Rae Gee's Blog, page 9
July 12, 2015
A Place Called Home
When I started this blog I wanted to be only about writing. Books, the creative process, the publishing industry; that's what I wanted it to be about. But there are a million and one blogs and websites out there who can talk about this far better than I ever will.
Slowly it evolved in to what it is today. I wanted a place where people felt at home, somewhere they felt at ease talking about themselves or their work. I didn't want them to feel under pressure to buy books or leave reviews. I wanted a home, not a just house, a place for everyone who passed through to feel comfortable and welcomed.
I'm very blessed in that many people share their lives with me and I want to return that favour. If you so choose, I want you to know the ups and downs of my life. I want to share the battles I've been through, both personally and professionally. I want you to feel like you have a place to talk about what's happening and not feel judged. And this, hopefully, is that place. No matter who you are and no matter what your background, you're welcome here.
There may be subject matter on this blog that some people feel uncomfortable with and that's perfectly fine. What's happened to me may not be for everyone. As a warning, I'll let you know that there are posts about drug addiction and recovery. But there are also many happy posts, including interviews and photographs of people who've inspired me.
I thank you for visiting and thank you for sharing this little space with me.Rae
Slowly it evolved in to what it is today. I wanted a place where people felt at home, somewhere they felt at ease talking about themselves or their work. I didn't want them to feel under pressure to buy books or leave reviews. I wanted a home, not a just house, a place for everyone who passed through to feel comfortable and welcomed.
I'm very blessed in that many people share their lives with me and I want to return that favour. If you so choose, I want you to know the ups and downs of my life. I want to share the battles I've been through, both personally and professionally. I want you to feel like you have a place to talk about what's happening and not feel judged. And this, hopefully, is that place. No matter who you are and no matter what your background, you're welcome here.
There may be subject matter on this blog that some people feel uncomfortable with and that's perfectly fine. What's happened to me may not be for everyone. As a warning, I'll let you know that there are posts about drug addiction and recovery. But there are also many happy posts, including interviews and photographs of people who've inspired me.
I thank you for visiting and thank you for sharing this little space with me.Rae
July 7, 2015
On Being A Bipolar Writer
Being an unmedicated, bipolar writer is interesting. I make the distinction between medicated and unmedicated because, for me, there has been a huge difference. When I was medicated, I stuck to a schedule. I could churn out 1000+ words without drawing breath. I instinctively knew where a story was going and I rarely stopped to think how I was wording sentences.
Being unmedicated, for me, has been a whole other kettle of fish. It's only been recently, within the past month, that I've actually managed to get back on any kind of track. I've been in a kind of limbo since the drugs cleared my system back in March, desperately trying to get my creative brain back on track.
And it's not been easy. Some days I've managed to write something. Others I've stared idly at the screen, wondering what to put down. None of it was helped by the muscle seizures caused by the medication withdrawal, ones which made it difficult (up until last week, anyway) for me to handwrite more than a few words. I enjoy sitting down with a notebook, pen, and tea and just scribbling ideas down on to paper, something that's a little more difficult when it comes to using a computer. Typing, or dictating, notes to my phone just doesn't have the same appeal as choosing a new notebook and pen.
In the past two weeks, I've cleared something like 10,000 words over several different projects. It's an achievement and something I'm extremely proud of. It's proof, to myself, that I can do this even if I'm struggling in other areas of my life. It's a spark of hope that life without medication can be somewhere within the realms of “normal”.
Writing without the meds is... interesting. I find myself analysing what I'm writing, far more than I did when I was medicated. I can spend a day hunting for a specific word or phrase to make a sentence sound right. Sometimes inspiration fails me completely, as it did for all of June. I knew what I wanted to write. I just found that I couldn't. Even now, as I'm facing some big changes in my life, I've managed to rediscover the joy and excitement of getting stuck into a good project. It's a feeling that's been missing for the past few months and I'm so glad it's back. I can't wait to see what the future holds.
Being unmedicated, for me, has been a whole other kettle of fish. It's only been recently, within the past month, that I've actually managed to get back on any kind of track. I've been in a kind of limbo since the drugs cleared my system back in March, desperately trying to get my creative brain back on track.
And it's not been easy. Some days I've managed to write something. Others I've stared idly at the screen, wondering what to put down. None of it was helped by the muscle seizures caused by the medication withdrawal, ones which made it difficult (up until last week, anyway) for me to handwrite more than a few words. I enjoy sitting down with a notebook, pen, and tea and just scribbling ideas down on to paper, something that's a little more difficult when it comes to using a computer. Typing, or dictating, notes to my phone just doesn't have the same appeal as choosing a new notebook and pen.
In the past two weeks, I've cleared something like 10,000 words over several different projects. It's an achievement and something I'm extremely proud of. It's proof, to myself, that I can do this even if I'm struggling in other areas of my life. It's a spark of hope that life without medication can be somewhere within the realms of “normal”.
Writing without the meds is... interesting. I find myself analysing what I'm writing, far more than I did when I was medicated. I can spend a day hunting for a specific word or phrase to make a sentence sound right. Sometimes inspiration fails me completely, as it did for all of June. I knew what I wanted to write. I just found that I couldn't. Even now, as I'm facing some big changes in my life, I've managed to rediscover the joy and excitement of getting stuck into a good project. It's a feeling that's been missing for the past few months and I'm so glad it's back. I can't wait to see what the future holds.
June 27, 2015
Times Like These
For those not in my immediate loop of people, the past few weeks have been a whirlwind. Friday June 19th was supposed to be a special day. It was one my family and I had been looking forward to since November. We'd fought long and hard to get tickets to the concert. For me, it was going to be the gift that marked a milestone in a long recovery process.
Then, in a moment of sheer bad luck, it all disappeared.
June 19thwould have been the first of the Foo Fighters two nights at Wembley Stadium. On June 12th, Dave Grohl fell from the stage and broke his leg resulting in the rest of the UK and European tour being cancelled. The outpouring of grief was insurmountable although the majority was aimed at Grohl's injury rather than the concerts being being written off. Music fans, thankfully, are both loyal and extremely understanding. While people tried to keep the hope alive it was obvious that the shows wouldn't happen.
The cancellations brought another problem with them. Thousands of people had already descended on London for the shows, many of them flying in from abroad or with travel and hotel costs that couldn't be refunded. Many of them were looking for an alternative night out.
Bristol based music project, Given to Live, had already arranged to have two shows running alongside the Foo Fighters concerts. Beginning in the early afternoon, they'd run up until Wembley's gates opened, before picking up after the concerts ended. They were aimed at giving fans the chance to meet one another as well as raising vital funds and allowing unsigned bands the chance to sign right beside one of the country's iconic music venues.
However, they were now faced with a dilemma. Continue, knowing that the 160,000 potential footfall had now disappeared? Or scrap the shows all together?
Where there's a will, there's a way and, in less than 48 hours, a new plan was formed. On Thursday evening, it was announced that the UK Foo Fighters would headline both nights. Something was being born from nothing.
I was originally going to go along and review the Friday show. After that, I'd stay overnight and travel home on the Saturday. But the best laid plans don't always pan out and I found myself quickly rearranging plans to stay until Sunday afternoon.
What occurred while I was there were two extremely magical evenings. 1200 people passed through the doors of the Crystal Clubs. Nine bands played over the two nights. And a lot of people had a lot of fun. Something had been rescued from the ashes of what could otherwise have been just another London evening. On the Sunday, the UK Foo Fighters confirmed that they were also going to play the cancelled June 23rd show, too. My pride and joy right now is a text message from that show which simply reads “Sold out” (I couldn't make it due to other commitments).
There are a lot of people I want to thank from that weekend. But who to thank first?
Over the three dates, nearly 2000 people passed through the doors of the shows. Seeing their sadness turn to joy and happiness was an honour. Hearing them sing every word of every song was a pleasure.
The wonderful Tom who, throughout it all, was a constant inspiration. Never have I seen someone so passionate and determined and, in doing so, he reignited my own love and passion for working with music. He's someone who will have a special place in my heart.
The UK Foo Fighters whose kindness and generosity has taught me a lot. If you ever get the chance, go and see them. They really are worth every moment of your time and I can't wait to see them again.
Darren, Given To Live's artist in residence, for being one of the most beautiful souls I've ever met. He's another of the many people who inspired me over that weekend and it was a pleasure to spend time with him.
Sarah, who propped me up and loved me when I could now longer do it for myself.
The bands who played on June 19th and 20th. All of them have a place in my heart and I can't wait to work with them again. They came from all corners of the country and gave their all on those days.
I learned a lot about myself over those few days. I remembered how much I enjoyed working with musicians. I remembered how long I could work for before I had to give up. Most of all, I learned that grit and determination can get the ball rolling when the chips are down.
It just goes to show that, when life gives you lemons, you truly can create Something From Nothing.
For more photos and information, please visit Given to Live's Facebook page.You can also read Tom's interview with this site here.
Then, in a moment of sheer bad luck, it all disappeared.
June 19thwould have been the first of the Foo Fighters two nights at Wembley Stadium. On June 12th, Dave Grohl fell from the stage and broke his leg resulting in the rest of the UK and European tour being cancelled. The outpouring of grief was insurmountable although the majority was aimed at Grohl's injury rather than the concerts being being written off. Music fans, thankfully, are both loyal and extremely understanding. While people tried to keep the hope alive it was obvious that the shows wouldn't happen.
The cancellations brought another problem with them. Thousands of people had already descended on London for the shows, many of them flying in from abroad or with travel and hotel costs that couldn't be refunded. Many of them were looking for an alternative night out.
Bristol based music project, Given to Live, had already arranged to have two shows running alongside the Foo Fighters concerts. Beginning in the early afternoon, they'd run up until Wembley's gates opened, before picking up after the concerts ended. They were aimed at giving fans the chance to meet one another as well as raising vital funds and allowing unsigned bands the chance to sign right beside one of the country's iconic music venues.
However, they were now faced with a dilemma. Continue, knowing that the 160,000 potential footfall had now disappeared? Or scrap the shows all together?
Where there's a will, there's a way and, in less than 48 hours, a new plan was formed. On Thursday evening, it was announced that the UK Foo Fighters would headline both nights. Something was being born from nothing.
I was originally going to go along and review the Friday show. After that, I'd stay overnight and travel home on the Saturday. But the best laid plans don't always pan out and I found myself quickly rearranging plans to stay until Sunday afternoon.
What occurred while I was there were two extremely magical evenings. 1200 people passed through the doors of the Crystal Clubs. Nine bands played over the two nights. And a lot of people had a lot of fun. Something had been rescued from the ashes of what could otherwise have been just another London evening. On the Sunday, the UK Foo Fighters confirmed that they were also going to play the cancelled June 23rd show, too. My pride and joy right now is a text message from that show which simply reads “Sold out” (I couldn't make it due to other commitments).
There are a lot of people I want to thank from that weekend. But who to thank first?
Over the three dates, nearly 2000 people passed through the doors of the shows. Seeing their sadness turn to joy and happiness was an honour. Hearing them sing every word of every song was a pleasure.
The wonderful Tom who, throughout it all, was a constant inspiration. Never have I seen someone so passionate and determined and, in doing so, he reignited my own love and passion for working with music. He's someone who will have a special place in my heart.
The UK Foo Fighters whose kindness and generosity has taught me a lot. If you ever get the chance, go and see them. They really are worth every moment of your time and I can't wait to see them again.
Darren, Given To Live's artist in residence, for being one of the most beautiful souls I've ever met. He's another of the many people who inspired me over that weekend and it was a pleasure to spend time with him.
Sarah, who propped me up and loved me when I could now longer do it for myself.
The bands who played on June 19th and 20th. All of them have a place in my heart and I can't wait to work with them again. They came from all corners of the country and gave their all on those days.
I learned a lot about myself over those few days. I remembered how much I enjoyed working with musicians. I remembered how long I could work for before I had to give up. Most of all, I learned that grit and determination can get the ball rolling when the chips are down.
It just goes to show that, when life gives you lemons, you truly can create Something From Nothing.
For more photos and information, please visit Given to Live's Facebook page.You can also read Tom's interview with this site here.
June 14, 2015
Dave Grohl Breaks His Leg and Cancels Shows...
...And the internet reacts in just the way you'd expect them to. While Dave's injury has caused some shows to be cancelled, they do say laughter is the best medicine. Get well soon, Dave!
(Never thought I'd do one of these posts but some of the tweets have been making my weekend.)
Hi @foofighters Dave Whelan played at Wembley with a broken leg. True story. Will Dave Grohl do the same? Asking for the fans. Obvs.
— Bald 4 Eyed Bob (@bald4eyedbob) June 14, 2015
@foofighters good job you didn't do it in UK you would still be waiting in A+E now
— Kim Williams (@kawilliams9899) June 14, 2015
I'm not sure I'm emotionally stable enough to handle Foo Fighters cancelling their Wembley gigs #GetwellSoonDave
— Jonathan Warlow (@jonowarlow) June 13, 2015
@foofighters don't cancel Wembley. I've got some aspirin if you need it
— TommyTheGun (@TomtheGinge) June 13, 2015
Get a ticket for Michael Jackson, then he dies. Get tickets for #foofighters at wembley and Dave breaks his leg. Get well son. X
— MC Elmo (@Mike_Wiseman) June 13, 2015
Def Leppards drummer plays with one arm. Justin Bieber sings without a voice OR brain. There is no way the #FooFighters will cancel #Wembley
— Speedoman (@Sheppyuk) June 14, 2015
Gotta love the optimism of people trying to sell @foofighters tickets for #Wembley right now
— Andrew (@theboytemps) June 14, 2015
@AdamMcMusic What were the odds of Dave Grohl breaking his leg when he fell off the stage? "One in ten" #foofighters #bantz
— Adam McLoughlin (@AdamMcMusic) June 14, 2015
@xfm don't believe it man, first gig of year in London was Black Keys - drummer did shoulder, no gig - Nr 2 - The Foo Fighters!
— @PaxtonPat (@paxtonpat) June 13, 2015
I'd just like to apologise to Dave Grohl for breaking his leg... Every time we organise to go London something shit happens @foofighters
— Lauren Herrick (@laurenherrick) June 13, 2015
June 11, 2015
My Life Jigsaw
Being off anti-psychotic medication is like having an unfinished jigsaw. You can see the picture and you might even know what it looks like when it's finished. But there are pieces missing. Sometimes it's a few pieces. Sometimes it's most of the puzzle.
That's how I currently feel. Which is one of the reasons I haven't done a lot with this website. Or much else for that matter. Back in March, there was a mostly completed jigsaw that I called “My Life”. There were a few pieces I was waiting to put in to place before I felt like I was mostly complete.
Then I took the final doses of the drug and, as it slowly left my system, the jigsaw was tossed in to the air. Suddenly I was staring at a small pile of jigsaw pieces, unsure of what to do with them. Some are easy to put back in to place. Some are not so easy to fit back into the puzzle and now I'm finding myself left with a little pile of pieces.
So how do you recover from medication withdrawal? It differs from person to person. One person may find it easy while another may find the transition extremely difficult.
I feel like I'm somewhere in the middle. I'm enjoying being off the drugs and “flying free”. The ideas are flowing and the laughter comes easily. Yet, at times, I find that difficult. Inspiration and energy come and go in waves. Some days I'll write for hours. Other days I won't even look at my current project. I haven't written much in the past month, this post being the first thing I've really sat down and thought about.
Conversation is another thing I'm struggling with and I'm so thankful for the people who are giving me time to talk, even when I'm slow to find the words I want.
Dealing with day to day life has had both its ups and downs and I'm grateful for those who are walking that walk with me. The people I live, work, and interact with have been so loving and generous, giving me the time and space I need to adapt to this “brave, new world” I'm finding myself in. Sometimes I get it wrong. Sometimes I get confused. But the excitement at realising that I can do something, unaided by another person or pharmaceutical intervention is the biggest reward right now. I could win the lottery but remembering to put the bin out at the right time or taking my vitamins is a far bigger achievement.
Emotions often swing between raw and excited. I've shed more tears in the past month than I have in the past decade. Tears, I've discovered, are cathartic and clearing, slowly healing my newly recovered soul.
Sure, it feels like it's been a bit of a rough year so far. But right now it feels good to be alive and take on the world. I can't wait to see what tomorrow, next month, and next year have in store!
That's how I currently feel. Which is one of the reasons I haven't done a lot with this website. Or much else for that matter. Back in March, there was a mostly completed jigsaw that I called “My Life”. There were a few pieces I was waiting to put in to place before I felt like I was mostly complete.
Then I took the final doses of the drug and, as it slowly left my system, the jigsaw was tossed in to the air. Suddenly I was staring at a small pile of jigsaw pieces, unsure of what to do with them. Some are easy to put back in to place. Some are not so easy to fit back into the puzzle and now I'm finding myself left with a little pile of pieces.
So how do you recover from medication withdrawal? It differs from person to person. One person may find it easy while another may find the transition extremely difficult.
I feel like I'm somewhere in the middle. I'm enjoying being off the drugs and “flying free”. The ideas are flowing and the laughter comes easily. Yet, at times, I find that difficult. Inspiration and energy come and go in waves. Some days I'll write for hours. Other days I won't even look at my current project. I haven't written much in the past month, this post being the first thing I've really sat down and thought about.
Conversation is another thing I'm struggling with and I'm so thankful for the people who are giving me time to talk, even when I'm slow to find the words I want.
Dealing with day to day life has had both its ups and downs and I'm grateful for those who are walking that walk with me. The people I live, work, and interact with have been so loving and generous, giving me the time and space I need to adapt to this “brave, new world” I'm finding myself in. Sometimes I get it wrong. Sometimes I get confused. But the excitement at realising that I can do something, unaided by another person or pharmaceutical intervention is the biggest reward right now. I could win the lottery but remembering to put the bin out at the right time or taking my vitamins is a far bigger achievement.
Emotions often swing between raw and excited. I've shed more tears in the past month than I have in the past decade. Tears, I've discovered, are cathartic and clearing, slowly healing my newly recovered soul.
Sure, it feels like it's been a bit of a rough year so far. But right now it feels good to be alive and take on the world. I can't wait to see what tomorrow, next month, and next year have in store!
May 20, 2015
If You're Going to This Year's Foo Fighters Tour You Might...
... want to check out these amazing pre-and-post shows. All of them support the charity Given to Live which enables vulnerable and disabled people to attend live music events. Please check event posters for start times and bands. All events are also within walking distance of the stadiums so you've got no excuse for not going before and after the Foos! You can also take a look at the interview that Given to Live founder, Tom, gave.
Given to Live Twitter
Given to Live Facebook
Given to Live Twitter
Given to Live Facebook
May 10, 2015
Inspirational Interview - Wendy Woo
Wendy is one of those people who gives off a wonderful, calming feeling. You get the sense that she'd invite you in for tea and you'd spend the entire day (and night) talking. Wendy was kind enough to stop by the blog and have a chat.
~~~
I was born Wendy Steele in Romford, Essex back in the dark ages. I've lived all over the county, settling in Billericay for 25 years. I moved to Wales in August 2013...first living in a tent, then a caravan and finally in a house in November 2013. I live on the outskirts of a village in a dilapidated Grade II listed farmhouse with my partner and two cats. My three grown up children still live in Essex and I miss them every day. Living on a building site wasn't the original plan but location was our priority and affordability a close second so we're having to work hard to make our house a home.
House restorer wasn't on my original CV but the more I learn about building with stone and lime mortaring, maybe it should be! I've been a lover of words since I could read. During the power cuts in the 1970s (told you I was ancient!) we played word games on scraps of paper by candle light and I've loved solving anagrams and crosswords ever since. I was encouraged by an English teacher to continue creative writing and the desire to write every day has not left me.As a chubby child, taunted as a fairy elephant, I came to dance late in life but as a dance teacher, I view my work as a mission to encourage everyone to dance. You missed out goddess!....I believe we all hold the universe inside ourselves, just as we dwell within it. Limitations of what we can achieve are set by ourselves, our fears and worries so I try to face my fears and challenge myself, striking out in directions I once thought impossible.
Working in the City was a narrow, blinkered existence so once I left to have my first child, returning to cover holiday for a colleague, I recognised that I was no longer part of this money orientated way of life. If you have a dream, follow your heart. I waited almost 15 years before moving to Wales but the dream never left me. Once the children were through school and University, it was our time and though the break away from family and friends was difficult, their support and love has kept me going through tough times. One of the reasons we left the south of England was the focus on wealth as a measure of worth and the judgemental attitudes of people living there. Since starting our life in a tent in a field in Wales, we've met many local people and not one of them has judged us on appearances. Money and celebrity as goals in life cannot lead to a happy planet. Until we put people first, there will always be a growing chasm between the 'haves' and the 'have nots'. I'm a huge fan of the Dalai Lama and his teachings and he puts kindness and compassion at the top of the list. While the media supports celebrity as an attribute and governments support bankers who cheat and steal with no recourse, nothing will change.
I returned from the Tutankhamun exhibition in London at the age of 10 and wrote my first poem...I've been coming home and writing about my experiences ever since and received my first paid commission as a writer after attending my first belly dance workshops in London. After a two day writing course at a local college, I spent three years writing my first novel....it was wordy and the plot got a little lost but the characters were good and this inspired me to keep writing.
I write magical realism...real people, real magic. The first novel I published was Destiny of Angels, First book in the Lilith Trilogy and, like most of my writing, came out of a 'what if' question...what if you could face the perpetrators of a childhood trauma and offer them the choice of redemption? Who would take it? Who would shun it? Angel Parsons works with Lilith and other gods and goddesses on the astral plane, working magic and rituals alone and with her friends. In the second book, Wrath of Angels, Angel stands up to Lilith and faces the consequences of using magic. I have also published two short story collections, one an easy read and the other, touching on less pleasant subjects. There's also a wee erotic book, Too Hot for Angels, expanding the sex scenes in Destiny of Angels and my non-fiction book Wendy Woo's Year – A Pocketful of Smiles – 101 ideas for a happy year and a happy you. Having lived with depression all my life, this book is full of ideas I use and have used, keeping me smiling through life. Dedicated to my best friend from school who died from cancer at the age of 40, I wanted to share these thoughts, ideas, meditations and recipes to help others.
I launched The Standing Stone book series in November 2014, inspired by the landscape of Wales. The first book, Home for Christmas, is the story of three women living in different time and space who are linked together by the Standing Stone. The second book, Silence is broken is in the final stage of editing and the cover will be ready very soon.
Cats - always willing to "help"!
All my books are self published. As the publishing industry changed daily around me, I made the decision out of a desire to share my stories. My books have strong female characters and though they are met by extreme challenges, just as we all are, they fight for what they believe and I hope the stories are inspirational. I was inspired by the work of Dion Fortune and I hope to bring real magic into the forefront of fiction.I was lucky. A great friend of mine, Peter Jones, helped me (and still helps me!) putting covers together and formatting my work. Without him, I would not be published. I'll be honest, Destiny of Angels, my first novel, is not the greatest book ever written...I made mistakes but the reviews I received helped me greatly and Wrath of Angels is a tighter, pacier and better written book.
I decided to read and review Indie fiction in a bid to help other Indie authors learn and grow into accomplished writers. I write an honest review, always bearing in mind the work that goes into creating a book, but also suggesting what I found confusing or a detriment to the book. Having made a decision when starting on social media to be myself, I continue this with my book reviews. I believed, naively, that others would do the same, the standard of self published books would rise and Indie authors would stand on a level field with traditionally published authors. While reviewers continue to give 5* reviews to their friends or fellow authors in a group, regardless of the quality of a book, this system will not help Indie authors. Self published books will remain in second class. If a reader starts a book based on a rave review and finds it badly written, they won't trust the reviews on an Indie book again. Honest reviews would help change the view of readers but while self published authors publish books that haven't been edited (I have attempted to read many!) and their friends rate them highly, this will never happen.
If you have a story you feel compelled to share, go for it....but be prepared to be disappointed. An eye catching cover is a must and editing your work is essential. If you are driven to continue to share your stories, do it but learn from past mistakes. I read and reviewed a book recently, the third by the author. Littered with mistakes and badly written, I reviewed it as such; by book three, I want to read a more accomplished book....the group disagreed, I was 'sent to Coventry' and everyone else gave it 5*! Not everyone will like your book....be prepared for this...it hurts. My novels take at least two years to write, edit and publish; that's a lot of time and energy to put into a project and when few people buy them, and even fewer review, it's tough to bear but, if you believe in your work, if you are happy to stand up and say 'This is my book and I'm proud of it', keep going.
Thank you so much for interviewing me and allowing me to share a little of the world of Wendy Woo with your fans. I hope they will be interested in adding a little magic into their future reading choices.
Website: www.wendysteele.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/WendyWooauthor Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/destinyofangelsnovel https://www.facebook.com/WendyWooBooks https://www.facebook.com/TheStandingStone Amazon author: http://www.amazon.com/Wendy-Steele/e/B007VZ1P06/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0 http://www.amazon.co.uk/Wendy-Steele/e/B007VZ1P06/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1365459567&sr=1-2-ent LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=216391838&trk=nav_responsive_tab_profileGoodreads author: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6548666.Wendy_Steele
Destiny of Angels (First book in the Lilith Trilogy)Traumatic events in her childhood, send Angel Parsons upon a different life path.
Fifteen years later, with the help of her new 'family' and the resurrected relationship with Jenny Parkes, her only friend from school, Angel confronts the perpetrators of her misery. Rather than seeking revenge and to free herself from her past, Angel uses the skills she has acquired to offer her persecutors the chance of redemption.
Will Angel fulfil her destiny and put her past behind her or will the demons she unleashes consume herself and her 'family' and leave her empty and alone once more?
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B007OX5J8O/?...
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Destiny-Angels-Lilith-Trilogy-Book-ebook/dp/B007OX5J8O/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1423220662&sr=1-1&keywords=destiny+of+angels+wendy+steele
https://www.facebook.com/destinyofangelsnovel
http://www.booktrack.com/#!/bookshelf?booktrackId=f63a302d076b47cd9fa9a558d7e76f4c https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13638993-destiny-of-angels http://www.heibooks.com/Books/Item/256
Wrath of Angels (Second book in the Lilith Trilogy)Angel Parsons – wife, lover, entrepreneur and witch – is back and though she strives to put her past behind her, Lilith the Dark Goddess has other ideas.
Angel has the power at her finger tips. The choice is hers. Will she evoke her wrath to take her revenge on Lilith or will she summon nature's forces and the strongest emotion on earth to put right the wrongs of the Dark Goddess?
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Wrath-Angels-Lilith-Trilogy-Book-ebook/dp/B00KTH2E4Y
http://www.amazon.com/Wrath-Angels-Lilith-Trilogy-Book-ebook/dp/B00KTH2E4Y/ref=sr_1_7?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1402305692&sr=1-7&keywords=wrath+of+angels
https://www.facebook.com/destinyofangelsnovel
http://www.booktrack.com/#!/bookshelf?booktrackId=ab2d0d53b68c4a1482bfd68a8e1b9aee
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22586265-wrath-of-angels http://www.heibooks.com/Books/Item/257
The Standing Stone – Home for ChristmasRachel arrives in Wales to begin a new life but will Marcus jeopardise their future together before it's begun?
Candy knows the punishment for leaving Station 23 unguarded. Will she succeed in convincing Paul to obey the Lesson?
Fern loves her life in the village but when the Tall Folk arrive with metal working skills, will her peace be shattered forever?
Though distanced by time and space, three women find the Standing Stone and the teachings of the Great Mother, Binah. http://www.amazon.com/Standing-Stone-Home-Christmas-ebook/dp/B00OCPBVV6/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1414328713&sr=1-1&keywords=wendy+steele
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Standing-Stone-Home-Christmas/dp/150272278X/ref=asap_B007VZ1P06_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1415177277&sr=1-1
https://www.facebook.com/destinyofangelsnovel https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24341101-the-standing-stone---home-for-christmas
Wendy Woo's Year – A Pocketful of Smiles 101 ideas for a happy year and a happy you
Once upon a time, two eleven year old girls made a pact of friendship. One left school at sixteen while the other stayed on to study. The friendship remained. One went abroad while the other stayed at home. Years passed, marriage and children followed and the friendship continued to flourish via letters and video messages. After twenty nine years the girls were reunited and the friendship sparked with renewed love and affection. Three months later, one friend was diagnosed with cancer. Nine months later, she died.
I was the girl who lived and I made a promise to live my life for two and make sure that every day included a smile in memory of my beautiful friend.
It isn't easy and I don't claim to hold the key to a life of everlasting happiness but the ideas in 'A Pocketful of Smiles' are used or have been used by me and have brought smiles and happiness to my life.
'A Pocketful of Smiles' is about being happy, irrespective of the challenges life brings.
'A Pocketful of Smiles' is often practical, sometimes spiritual but never religious, occasionally witty and full of ideas to bring a smile to your day.
http://www.amazon.com/Wendy-Woos-Year-Pocketful-ebook/dp/B00AAVPXVU/ref=la_B007VZ1P06_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1354202723&sr=1-5 http://www.amazon.co.uk/Wendy-Woos-Year-Pocketful-ebook/dp/B00AAVPXVU/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1354202865&sr=1-3
https://www.facebook.com/WendyWooBooks https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16225278-wendy-woo-s-year---a-pocketful-of-smiles---101-ideas-for-a-happy-year-an
http://www.booktrack.com/#!/bookshelf?booktrackId=4a8c66b64cb94913848239b03fa6edd7
~~~
I was born Wendy Steele in Romford, Essex back in the dark ages. I've lived all over the county, settling in Billericay for 25 years. I moved to Wales in August 2013...first living in a tent, then a caravan and finally in a house in November 2013. I live on the outskirts of a village in a dilapidated Grade II listed farmhouse with my partner and two cats. My three grown up children still live in Essex and I miss them every day. Living on a building site wasn't the original plan but location was our priority and affordability a close second so we're having to work hard to make our house a home.
House restorer wasn't on my original CV but the more I learn about building with stone and lime mortaring, maybe it should be! I've been a lover of words since I could read. During the power cuts in the 1970s (told you I was ancient!) we played word games on scraps of paper by candle light and I've loved solving anagrams and crosswords ever since. I was encouraged by an English teacher to continue creative writing and the desire to write every day has not left me.As a chubby child, taunted as a fairy elephant, I came to dance late in life but as a dance teacher, I view my work as a mission to encourage everyone to dance. You missed out goddess!....I believe we all hold the universe inside ourselves, just as we dwell within it. Limitations of what we can achieve are set by ourselves, our fears and worries so I try to face my fears and challenge myself, striking out in directions I once thought impossible.
Working in the City was a narrow, blinkered existence so once I left to have my first child, returning to cover holiday for a colleague, I recognised that I was no longer part of this money orientated way of life. If you have a dream, follow your heart. I waited almost 15 years before moving to Wales but the dream never left me. Once the children were through school and University, it was our time and though the break away from family and friends was difficult, their support and love has kept me going through tough times. One of the reasons we left the south of England was the focus on wealth as a measure of worth and the judgemental attitudes of people living there. Since starting our life in a tent in a field in Wales, we've met many local people and not one of them has judged us on appearances. Money and celebrity as goals in life cannot lead to a happy planet. Until we put people first, there will always be a growing chasm between the 'haves' and the 'have nots'. I'm a huge fan of the Dalai Lama and his teachings and he puts kindness and compassion at the top of the list. While the media supports celebrity as an attribute and governments support bankers who cheat and steal with no recourse, nothing will change.
I returned from the Tutankhamun exhibition in London at the age of 10 and wrote my first poem...I've been coming home and writing about my experiences ever since and received my first paid commission as a writer after attending my first belly dance workshops in London. After a two day writing course at a local college, I spent three years writing my first novel....it was wordy and the plot got a little lost but the characters were good and this inspired me to keep writing.
I write magical realism...real people, real magic. The first novel I published was Destiny of Angels, First book in the Lilith Trilogy and, like most of my writing, came out of a 'what if' question...what if you could face the perpetrators of a childhood trauma and offer them the choice of redemption? Who would take it? Who would shun it? Angel Parsons works with Lilith and other gods and goddesses on the astral plane, working magic and rituals alone and with her friends. In the second book, Wrath of Angels, Angel stands up to Lilith and faces the consequences of using magic. I have also published two short story collections, one an easy read and the other, touching on less pleasant subjects. There's also a wee erotic book, Too Hot for Angels, expanding the sex scenes in Destiny of Angels and my non-fiction book Wendy Woo's Year – A Pocketful of Smiles – 101 ideas for a happy year and a happy you. Having lived with depression all my life, this book is full of ideas I use and have used, keeping me smiling through life. Dedicated to my best friend from school who died from cancer at the age of 40, I wanted to share these thoughts, ideas, meditations and recipes to help others.
I launched The Standing Stone book series in November 2014, inspired by the landscape of Wales. The first book, Home for Christmas, is the story of three women living in different time and space who are linked together by the Standing Stone. The second book, Silence is broken is in the final stage of editing and the cover will be ready very soon.
Cats - always willing to "help"!All my books are self published. As the publishing industry changed daily around me, I made the decision out of a desire to share my stories. My books have strong female characters and though they are met by extreme challenges, just as we all are, they fight for what they believe and I hope the stories are inspirational. I was inspired by the work of Dion Fortune and I hope to bring real magic into the forefront of fiction.I was lucky. A great friend of mine, Peter Jones, helped me (and still helps me!) putting covers together and formatting my work. Without him, I would not be published. I'll be honest, Destiny of Angels, my first novel, is not the greatest book ever written...I made mistakes but the reviews I received helped me greatly and Wrath of Angels is a tighter, pacier and better written book.
I decided to read and review Indie fiction in a bid to help other Indie authors learn and grow into accomplished writers. I write an honest review, always bearing in mind the work that goes into creating a book, but also suggesting what I found confusing or a detriment to the book. Having made a decision when starting on social media to be myself, I continue this with my book reviews. I believed, naively, that others would do the same, the standard of self published books would rise and Indie authors would stand on a level field with traditionally published authors. While reviewers continue to give 5* reviews to their friends or fellow authors in a group, regardless of the quality of a book, this system will not help Indie authors. Self published books will remain in second class. If a reader starts a book based on a rave review and finds it badly written, they won't trust the reviews on an Indie book again. Honest reviews would help change the view of readers but while self published authors publish books that haven't been edited (I have attempted to read many!) and their friends rate them highly, this will never happen.
If you have a story you feel compelled to share, go for it....but be prepared to be disappointed. An eye catching cover is a must and editing your work is essential. If you are driven to continue to share your stories, do it but learn from past mistakes. I read and reviewed a book recently, the third by the author. Littered with mistakes and badly written, I reviewed it as such; by book three, I want to read a more accomplished book....the group disagreed, I was 'sent to Coventry' and everyone else gave it 5*! Not everyone will like your book....be prepared for this...it hurts. My novels take at least two years to write, edit and publish; that's a lot of time and energy to put into a project and when few people buy them, and even fewer review, it's tough to bear but, if you believe in your work, if you are happy to stand up and say 'This is my book and I'm proud of it', keep going.
Thank you so much for interviewing me and allowing me to share a little of the world of Wendy Woo with your fans. I hope they will be interested in adding a little magic into their future reading choices.
Website: www.wendysteele.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/WendyWooauthor Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/destinyofangelsnovel https://www.facebook.com/WendyWooBooks https://www.facebook.com/TheStandingStone Amazon author: http://www.amazon.com/Wendy-Steele/e/B007VZ1P06/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0 http://www.amazon.co.uk/Wendy-Steele/e/B007VZ1P06/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1365459567&sr=1-2-ent LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=216391838&trk=nav_responsive_tab_profileGoodreads author: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6548666.Wendy_Steele
Destiny of Angels (First book in the Lilith Trilogy)Traumatic events in her childhood, send Angel Parsons upon a different life path.
Fifteen years later, with the help of her new 'family' and the resurrected relationship with Jenny Parkes, her only friend from school, Angel confronts the perpetrators of her misery. Rather than seeking revenge and to free herself from her past, Angel uses the skills she has acquired to offer her persecutors the chance of redemption.
Will Angel fulfil her destiny and put her past behind her or will the demons she unleashes consume herself and her 'family' and leave her empty and alone once more?
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B007OX5J8O/?...
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Destiny-Angels-Lilith-Trilogy-Book-ebook/dp/B007OX5J8O/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1423220662&sr=1-1&keywords=destiny+of+angels+wendy+steele
https://www.facebook.com/destinyofangelsnovel
http://www.booktrack.com/#!/bookshelf?booktrackId=f63a302d076b47cd9fa9a558d7e76f4c https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13638993-destiny-of-angels http://www.heibooks.com/Books/Item/256
Wrath of Angels (Second book in the Lilith Trilogy)Angel Parsons – wife, lover, entrepreneur and witch – is back and though she strives to put her past behind her, Lilith the Dark Goddess has other ideas.
Angel has the power at her finger tips. The choice is hers. Will she evoke her wrath to take her revenge on Lilith or will she summon nature's forces and the strongest emotion on earth to put right the wrongs of the Dark Goddess?
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Wrath-Angels-Lilith-Trilogy-Book-ebook/dp/B00KTH2E4Y
http://www.amazon.com/Wrath-Angels-Lilith-Trilogy-Book-ebook/dp/B00KTH2E4Y/ref=sr_1_7?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1402305692&sr=1-7&keywords=wrath+of+angels
https://www.facebook.com/destinyofangelsnovel
http://www.booktrack.com/#!/bookshelf?booktrackId=ab2d0d53b68c4a1482bfd68a8e1b9aee
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22586265-wrath-of-angels http://www.heibooks.com/Books/Item/257
The Standing Stone – Home for ChristmasRachel arrives in Wales to begin a new life but will Marcus jeopardise their future together before it's begun?
Candy knows the punishment for leaving Station 23 unguarded. Will she succeed in convincing Paul to obey the Lesson?
Fern loves her life in the village but when the Tall Folk arrive with metal working skills, will her peace be shattered forever?
Though distanced by time and space, three women find the Standing Stone and the teachings of the Great Mother, Binah. http://www.amazon.com/Standing-Stone-Home-Christmas-ebook/dp/B00OCPBVV6/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1414328713&sr=1-1&keywords=wendy+steele
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Standing-Stone-Home-Christmas/dp/150272278X/ref=asap_B007VZ1P06_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1415177277&sr=1-1
https://www.facebook.com/destinyofangelsnovel https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24341101-the-standing-stone---home-for-christmas
Wendy Woo's Year – A Pocketful of Smiles 101 ideas for a happy year and a happy you
Once upon a time, two eleven year old girls made a pact of friendship. One left school at sixteen while the other stayed on to study. The friendship remained. One went abroad while the other stayed at home. Years passed, marriage and children followed and the friendship continued to flourish via letters and video messages. After twenty nine years the girls were reunited and the friendship sparked with renewed love and affection. Three months later, one friend was diagnosed with cancer. Nine months later, she died.
I was the girl who lived and I made a promise to live my life for two and make sure that every day included a smile in memory of my beautiful friend.
It isn't easy and I don't claim to hold the key to a life of everlasting happiness but the ideas in 'A Pocketful of Smiles' are used or have been used by me and have brought smiles and happiness to my life.
'A Pocketful of Smiles' is about being happy, irrespective of the challenges life brings.
'A Pocketful of Smiles' is often practical, sometimes spiritual but never religious, occasionally witty and full of ideas to bring a smile to your day.
http://www.amazon.com/Wendy-Woos-Year-Pocketful-ebook/dp/B00AAVPXVU/ref=la_B007VZ1P06_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1354202723&sr=1-5 http://www.amazon.co.uk/Wendy-Woos-Year-Pocketful-ebook/dp/B00AAVPXVU/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1354202865&sr=1-3
https://www.facebook.com/WendyWooBooks https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16225278-wendy-woo-s-year---a-pocketful-of-smiles---101-ideas-for-a-happy-year-an
http://www.booktrack.com/#!/bookshelf?booktrackId=4a8c66b64cb94913848239b03fa6edd7
April 25, 2015
Author Interview - Kassandra Lea
Long time friend and fellow writer, Kassandra, popped by a few weeks ago to talk about her latest story. Released by publisher Supposed Crimes, it'll appear in the Young Love, Old Hearts anthology which is set to be released in May.
Hi Kassandra! Welcome to the site! Please tell us a little about yourself.
Oh, gees, a little about me. I wanted to be Batman growing up; does that count as something about me? I live in southern Wisconsin where I can usually be found writing, hanging out with horses, or driving cars.
You have a new story out! Without giving too much away, what can you tell us about it? And where can we find it?
It’s just a cute little piece involving a May-December romance. Keegan is over thinking his dinner date way too much. The story is featured in an anthology put out by Supposed Crimes LLC. The title is Young Love, Old Hearts and it can be found on Amazon as well as their website.
What first drew you to writing? How long have you been writing for?
What first drew me…the inability to make up my mind about a career! There are so many fascinating opportunities in this world and it’s full of wonder that over the years I’ve wanted to be everything. Writing lets me do that. I’ve been writing more than a decade and actually still have the handwritten copy of my first attempt at a novel.
Where do you draw your inspiration from? Are there any particular scenarios or situations you find yourself drawn to? Do you keep logs or notebooks for ideas and images? Or do you have other ways of keeping track of those important ideas?
Inspiration comes from life itself. A scene, a phrase, a simple thought of “what if”. I’m not sure if there are any situations I’m drawn to, but I’ve noticed over the years my characters tend to struggle with emotionally and at least half of them suffer some form of mental trauma. Most of my ideas get jotted down in a notebook that is extremely precious to me, go figure. I have a million flashdrives that continue all manner of writing related materials and it turns out they’re also great for keeping me more organized.
You've written in a number of genres, including supernatural and paranormal. You also have a host of interesting characters. What drew you to those genres? And how do you find your characters forming? Is there anything you look for in a character?
What’s not to like about supernatural and paranormal? Works by the likes of Jim Butcher and Simon R Green really taught me what it meant to write the likes of urban fantasy. Turns out I like the taste of it because of the familiarity of the present mixed with the unusual of supernatural/paranormal worlds. My characters tend to form themselves. I just sit down to write and they tell me their stories. The only thing I look for is that they remain true to themselves. Wait, does that sound corny?
How do you go about the process of writing? Do you set aside times? Write when the inspiration hits?
I try to write something every day just to keep the creative juices flowing. Most of my work gets done on Mondays and Wednesdays when I’m not pegged down at my day job. Sometimes I write with a laptop on the couch, other times it’s at the desk. I’ve been known to write on my phone while working.
What was the first story you had published? What inspired you to write it and send it off?
Grave Appeal was my first and sadly it’s no longer available. But you were the one that inspired me, technically speaking! You were the one that suggested I write something for your publisher and I gave it a whirl. Who knew I’d be good at romance? Though I might suggest people not make out with gargoyles in graveyards…
Becoming a published author is a massive, and exciting, step. How do you feel having your work out there for everyone to read?
Holy crap, people are going to read it! Will they like it? Will they trash it? Wait, is anyone reading it? The whole thing is exciting and also a little scary. But I’m eager to get more stories out into the world. They need to stop rattling around in my head.
For many of us, sometimes it's a terrifying experience having our life's work out there for all to read. How does it make you feel?
Ah, ha, seems I answered that above. I’m actually still coming to terms with the fact I’ve written romance and seem to be making my niche in that genre. It was never a genre I considered working with all these years and I actually swore I would never write it. So I guess to be perfectly honest I’m sometimes a little unhappy. At the same time I am immensely thankful for the opportunities presented to me.
Writing, and particularly publishing, aren't easy. Everyone goes through those moments of doubt and self loathing. Tell us about a moment when you thought about quitting and about how you decided to keep on going.
I think about quitting a lot. And self-doubt is my old friend. I’m constantly wondering if my characters are real enough, if the story is compelling enough to make the reader turn the page. Every time I get a rejection a little part of me cries out that I’m wasting my time. But I forge ahead because writing is what makes me happy. I love my characters for all their struggles and flaws and I want to tell their stories.
What advice would you give to someone looking to get into writing or getting published?
Keep going. Try something new. You never know, the next story could be your golden ticket.
You have several published stories. Where can we can we find them?
Amazon! Under the name Kassandra Lea. They should all be there and buy them! I need to get my Mom tickets to see Wicked.
Any final words?!
This was awesome and fun. Your questions were great. Now if you don’t mind I’ve got some writing to do!
Young Love, Old Hearts will be released in May and is available now to pre-order on Amazon. All of Kassandra's work can be found on her Amazon page.
Hi Kassandra! Welcome to the site! Please tell us a little about yourself.
Oh, gees, a little about me. I wanted to be Batman growing up; does that count as something about me? I live in southern Wisconsin where I can usually be found writing, hanging out with horses, or driving cars.
You have a new story out! Without giving too much away, what can you tell us about it? And where can we find it?
It’s just a cute little piece involving a May-December romance. Keegan is over thinking his dinner date way too much. The story is featured in an anthology put out by Supposed Crimes LLC. The title is Young Love, Old Hearts and it can be found on Amazon as well as their website.
What first drew you to writing? How long have you been writing for?
What first drew me…the inability to make up my mind about a career! There are so many fascinating opportunities in this world and it’s full of wonder that over the years I’ve wanted to be everything. Writing lets me do that. I’ve been writing more than a decade and actually still have the handwritten copy of my first attempt at a novel.
Where do you draw your inspiration from? Are there any particular scenarios or situations you find yourself drawn to? Do you keep logs or notebooks for ideas and images? Or do you have other ways of keeping track of those important ideas?
Inspiration comes from life itself. A scene, a phrase, a simple thought of “what if”. I’m not sure if there are any situations I’m drawn to, but I’ve noticed over the years my characters tend to struggle with emotionally and at least half of them suffer some form of mental trauma. Most of my ideas get jotted down in a notebook that is extremely precious to me, go figure. I have a million flashdrives that continue all manner of writing related materials and it turns out they’re also great for keeping me more organized.
You've written in a number of genres, including supernatural and paranormal. You also have a host of interesting characters. What drew you to those genres? And how do you find your characters forming? Is there anything you look for in a character?
What’s not to like about supernatural and paranormal? Works by the likes of Jim Butcher and Simon R Green really taught me what it meant to write the likes of urban fantasy. Turns out I like the taste of it because of the familiarity of the present mixed with the unusual of supernatural/paranormal worlds. My characters tend to form themselves. I just sit down to write and they tell me their stories. The only thing I look for is that they remain true to themselves. Wait, does that sound corny?
How do you go about the process of writing? Do you set aside times? Write when the inspiration hits?
I try to write something every day just to keep the creative juices flowing. Most of my work gets done on Mondays and Wednesdays when I’m not pegged down at my day job. Sometimes I write with a laptop on the couch, other times it’s at the desk. I’ve been known to write on my phone while working.
What was the first story you had published? What inspired you to write it and send it off?
Grave Appeal was my first and sadly it’s no longer available. But you were the one that inspired me, technically speaking! You were the one that suggested I write something for your publisher and I gave it a whirl. Who knew I’d be good at romance? Though I might suggest people not make out with gargoyles in graveyards…
Becoming a published author is a massive, and exciting, step. How do you feel having your work out there for everyone to read?
Holy crap, people are going to read it! Will they like it? Will they trash it? Wait, is anyone reading it? The whole thing is exciting and also a little scary. But I’m eager to get more stories out into the world. They need to stop rattling around in my head.
For many of us, sometimes it's a terrifying experience having our life's work out there for all to read. How does it make you feel?
Ah, ha, seems I answered that above. I’m actually still coming to terms with the fact I’ve written romance and seem to be making my niche in that genre. It was never a genre I considered working with all these years and I actually swore I would never write it. So I guess to be perfectly honest I’m sometimes a little unhappy. At the same time I am immensely thankful for the opportunities presented to me.
Writing, and particularly publishing, aren't easy. Everyone goes through those moments of doubt and self loathing. Tell us about a moment when you thought about quitting and about how you decided to keep on going.
I think about quitting a lot. And self-doubt is my old friend. I’m constantly wondering if my characters are real enough, if the story is compelling enough to make the reader turn the page. Every time I get a rejection a little part of me cries out that I’m wasting my time. But I forge ahead because writing is what makes me happy. I love my characters for all their struggles and flaws and I want to tell their stories.
What advice would you give to someone looking to get into writing or getting published?
Keep going. Try something new. You never know, the next story could be your golden ticket.
You have several published stories. Where can we can we find them?
Amazon! Under the name Kassandra Lea. They should all be there and buy them! I need to get my Mom tickets to see Wicked.
Any final words?!
This was awesome and fun. Your questions were great. Now if you don’t mind I’ve got some writing to do!
Young Love, Old Hearts will be released in May and is available now to pre-order on Amazon. All of Kassandra's work can be found on her Amazon page.
April 22, 2015
A Second Past Midnight - OUT TODAY!
In 1981, at the height of the Cold War, a single nuclear warhead sent America's technological capability back to the 18th century. Four years later, the shattered country is still struggling to put itself back together. Infrastructure has crumbled, the government is gone, and convicted criminals are hunted for food.
James lives in a small, Midwestern town. By day, he tends his family's farm, trading the food they grow for other supplies. By night, he dreams of being a musician. But with his world destroyed, music remains a frivolous dream.
That is, until he meets Flame. Convicted of drug dealing, Flame has become a part of the bi-annual Shoot to Kill hunting season. He has a dark past and people want him dead. Yet he has a strong determination to live and shares James' musical dream. James and Flame join forces, traveling first to New York and then to London, in spite of the numerous obstacles in their path and the shadow of death hanging over them. Will they be strong enough to escape it and find their dreams together?
Available from:Torquere Press Amazon Amazon UK
April 19, 2015
Record Store Day - 18th April 2015
Record Store Day has been running since 2007 and it's something I've always meant to attend. Unfortunately, I've missed the past few due to either being in transit or out of the country. So 2015 was going to be my year!
A quick internet search told me that it was probably going to be a long day and, for the UK version of RSD, this proved true.
In my case, that “bit of a wait” turned into three hours. Only a single store in our county was taking part, hence the huge queue at 8.30am on a Saturday morning. Hardly surprising considering that Leicester has quite a musical heritage.
The queue at 8.30am. The store is somewhere in that arcade!One of the beautiful things about RSD is that it not only gives people the chance to get their hands on exclusive, one-day-only-limited-print-run releases, but it also champions the little guy. Those stores that would otherwise go out of business thanks to the likes of Amazon, ebay, and HMV now get the chance to draw in new customers. And they got me hook, line, and sinker.
So, 8.30am on a Saturday morning in April, I joined the back of a very long line. I had a list of four of the day's releases and I knew that there were two I probably didn't have a hope of getting (and would probably have to resort to ebay later if I felt that I needed them). The line kept growing.
And growing.
And growing.
I have no idea how many people were waiting for this store to open but it was A LOT! Friends who attended other RSD events were shocked at just how long we queued for. But, when you finally got into the store, you realised why.
Rockaboom Records is TINY! Teeny tiny and perfectly formed with racks of records along the walls and a twin rack at its heart. RSD for them was a two man job as there really wasn't room for anyone else. Think your grandma's front room and you've probably hit the total floor space of this store.
But they took amazing care of the people standing in line. As well as a special queue area, they had staff members constantly walking the line to make sure that everyone was okay. They handed out cakes and generally made the wait as easy as possible.
Record Store Day is an amazing opportunity to discover new places, find new bands, and meet new people. As well as finding a new independent store to support, I know that I'll definitely be attending again as well as exploring the other record stores Leicester has to offer.
A few pieces of advice for if you are planning on going next year:
Wear comfortable clothes and take water and snacks. You might be in for a bit of a wait.Releases are limited edition (normally to around 2000 or less) and not every store will have equal amounts of each release. Some may only have a single copy while others will have 30+. Some stores will tell you in advance how many they have in stock, some won't tell you at all so as to retain the hype and mystery. Don't get your expectations on what you want too high. Chances are, it'll be sold out when you get to the front of the queue (unless you were the first person in the queue, of course! But even that's not guaranteed if the store are holding copies of a certain release for someone). Go with a list that has back up records that you're happy to own. I wanted the Metallica and Foo Fighters ones but knew I probably wouldn't get them. Instead, I came home with Stone Sour and Slayer. I got to have a day out and a bunch of fun so I'm a happy bunny. It would be sad to spend time waiting only to leave empty handed, as I saw several people do. At the end of the day, you're helping an indie store stay in business. The more business they do, the longer they'll be with us.Get there as early as you can. Because of the distance to my nearest participating store and the times that public transport started, I didn't have a choice but to get there when I did. I know that the people at the front of the queue arrived at 5am.Everyone in the queue is there for the same reason so make friends with the people around you. I did just that (Hi, Dave and Hannah!) and had an absolute blast! The three hours absolutely flew by and I haven't laughed so hard in a long time! It also helps if you need to go for a bathroom/cigarette break or if you need to make a run for food and drink.If you're not feeling sociable, take a book/MP3 player/phone.Most of all, enjoy the day and encourage other stores to get involved for the following year! The more stores that do it, the more fun we can have!
Did you attend Record Store Day 2015? If so, what were your experiences? Feel free to leave them in the comments or on the Facebook page!
My "haul" from Record Store Day 2015
