lot saying that. I learn how some people can be complete utter....!! I was going to say 'creative'...
I would like you to vision yourself walking down a busy high street with your partner and suddenly there was a noise that came from his bottom and people turned around looking at you, what would your reaction be and why?
Well, that would depend. I think once the shine has worn off, men generally go back to being cavemen and they find amusement in a decent woman’s reactions. So, I wouldn't say or do anything unless it smelled, then I’d just walk away and leave him to his own devices, especially if people are obviously looking. I would pretend not to be with him!
Have you heard the saying, where there's a blame there's a claim? If it smelt that bad I would be heaving away, I would track the smell down so easily and I would blame you and claim it wasn't him!
Cavemen indeed! If we were cave men then that would of smelled like dinner back then. No thank you! I am so shocked with that answer. I really never knew you had it in you... Wind I mean :)
Use only two words that would describe you?
Funny. Passionate.
Nice choice :) I will drink to that with you after the interview...
Have you ever been…
A. The owner of a lonely heart
B. The owner of a broken heart
C. None of the above?
If the answer is C, please can you tell the reader how you have done it. I can see the reader would being interested to know that one. I know I am.
The answer is “B.” In that instance, I allowed myself a pity party for just one weekend. Then I made sure to take care of myself by doing lots of introspection. I thought about what happened and took note of what I would accept or not accept in the next relationship, and even what my role in it was. Then, I put pen to paper!
I learned that success is the best revenge.
Now you're just trying to get me drunk after this interview. I will do a toast to that later as well. I love you being here Minnie, who needs the beach, with Kev's virtual bar next door :)
It's time for a little fun. I would like you to do the rhyme ‘twinkle,
Fickle, fickle little girl
Who the heck d’ya think you are?
Head held high; nose in air
Back so straight, skin so fair
Fickle, fickle little girl
Watch your step, or you won’t go far!
Now that was just awesome and one of the best I have had on here so far, the other was mine of course ;)!!
No really, you did use your own words which was asked of you, and boy you did smash that question with a super slam! 'I love it' :) Speaking of love...
When you are writing, do you ever put your own fantasies in to your stories?
Absolutely! I also use bits and pieces of my life to add dimension to my characters. But, I’ll never tell what is real and what isn't. Some of my characters are inspired by real people as well.
Now that's what I like to hear :) All my inspiration has come from life, real people, real ups and downs.
If you could be a musical instrument, what would you be and why?
Hmm… I would say a saxophone because its melancholia stirs the soul; it moves people and I want people to be more in touch with their emotions.
I am sure if you blow that baby hard enough, there will be plenty of moves and emotions going on! What? Everyone likes the saxophone don't they... I think I best move on...
If you could change one thing about you as a person, what would that one thing be?
If I could change one thing about myself as a person, I would change the way I process loss and not give in to my emotional pain as much as I do.
I hear you. I did that badly too. I would let my emotions take over far too much at times, but then along came my writing, all the pain and passion and the fun and the madness, just got written down or should I say typed out. I felt a lot better for doing so and reflecting back on it all, it did hurt, but it also healed me from the pain I was feeling at the time and that's just one reason, I know I was born to write. You are an inspiration to me Minnie, a breath of fresh air I would call you. I did say fresh so no pumping away why your sat next to me. I have warned you what I am like after smells. 'Giggles'. I remember a girl once with bad breath, you really could light fires with it... Anyway...
I know we all remember our first kiss, would you say yours was a good experience or a bad one? Please explain why.
My first kiss -- French J-- was a memorably good experience. We were both around 12 or 13 years old. It was the end of the day and I was exiting the school through a back door which led to the school yard. It had snowed the day before. Someone threw a snowball hitting me square in the face and my glasses went flying. He came out of nowhere yelling and screaming at the group who had thrown it calling them bullies. At some point, he’d picked up my glasses and handed them to me. I looked up to say thank you but was too embarrassed to look him in the eye so I stared at his Afro. Stupid, right? LOL!!I think he said something like “Here you go” and I dragged my eyes down to his lips. They were full, and looked soft. He brushed the snow out of my hair and leaned in, then hesitated. I could smell his breath. It was minty. The next thing I knew his lips were on mine and we kissed. I had no idea what I was doing, but he obviously did!
Awww now that's sweet :) Snow joke though did that really happen? Did you know this hero boy, or did he wipe the snow of all the girls lips! Why didn't I think of that when I was in school? I could have gotten some mate to chuck snowballs in girls faces and then come out of nowhere and gotten a snog! A master plan if I have ever heard one, I would certainly remember that part of my life. Lol...
Do you ever remember a part in your life that’s made a huge impact on you as a person. If so would you like to share that part with the reader?
I’ve lived a very full life and I intend on continuing to do so. That said; I have had several impactful experiences. Most impactful was in 2002, nine months after the 9/11 tragedy, I experienced a life threatening health scare. My daughter had just had a son. My first thought after receiving the news was that if this thing became fatal, I would miss out on watching my grandson grow up
I am so thank full you are here to tell the story...
Who inspired you to write or was it always a dream to be an author?
Encouraged to write is more like what happened. It became a dream for me to be successful at it and to move people with my writing.
I must say one of the reasons we do get along so well is that we do share the views on many things and we are both following the same dream to be successful in what we do best! I mean writing... Please control your mind a little. People will be reading this you know. 'Giggles'. Just one last question and then we will head down to the bar for those drinks we're toasting with...
Can you tell the reader about your latest work and also tell the reader where they can find you.
[image error]
Website www.minnielahongrais.com
Goodreads, http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4899967.Minnie_LahongraisFacebook, https://www.facebook.com/LahongraisTwitter, https://twitter.com/LahongraisBlog Page, www.lahongrais.blogspot.com
Buy links for Divergent Lives can be found here: www.divergentlives.blogspot.com
Thank you Minnie its been a pleasure having you here... Wait... Stop pulling, I'm coming... I just need to thank everyone for taking the time out to read your interview... Anyway we really hope you enjoyed this interview, we hope we manage to bring a smile in to kick start your weekends off. Have a fantastic one, I know I will. All the authors are at my virtual bar this week, the best part about it all, it's their rounds, Lol! Catch you all next week with another awesome guest. Have a fantastic weekend and be safe! I am off to get my virtual beers, thank you for all the support, but I might need a little more on the way back from my virtual pub! What? There is a lot of virtual beers to be drank. 'Giggles'. Until next week take care :) For more information about my work please visit https://authorcentral.amazon.co.uk/gp/profileDeliciously Scandalous Blog Tour has it's own Facebook page for all my wonderful authors, please show your support and press that little like button, you all know its appreciated. Thank you :) https://www.facebook.com/KevinSwarbrickDeliciouslyScandalousBlogTour?ref=hl
I was born a poor black child… Oh, no. Wait. That’s from that Steve Martin movie, “The Jerk.” Sorry. Let me start again….I’m a Native New Yorker, born and raised in an area called “Spanish Harlem” or “El Barrio.” In essence, I’m a “NuYorican.” Currently, I live in the very culturally diverse Northwest Bronx. I work days as a litigation secretary at an international law firm. When I’m not working, writing or working on my upcoming radio show with All Media Radio, I love to spend time with my daughter and mygrandson for they make my life complete. Hey Minnie, great introduction you have going on there, Media Radio, I like the sound of that. I did almost start singing the song 'I'm A Native New Yorker' when you said that, 'giggles' I must say you do look very nice considering you are only coming on my virtual tour. Ok stop looking at me like that, I know we will end up going for a drink later, it would be rude not to as...
Sometimes in life we all want more than what we can have, but if you had one wish to have anything or anyone, what would that wish be and why?
I believe in reincarnation. I thought I’d mention that, just in case my wish comes true!
My wish is to be happily married to Denzel Washington. Pauletta can have him in this lifetime; I wouldn't want to break up a happy home. Why you ask? I've lusted over this man since 1989 when he appeared in “Glory” and have followed his career since then. I've always loved a man of strong will and determination and for that reason he has even made several appearances in my dreams.
All jokes aside though, I have actually met him twice and both times he left me speechless. Now you know he’s hot, because making me speechless is hard to do!
'Giggles' Now that is awesome, you say you have met him twice and he has left you speechless, we have only come to the first question and already you are getting all hot under the collar and giving us all ideas what was in your mouth at the time! I would like to hear those dreams one day, but only appearing seven times isn't good. Now Pamela Anderson has visited me that many times with Beyonce that I've lost count. I have told them both in my dreams that we best not meet in public and that's my reason they never have never met me at all. Saying that, I was married to them both in my past life, but they didn't look like that then mind you; they were really scary and there was no divorce back then, just witches and these days I just meet... Oh well there's my short story and you're not getting me started on my dreams lol...
I would like you to make a short story up using no more than 400 words containing every one of these 14 key words; Bra, Game, Toe, Pedestrian, Rope, Window, Government, Cat poo, Sex, Limp, Job, Knife, Sun, DM!
Ugh!! Ok! Here’s my attempt at this:
I awoke with a start. Damn it!! I didn't hear the alarm go off!I hate my job and I’m at the end of my rope. I don’t know what I’m going to do about this. I really dislike the fact that I am beholden to this godforsakengovernment job where my sole purpose is to investigate and track down deadbeat dads! If only they’d use a condom instead of having raw sex, they wouldn’t have to run from their responsibilities and play this game of hide and seek with me.These resentful thoughts ran through my head every time I overslept. But on this day, I had decided I wouldn't go crazy. I was going to take my time cleaning Bosco’s cat poo from his litter box then treat myself to a long, hot shower.Refreshed, I headed into the kitchen to make coffee. My blackberry sat just blinking away on the tabletop. I ignored it and opted instead to make breakfast before checking it. Coffee brewing, I grabbed an onion, a pepper, an egg, some broccoli and a knife and set about slicing veggies for my omelette. Out of the corner of my eye, I could see the insistent red flashing light like a warning.Quickly scrambling the egg, I poured it into the pan and threw the veggies in. Half-heartedly, I shuffled over to the table when I tripped over my own feet and stubbed my toe against the baseboard! What a klutz! Angry and thoroughly frustrated now, I snatched the bane of my existence and the reason for my accident off the table and headed to the window with a limp, absentmindedly pulling up my bra strap. It had slid off my shoulder when I bent over to hold my probably broken toe.The sun shone brightly in my face. I closed my eyes and let its rays warm over me. When I opened them again, I watched as pedestrian after pedestrian boarded the bus across the street and wished I wouldn't have to do the same. My blackberry beeped again, bringing me back to reality. I looked down at the notifications alerting me of unread Twitter messages, among them, a DM from Kevin. It read:“Good morning Sweetie! You promised me a day at the beach. Today’s the perfect Saturday for it! How about I pick you up in 20?”Saved by Kevin! It’s Saturday! I don’t have to work!
Lmao I must say I loved the story, hot sex, omelette, blackberry phones, broken toes and a text from Kevin to go to the beach! 'Priceless and I love it ;)'. Now lets get grumpy, but in a good way of course...
When I first started writing I had a lot of negative people around me, I knew I had to lose that energy in order to continue writing and fulfilling what others thought I couldn't do. Did you ever experience any of this when you first started writing or were you lucky enough to have the right support around you?
Negative people will always be around. There have always been less than positive people in my whole life. If anyone around me had anything negative tosay about my writing, I didn't know about it. It could be that I didn't hear it because I chose not to.
Frankly, I don’t let it get to me. If you have a dream that you are passionate about, then that dream needs fulfilling. Follow your dreams and do not let anything or anyone stand in your way.
Personally, writing serves as my therapy. It helps cleanse my soul. I can only hope people enjoy my stories and that my stories help them escape whatever their reality is every once in a while.
I can relate to what you are saying there big time. At first though I did take it badly; here is this guy who wasn't good at reading and writing and is now writing books and re-educating himself all over again. This wasn't an achievement to some people who were meant to be close! I must admit I have had it all at both barrels when I first started writing, but the true support and the right people did shine through, you are one of those people, Minnie. A good heart, a good soul and a good woman. Basically you're all good. Speaking of good...
If you had a chance to run any country and make a difference, what country would it be and why?
Though Puerto Rico is not a country – it is a commonwealth of the United States – I would want to be its governing head. My parents came to New York from Puerto Rico in 1948. Growing up I got a romanticized view of the island and held on to that vision for the first 14 years of my life. My first visit there was fun because it was new and exciting but each time I returned, I disliked it more and more.
As the governing authority in Puerto Rico, the first thing I would do is try to change the mentality of the island’s inhabitants and teach them to be more open minded towards others. I would stress healthy eating and I would encourage more creativity.
Life is hard in Puerto Rico right now – at least it is in areas away from the metropolitan area. I would try to do everything I could to make the islands less dependent on government-run programs and become more self sufficient. I would endeavour to encourage a more entrepreneurial spirit.
Now that does sound like a good plan of action. It's a shame I am in England though, I really would vote for you. There is that much going on around the world and in this country too, it really is a hard question to answer, but boy you just put your little stamp on the United States and you have my support. Not bad just from a blog post if you ask me Lol...
What would you say the worse thing a reader has ever said to you and what was your reaction?
Everyone has their own opinion. Both “Sinner’s Ride” and “Divergent Lives” has struck chords in people. Granted, both stories are extremely graphic tovarying degrees, but both stories are fiction borne of my imagination.
I say, it’s all relative and I just keep it moving. Neither story is for everyone. I get it. But you can’t please everyone. I learn something from every comment – good or bad – whether it’s about me, the writing or the person making the comment, I always learn something new.
What I have read so far, your stories do draw me in and you do have one awesome mind ticking away up there. I for one am glad you do write it all down, and no we are never going to please everyone. When you say you learn something all the time, I can relate to that too, but it does bring me back to what I was saying to some of my other guests about constructive criticism anything else I don't learn from. Well I do learn a lot saying that. I learn how some people can be complete utter....!! I was going to say 'creative'...
I would like you to vision yourself walking down a busy high street with your partner and suddenly there was a noise that came from his bottom and people turned around looking at you, what would your reaction be and why?
Well, that would depend. I think once the shine has worn off, men generally go back to being cavemen and they find amusement in a decent woman’s reactions. So, I wouldn't say or do anything unless it smelled, then I’d just walk away and leave him to his own devices, especially if people are obviously looking. I would pretend not to be with him!
Have you heard the saying, where there's a blame there's a claim? If it smelt that bad I would be heaving away, I would track the smell down so easily and I would blame you and claim it wasn't him!
Cavemen indeed! If we were cave men then that would of smelled like dinner back then. No thank you! I am so shocked with that answer. I really never knew you had it in you... Wind I mean :)
Use only two words that would describe you?
Funny. Passionate.
Nice choice :) I will drink to that with you after the interview...
Have you ever been…
A. The owner of a lonely heart
B. The owner of a broken heart
C. None of the above?
If the answer is C, please can you tell the reader how you have done it. I can see the reader would being interested to know that one. I know I am.
The answer is “B.” In that instance, I allowed myself a pity party for just one weekend. Then I made sure to take care of myself by doing lots of introspection. I thought about what happened and took note of what I would accept or not accept in the next relationship, and even what my role in it was. Then, I put pen to paper!
I learned that success is the best revenge.
Now you're just trying to get me drunk after this interview. I will do a toast to that later as well. I love you being here Minnie, who needs the beach, with Kev's virtual bar next door :)
It's time for a little fun. I would like you to do the rhyme ‘twinkle,
Fickle, fickle little girl
Who the heck d’ya think you are?
Head held high; nose in air
Back so straight, skin so fair
Fickle, fickle little girl
Watch your step, or you won’t go far!
Now that was just awesome and one of the best I have had on here so far, the other was mine of course ;)!!
No really, you did use your own words which was asked of you, and boy you did smash that question with a super slam! 'I love it' :) Speaking of love...
When you are writing, do you ever put your own fantasies in to your stories?
Absolutely! I also use bits and pieces of my life to add dimension to my characters. But, I’ll never tell what is real and what isn't. Some of my characters are inspired by real people as well.
Now that's what I like to hear :) All my inspiration has come from life, real people, real ups and downs.
If you could be a musical instrument, what would you be and why?
Hmm… I would say a saxophone because its melancholia stirs the soul; it moves people and I want people to be more in touch with their emotions.
I am sure if you blow that baby hard enough, there will be plenty of moves and emotions going on! What? Everyone likes the saxophone don't they... I think I best move on...
If you could change one thing about you as a person, what would that one thing be?
If I could change one thing about myself as a person, I would change the way I process loss and not give in to my emotional pain as much as I do.
I hear you. I did that badly too. I would let my emotions take over far too much at times, but then along came my writing, all the pain and passion and the fun and the madness, just got written down or should I say typed out. I felt a lot better for doing so and reflecting back on it all, it did hurt, but it also healed me from the pain I was feeling at the time and that's just one reason, I know I was born to write. You are an inspiration to me Minnie, a breath of fresh air I would call you. I did say fresh so no pumping away why your sat next to me. I have warned you what I am like after smells. 'Giggles'. I remember a girl once with bad breath, you really could light fires with it... Anyway...
I know we all remember our first kiss, would you say yours was a good experience or a bad one? Please explain why.
My first kiss -- French J-- was a memorably good experience. We were both around 12 or 13 years old. It was the end of the day and I was exiting the school through a back door which led to the school yard. It had snowed the day before. Someone threw a snowball hitting me square in the face and my glasses went flying. He came out of nowhere yelling and screaming at the group who had thrown it calling them bullies. At some point, he’d picked up my glasses and handed them to me. I looked up to say thank you but was too embarrassed to look him in the eye so I stared at his Afro. Stupid, right? LOL!!I think he said something like “Here you go” and I dragged my eyes down to his lips. They were full, and looked soft. He brushed the snow out of my hair and leaned in, then hesitated. I could smell his breath. It was minty. The next thing I knew his lips were on mine and we kissed. I had no idea what I was doing, but he obviously did!
Awww now that's sweet :) Snow joke though did that really happen? Did you know this hero boy, or did he wipe the snow of all the girls lips! Why didn't I think of that when I was in school? I could have gotten some mate to chuck snowballs in girls faces and then come out of nowhere and gotten a snog! A master plan if I have ever heard one, I would certainly remember that part of my life. Lol...
Do you ever remember a part in your life that’s made a huge impact on you as a person. If so would you like to share that part with the reader?
I’ve lived a very full life and I intend on continuing to do so. That said; I have had several impactful experiences. Most impactful was in 2002, nine months after the 9/11 tragedy, I experienced a life threatening health scare. My daughter had just had a son. My first thought after receiving the news was that if this thing became fatal, I would miss out on watching my grandson grow up
I am so thank full you are here to tell the story...
Who inspired you to write or was it always a dream to be an author?
Encouraged to write is more like what happened. It became a dream for me to be successful at it and to move people with my writing.
I must say one of the reasons we do get along so well is that we do share the views on many things and we are both following the same dream to be successful in what we do best! I mean writing... Please control your mind a little. People will be reading this you know. 'Giggles'. Just one last question and then we will head down to the bar for those drinks we're toasting with...
Can you tell the reader about your latest work and also tell the reader where they can find you.
[image error]
Website www.minnielahongrais.com
Goodreads, http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4899967.Minnie_LahongraisFacebook, https://www.facebook.com/LahongraisTwitter, https://twitter.com/LahongraisBlog Page, www.lahongrais.blogspot.com
Buy links for Divergent Lives can be found here: www.divergentlives.blogspot.com
Thank you Minnie its been a pleasure having you here... Wait... Stop pulling, I'm coming... I just need to thank everyone for taking the time out to read your interview... Anyway we really hope you enjoyed this interview, we hope we manage to bring a smile in to kick start your weekends off. Have a fantastic one, I know I will. All the authors are at my virtual bar this week, the best part about it all, it's their rounds, Lol! Catch you all next week with another awesome guest. Have a fantastic weekend and be safe! I am off to get my virtual beers, thank you for all the support, but I might need a little more on the way back from my virtual pub! What? There is a lot of virtual beers to be drank. 'Giggles'. Until next week take care :) For more information about my work please visit https://authorcentral.amazon.co.uk/gp/profileDeliciously Scandalous Blog Tour has it's own Facebook page for all my wonderful authors, please show your support and press that little like button, you all know its appreciated. Thank you :) https://www.facebook.com/KevinSwarbrickDeliciouslyScandalousBlogTour?ref=hl
A start!: 21/6/13!! Minnie Lahongrais will be joining me @KevinSwarbrick on my 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour' :)
A start!: 21/6/13!! Minnie Lahongrais will be joining me @K...:
My eighth guest this Friday, is the amazing lovely author, Minnie Lahongrais :) I tend to go on about supporting in my blogs a lot, and I do also thank the authors and friends who have been there for me and who continue to show their support along with their friendship that is truly valued. Minnie is another awesome friend I would like to thank her for the wonderful support that she has shown towards me and many others out there in the author world. One great lady and one great interview......
(Sneak preview) > Hey Minnie, great introduction you have going on there, Media Radio, I like the sound of that. I did almost start singing the song 'I'm A Native New Yorker' when you said that, 'giggles' I must say you do look very nice considering you are only coming on my virtual tour. Ok stop looking at me like that, I know we will end up going for a drink later, it would be rude not to as... Find out what happens next in this...
@KevinSwarbrick 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour' is brought to you by 'Passion'
https://authorcentral.amazon.co.uk/gp/profile
My eighth guest this Friday, is the amazing lovely author, Minnie Lahongrais :) I tend to go on about supporting in my blogs a lot, and I do also thank the authors and friends who have been there for me and who continue to show their support along with their friendship that is truly valued. Minnie is another awesome friend I would like to thank her for the wonderful support that she has shown towards me and many others out there in the author world. One great lady and one great interview......
(Sneak preview) > Hey Minnie, great introduction you have going on there, Media Radio, I like the sound of that. I did almost start singing the song 'I'm A Native New Yorker' when you said that, 'giggles' I must say you do look very nice considering you are only coming on my virtual tour. Ok stop looking at me like that, I know we will end up going for a drink later, it would be rude not to as... Find out what happens next in this...
@KevinSwarbrick 'Deliciously Scandalous Blog Tour' is brought to you by 'Passion'
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https://authorcentral.amazon.co.uk/gp/profile
