Toi Thomas's Blog, page 108

Interview 22: Marianne Marts

Greetings humans, half-breeds, and everything in between. A while back, I had the pleasure to interview my new friend, Marianne Marts. She is visiting the ECS as a guest and sharing loads of interesting insights into her work. Be sure to look around and see what she has to offer. Here are the results of our interview. A good time was truly had by all, and here’s how it went down.

Hi there Marianne! It’s so awesome to have you here at the ECS Universe. Don’t worry about the darkness, your eyes will adjust.
So tell me, who is Marianne Marts?
I am the youngest of six children and the only girl. I am a special education teacher, an advocate by trade, and a sister by heart. Being Joey’s guardian isn’t always easy, but most often it is a blessing.
I’m so glad to finally have the opportunity to chat with you. I too work in the special education field and am excited to help spread the word about your book in any way I can.
So whacha got for me today?
Will You Be My Friend?walks us through what it's like living with a disability and trying to have real friends who will share their love, while disregarding any differences.   It helps us teach kids empathy and compassion to help combat bullying.
Bully isn’t something that just happens between the rich and the poor and sadly to say I find that more adults tend to bully than kids, that’s where the kids learn it. Awareness is key and I’m grateful for author’s such as you.
So who’s starring is this 2 dimensional script read of Will You Be My Friend?
Joey is the main character. He’s my brother, the oldest, and just happens to have Down syndrome.  This story walks through the realities of daily life for an individual with a disability and their desire to just be one of the gang!  Joey teaches similarities with our own life experiences and reminds us of how alike we all really are, regardless of how we look or act by using interactive questions to keep children engaged!
This sounds very intimate and touching as well as educational. I’m impressed.
Past, present, future, is there a rhyme or reason to your writing?
This series was inspired by God, unemployment, bully awareness passion, my husband Karl, and my oldest brother Joey Solinsky.  As I quit my last job my husband challenged me to write a children’s book.  That same night, I had my first book written in an hour and the illustrations done a month later.  And as they say...the rest is history!  Joey’s Ups with Downs is at least a 5 book series.  I am kinda an all or nothing kinda girl...all at once that is!   YOU are My Hero![Smashwords, Amazon] is the second volume in the Joey’s Ups with Downs Series talking about Joey’s life experiences having Down Syndrome.  YOU are My Hero! is a book about everyday heroes in Joey's life and how he is a hero to others!   This book brought freedom and healing and reminded me of all that Joey has influenced in my life and of those around him and made me who I am today.
Inspiration comes in all forms, but I guess you just can’t argue with divine inspiration. It’s one thing to be inspired to write something with so much truth and passion, but when your work is completed and a feeling of, not only satisfaction but of, healing and empowerment overcome you, you know you’ve written something special.
What author(s) has most influenced your writing? Why or how?
Amazon.comNot sure I actually have one...There are not really any or very few doing what I do in this genre.  My desire is to be able to create interactivity and help kids see from Joey’s perspective, similar to the We are All Alike, We are All Differentbook, written and illustrated by The Cheltenham Elementary School. Although, Be Good to Eddie Lee by Virginia Fleming is one of my favorite stories about a person with a disability. 
I’m not familiar with Be Good to Eddie, but I may have to check it out. We Are All Alike… is a good book.

Whose brain are you just itching to scratch?
Joey's...that might sounds strange but let me explain.  I would love to be able to help him more and to understand his thought process so that he doesn't have to hurt himself to get his point across.
That makes perfect sense. I’ve often wondered what was going on inside the minds of some of the kids I’ve worked with.
Who is so you and why?
WikipediaMy hubby thinks my laugh is like Betty Rubble from the Flintstones...just saying that makes me laugh!  I guess personality wise I am similar as well.  Wish I carried her figure though...someday...I am working on it!
How cute! I like the way Betty laughs.
What’s your ideal reading spot for your next highly anticipated read?
Either in bed next to my husband or on my hammock outside reading the bible.  That is our favorite book to read together.  Currently we are reading books from Andrew Wommack.  Neither of us are big readers due to both of us having reading issues growing up.  Although now that I have an ipad I find myself more motivated to read...and am just finding a genre to explore and enjoy. 

What was your favorite book or story, pre-teen years?
I remember reading a lot of Beverly Cleary.  I really enjoyed her series
I enjoyed the work of Cleary quite a bit myself growing up…Now this is where the questions get a little kooky; are you ready?
Happily.
Alright then, here we go.
If you could only watch one movie for the rest of your life, what would it be?
So many to choose from...ELF! 
What makes you geek out?
I really love to sing worship music.  Currently I am not singing on a worship team anywhere.  Which is a nice break...but I sure do just love to raise my hands and voice to the Lord! 
My mother loves worship music. I must admit, since growing up around it, it does have a special place in my heart as well. Sometimes just picking and singing the right song can turn your whole day around.
So what’s testing your patience right now?
jglm.orgWaiting to start a Curry Blake study with some friends.  But mostly I’m really look forward to picking up Joey on our weekly visits.  He is always so much fun and also usually very relaxing as not much is expected.  He just lets me be me!  Something to look forward to and one night I don’t have to cook dinner!  LOL!  Oh my goodness I almost forgot...I am waiting for a good friend to get his book published which is all currently under wraps...it is sooooo good!  I am super excited for his instant success!
Wow, you have quite a bit going on…I like that. I feel sad for people when there’s nothing going on in their lives and they have nothing to look forward to. Glad to hear that your friend is publishing a book and glad to know that you cherish your times with Joey.
When the soundtrack of your life is playing in your head, what songs express your glee and what songs bring out your rage?
Roar-in’ like a lion ...Newsboys and Whom Shall I fear [<=listen]by Google SearchChrist Tomlin are my favs at the moment.  They just bring out the passion inside me.  And don’t get me started on RAP or any kind of music that you can’t figure out the words too...that just makes me grumpy.  Oh yeah and so does political news/talk shows.  I don’t need the negative just let me live in love and positive light!
Those are pretty good songs. Coming from the south, Whom Shall I Fear, is a classic.
I try not to lay stereotypes onto to people, especially when I’m just getting to know them, but I knew you’d say something about Rap. You’re not the only one and religion seems to have nothing to do with it. People either love it or hate it. I adore allmusical creatively and diversity. I just can’t help it, but I don’t realistically expect everyone to feel the way I do.
Totally rhetorical here, but I wonder, are all those Christian rappers just as bad as all the rest?
What’s the most fun experience you’ve ever had, to date?
WikipediaI have so many with my hubby....not sure I can just pick one!  From our annual trips to the shooting range with the whole family to our weekend trips to Pinetop to our annual romantic 1st date anniversary date to Sabino...but our best trip I believe was to PA for a friend’s wedding and enjoying both sides of our family!  We had a blast and want to go back!
How very sweet…and I agree that time with family is the best.
Not that you can see into the future, but in your opinion, what does the future hold?
I will have regular Inspirational speaking engagements and school visits that will encourage everyone and help them to learn that their words have power.  I will have published at least 4 more books in my series and through Media interviews with local and national media outlets, will grow advocacy and support for siblings of people with disabilities. 
Ok humans, half-breeds, and everything in between, that’s all for today. Be sure to follow this blog to see who will be visiting next time. For more from Marianne Marts, check out these great links:
www.joeysupswithdowns.com
www.facebook.com/joeysups
http://pinterest.com/joeysups/
Google + https://plus.google.com/u/0/116252482595641941881/about/p/pub
https://twitter.com/JoeysUps

Interview 21: Marianne Marts

Greetings humans, half-breeds, and everything in between. A while back, I had the pleasure to interview my new friend, Marianne Marts. She is visiting the ECS as a guest and sharing loads of interesting insights into her work. Be sure to look around and see what she has to offer. Here are the results of our interview. A good time was truly had by all, and here’s how it went down.
Hi there Marianne! It’s so awesome to have you here at the ECS Universe. Don’t worry about the darkness, your eyes will adjust.
So tell me, who is Marianne Marts?
I am the youngest of six children and the only girl. I am a special education teacher, an advocate by trade, and a sister by heart. Being Joey’s guardian isn’t always easy, but most often it is a blessing.
I’m so glad to finally have the opportunity to chat with you. I too work in the special education field and am excited to help spread the word about your book in any way I can.
So whacha got for me today?
Will You Be My Friend?walks us through what it's like living with a disability and trying to have real friends who will share their love, while disregarding any differences.   It helps us teach kids empathy and compassion to help combat bullying.
Bully isn’t something that just happens between the rich and the poor and sadly to say I find that more adults tend to bully than kids, that’s where the kids learn it. Awareness is key and I’m grateful for author’s such as you.
So who’s starring is this 2 dimensional script read of Will You Be My Friend?
Joey is the main character. He’s my brother, the oldest, and just happens to have Down syndrome.  This story walks through the realities of daily life for an individual with a disability and their desire to just be one of the gang!  Joey teaches similarities with our own life experiences and reminds us of how alike we all really are, regardless of how we look or act by using interactive questions to keep children engaged!
This sounds very intimate and touching as well as educational. I’m impressed.
Past, present, future, is there a rhyme or reason to your writing?
This series was inspired by God, unemployment, bully awareness passion, my husband Karl, and my oldest brother Joey Solinsky.  As I quit my last job my husband challenged me to write a children’s book.  That same night, I had my first book written in an hour and the illustrations done a month later.  And as they say...the rest is history!  Joey’s Ups with Downs is at least a 5 book series.  I am kinda an all or nothing kinda girl...all at once that is!   YOU are My Hero![Smashwords, Amazon] is the second volume in the Joey’s Ups with Downs Series talking about Joey’s life experiences having Down Syndrome.  YOU are My Hero! is a book about everyday heroes in Joey's life and how he is a hero to others!   This book brought freedom and healing and reminded me of all that Joey has influenced in my life and of those around him and made me who I am today. 
Inspiration comes in all forms, but I guess you just can’t argue with divine inspiration. It’s one thing to be inspired to write something with so much truth and passion, but when your work is completed and a feeling of, not only satisfaction but of, healing and empowerment overcome you, you know you’ve written something special.
What author(s) has most influenced your writing? Why or how?
Amazon.comNot sure I actually have one...There are not really any or very few doing what I do in this genre.  My desire is to be able to create interactivity and help kids see from Joey’s perspective, similar to the We are All Alike, We are All Differentbook, written and illustrated by The Cheltenham Elementary School. Although, Be Good to Eddie Lee by Virginia Fleming is one of my favorite stories about a person with a disability. 
I’m not familiar with Be Good to Eddie, but I may have to check it out. We Are All Alike… is a good book.

Whose brain are you just itching to scratch?
Joey's...that might sounds strange but let me explain.  I would love to be able to help him more and to understand his thought process so that he doesn't have to hurt himself to get his point across.
That makes perfect sense. I’ve often wondered what was going on inside the minds of some of the kids I’ve worked with.
Who is so you and why?
WikipediaMy hubby thinks my laugh is like Betty Rubble from the Flintstones...just saying that makes me laugh!  I guess personality wise I am similar as well.  Wish I carried her figure though...someday...I am working on it!
 How cute! I like the way Betty laughs.
What’s your ideal reading spot for your next highly anticipated read?
Either in bed next to my husband or on my hammock outside reading the bible.  That is our favorite book to read together.  Currently we are reading books from Andrew Wommack.  Neither of us are big readers due to both of us having reading issues growing up.  Although now that I have an ipad I find myself more motivated to read...and am just finding a genre to explore and enjoy. 
 
What was your favorite book or story, pre-teen years?
I remember reading a lot of Beverly Cleary.  I really enjoyed her series
I enjoyed the work of Cleary quite a bit myself growing up…Now this is where the questions get a little kooky; are you ready?
Happily.
Alright then, here we go.
If you could only watch one movie for the rest of your life, what would it be?
So many to choose from...ELF! 
What makes you geek out?
I really love to sing worship music.  Currently I am not singing on a worship team anywhere.  Which is a nice break...but I sure do just love to raise my hands and voice to the Lord! 
My mother loves worship music. I must admit, since growing up around it, it does have a special place in my heart as well. Sometimes just picking and singing the right song can turn your whole day around.
So what’s testing your patience right now?
jglm.orgWaiting to start a Curry Blake study with some friends.  But mostly I’m really look forward to picking up Joey on our weekly visits.  He is always so much fun and also usually very relaxing as not much is expected.  He just lets me be me!  Something to look forward to and one night I don’t have to cook dinner!  LOL!  Oh my goodness I almost forgot...I am waiting for a good friend to get his book published which is all currently under wraps...it is sooooo good!  I am super excited for his instant success!
Wow, you have quite a bit going on…I like that. I feel sad for people when there’s nothing going on in their lives and they have nothing to look forward to. Glad to hear that your friend is publishing a book and glad to know that you cherish your times with Joey.
When the soundtrack of your life is playing in your head, what songs express your glee and what songs bring out your rage?
Roar-in’ like a lion ...Newsboys and Whom Shall I fear [<=listen]by Google SearchChrist Tomlin are my favs at the moment.  They just bring out the passion inside me.  And don’t get me started on RAP or any kind of music that you can’t figure out the words too...that just makes me grumpy.  Oh yeah and so does political news/talk shows.  I don’t need the negative just let me live in love and positive light!
Those are pretty good songs. Coming from the south, Whom Shall I Fear, is a classic.
I try not to lay stereotypes onto to people, especially when I’m just getting to know them, but I knew you’d say something about Rap. You’re not the only one and religion seems to have nothing to do with it. People either love it or hate it. I adore allmusical creatively and diversity. I just can’t help it, but I don’t realistically expect everyone to feel the way I do.
Totally rhetorical here, but I wonder, are all those Christian rappers just as bad as all the rest?
What’s the most fun experience you’ve ever had, to date?
WikipediaI have so many with my hubby....not sure I can just pick one!  From our annual trips to the shooting range with the whole family to our weekend trips to Pinetop to our annual romantic 1st date anniversary date to Sabino...but our best trip I believe was to PA for a friend’s wedding and enjoying both sides of our family!  We had a blast and want to go back!
How very sweet…and I agree that time with family is the best.
Not that you can see into the future, but in your opinion, what does the future hold?
I will have regular Inspirational speaking engagements and school visits that will encourage everyone and help them to learn that their words have power.  I will have published at least 4 more books in my series and through Media interviews with local and national media outlets, will grow advocacy and support for siblings of people with disabilities. 
Ok humans, half-breeds, and everything in between, that’s all for today. Be sure to follow this blog to see who will be visiting next time. For more from Marianne Marts, check out these great links:
www.joeysupswithdowns.com
www.facebook.com/joeysups
http://pinterest.com/joeysups/
Google + https://plus.google.com/u/0/116252482595641941881/about/p/pub
https://twitter.com/JoeysUps

Interview 21: Bob Stout

Greetings humans, half-breeds, and everything in between. A while back, I had the pleasure to interview my new friend, Bob Stout. He is visiting the ECS as a guest and sharing loads of interesting insights into his work. Be sure to look around and see what he has to offer. Here are the results of our interview. A good time was truly had by all, and here’s how it went down.


Hi there Bob! It’s so awesome to have you here at the ECS Universe. Don’t worry about the darkness, your eyes will adjust.
 So tell me, who is Bob Stout?
Google SearchI’m a freelance journalist who has worked as a magazine editor and newspaper reporter and copy editor and at various times, and as a government accountant, theater director, and factory worker. I have written two books, two novels, and half-a-dozen poetry chapbooks. I have a degree from a Mexican university and currently live in Oaxaca.
A man of many talents I see. Well, I’m glad to meet you and look forward to getting to know more about you.
So whacha got for me today?
Running Out the Hurt provides a vivid picture of life in Mexico as a
formerly ragtag bunch of losers led by a teenaged refugee become national baseball championship contenders. On the way they celebrate their victories, agonize over losses, brawl, flirt, joke, and coalesce into a community of caring, fun-loving and vigorous baseball players, wives, lovers, and fans. Although baseball is the thread that binds the characters in Running Out the Hurt together, the novel focuses on personal relationships and provides an entertaining and intimate look at baseball, Mexico, and at how human relationships struggle and prosper.

You know “they” say that Baseball is America’s sport and think it’s true. All up and down North and South America baseball brings people together. This sounds like a great book for sports fans and anyone who likes to read a story that relates to real life.
So who’s starring is this 2 dimensional script read of Running Out the Hurt?
Teenaged Alejandro Lòpez, who left his native Cuba to sign a professional baseball contract, is the novel’s central character, but each of the book’s nine innings (chapters) focuses on a different team member: Juan Gabriel the hippie right fielder, Paco the taxi driver pitcher, flamboyant Carlos the fun loving left fielder, surly Sergio the catcher, etc… plus the women in their lives and the opponents they play against.
Sounds like a truly diverse and fun loving cast, so to speak. I like that your book is broken down into innings, not that it’s terribly clever, but it is different. I like when authors try something a little different.
Past, present, future, is there a rhyme or reason to your writing?
As a professional journalist I learned to produce day-in and day-out. Even freelancing I always seemed to have more projects going than I could keep up with—if I had to work all night to meet a deadline I worked all night. I write a lot of political commentary, including a monthly essay for an online review, and continue to publish poetry regularly. I always feel that I have things that I want to convey and am surrounded by lists, files, books, and manuscripts as well as half-filled coffee cups, classical and folk CDs and a perennially hungry cat.
Work, work, work until you get the job done, but what if the job never ends? I guess everyone has a system that works for them; I just hope you don’t overdo it. If you are constantly working, I hope you are at least constantly enjoying it.
What author(s) has most influenced your writing? Why or how?
That’s a tough one. Richard Halliburton when I was a boy because of his adventurous reporting of his travels around the world. Google Search 
D.H. Lawrenceas a young adult because of his unyielding honesty.
 Hannah Arendt for her insight and intelligence. 
Quite a list here and what variety. I must admit that I am not familiar with the works of Hannah Arendt, but it’s never too late to learn.
 Whose brain are you just itching to scratch?
Casanova. For his vivacity; I picture him as a great storyteller, quite possibly an even greater liar. I’d want the interview to take place in a French tavern, with a bottle of good brandy on the table and some of his friends around him. What a blast that could be!
Wow, now I bet that would be something. If you get him to tell you things that haven’t already been written, you might find that a new shade of blush has covered your face… Perhaps you are like the Italians; they don’t really seem to blush much.
Who is so you and why?
Amazon.comA former editor compared me to Kurtz of the Heart of Darkness for “disappearing” into Oaxaca; a writing associate compared me with Tom Sawyer for my stories about growing up in rural Wyoming; a psychologist friend compared me with the TV detective [Columbo] portrayed by Well you just seem to be all over the place. I wonder if your personality ever gets itself confused?
What’s your ideal reading spot for your next highly anticipated read?
Ideal reading spot? My couch, feet propped up, bowl of popcorn on one side, beer on the other, cat on my lap, CD playing. Excited to read? I read a lot and enjoy reading, but I seldom if ever anticipate what I’m going to read. Baseball games excite me, sexy women excite me, but I don’t have ñany highly anticipated reads.
So comfort is a necessity when you read; that I can agree with. It’s too bad there’s nothing out there you’re just waiting to read. I find that there is always something I’m anticipating…the next Batman comic, the next blockbuster based on a book I’ve actually read, the next book I haven’t read that everyone else seems to have. I like anticipation. It makes life interesting.
What was your favorite book or story, pre-teen years?
The adventure tales of Richard Halliburton. [Several titles and volumes available at Barnes & Nobel and Amazon.]
You really do like these true adventure, but I wonder- do you ever have any such adventures of your own?…
Now this is where the questions get a little kooky; are you ready?
Pues sì
Alright then, here we go.
If you could only watch one movie for the rest of your life, what would it be?
IMDBBlack Orpheus. Set in Rio de Janeiro during Mardi Gras and based on the ancient Eurydice myth, it is brilliantly filmed and has a vibrant sound track. I was agog when I first saw it and for years had a 33 [vinyl record] of the music.
What an original answer and a good one. I enjoy creative retellings of ancient stories and this is a good one. I like to collect soundtracks to good movies and actually have quite a few of my own on vinyl.
What makes you geek out?
A good baseball game. (Actually any baseball game.) Being on stage. (Even though I’m a bad actor.) A beautiful woman’s smile. (Actually any woman’s smile.)
So what’s testing your patience right now?
What’s testing my patience is MicroSoft Word, which I curse daily. But I have a volume of poetry coming out in a few months called A Perfect Throw.
When the soundtrack of your life is playing in your head, what songs express your glee and what songs bring out your rage?
Glee? Probably “When I was a lad…” [<=listen] from Mutiny on the Bounty which I once used as an audition piece.
Rage? Any rightwing political song.
What’s the most fun experience you’ve ever had, to date?
The first weeks of falling in love with either of my wives or any of my novias.
Remind me again how I was lucky enough to meet you?
From Black Rose Writing, I saw a mention of your website in their PR notes, plunked the link and decided to get in touch with you.
My, how word does travel. Sometimes I’m still amazed by the wonders of technology and the way the world has become so much “smaller” in both good and no so good ways. I’m glad you decided to connect with me. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed your visit.
Not that you can see into the future, but in your opinion, what does the future hold?
Beer will be more expensive, tlayudaswill be more expensive, gas will be more expensive, bus fare will be more expensive, writers will earn even less.
Ok humans, half-breeds, and everything in between, that’s all for today. Be sure to follow this blog to see who will be visiting next time. For more from Bob Stout, check out these great links:
Why Immigrants Come to America
The Blood of the Serpent: Mexican Lives
  Miss Sally
Bob’s email:mexicoconamor@yahoo.com
Bob’s blog: http://mexicobadpoliticsrichculturebase.weebly.com
Amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Robert-Joe-Stout/e/B001IZ2OGO/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1359067354&sr=1-2-ent
Bob’s FaceBook:  http://www.facebook.com/mexicoconamor?ref=ts&fref=ts

Interview 20: Bob Stout

Greetings humans, half-breeds, and everything in between. A while back, I had the pleasure to interview my new friend, Bob Stout. He is visiting the ECS as a guest and sharing loads of interesting insights into his work. Be sure to look around and see what he has to offer. Here are the results of our interview. A good time was truly had by all, and here’s how it went down.

Hi there Bob! It’s so awesome to have you here at the ECS Universe. Don’t worry about the darkness, your eyes will adjust.
 So tell me, who is Bob Stout?
Google SearchI’m a freelance journalist who has worked as a magazine editor and newspaper reporter and copy editor and at various times, and as a government accountant, theater director, and factory worker. I have written two books, two novels, and half-a-dozen poetry chapbooks. I have a degree from a Mexican university and currently live in Oaxaca.
A man of many talents I see. Well, I’m glad to meet you and look forward to getting to know more about you.
So whacha got for me today?
Running Out the Hurt provides a vivid picture of life in Mexico as a formerly ragtag bunch of losers led by a teenaged refugee become national baseball championship contenders. On the way they celebrate their victories, agonize over losses, brawl, flirt, joke, and coalesce into a community of caring, fun-loving and vigorous baseball players, wives, lovers, and fans. Although baseball is the thread that binds the characters in Running Out the Hurt together, the novel focuses on personal relationships and provides an entertaining and intimate look at baseball, Mexico, and at how human relationships struggle and prosper.

You know “they” say that Baseball is America’s sport and think it’s true. All up and down North and South America baseball brings people together. This sounds like a great book for sports fans and anyone who likes to read a story that relates to real life.
So who’s starring is this 2 dimensional script read of Running Out the Hurt?
Teenaged Alejandro Lòpez, who left his native Cuba to sign a professional baseball contract, is the novel’s central character, but each of the book’s nine innings (chapters) focuses on a different team member: Juan Gabriel the hippie right fielder, Paco the taxi driver pitcher, flamboyant Carlos the fun loving left fielder, surly Sergio the catcher, etc… plus the women in their lives and the opponents they play against.
Sounds like a truly diverse and fun loving cast, so to speak. I like that your book is broken down into innings, not that it’s terribly clever, but it is different. I like when authors try something a little different.
Past, present, future, is there a rhyme or reason to your writing?
As a professional journalist I learned to produce day-in and day-out. Even freelancing I always seemed to have more projects going than I could keep up with—if I had to work all night to meet a deadline I worked all night. I write a lot of political commentary, including a monthly essay for an online review, and continue to publish poetry regularly. I always feel that I have things that I want to convey and am surrounded by lists, files, books, and manuscripts as well as half-filled coffee cups, classical and folk CDs and a perennially hungry cat.
Work, work, work until you get the job done, but what if the job never ends? I guess everyone has a system that works for them; I just hope you don’t overdo it. If you are constantly working, I hope you are at least constantly enjoying it.
What author(s) has most influenced your writing? Why or how?
That’s a tough one. Richard Halliburton when I was a boy because of his adventurous reporting of his travels around the world. Google Search 
D.H. Lawrenceas a young adult because of his unyielding honesty.
 Hannah Arendt for her insight and intelligence. 
Quite a list here and what variety. I must admit that I am not familiar with the works of Hannah Arendt, but it’s never too late to learn.
 Whose brain are you just itching to scratch?
Casanova. For his vivacity; I picture him as a great storyteller, quite possibly an even greater liar. I’d want the interview to take place in a French tavern, with a bottle of good brandy on the table and some of his friends around him. What a blast that could be!
Wow, now I bet that would be something. If you get him to tell you things that haven’t already been written, you might find that a new shade of blush has covered your face… Perhaps you are like the Italians; they don’t really seem to blush much.
Who is so you and why?
Amazon.comA former editor compared me to Kurtz of the Heart of Darkness for “disappearing” into Oaxaca; a writing associate compared me with Tom Sawyer for my stories about growing up in rural Wyoming; a psychologist friend compared me with the TV detective [Columbo] portrayed by Well you just seem to be all over the place. I wonder if your personality ever gets itself confused?
What’s your ideal reading spot for your next highly anticipated read?
Ideal reading spot? My couch, feet propped up, bowl of popcorn on one side, beer on the other, cat on my lap, CD playing. Excited to read? I read a lot and enjoy reading, but I seldom if ever anticipate what I’m going to read. Baseball games excite me, sexy women excite me, but I don’t have ñany highly anticipated reads.
So comfort is a necessity when you read; that I can agree with. It’s too bad there’s nothing out there you’re just waiting to read. I find that there is always something I’m anticipating…the next Batman comic, the next blockbuster based on a book I’ve actually read, the next book I haven’t read that everyone else seems to have. I like anticipation. It makes life interesting.
What was your favorite book or story, pre-teen years?
The adventure tales of Richard Halliburton. [Several titles and volumes available at Barnes & Nobel and Amazon.]
You really do like these true adventure, but I wonder- do you ever have any such adventures of your own?…
Now this is where the questions get a little kooky; are you ready?
Pues sì
Alright then, here we go.
If you could only watch one movie for the rest of your life, what would it be?
IMDBBlack Orpheus. Set in Rio de Janeiro during Mardi Gras and based on the ancient Eurydice myth, it is brilliantly filmed and has a vibrant sound track. I was agog when I first saw it and for years had a 33 [vinyl record] of the music.
What an original answer and a good one. I enjoy creative retellings of ancient stories and this is a good one. I like to collect soundtracks to good movies and actually have quite a few of my own on vinyl.
What makes you geek out?
A good baseball game. (Actually any baseball game.) Being on stage. (Even though I’m a bad actor.) A beautiful woman’s smile. (Actually any woman’s smile.)
So what’s testing your patience right now?
What’s testing my patience is MicroSoft Word, which I curse daily. But I have a volume of poetry coming out in a few months called A Perfect Throw.
When the soundtrack of your life is playing in your head, what songs express your glee and what songs bring out your rage?
Glee? Probably “When I was a lad…” [<=listen] from Mutiny on the Bounty which I once used as an audition piece.
Rage? Any rightwing political song.
What’s the most fun experience you’ve ever had, to date?
The first weeks of falling in love with either of my wives or any of my novias.
Remind me again how I was lucky enough to meet you?
From Black Rose Writing, I saw a mention of your website in their PR notes, plunked the link and decided to get in touch with you.
My, how word does travel. Sometimes I’m still amazed by the wonders of technology and the way the world has become so much “smaller” in both good and no so good ways. I’m glad you decided to connect with me. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed your visit.
Not that you can see into the future, but in your opinion, what does the future hold?
Beer will be more expensive, tlayudaswill be more expensive, gas will be more expensive, bus fare will be more expensive, writers will earn even less.
Ok humans, half-breeds, and everything in between, that’s all for today. Be sure to follow this blog to see who will be visiting next time. For more from Bob Stout, check out these great links:
Why Immigrants Come to America
The Blood of the Serpent: Mexican Lives
  Miss Sally
Bob’s email:mexicoconamor@yahoo.com
Bob’s blog: http://mexicobadpoliticsrichculturebase.weebly.com
Amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Robert-Joe-Stout/e/B001IZ2OGO/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1359067354&sr=1-2-ent
Bob’s FaceBook:  http://www.facebook.com/mexicoconamor?ref=ts&fref=ts

Guest Post 23: Bob Stout

Greetings from the land of tlayudas, Guelaguetzas, and Dìas de los Muertos . I am Robert Joe Stout and today I present   Running Out the Hurt , my new novel about baseball.
Baseball the way it should be played is controversial, humorous, intense, and an act of love. It is more than the Major Leagues, drug scandals, and television; it is community, caring, and a hell of a lot of fun.
Running Out the Hurt epitomizes the freedom and flair of participation, both for players and fans. The novel provides a vivid picture of life in Mexico as seen through the eyes of the team’s participants—real people with real desires, problems and accomplishments— as a formerly ragtag bunch of losers led by a teenaged refugee become championship contenders.
Although baseball is the thread that binds the characters in Running Out the Hurt together, the novel focuses on personal relationships. It is an intimate portrayal of Mexican life that I know very well. I hold a degree from the Universidad de las Americas and have lived in and written about this country for over twenty-five years.
My previous books include  Why Immigrants Come to America , Blood of the Serpent: Mexican Lives , and  Miss Sally . Thank you for taking the time to learn about my latest endeavor and I hope you enjoy the story.
~Thank you for stopping by to see what author Bob Stout had to share today. If you liked this, then you will surely want to return Friday when I post the results of my interview with this talented author. For more from Bob Stout, visit these links:
Bob’s email: mexicoconamor@yahoo.com
Bob’s blog: http://mexicobadpoliticsrichculturebase.weebly.com
Amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Robert-Joe-Stout/e/B001IZ2OGO/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1359067354&sr=1-2-ent
Bob’s FaceBook:  http://www.facebook.com/mexicoconamor?ref=ts&fref=ts

Interview 20: Emma Ennis

Greetings humans, half-breeds, and everything in between. A while back, I had the pleasure to interview my new friend, Emma Ennis. She is visiting the ECS as a guest and sharing loads of interesting insights into her work. Be sure to look around and see what she has to offer. Here are the results of our interview. A good time was truly had by all, and here’s how it went down.
Hi there Emma! It’s so awesome to have you here at the ECS Universe. Don’t worry about the darkness, your eyes will adjust.

So tell me, who is Emma Ennis?I am an aspiring author, struggling with a demanding social life and the necessity to perform 'real' work in return for cash. Despite said hectic social demands, my love life is nonexistent, but I do cohabit with innumerable moggies and mutts. From Ireland, living in Norway; I like reading, writing, but not arithmetic. I enjoy dabbling in various forms of extreme sports for the heck of it. I have futile hopes of someday living off the sweat of my fingertips and writing until senility takes over, and even then I plan to make a pretty decent stab at it. You've been warned.

You are quite the character and very lively. I can tell already that this is going to be a very entertaining interview.

So whacha got for me today?Red wine and words. Of course the former not literally. That's the
title of my book – Red Wine and Words. It's a collection of sixteen short stories ranging from horror to humor, fantasy to suspense, psychological horror to mystery and tragedy. In a nutshell – eclectic. It's gotten some pretty good, non-coerced reviews so far, and I've been flattered (and not to mention a little dubious) to be compared to more than a few big names. The book comes 'highly recommended' and has been described as a 'chilling collection' with stories that remain with the reader long after they've finished.

I must admit that I really like this title, though it doesn’t make me think of short stories. I applaud those who can put together a collection such as this. I’ve been trying for a while and am still trying. Kudos!

So who’s starring is this 2 dimensional script read of Red wine and words?Well as I said, Red Wine and Words is a collection of unrelated short stories, so there's a large lead role cast. I'll just give a few examples.

Ewart Boone is the main man in 'Frozen Outpost,' the third story in the collection. He's an all-American guy, in love with his childhood sweetheart, and is sent out into the snowy north to set up an outpost. But there's something else out there that wants Ewart, something that lumbers straight from the realms of lore.Nathaniel, or Nate, is the protagonist-come-antagonist of 'Tainted Wings.' He's not the most honest, or polite, and he most definitely is not into cuddling kittens. In fact, he's not even human. He's a tempter, whose job it is to lure the good and innocent off their righteous paths. But when his friend enlists his help to rescue his beloved, Nate must dig deep to root out that other, in some ways more disturbing, side of his nature.

'Cornflower Blue' is a tragedy following Calvin and his fall into love with a distraught woman who he finds standing barefoot in the snow on a street corner one day on his way to work. The woman goes to that corner at the same time every morning, to stare at a poster of a missing boy. What is it that bedevils her so, and is she too far immersed in her nightmare for him to rescue?

Wonderful descriptions and quick peeks into some of your characters here; you definitely have my attention. You weren’t kidding about the multi-genre nature of this collection. I believe you may truly have something here for everyone. Nice job!

Past, present, future, is there a rhyme or reason to your writing?As you might be able to tell from Red Wine and Words, I don't have any set genre so to speak. If something grabs me and speaks to me, then I must write it, be it horror, tragedy or romance. Most of what I write has some kind of psychological aspect to it, and many of my pieces deal with love and loss.
When I sit down to write something that has been on my mind it's a long process before I actually type the first words. Plot is central to my writing. No matter how deep your characters or how colourful your descriptions of the scene, in my mind if the story doesn't have a strong plot then it just feels hollow.
So I will research the time and place, which usually results in a virtual folder full of images and links. I will give each character their own page where I jot down names, relationships, appearance, personalities etc. Then, the plot. This could take up five pages, or a whole notepad. I detail it like a flow chart, each scene in its own little bubble which links on to the next. Outside of these bubbles may be little notes regarding scenery, dialogue etc.
When I'm writing I prefer silence. I know of some authors who like music in the background, but not I. What with work, social duties, and the annoying persistence of real life, the writing usually gets bundled into one tiny time slot, so you may see me typing with one hand while I shovel dinner into my mouth with the other. But this is only if I'm really stuck for time. Mostly I prefer to have both hands Google Searchand all brain cells on the writing process. That's not to say I don't like the odd glass of wine as I scribe, but I prefer to lay off the sauce for editing. As Hemmingway said: 'Write drunk, edit sober.
I've just finished a novel that is set to be the first in a trilogy. The plot is quite complex as it deals with a conspiracy of sorts and mixes Christianity with the supernatural. It still needs another edit before it's finalized, but I'm thinking of holding it back until the other two are finished as I don't want to miss anything.
In the meantime, while this is left to stew, I'm working on editing and completing the second collection of short stories. I felt Red Wine and Words could use a little sister to play with.
Everyone has their own creative ways of planning and plotting their stories, I think yours is the most visually creative I’ve come across so far. It’s cool to hear that you’re working on novel series and a companion for Red Wine and Words…There you go keeping yourself busy ;)

What author(s) has most influenced your writing? Why or how? I am a sucker for the classics, probably the hopeless romantic in me Amazon.comrearing its simpering head. There are some books that have never left me, despite the fact that it could be ten years or more since I last read them – Wuthering Heights, Bram Stoker’s Dracula, To Kill a Mockingbird. I’m not sure if I could say that the authors ‘influenced’ me as such, but I have always wanted to write a love story so tragic, a horror so subtle, or a drama so gripping as these.I have on more than one occasion, had my work compared to H.P Lovecraft, although I have to confess that I’ve never read any of his stuff, and now I’m afraid to in case I lose that ‘thing’ that associates me with him.

In a similar though different manner, I have also been compared to the great Mr. Conan Doyle. I have read most if not all of his Holmes books, so maybe some of these stuck and came through in my own writing. Whatever the reason, I am proud and humbled to have my name mentioned in the same sentence.

I find that I’m influenced by other writers in terms of being inspired, but not actually by honing in on their techniques and skills, though I’d sometimes like to. I write the way I write and maybe that’s just how you are too. It’s nice, and not to mention freak’n cool, to be compared to the likes of Lovecraft and Doyle, but one day, just think, others will be compared to you.

Whose brain are you just itching to scratch?Oh, so many, so many. You, or I, could be sorry you asked that! I guess I’d have to start with Edgar Allan Poe; the man was a genius. His stories have that quality of horror that is just so hard to find these days – such darkness, such despair - I’d love to get some tips and pointers from him.

I would liketo sit down for a drink with Ernest Hemmingway. This man too, was a genius in my eyes. How he could pack so much into the tiny story ‘The Old Man and the Sea’ just fascinates me. I dream of being able to recreate that someday, some time. 
Google SearchJust lately I've discovered Charles Bukowski and I have to say, he blows me away. Now and again I come across a quote on the internet and I know instantly it's him. He's got that no-nonsense, and oftentimes vulgar (which I love), way of driving a point home. This man doesn't need a thesaurus; he can make one word paint a thousand pictures.

Then of course there’s
Love Poe, like Hemmingway, and heard of Bukowski; I think these would be a few good brains to scratch…I have feeling though, it’s not Johnny’s brain you want scratch, but that’s ok. He’s a little crazy, but on him, a little crazy looks really good.

Who is so you and why?That’s a tricky one. And it really depends on where I am in life. Everyone knows that when they are heartbroken or pining for someone every song or every role of the miserable damsel seems to be written just for them.
Sometimes I feel like Bridget Jones [book, movie]with the whole Amazon.com‘dying alone in my apartment and getting eaten by dogs’ lifestyle. But most of the time I’m convinced I’m the main character in a Truman Show kind of scenario. Some coincindences are just too coincidental. And that’s all well and good – makes for some interesting story ideas - but if this really is the case then I gotta break down a set wall and find the f@&*er who’s responsible for my script!
I feel you with that last comment. If I’m stuck in a reality show, I’ve got a bone to pick with my writer, director, and most of all my producer. Being Bridget Jones wouldn’t be all too bad, she did have a few loyal friends to help through her tough times and that’s got to count for something.

What’s your ideal reading spot for your next highly anticipated read?                    One of two places – snuggled up in bed at the end of a long day, with my kitty washing herself at my feet, or curled up on the sofa with family members or friends doing their own thing in various other parts of the room; everyone safe, snug and content. That, right there, is a little slice of heaven to me; companionship without the need for conversation.
I personally need to feel the physical book in my hands. There’s nothing like getting a new book and feeling the cover – embossed or not? – and the pages. Is the print small or large? Is there a picture of the author? Can you smell that – ink and paper, a scent new yet at the same time ancient and unforgettable. I love the weight of a hardback, but the ease of a paperback. Nothing is missed – I read the back, I stare at the cover to make connections between the image and the story inside. Foreword, biography, introductions? Doesn’t matter, I devour them all.
I don’t own a Kindle or any other brand of ereader and I hope to get through life without ever owning one. How could it ever surpass the magic of the above? I do have Kindle for PC, but only because since I started writing I have made a lot of writer friends, and sometimes some of these friends will send me their books in full or sections for reviews or beta reading. It’s just easier to exchange electronic copies. And it would not be very flexible of me to insist they send me whole manuscripts or expensive published copies via snail mail.

Amazon.comAt the minute I’m reading The Black Death of Babylon by Edward J. McFadden. I’ve only started but I’m stuck into it. Unfortunately this is a friend, so it’s one of those electronic ones I don’t get to snuggle with, but the next physical book, hmmmm, I’ll probably go back to Sleepy Hollow by Washington Irving. Sleepy Hollow is only one of numerous short stories in the book so I had taken a break from it for a while, but it’s calling me back. After that I’ve just got to get into some Neil Gaiman stuff. I’d always thought of his books as similar to John Grisham type court dramas, but a friend set me on the straight and narrow a few months back, and my curiosity a-tweaking.
Everyone has a preference when it comes to how they want to read. Some people refuse to go digital while others can’t remember what print looks likes. I figure as long as people are reading, let them have their preferences. It’s nice to live in a world with choices like these. I myself read whatever I can: on the PC, e-reader, hardcover, paperback, even audio…Your little slice of heaven sounds extremely nice and pleasant.

What was your favorite book or story, pre-teen years? I started reading at an early age, and most of it not very appropriate reading. I would see my sister at it the whole time, and used to mimic her. Eventually I started to take in the words I was looking at. I well remember attempting Anne Rice’s Servant of the Bones when I was way too young.

Beano.comBut before books of my own age, there was The Beano comic. I ate them up. I loved Friday’s when mammy would come home from doing the shopping with Tayto crisps, chocolate bars, and the latest edition of The Beano. My favourite issues were always the ones with freebies included, like whoopee cushions or yet another chocolate bar.

A woman after my own heart, I can’t believe you enjoyed reading these comic books, but truly think it’s cool. I’m a big kid and still read my favorite comic books- Now, young lady, what were you doing trying to read Servant of Bones when you were a pre-teen? LOL!…Now this is where the questions get a little kooky; are you ready?

Indubitably!

Alright then, here we go.

If you could only watch one movie for the rest of your life, what would it be? I have two here, one a guilty pleasure, the other a pure pleasure. We’ll start with the former and hopefully I can cover up my shame with the latter. The first is ‘The Last of the Mohicans.’ Gulp!Though the movie does stray considerably from the plot of the book (which I also loved) it still gets me every time. A great love story and a beautiful romance – I will find you, Cora! – coupled with a truly goosebumping soundtrack.

IMDBThe second – Pan’s Labyrinth. I love the dark fairytale element to this movie. You’ve got the childlike awe of fairies, with the terror of the Pale Man. Fantastical and horror, all rolled into one. The world we live in encompasses both ends of the spectrum – good and evil. But evil in a monster with eyes in his hands, who eats babies for supper is just easier to understand than the evil in someone who is built exactly the same as us. This brings so much uncertainty in and of humankind. A world where evil is evil and good is good, and you don’t have to question it - that’s a perfect and exciting world.

That’s phenomenal! I have met very few people who have seen Pan’s Labyrinth and even fewer who liked it or understood it. I think it’s a great movie. Aside from all the depth and meaning the movie has, it’s worth seeing just for its stunning imagery and visuals. The Last of the Mohicans isn’t too bad either.

What makes you geek out?Playstation. I love gaming but I’m more into the platform, PlayStation.comstorymode type of gaming than online gaming. Two-player is great fun if the game has a collaborative option such as Special Ops and so on, but in storymode I like to complete the game myself. I have annoyed many people with my OCD approach to gaming. I like to explore the environment, do all the side missions, climb things that were never meant to be climbed. In my mind someone somewhere had a vision, they sat down and drew it; it’s only right that I should take the time to appreciate it rather than charge straight through from start to finish.

On the ‘geek out’ note, the highlight of my year was the release of Max Payne 3. I’ve only been waiting, like, forever!

A female gamer, wow- and you’re grown! I just don’t see how some lucky person hasn’t scooped you up yet. My husband still can’t believe he found a woman who loves comic books as much as he does…For the record, I like your OCD approach to gaming and think it makes perfect sense that you’d not prefer online gaming.

When the soundtrack of your life is playing in your head, what songs express your glee and what songs bring out your rage? Google SearchI’m kind of an old style gal when it comes to music. I’m not so much into the new stuff that defiles our speakers nowadays. Give me Nirvana over Lady Gaga any day. Metallicaor Guns N’Rosesover whomever the hottest rap/dance artist is these days. That’s not to say I’m living in the past. I do love The Kings of Leon, and Muse are really growing on me. I think the problem is that Norway is a little behind in the charts, so when I got here they were starting to play all the songs I was already sick of so I stopped listening to the radio.

My all-time favourite song? Probably Heroes by David Bowie (or anything Bowie really,) or maybe Promontory[<= listen]from The Last of the Mohicans soundtrack. Flipside? If you play Gangnam Style I will rip you a new one.

I, once again, completely understand your feelings; Gangnam  Style has to stop. Being a music lover I find that I can relate to most people’s sense of what is good or bad music, unless they just don’t like music, which some people don’t. Again, I’m glad we live in a world with so many options.

What’s the most fun experience you’ve ever had, to date? Holy hell, there’s been so many. Though I suppose most of them would be more memorable than just fun. Anything extreme gets my adrenaline pumping. There’s nothing like finding a quality piece of off-piste to bring a smile on my face (and usually, due to the temperatures and the downhill speed, some excited dribble also.) I’ve been quading, wakeboarding, cliff-jumping, kayaking, rafting, bungee jumping, abseiling, and flying in a wind tunnel, and though most bring a grimace of fear at the same time as a smile of delight, I have the most fun when I’m testing my boundaries and facing certain fears of impending doom. That’s not to say I’m going to go looking for the biggest spider to cuddle – that fear shall forever remain un-faced.

The simplest fun though – that’s always got to be hanging out with my nearest and dearest. No matter where we are or for what reason, we always manage to have good, (oftentimes) clean fun. Months could pass in between these gatherings, but we can still slip back into the banter as though it was yesterday.

You are quite the adventurer. While my husband enjoys bungee jumping, going on a roller-coaster is the extent of my extreme thrilling. I love that your best moments are any that are spent with the people you care most about. I guess in the end, a fun time isn’t that fun it you’re by yourself. 

Remind me again how I was lucky enough to meet you?I’m always trying to keep up with the latest social networking doohickeys all the cool kids are using. I may be a little slow on the uptake, but I get there eventually. As time consuming as it is, I think it’s probably necessary to promoting myself. Recently I registered with LinkedIn, joined the Book Marketing forum, and it was there that I met you. The rest, as they say, is history!

And what a wonderful history it is and will continue to be. I’m so glad we had a chance to get to know each other. Thank you for stopping by to share a little with my followers, and yours, this week.

Not that you can see into the future, but in your opinion, what does the future hold?Crazy cat lady? Running around in diapers with my sisters in an assisted living home? No seriously, the dream is to be a recognized writer. I don’t mean that I strive for fame and fortune (I prefer to keep my mug away from microphones and stages; interviews, readings, launches,etc. terrify me) but just enough so I can write fulltime and not have to spend hours of my free time every day promoting myself when I could be writing.

I truly see this happening, I’m just not certain of the timeframe and I’m not best known for my patience. I have any amount of really cool ideas for novels and I plan to keep writing until I run out of these ideas or until somebody comes up and begs me to please, for the love of all that’s holy, stop torturing humankind with my drivel.

Outside of writing - travel, travel, travel. I plan to move myself home to Ireland later this year, set up a base camp, then head to The Philippines, Malaysian Borneo and Indonesia to volunteer in an animal shelter, on an organic farm, and teaching English to underprivileged kids respectively. I'll have to make some pit stops at home and Norway now and again to gather up funds and show my face, but from this year on my tour of the world begins.

Of course I’d also love to meet the man of my dreams who’ll sweep me off my feet and take me away from all this rather than just to bed, but that’s all in another day’s work!

Ok humans, half-breeds, and everything in between, that’s all for today. Be sure to follow this blog to see who will be visiting next time. For more from Emma Ennis, check out these great links:Her blog: http://authoremmaennis.blogspot.comFacebook fan page: http://www.facebook.com/TerriblyWittyIdeasByEmmaEnnisAmazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Emma-Ennis/e/B004HDT2MS/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1354037838&sr=1-2-entRed Wine and Words on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Red-Wine-Words-Emma-Ennis/dp/0615574416/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1366118350&sr=1-1&keywords=red+wine+and+wordsFacebook personal profile: http://www.facebook.com/emma.ennis1

Interview 19: Emma Ennis

Greetings humans, half-breeds, and everything in between. A while back, I had the pleasure to interview my new friend, Emma Ennis. She is visiting the ECS as a guest and sharing loads of interesting insights into her work. Be sure to look around and see what she has to offer. Here are the results of our interview. A good time was truly had by all, and here’s how it went down.
Hi there Emma! It’s so awesome to have you here at the ECS Universe. Don’t worry about the darkness, your eyes will adjust.

So tell me, who is Emma Ennis?I am an aspiring author, struggling with a demanding social life and the necessity to perform 'real' work in return for cash. Despite said hectic social demands, my love life is nonexistent, but I do cohabit with innumerable moggies and mutts. From Ireland, living in Norway; I like reading, writing, but not arithmetic. I enjoy dabbling in various forms of extreme sports for the heck of it. I have futile hopes of someday living off the sweat of my fingertips and writing until senility takes over, and even then I plan to make a pretty decent stab at it. You've been warned.

You are quite the character and very lively. I can tell already that this is going to be a very entertaining interview.

So whacha got for me today?Red wine and words. Of course the former not literally. That's the title of my book – Red Wine and Words. It's a collection of sixteen short stories ranging from horror to humor, fantasy to suspense, psychological horror to mystery and tragedy. In a nutshell – eclectic. It's gotten some pretty good, non-coerced reviews so far, and I've been flattered (and not to mention a little dubious) to be compared to more than a few big names. The book comes 'highly recommended' and has been described as a 'chilling collection' with stories that remain with the reader long after they've finished.

I must admit that I really like this title, though it doesn’t make me think of short stories. I applaud those who can put together a collection such as this. I’ve been trying for a while and am still trying. Kudos!

So who’s starring is this 2 dimensional script read of Red wine and words?Well as I said, Red Wine and Words is a collection of unrelated short stories, so there's a large lead role cast. I'll just give a few examples.

Ewart Boone is the main man in 'Frozen Outpost,' the third story in the collection. He's an all-American guy, in love with his childhood sweetheart, and is sent out into the snowy north to set up an outpost. But there's something else out there that wants Ewart, something that lumbers straight from the realms of lore.Nathaniel, or Nate, is the protagonist-come-antagonist of 'Tainted Wings.' He's not the most honest, or polite, and he most definitely is not into cuddling kittens. In fact, he's not even human. He's a tempter, whose job it is to lure the good and innocent off their righteous paths. But when his friend enlists his help to rescue his beloved, Nate must dig deep to root out that other, in some ways more disturbing, side of his nature.

'Cornflower Blue' is a tragedy following Calvin and his fall into love with a distraught woman who he finds standing barefoot in the snow on a street corner one day on his way to work. The woman goes to that corner at the same time every morning, to stare at a poster of a missing boy. What is it that bedevils her so, and is she too far immersed in her nightmare for him to rescue?

Wonderful descriptions and quick peeks into some of your characters here; you definitely have my attention. You weren’t kidding about the multi-genre nature of this collection. I believe you may truly have something here for everyone. Nice job!

Past, present, future, is there a rhyme or reason to your writing?As you might be able to tell from Red Wine and Words, I don't have any set genre so to speak. If something grabs me and speaks to me, then I must write it, be it horror, tragedy or romance. Most of what I write has some kind of psychological aspect to it, and many of my pieces deal with love and loss.
When I sit down to write something that has been on my mind it's a long process before I actually type the first words. Plot is central to my writing. No matter how deep your characters or how colourful your descriptions of the scene, in my mind if the story doesn't have a strong plot then it just feels hollow.
So I will research the time and place, which usually results in a virtual folder full of images and links. I will give each character their own page where I jot down names, relationships, appearance, personalities etc. Then, the plot. This could take up five pages, or a whole notepad. I detail it like a flow chart, each scene in its own little bubble which links on to the next. Outside of these bubbles may be little notes regarding scenery, dialogue etc.
When I'm writing I prefer silence. I know of some authors who like music in the background, but not I. What with work, social duties, and the annoying persistence of real life, the writing usually gets bundled into one tiny time slot, so you may see me typing with one hand while I shovel dinner into my mouth with the other. But this is only if I'm really stuck for time. Mostly I prefer to have both hands Google Searchand all brain cells on the writing process. That's not to say I don't like the odd glass of wine as I scribe, but I prefer to lay off the sauce for editing. As Hemmingway said: 'Write drunk, edit sober.
I've just finished a novel that is set to be the first in a trilogy. The plot is quite complex as it deals with a conspiracy of sorts and mixes Christianity with the supernatural. It still needs another edit before it's finalized, but I'm thinking of holding it back until the other two are finished as I don't want to miss anything.
In the meantime, while this is left to stew, I'm working on editing and completing the second collection of short stories. I felt Red Wine and Words could use a little sister to play with.
Everyone has their own creative ways of planning and plotting their stories, I think yours is the most visually creative I’ve come across so far. It’s cool to hear that you’re working on novel series and a companion for Red Wine and Words…There you go keeping yourself busy ;)

What author(s) has most influenced your writing? Why or how? I am a sucker for the classics, probably the hopeless romantic in me Amazon.comrearing its simpering head. There are some books that have never left me, despite the fact that it could be ten years or more since I last read them – Wuthering Heights, Bram Stoker’s Dracula, To Kill a Mockingbird. I’m not sure if I could say that the authors ‘influenced’ me as such, but I have always wanted to write a love story so tragic, a horror so subtle, or a drama so gripping as these.I have on more than one occasion, had my work compared to H.P Lovecraft, although I have to confess that I’ve never read any of his stuff, and now I’m afraid to in case I lose that ‘thing’ that associates me with him.

In a similar though different manner, I have also been compared to the great Mr. Conan Doyle. I have read most if not all of his Holmes books, so maybe some of these stuck and came through in my own writing. Whatever the reason, I am proud and humbled to have my name mentioned in the same sentence.

I find that I’m influenced by other writers in terms of being inspired, but not actually by honing in on their techniques and skills, though I’d sometimes like to. I write the way I write and maybe that’s just how you are too. It’s nice, and not to mention freak’n cool, to be compared to the likes of Lovecraft and Doyle, but one day, just think, others will be compared to you.

Whose brain are you just itching to scratch?Oh, so many, so many. You, or I, could be sorry you asked that! I guess I’d have to start with Edgar Allan Poe; the man was a genius. His stories have that quality of horror that is just so hard to find these days – such darkness, such despair - I’d love to get some tips and pointers from him.

I would liketo sit down for a drink with Ernest Hemmingway. This man too, was a genius in my eyes. How he could pack so much into the tiny story ‘The Old Man and the Sea’ just fascinates me. I dream of being able to recreate that someday, some time.  Google SearchJust lately I've discovered Charles Bukowski and I have to say, he blows me away. Now and again I come across a quote on the internet and I know instantly it's him. He's got that no-nonsense, and oftentimes vulgar (which I love), way of driving a point home. This man doesn't need a thesaurus; he can make one word paint a thousand pictures.

Then of course there’s
Love Poe, like Hemmingway, and heard of Bukowski; I think these would be a few good brains to scratch…I have feeling though, it’s not Johnny’s brain you want scratch, but that’s ok. He’s a little crazy, but on him, a little crazy looks really good.

Who is so you and why?That’s a tricky one. And it really depends on where I am in life. Everyone knows that when they are heartbroken or pining for someone every song or every role of the miserable damsel seems to be written just for them.
Sometimes I feel like Bridget Jones [book, movie]with the whole Amazon.com‘dying alone in my apartment and getting eaten by dogs’ lifestyle. But most of the time I’m convinced I’m the main character in a Truman Show kind of scenario. Some coincindences are just too coincidental. And that’s all well and good – makes for some interesting story ideas - but if this really is the case then I gotta break down a set wall and find the f@&*er who’s responsible for my script!
I feel you with that last comment. If I’m stuck in a reality show, I’ve got a bone to pick with my writer, director, and most of all my producer. Being Bridget Jones wouldn’t be all too bad, she did have a few loyal friends to help through her tough times and that’s got to count for something.

What’s your ideal reading spot for your next highly anticipated read?                    One of two places – snuggled up in bed at the end of a long day, with my kitty washing herself at my feet, or curled up on the sofa with family members or friends doing their own thing in various other parts of the room; everyone safe, snug and content. That, right there, is a little slice of heaven to me; companionship without the need for conversation.
I personally need to feel the physical book in my hands. There’s nothing like getting a new book and feeling the cover – embossed or not? – and the pages. Is the print small or large? Is there a picture of the author? Can you smell that – ink and paper, a scent new yet at the same time ancient and unforgettable. I love the weight of a hardback, but the ease of a paperback. Nothing is missed – I read the back, I stare at the cover to make connections between the image and the story inside. Foreword, biography, introductions? Doesn’t matter, I devour them all.
I don’t own a Kindle or any other brand of ereader and I hope to get through life without ever owning one. How could it ever surpass the magic of the above? I do have Kindle for PC, but only because since I started writing I have made a lot of writer friends, and sometimes some of these friends will send me their books in full or sections for reviews or beta reading. It’s just easier to exchange electronic copies. And it would not be very flexible of me to insist they send me whole manuscripts or expensive published copies via snail mail.
 Amazon.comAt the minute I’m reading The Black Death of Babylon by Edward J. McFadden. I’ve only started but I’m stuck into it. Unfortunately this is a friend, so it’s one of those electronic ones I don’t get to snuggle with, but the next physical book, hmmmm, I’ll probably go back to Sleepy Hollow by Washington Irving. Sleepy Hollow is only one of numerous short stories in the book so I had taken a break from it for a while, but it’s calling me back. After that I’ve just got to get into some Neil Gaiman stuff. I’d always thought of his books as similar to John Grisham type court dramas, but a friend set me on the straight and narrow a few months back, and my curiosity a-tweaking.
Everyone has a preference when it comes to how they want to read. Some people refuse to go digital while others can’t remember what print looks likes. I figure as long as people are reading, let them have their preferences. It’s nice to live in a world with choices like these. I myself read whatever I can: on the PC, e-reader, hardcover, paperback, even audio…Your little slice of heaven sounds extremely nice and pleasant.

What was your favorite book or story, pre-teen years? I started reading at an early age, and most of it not very appropriate reading. I would see my sister at it the whole time, and used to mimic her. Eventually I started to take in the words I was looking at. I well remember attempting Anne Rice’s Servant of the Bones when I was way too young.

Beano.comBut before books of my own age, there was The Beano comic. I ate them up. I loved Friday’s when mammy would come home from doing the shopping with Tayto crisps, chocolate bars, and the latest edition of The Beano. My favourite issues were always the ones with freebies included, like whoopee cushions or yet another chocolate bar.

A woman after my own heart, I can’t believe you enjoyed reading these comic books, but truly think it’s cool. I’m a big kid and still read my favorite comic books- Now, young lady, what were you doing trying to read Servant of Bones when you were a pre-teen? LOL!…Now this is where the questions get a little kooky; are you ready?

Indubitably!

Alright then, here we go.

If you could only watch one movie for the rest of your life, what would it be? I have two here, one a guilty pleasure, the other a pure pleasure. We’ll start with the former and hopefully I can cover up my shame with the latter. The first is ‘The Last of the Mohicans.’ Gulp!Though the movie does stray considerably from the plot of the book (which I also loved) it still gets me every time. A great love story and a beautiful romance – I will find you, Cora! – coupled with a truly goosebumping soundtrack.

IMDBThe second – Pan’s Labyrinth. I love the dark fairytale element to this movie. You’ve got the childlike awe of fairies, with the terror of the Pale Man. Fantastical and horror, all rolled into one. The world we live in encompasses both ends of the spectrum – good and evil. But evil in a monster with eyes in his hands, who eats babies for supper is just easier to understand than the evil in someone who is built exactly the same as us. This brings so much uncertainty in and of humankind. A world where evil is evil and good is good, and you don’t have to question it - that’s a perfect and exciting world.

That’s phenomenal! I have met very few people who have seen Pan’s Labyrinth and even fewer who liked it or understood it. I think it’s a great movie. Aside from all the depth and meaning the movie has, it’s worth seeing just for its stunning imagery and visuals. The Last of the Mohicans isn’t too bad either.

What makes you geek out?Playstation. I love gaming but I’m more into the platform, PlayStation.comstorymode type of gaming than online gaming. Two-player is great fun if the game has a collaborative option such as Special Ops and so on, but in storymode I like to complete the game myself. I have annoyed many people with my OCD approach to gaming. I like to explore the environment, do all the side missions, climb things that were never meant to be climbed. In my mind someone somewhere had a vision, they sat down and drew it; it’s only right that I should take the time to appreciate it rather than charge straight through from start to finish.

On the ‘geek out’ note, the highlight of my year was the release of Max Payne 3. I’ve only been waiting, like, forever!

A female gamer, wow- and you’re grown! I just don’t see how some lucky person hasn’t scooped you up yet. My husband still can’t believe he found a woman who loves comic books as much as he does…For the record, I like your OCD approach to gaming and think it makes perfect sense that you’d not prefer online gaming.

When the soundtrack of your life is playing in your head, what songs express your glee and what songs bring out your rage? Google SearchI’m kind of an old style gal when it comes to music. I’m not so much into the new stuff that defiles our speakers nowadays. Give me Nirvana over Lady Gaga any day. Metallicaor Guns N’Rosesover whomever the hottest rap/dance artist is these days. That’s not to say I’m living in the past. I do love The Kings of Leon, and Muse are really growing on me. I think the problem is that Norway is a little behind in the charts, so when I got here they were starting to play all the songs I was already sick of so I stopped listening to the radio.

My all-time favourite song? Probably Heroes by David Bowie (or anything Bowie really,) or maybe Promontory[<= listen]from The Last of the Mohicans soundtrack. Flipside? If you play Gangnam Style I will rip you a new one.

I, once again, completely understand your feelings; Gangnam  Style has to stop. Being a music lover I find that I can relate to most people’s sense of what is good or bad music, unless they just don’t like music, which some people don’t. Again, I’m glad we live in a world with so many options.

What’s the most fun experience you’ve ever had, to date? Holy hell, there’s been so many. Though I suppose most of them would be more memorable than just fun. Anything extreme gets my adrenaline pumping. There’s nothing like finding a quality piece of off-piste to bring a smile on my face (and usually, due to the temperatures and the downhill speed, some excited dribble also.) I’ve been quading, wakeboarding, cliff-jumping, kayaking, rafting, bungee jumping, abseiling, and flying in a wind tunnel, and though most bring a grimace of fear at the same time as a smile of delight, I have the most fun when I’m testing my boundaries and facing certain fears of impending doom. That’s not to say I’m going to go looking for the biggest spider to cuddle – that fear shall forever remain un-faced.

The simplest fun though – that’s always got to be hanging out with my nearest and dearest. No matter where we are or for what reason, we always manage to have good, (oftentimes) clean fun. Months could pass in between these gatherings, but we can still slip back into the banter as though it was yesterday.

You are quite the adventurer. While my husband enjoys bungee jumping, going on a roller-coaster is the extent of my extreme thrilling. I love that your best moments are any that are spent with the people you care most about. I guess in the end, a fun time isn’t that fun it you’re by yourself. 

Remind me again how I was lucky enough to meet you?I’m always trying to keep up with the latest social networking doohickeys all the cool kids are using. I may be a little slow on the uptake, but I get there eventually. As time consuming as it is, I think it’s probably necessary to promoting myself. Recently I registered with LinkedIn, joined the Book Marketing forum, and it was there that I met you. The rest, as they say, is history!

And what a wonderful history it is and will continue to be. I’m so glad we had a chance to get to know each other. Thank you for stopping by to share a little with my followers, and yours, this week.

Not that you can see into the future, but in your opinion, what does the future hold?Crazy cat lady? Running around in diapers with my sisters in an assisted living home? No seriously, the dream is to be a recognized writer. I don’t mean that I strive for fame and fortune (I prefer to keep my mug away from microphones and stages; interviews, readings, launches,etc. terrify me) but just enough so I can write fulltime and not have to spend hours of my free time every day promoting myself when I could be writing.

I truly see this happening, I’m just not certain of the timeframe and I’m not best known for my patience. I have any amount of really cool ideas for novels and I plan to keep writing until I run out of these ideas or until somebody comes up and begs me to please, for the love of all that’s holy, stop torturing humankind with my drivel.

Outside of writing - travel, travel, travel. I plan to move myself home to Ireland later this year, set up a base camp, then head to The Philippines, Malaysian Borneo and Indonesia to volunteer in an animal shelter, on an organic farm, and teaching English to underprivileged kids respectively. I'll have to make some pit stops at home and Norway now and again to gather up funds and show my face, but from this year on my tour of the world begins.

Of course I’d also love to meet the man of my dreams who’ll sweep me off my feet and take me away from all this rather than just to bed, but that’s all in another day’s work!

Ok humans, half-breeds, and everything in between, that’s all for today. Be sure to follow this blog to see who will be visiting next time. For more from Emma Ennis, check out these great links:Her blog: http://authoremmaennis.blogspot.comFacebook fan page: http://www.facebook.com/TerriblyWittyIdeasByEmmaEnnisAmazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Emma-Ennis/e/B004HDT2MS/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1354037838&sr=1-2-entRed Wine and Words on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Red-Wine-Words-Emma-Ennis/dp/0615574416/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1366118350&sr=1-1&keywords=red+wine+and+wordsFacebook personal profile: http://www.facebook.com/emma.ennis1

Guest Post 22: Emma Ennis

Because I'm such a kind hearted soul, I'd like to share two pieces with you today. One is from my second, hopefully soon to be published, short story collection – a sneak peak if you will. The other was written for a competition recently that was cancelled due to lack of interest. Let's start with that.
The prompt for the competition was 'Memento,' the premise to begin at the end and end at the beginning. I'd never attempted anything like this before, so needless to say, I jumped to the challenge. It is however, an experiment into areas I've never delved before, so be gentle...
Melody* * First Composition * *“Sweetheart, I'm home.”My voice sounded weak and not near as chipper as I'd intended. I felt weak. My knees knocked each other like a Newton's cradle and it was an effort to move my arms. I had a blinding headache that stretched all the way around the base of my skull and my throat was as dry as a desert camel's hoof.It dawned on me that I should have stopped by some kind of discount clothing place before coming home, changed and cleaned up a little. I smelled like sweat and blood, and there were evidences of both on my t-shirt. That was not the homecoming I'd envisioned, but to be honest, I hadn't the energy for anything more, let alone the brain capacity to plan.Weariness caused me to stagger. Black spots danced before my eyes. My eyes! I almost laughed aloud, but was disrupted by a swell of nausea like a lazy fish swimming in my stomach. Taking a deep breath, I promised myself that it was just a little while longer. All I had to do was see her, and then I could rest.“Mel?”I took great care in the placement of each step as I moved down the hall. About halfway along was a full length mirror, gilded and gigantic, and I stopped for a moment to glance at my new reflection.That fish swam a little faster, stirring my stomach contents and mixing it with the shock that coursed through me. What a sight. What a difference. What a monster I looked. Regardless, I smiled – a bitter sweet thing. There was a streak of blood caked on my cheek and it cracked with the movement. I licked my thumb and wiped it away before continuing on.“Sweetheart?”She appeared in the doorway at the end of the hall. The light from the room created a halo around her, making her hair shine like gold. In her white chiffon dress she looked like an angel as she gasped at the sight of me. Dainty hands flew up to meet pretty mouth. Slowly she came towards me and I collapsed in her arms.* * Second Composition * *This was the kind of place you didn't bring your fairer half, the place you'd warn your children to stay away from if you had any. The stench of garbage wafted from the spewing bins and skips and torn rubbish bags that flanked the walls beneath rusting fire escapes. The gutters ran with all manner of slop and muck, and I avoided them like the plague they surely carried. There was no escaping the stink.Steam and stuff belched from building vents. There were suspicious hissing and scurrying sounds coming from places unknown and which I did not dare endeavour to know. I cast a wary eye around me at all times, behind, ahead, above.My footsteps changed tune as I passed the mouth of a short alleyway and they rushed down, trying to find escape. Scarcely had I entered before a dark car pulled up at the opposite end, the windows blacked out so I could not see inside.The back door opened and a set of eyes peered out at me. The other half of the face was obscured by a scarf.“Get in,” a gruff voice demanded, the order muffled somewhat by the thick material but nonetheless menacing for it. My stomach plummeted. Another door opened and a face appeared over the far side of the car – a mean face with a scar running the full length of one cheek. Tattoos dressed every inch of skin I could see, spiked piercings added nettle to his already dangerous dial. This guy meant business.I glanced behind me, thinking to run, but back there was only a long stretch of straight alley with nowhere to dodge the bullets that would surely fly from the weapons concealed inside the vehicle. I was out of options. I took a tentative step forward. The tattooed man came around to meet me. He held a band of black material between his hands and when I was close enough, he secured this over my eyes so I was blinded. Then I was shoved into the car. Doors slammed shut, the engine roared, tyres squealed and I was pasted to the back of the seat as we took off. Shoulders bumped and heads knocked as I was pitched about like a rag doll, being driven in every which way imaginable. Despite my lack of vision, I was rendered dizzy by the time the car finally came to a halt.Rough hands pulled me out and the blindfold was removed. I found myself standing in a scrubby clearing before a ramshackle building. It looked like one of those fancy institutions where rich folk sent their embarrassing progeny. Well, where they had at least; one end was now just a pile of rubble. What glass remained in the windows would not have made up one full pane if combined. Everywhere red brick was persecuted by emerald vegetation, the latter winning the battle for domination.I was led inside and we crunched our way through the decaying halls and rooms. Somewhere around the back of the building we came to a place that had been cleared out and tidied up. We entered through a large sheet of plastic that was hung over the gaping doorway. The inside orifices were shielded with the same. In the centre of the room was a surgery table, and all manner of machines and instruments surrounded it. Electrical wires created a web about a foot off the floor, held aloft from the damp concrete. In the corner waited a scrubbed individual, his face obscured by a surgical mask.I felt nervous, scared. I cast about for a way out but was propelled forward from behind. Time sped up. I was assisted onto the table and held down while a needle was inserted into the tender flesh of my inner elbow. Whatever they pumped into me wasn't long in taking effect because already I was having trouble distinguishing reality from dream.Someone was instructed to clamp my head and I felt cold metal encase my temples, chin and eye sockets. My gaze was force-fixed on the ceiling which was wavering behind more sheets of plastic. Suddenly this view was interrupted by the arrival of a long, sharp instrument. I started to struggle, tried to shout, but clamps and leathers held everything quiet. A searing pain, barely dulled by the anesthetic, rendered me senseless. My muscles let go, and I slipped into the darkness.* * Third Composition * *All day I'd been plagued by an incessant feeling of frustration, of helplessness. It made my hands clumsy and my work shoddy. I had this sick feeling right down in the pit of my stomach. I felt lacking as a man. I felt useless.“Andy,” I called to my workmate. “If I was looking to get a procedure done, say, off the record, but done properly, where would I go?”Andy put down the level he'd been working with and looked at me with eyebrows askew.“What kind of procedure?”“Something insurance wouldn't cover,” I replied. “Something I can't call the family doctor for.”He looked suspicious, but also thoughtful, which I liked to see.“I don't know offhand, man. Leave it with me.”We got back to work and said no more about it. It was not until after lunch that we broached the subject again, when Andy came into the room and pulled me aside. “Tell me I'm not going to be sorry for this,” he begged, holding a piece of paper with a line of numbers written on it between us.I grabbed the note and smiled at him. “No man, don't worry about it. Cover for me.”I went outside to my car and closed myself in with the quiet. My finger shook ever so slightly as I dialled, but my mind had never been more solid or certain. My gut was serene; it knew I was on the right track.The call was answered straight away, but I got no greeting.“Hello?”“Yes.”“I have a strange request.”The voice on the other end laughed. “Believe me,” he said, “there's not much can surprise me.”Yet when I told him what I wanted I definitely heard a sharp intake of breath.“When it comes to it,” I continued, “I may try to change my mind. Do not let me. I must go through with this.”“You're one crazy son of a bitch,” the man said. “Be in the alley at the back of Smithson Street. A black car will come get you.”Smithson Street – the dodgy side of town.“I'll be wearing a white t-shirt and navy work pants,” I said, but the line was already dead.* * Fourth Composition * *I switched off the television, bored by the mind-numbing repetition. I groped for something else to entertain myself with, and wondered what my beloved was doing; she would certainly be more interesting to watch.Heaving myself out of the couch, I walked through the house. Correction – home. And it was a beautiful home – sprawling levels of luxuriance and comfort. I had given it all to her, everything she wanted and more, because, bless her heart, she'd never asked for anything. That's why I adored her so; she loved me with such ferocity that she'd live anywhere, in any shack or slum, just to be by my side. But I would not allow that to happen. My princess would have her castle.I found her in our bedroom, standing in the doorway to the ensuite in front of the mirror. Her long blonde hair tumbled between her shoulder blades, curling up at the small of her back. Her tiny waist called to my arms, her buttocks screamed out for my hips. I watched her with an equal mix of love and lust.Answering the call, I slipped my arms around her waist and rested my chin on her shoulder.“Hey gorgeous.”“Don't call me gorgeous,” she screamed, yanking herself free of my arms and spinning around to face me.“Mel, what's the matter?” I asked, beginning to panic. I reached out for her, but her beautiful face twisted and she evaded my hands. “What's the matter?” she spat. She picked up a box of tissues and flung them at me. It must have felt good, because all manner of projectiles were suddenly hurled in my direction. I blocked them as best I could and tried to advance on her.“Look at me,” she yelled. “How can you let me go out like this? It's easy for you. You're whole, perfect.”My gaze fell on a glossy magazine that lay open on the sink. A dark-haired beauty stared out from the pages, all airbrushed and flawless. The eyes were impossibly large, impossibly blue. The eyes were impossibly beautiful.I picked up the booklet. “It this what's gotten you upset baby?”She didn't answer.“This isn't real, Melody. You're more beautiful than any of the women in here,” I said, and it was the truth.She was crying now, all the fight gone from her lovely little frame. Her shoulders shook with sobs, and I could swear my heart was bleeding tears of its own. I took her in my arms and kissed her cheek.“You're beautiful,” I whispered, kissing her other cheek now. “You're real.”I placed my lips over the puckered eye socket where a sapphire iris should have shone, then moved over to kiss the tears from her one existing eye. “You're perfect, just as you are.”
So there you have it – my back to front story. The next example is also an experiment, this time with 'drabble' which is a short piece of one hundred words or less. This was also for a competition, but many words had to be hacked out of the competition version. The one below is a little fleshier around the middle. The following story will be included in my second short story collection, 'High Heels and Elegies' (working title.)
LullabyThey were back. 'The legs in the light' I called them. By some oversight in planning, or perhaps shoddy workmanship, my bedroom door ended inches short of its saddle, and lately, in black night, I had begun to see figures passing by outside. They made no sound – no key turned in the front door, the timbers did not protest the way they did when I crossed over them.There were times when I sensed them enter the room, and I would close my eyes tight, pretending to be asleep, hardly daring to move while every morsel of my body wanted to scream or cry, or both.The cat saw them first this time, bolted upright, silver-sheen eyes riveted on the doorway. I watched her, heart pounding. Who were they? What did they want? Slowly I turned my head, and closed my eyes.
~Thanks again for stopping by today to read some of Emma’s beautifully thrilling words. Don’t forget to return Friday for my interview with Emma. It’s the perfect finale for this wonderful blog visit. For more from Emma Ennis, check out these sites:Her blog: http://authoremmaennis.blogspot.comFacebook fan page: http://www.facebook.com/TerriblyWittyIdeasByEmmaEnnisAmazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Emma-Ennis/e/B004HDT2MS/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1354037838&sr=1-2-entRed Wine and Words: http://www.amazon.com/Red-Wine-Words-Emma-Ennis/dp/0615574416/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1366118350&sr=1-1&keywords=red+wine+and+wordsFacebook personal profile: http://www.facebook.com/emma.ennis1

Guest Post 21: Emma Ennis

Red Wine and Words is a collection of 16 short stories that will take you on an intoxicating journey through the torments and enigmas of life. The unforeseen, the unpredictable, love, loss, horror and fantasy all await within. Though rich and varied in theme, throughout the stories is the underlying principal that sometimes the line between reality and the mysterious can blur, creating a place where what-if's reign supreme.A worldwide conspiracy revealed, a biblical apocalypse wrought; a vengeful imaginary friend, and one not so vengeful but with just as harrowing consequences; an unlikely hero, and an unwilling one; an ancient Egyptian curse, a malevolent Indian spirit – these are just some of the characters and themes you will rub shoulders with in this eclectic compilation.With my debut collection, I invite you to raise a glass in a toast to the unknown, and see if Red Wine and Words doesn't make you question the threads in your carefully woven blanket of beliefs. Here is a little excerpt from Cornflower Blue, the closing story in Red Wine and Words:Five days ago on my way to work, while the snow tumbled in fluffy clusters to mingle with the gathering layers on the ground, I passed a woman on a street corner. She stood on the bend, close to the crossing. Her back was to the street which was uncharacteristically devoid of vehicles; rampant instead with foot passengers, crunching along about their daily chores. They did not see her. She did not see them. The wall she faced was strewn with flyers and posters and advertisements, all fighting to be heard over the clamour of the clutter. She stared at it, her eyes unblinking. I know this because I stopped for a moment and watched her. The edges of her nightgown brushed the snow on the sidewalk. On the toes of her fluffy pink slippers little pompoms of flakes were forming. Her hair was dishevelled; bed-head. I passed on though I continued to regard the poor lost soul, and was surprised when a curve in the footpath afforded me a full glance at her face. She was younger than I had expected, than the bedroom attire and unkempt hairstyle bespoke. There could not have been many years between us, putting her somewhere in her early thirties.* * * I saw her again the next day. The snow had turned to sleet; a biting lash that sent one scurrying into the furthest recesses of their overcoats. Nobody was lingering long outdoors, and all journeys were made in a slippery rush. Yet she stood there, in her slippers still, sinking into a pile of muddy slush. At least this time she had thought to put on a coat. I was in a hurry that day, but I determined that the next time I saw her I would approach her. I had no idea how or why I was going to do this, but to see her made my heart hurt with a pity so intense it had me feeling nauseous and cantankerous; an odd mixture on an empty stomach. * * *That was last week. I hadn't seen her in three days, and though I had far from forgotten her, I began to believe the phenomenon had passed.She was there again today...* * * The snow was back, bringing its old buddy Gale along for the ride. Together they made it a bitterly cold day. The flyers on the wall fluttered and cracked in the wind, snow packing up behind them so their pregnant messages bulged. She was dressed in a jeans and sweatshirt, and for the first time I got to see her willowy frame. Her feet were bare, the skin red raw where she stood in the snow, alone, staring at the wall. Faceless people bustled around her; a sea of bodies caught in the drift, swirling around the little anchored island that was she. The ache hit me with a kick in the chest, full force, like a bout of particularly malevolent indigestion, when I saw the poor feet. Pretty feet they were, with pretty silver toenails, but they were blazing with the cold. If she stood there much longer she would lose them. I stopped and looked around me, becoming another island in that uncaring, selfish sea. A man passed by us, a bunch of flowers swinging in one hand. An anniversary? A birthday? An apology? I reached out and put a hand on her shoulder. It was thin beneath my fingers. I could feel her cold skin under her sweater react to my body heat. She did not even flinch. I shucked my overcoat down over my arms and swung it around her neck. Still she did not budge. “Miss?” I tried to get her attention. There were frozen tear trails like silvery scars on her pale cheeks. “Won't you come indoors? Your poor feet will freeze to the sidewalk.” She made no answer and no acknowledgement of me. Her complete attention was on the wall, her eyes pouring her soul into whatever it was there that she tortured over. Across town the church clock struck ten. On the last bell a shiver seemed to run through her. She turned to me, and she saw me. And oh, those eyes. Would I ever forget them? They were the colour of cornflowers on a clear, summer day. But it was not the colour alone that struck me, it was the depth, the soul behind them. Those eyes had seen pain and loss, and a world of suffering.Acclaim for Red Wine and Words:Described as 'tragic,' 'chilling,' and 'harrowing,' there is a profound sense of love and loss interwoven throughout the collection that creates an impression which grabs hold and stays in the mind long after the pages have stopped turning.“On my bookshelf I own collections of stories by the likes of M.R. James, Conan Doyle, and HP Lovecraft and I hope Emma Ennis would not be insulted if I said that stories of this kind belong beside these.A natural storyteller Ennis is definitely someone to watch for in the future.” ~ Dean Cowan, BookPleasures.com“Only two Authors have ever made the skin tighten on the back of my neck so fierce that I could barely turn my head. Stephen King was the first, James Herbert was the second, and now I can add Emma Ennis to that list.” ~ Darren Gallagher, author of the forthcoming short story collection, 'Strings'“Someone wrote a review saying they were putting this book on the same shelf as Poe and Conan Doyle, which sounded like hyperbole, but I have to say that several of the stories in this book belong in such company.” ~ Armand Burke, author of 'The Great Leap Forward'

“Not only has Ms. Ennis overwhelmed me with colorful phrasing and perfect pacing, not only has she developed infinitely believable characters in gripping and astounding situations, she has managed to weave her stories so expertly that I found myself unable to put the book down once I had opened the cover.” ~ Brian Dobbins, author of 'Jasmine's Tale'“The theme of love and loss runs through many of the tales in this collection, and I found myself thinking about several of these stories days after I had finished the book. For me, that is a sign of good writing, and fantastic story telling.” ~ Edward J. McFadden, author of 'The Black Death of Babylon'“Emma Ennis has put together a chilling collection of stories in Red Wine and Words.They are full of twists and turns and within them is a subtle horror. In a few of her works the buildup is to something more horrific than you could imagine.” ~ Suzanne Robb, author of 'Z Boat' and 'Contaminated'“Each tale is the product of an active and somewhat skewed imagination, and each one is told in a way that quickly grabbed and then held my interest. Ms. Ennis is another PMP author I'll be keeping tabs on.” ~ William L. Nienaber“What I found amazing about this collection of short stories was that even though I would not normally be inclined towards stories from this genre I thoroughly enjoyed each one purely based on how well they were written. It's rare but sometimes the rhythm of a piece of writing can be just as enjoyable as the plot, in this case both struck a chord with me.” “You won’t find gory horror or gratuitous crimson spilling in this short story collection, but if you’re after more thoughtful discourse of the faults of human nature you shall be pleased.” ~ Nathan Robinson, author 'Starers'
~Thank you for stopping by today to see what author Emma Ennis has to share. If you liked this, then you’ll definitely want to return Thursday for another sample of Emma’s writing. It’s very entertaining and worth a look. Then on Friday, be sure to check out my interview with Emma and get an inside look into the mind of this dynamic writer. For more from Emma Ennis, check out these sites:My blog: http://authoremmaennis.blogspot.comFacebook fan page: http://www.facebook.com/TerriblyWittyIdeasByEmmaEnnisAmazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Emma-Ennis/e/B004HDT2MS/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1354037838&sr=1-2-entStorylane: http://www.storylane.com/emmaennis Facebook personal profile: http://www.facebook.com/emma.ennis1

Interview 19: Jacqueline Malcolm

Greetings humans, half-breeds, and everything in between. A while back, I had the pleasure to interview my new friend, Jacqueline Malcolm. She is visiting the ECS as a guest and sharing loads of interesting insights into her work. Be sure to look around and see what she has to offer. Here are the results of our interview. A good time was truly had by all, and here’s how it went down.

Hi there Jacqueline! It’s so awesome to have you here at the ECS Universe. Don’t worry about the darkness, your eyes will adjust.
So tell me, who is Jacqueline Malcolm?
I was born in Northampton, England, the youngest of 3 sisters to Jamaican-born parents. The love of theatre and writing started from a very young age. Before I was 10 years old I would write poems and post them through various neighbors letter boxes so they could have something nice to read. I enjoyed a full career in event management and administration to an executive level before taking a career change to study acting (New York and London) which propelled me into writing and producing stage plays for the fringe theaters of London plus many other commissioned and inspired pieces.
Wow, I’m sure growing up with three sisters must have been interesting. I think it’s so cool that you’ve had a love for writing and theatre since you were a kid. Though I have no talent for it, and am a professed movie buff, I too appreciate theatre in a way that doesn’t compare to the cinema.
So whacha got for me today?
SLAVE: Escaping the Chains of Freedomis Book 1 of SLAVE: The
Trilogy and is set in 18th Century New York. It follows the life of freed slave, Hezekiah Thomas, who, through a concoction of chance and opportunity is faced with the decision whether to go against all of his convictions and become an owner of slaves. The aim of the book is firstly, to explore the possible motives behind the reported black slave owners and traders of that period and, secondly, to take a look into our own hearts to question how far would we go for a profit?
I must just go ahead and applaud you now for taking on such a dynamic and controversial topic. From what little I know about the truth of the American (U.S.) slave trade, there were several reasons why and how a former slave may have become a slave owner and or trader, but even after knowing all the facts, good or bad, this is still a hard topic to truly understand. 
 So who’s starring is this 2 dimensional script read of SLAVE: Escaping the Chains of Freedom?
Of course the main character is Hezekiah Thomashimself. A mulatto freed slave who has actually enjoyed quite a comfortable and happy life living in the home of his father, the white General and his loving, supportive and strong wife, Betsy. The dark cloud in his life is his envious half-brother, James Thomas IV (who, by the way, is the main character of Book 2, Slave Brothers) and James’ embittered, almost hateful wife, Gloria. Hezekiah’s main mentor becomes a black slave trader, Albert Shelton who is the one to entice Hezekiah into slave ownership (and, I should mention, is the main character of Book 3, The Trade). The other key players are Ruth Thomas, Hezekiah’s and Betsy’s only daughter; Ezekiel, Hezekiah’s first slave who he begins to see and treat more like a son and Adam Shelton, Albert’s only son who becomes Ruth’s fiancé. I try to write strong, realistic characters so they all play both hero and villain – even Hezekiah. For some reason, I wanted to show that we’re all flawed at the end of the day.

I like the idea of characters being both villains and heroes. In real life it’s all about perspective. A do-gooder may be liked by many, but someone out there may not like what they are doing. Sometimes people make good and bad decision based on the extenuating circumstances in their lives. With this lineup of characters, this is sure to be an intense read.
Past, present, future, is there a rhyme or reason to your writing?
Google SearchI love to write with a wide view, if that makes any sense. I can’t be in a small, confined space as my imagination just doesn’t work the same. I’m very blessed in that, at the moment, I live on a small Island in Greece so most of the time I’m either in a beautiful café overlooking the Port or I’m sitting at home either on my balcony overlooking hills or, if it’s too old, I’m in my bedroom by patio windows – overlooking hills!! I drink probably about 10 cups of hot tea a day – even in the summer and I just lose myself in the story. At the moment I’m working on Book 2, The Trade – getting it finished for the publishers. The deadline is April 1st so I’ve gotta hustle!!! :D
Now that sounds peaceful. In an environment like that, I’m sure you imagination has time to sour. I enjoy hot tea too, even in the summer, but every now and then I have to give into my Southern (U.S.) roots and have a cup of iced tea.
What author(s) has most influenced your writing? Why or how?
I love everything and anything written by Philippa Gregory. Her Google Searchability to build a character and spread them open for us on the page is magnificent and I’m a lover of historical fiction which is her genre. But one of the series of books that inspired me most were authored by Manda Scottwho wrote the Boudica Series. I was half way through the first book and realized very little action had actually happened and yet I couldn’t put it down. It showed me that readers respond more to characters than they do to action – so that’s how I try to write – let the characters tell their own story.
I am a little familiar with Gregory’s work. It’s hard not to be after having her books turned into movies. I too like historical fiction, though again, I have no talent for it. The Boudica series sounds like it’s definitely worth looking into, even if only from a writing technique point of vew.
 Whose brain are you just itching to scratch?
Wikipedia- Moors MurdersThis is a more difficult question to answer. There are so many people for so many different reasons: Madonna because, with very little talent, she has become one of the biggest icons of our time. And I really don’t mean that as an insult to her at all. She hasn’t got the best voice, the best moves or anything – but yes, I would pay hundreds to go and see her perform. She holds a key to a secret that millions of young people would value a great deal from learning: Then there’s people like Myra Hindley – and again I know it’s strange that I would want to interview a serial killer monster, but I just can’t fathom what goes through a person’s mind that makes them want to torture and kill the innocent. So now you might understand why I say the list is endless.
Again wow! I must say, you are bold. I love that you are so honest, most people would hold back on a question like this, but not you. I can understand where you’re coming from. I can’t image what goes through the mind of a living icon or a serial killer, but these are the people that others read about and write about. These are the people that fictional characters are based on. There could surely be some benefit to getting to know what on the mind of someone like that.
Who is so you and why?
It’s normally anyone with very strong controlling tendencies!! My IMDBsister summed it up perfectly recently when she says I’m like Ben Hurr, the Chariot scene when he’s racing against his enemy, whipping his horses, charging forward filled with mayhem and danger; accept she says I’m like that just going around the shopping market! Had to laugh.

That’s funny and actually not a bad comparison. To have that kind of concentrated fanatical determination has to be good for something.
What’s your ideal reading spot for your next highly anticipated read?
Amazon.comJohn Campbell’s newest e-book, Walk to Paradise Garden is my next read that I’m excited about. He’s an emerging author like me and I really like his style of writing. I think he’s one to look for!! I also want to read the paperbacks of the Game of Thrones Series by George R. R. Martin. I’m loving the TV series so can’t wait to get stuck into those. I also really want to get into the Black Count by Tom Reiss– again, the subject matter is so close to mine it intrigues me.
I’ve read book one of the Game of Throne series and it was really good. I plan to read the rest eventually, but I have seen the show. The Black Count sounds like a good read and the cover is definitely enticing.
What was your favorite book or story, pre-teen years?
There was a series of books called My Naughty Little Sister which Amazon.commy sister used to read to me at night. She would always make references to me so that book always brings back good memories. But apart from that we grew up on all the fairy tales of wizards, witches and princesses and loved them all.
I can’t believe I grew up not knowing about this series. I may just have to look into that. It sounds like a really cute concept…Now this is where the questions get a little kooky; are you ready?
Love it!
Alright then, here we go.
If you could only watch one movie for the rest of your life, what would it be?
IMDBHow do I answer? Movies are selected according to my mood so if I’m a bit grey then I have to watch something dark and if I’m bubbling with excitement then I’m looking for a rom-com. So, let’s imagine my life was going to be wonderfully blissful for the rest of my days, then I would probably go with Seven Brides for Seven Brothers with Howard Keel and Jane Powell – and no, I’m not kidding!! J
LOL! Of all the musicals out there to pick, I must admit that I didn’t see that one coming. Don’t get me wrong, this is a good film, just not what I was expecting. I do, however, adore your reasoning for choosing it. It would be nice to think that everything from this moment forward will be blissful. Good choice.
What makes you geek out?
I looooove travelling. Been to a few places but not the entire globe by far. For instance, I’ve been to India but never to China. I’ve been to many parts of Africa but not South Africa. And I’ve been to Mauritius but not Australia. Seen many places but so many more still to visit.
Looooove this answer. I want to travel, but just haven’t been able to really do it the way I want to at this point, but there’s always hope for the future.
 So what’s testing your patience right now?
Well living on a small Greek Island, I could say that’s pretty much IMDBevery movie in the year that I’ve been here. But the one I really want to see is the new slave movie, Django Unchained obviously because it’s the same theme as my book so I already love the theme and am excited to see what angle they’ve taken it.
I never thought about how life could be different on an island in a bad way. I guess you probably do have to wait a while to see the latest films. I saw DJANGO. It was entertaining, but not to be taken too seriously. It’s an extreme view of slavery, though accurate in so many ways, it just outrageous in others.
When the soundtrack of your life is playing in your head, what songs express your glee and what songs bring out your rage?

Google SearchAndre Bocelli and Mary J. Bligesing a duet of What Child is This? <= listen. And I could (and often do) listen to that song for hours. The songs that make me want to scream are those where it’s obvious the composer hasn’t really given the lyrics any thought and are just singing empty words or some girl is singing about how she can’t live without her man!!
Awesome, I really like this answer. This question is always one of my favorites. I agree with you, there are very few talented lyricists making good music these days…and that is a good rendition of this song.
What’s the most fun experience you’ve ever had, to date?
Oh, wow, these are too many to count but more because I tend to enjoy most the simplest things in life. My days are filled with laughter just being with my family so every dinner time is fun. I guess the bigger things would be going to the airport with one of my best friends and jumping on the first plane available, and ending up in Milan; or landing in Nice and jumping onto a helicopter to our hotel in Monte Carlo; or taking a 26-hour coach ride from London to the Czech Republic; or flying off to Venice just for lunch; or enjoying breakfast at The Savoy and afternoon tea at The Ritz. Those kind of experiences will be part of my life-long memories because they don’t happen often so when they do I kind of soak up every minute of it.
You have an amazing life. Not everyone has the ability to live life the way you do and so many of the ones who do, unfortunately choose to sit at home and watch tv and youtube videos or work their life away making more money they don’t really need.
 Remind me again how I was lucky enough to meet you?
Someone sent me a link of your site and said, ‘Jacquie, you should contact her – she sounds great’ – and they were right J
I love word of mouth, it’s my friend. I truly enjoy meeting new people and have enjoyed this lovely time we’ve spent together.
Not that you can see into the future, but in your opinion, what does the future hold?
In the next five years I’m not sure if I’ll still be living in Greece but I’m pretty sure it will be somewhere just as beautiful, possibly in Italy or the South of France. I’ve always wanted to retire in Monte Carlo so who knows, maybe that dream will come to pass by then.
Ok humans, half-breeds, and everything in between, that’s all for today. Be sure to follow this blog to see who will be visiting next time. For more from Jacqueline Malcolm, check out these great links:
Website: http://www.jacquelinemalcolm.com/Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/slavethetrilogyAmazon: SLAVE: Escaping the Chains of FreedomA Review of SLAVE…: literaryinklings.com/A Press Release for SLAVE…: www.prlog.org/