Meglena Ivanova's Blog, page 13

A MOMENT TO SHARE with Ellis Shuman

Today I’m very lucky to be interviewing Ellis Shuman author of Valley of Thracians and The Virtual Kibbutz. As a hobby, Ellis began writing on the Internet. He wrote extensively about life in Israel in his position as the Israeli Culture Guide at About.com. He designed and maintained websites for the Neve Ilan Hotel and for Indic–Independent Israeli Cinema. For two years he was webmaster for Yazam, an international financial firm that provided support for technological start-ups. Ellis served for three years as Editor in Chief of Israel Insider, an online daily newsmagazine that developed new technologies as it posted the latest news and views, from and about Israel. Starting in 2004, Ellis began working in a marketing company servicing the online gaming industry. In the years 2009 – 2010, his job was relocated to Sofia, Bulgaria. During those years, Ellis and Jodie traveled extensively in Bulgaria as well as in the countries of the region. Today Ellis continues working at this job, based in Ramat Gan.

Read about Ellis and Jodie‘s Bulgarian Adventure at their Blog. Ellis writes regularly on his Blog.

Ellis Shuman

Hi  Ellis, thank you for agreeing to this interview.

My suspense novel, Valley of Thracians, takes place in Bulgaria, and when I mention this, most people say, “Bulgaria? Why did you have your novel take place there?” Bulgaria is a country that my wife and I fell in love with when we lived in Sofia for two years. When my job was relocated back to our permanent home in Israel, I couldn’t stop thinking about Bulgaria. Through my writing, I continue to experience our Bulgarian adventure and I hope that my novel will encourage people to visit Bulgaria.

Tell me a little about yourself and your background?

I was born in the United States and moved to Israel with my family at the age of fifteen. Even before that, I was inspired to write by my father, who was a journalist. Following in his footsteps, I learned to appreciate the ability to tell a story. I began to write stories, and then afterward to write manuscripts with hopes of turning them into novels.

What was your life like before becoming an author?

I finished high school in Jerusalem, served for three years in the Israeli army, and with my wife, was a founding member of a kibbutz, in Israel’s southern desert. Later, when we began raising a family, we moved to a small community near Jerusalem. I worked in the hotel industry, including a position at the Jerusalem Hilton. Since then I have been working in the online gaming industry, and this is the job that was eventually relocated to Bulgaria.

When did you decide to become a writer?

As mentioned, I have wanted to become a writer ever since I was a boy. During summer vacations while in grade school, I wrote and edited a neighborhood newspaper, reporting on my neighbors’ summer activities. And then I would sell them door by door for ten cents a copy.

Which comes first? The character’s story or the idea for the novel?

Ellis and Jodie’s Bulgarian Adventure!

With my novel, Valley of Thracians, it was clear to me that I wanted to write a suspense novel taking place in Bulgaria. I envisioned the entire story, more or less, and then began to create in my minds the characters that would play roles in the plot.

Why do you write? What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

I write because I feel a voice inside wanting to express itself. My advice to aspiring writers is not to imitate others, but rather they should write as themselves. Finding your writing voice may be hard, and certainly it is a task that can only be achieved over time, so new writers must continue to practice. And most importantly, they should write the kind of book that they would want to read.

So, what have you written?

My first book, The Virtual Kibbutz, was a collection of short stories about life on the kibbutz.

My years of living on a kibbutz and working in agriculture, and a desire to share these experiences with readers, gave me plenty of ideas for this book.

The Virtual Kibbutz was published in 2003. My novel, Valley of Thracians, was published in January, 2013.

Where people can buy or see them?

Both books are available in paperback and e-book editions and can be purchased on Amazon and at other online retailers.

Give me an insight into your main character from your last novel.

Valley of Thracians has a number of main characters. A young man is a Peace Corps volunteer who goes missing while serving in Bulgaria. His grandfather, a retired literature professor, arrives in Bulgaria to search for his grandson. He is assisted by a Bulgarian academic who specializes in Thracian history. It was important for me to include Bulgarians as characters in the book.

What sparked the idea for your book?

During my two years in Bulgaria, I fell in love with the country, its culture, history, and people. Bulgaria is a fascinating country, with something for everyone – mountains, beaches, unique architecture, picturesque villages, and good food.  It shocked me to discover that Bulgaria is rarely visited by tourists from countries like the United States. Bulgaria is very affordable and there is so much to see. This was an impetus for me to write a book about Bulgaria.

Are there any character traits in your book that are based on someone you know?

All of the characters in my book are fictional, not based on anyone I know.

Do you read much and if so who are your favorite authors?

I read a lot, and I enjoy writing book reviews. In particular I enjoy suspense novels (including the books of author Dan Brown), but I also enjoy reading Israeli authors whose books have been translated into English.

Where is your favorite place to read and write?

Ellis’s Website!

I read at home, but I write not only at home, but also in coffee houses. In order to find time to devote to writing in my busy daily schedule, I leave my home one hour earlier in the mornings, park at my office, and then sit in a coffee house for one hour’s writing session on my laptop. I find that I can easily concentrate on my writing despite the hubbub of the setting, the grinding of coffee beans, and the hiss of milked being seamed. One hour a day is not a lot, but over time, I make good progress on my writing.

How do you market your books?

I am very active on Twitter, but mostly tweet with other authors and not with prospective readers. I also maintain a blog and post book reviews on The Times of Israel. My biggest successes marketing my books have been when I ran promotions offering the books at discounted prices.

Do you have any advice for other authors on how to market their books?

Authors need to be proactive with regards to marketing their books. They must invest a lot of time and occasionally some money in the effort. Marketing is much harder than writing or editing, but it is a necessary task no matter who publishes your book. I sold quite a number of copies of my book after advertising in BookBub. In addition, creating a book trailer so that readers can visualize the book can be very helpful.

What do you do to get book reviews?

The number of Amazon reviews is very critical in determining the success of marketing a book. I gave away a lot of copies of my book for free to book bloggers and prospective reviewers. Not everyone who read the book posted a review, so I needed to proactively contact a lot of people with a very engaging letter suggesting that they read/review my novel.

What advice do you have for someone who would like to become a published writer?

Ellis’s Twitter Page!

First of all, you need a manuscript that is professionally edited. There is no excuse for having grammatical mistakes in the book. New writers should try to get their books published traditionally by sending out query letters and contacting literary agents, however, in today’s world, authors can achieve huge success by self-publishing their books.

Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included?

My first book was set in Israel, and my novel was set in Bulgaria. My current work-in-progress will combine my love for these two countries. It is still a long ways from being ready for publication, but I work on it every day convinced that it will be published not too far in the future.

How can readers discover more about you and you work?

I invite readers to visit my blog, where I write about my books, Bulgaria, Israel, and other things that interest me.

Ellis Shuman Writes = http://ellisshuman.blogspot.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ellisshuman

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Ellis-Shuman/e/B00B68OVJ6/

Book Links:

Valley of Thracians = http://www.amazon.com/Valley-of-Thracians-ebook/dp/B00B68J114/

Valley of Thracians (UK) = http://www.amazon.co.uk/Valley-of-Thracians-ebook/dp/B00B68J114/

The Virtual Kibbutz = http://www.amazon.com/The-Virtual-Kibbutz-ebook/dp/B00ASK6VA0

It was a great privilege for me to get to interview Ellis Shuman, who has inspired me in many different ways. Thank you Ellis!!! Good Luck with everything!

A MOMENT TO SHARE with Shannon A. Thompson

Today I’m very lucky to be interviewing Shannon A. Thompson author of Minutes Before Sunset, November Snow, some incredible short stories and poems. Her first short story, Sean’s Bullet, was published in an anthology in October of 2013. Currently, she’s finishing her senior year at the University of Kansas with a bachelor’s degree in English, while working as a Social Media Marketing Manager. Shannon spends her free time writing, but she loves spending time with her father and brother. She also has one black cat named after her favorite actor, Humphrey Bogart.

Shannon A. Thompson

Hi Shannon, thank you for agreeing to this interview.

Tell me a little about yourself and your background? What were you like at school? Were you good at English? What are your ambitions for your writing career? Which writers inspire you? Or something that you feel you need to share?

My name is Shannon A. Thompson, and I’m from the road. I grew up moving around a lot. Currently, I’ve moved over 15 times in my short 22 years of life, and I love it. I had various stages in my school years. I was really passionate about it until my mom died when I was 11. Although I kept good grades, I had quite an anger problem until I realized I wanted to spend my life writing. I was 16 when my first novel was published. Since then I’ve had poetry, a short story, and another novel published. My next novel, Seconds Before Sunrise, releases this March. I’m currently signed with AEC Stellar Publishing, Inc. My ultimate ambition is to help other artists, especially the youth, achieve their dreams by opening up an affordable art school where artists can meet professionals in their field.

What was your life like before becoming an author?

The few years right before I became an author weren’t easy, but I don’t think a lot of childhoods are. I don’t resent them. In fact, I think they really shaped me. But, like I said, my mother passed away from a drug overdose when I was 11. Since we wrote together, writing was very difficult at first. Now, it completes me. My life mainly consisted of going to school and working as a hostess at a local sports bar.

Shannon with her book – Minutes Before Sunset

When did you decide to become a writer? 

I actually shared a little story I wrote when I was seven on my website. In the back, I wrote that I wanted to be “a book author.” But I don’t think I took this dream seriously until I was 11. I was faced with mortality, and I knew life wasn’t guaranteed, and I wanted to spend my life doing what I love.

Which comes first? The character’s story or the idea for the novel?

I think that varies. Generally, for me, the feeling comes first. Then, the characters appear in scenes, which is where the story shapes. Somewhere in there I realize the idea had been guiding me all along.

Why do you write? What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

I write because I love it, but, if I had to be honest about the psychology of it, I think it keeps me connected with my late mother, and I’m completing our dream, since she always talked about how she wished she’s written stories. For aspiring writers, I share my mantra: “write with passion; succeed with self-discipline.” But there are many ways to approach writing.

So, what have you written?

Awards: Minutes Before Sunset won Goodreads Book of the Month for General


Fiction in July, 2013: ShannonAThompson.com was Freshly Pressed in October, 2013.


Novels:

1. Minutes Before Sunset (May, 2012: AEC Stellar Publishing, Inc.) young-adult, paranormal romance;

2. November Snow (July, 2007) young-adult, sci-fi novel.

Short Story: Sean’s Bullet (October, 2013: AEC Stellar Publishing, Inc.) military fiction.


Poems: I was featured in Poems: a collection of poems from twelve Kansas poets (December, 2012)


Where people can buy or see them? 

Amazon ,  Barnes & Noble ,  Smashwords ,  Kobo ,  Diesel ,  Sony,  and  Apple .

Give me an insight into your main character from your last novel /first novel/. What does he/she do that is so special?

Minutes Before Sunset is a young-adult, paranormal romance. That being said, the main themes include light versus dark (expect the light is evil and the dark is good), coming-of-age, fate and choice, and identity. Since the novel is told by both the girl and the boy, the reader gets to experience both of their individual struggles of balancing their human lives with their paranormal realities.

What sparked the idea for your book/s?

November Snow quote

November Snow and Minutes Before Sunset were both inspired by dreams. I suffered from nightmares and night terrors as a child, and my mother taught me to turn them into stories in order to understand them. In Minutes Before Sunset’s case, I had a series of dreams of a boy visiting me at night to talk about a problem I was having. Once I solved the issue, the dreams stopped, and I knew I had to create a story to make sense of it all.

Are there any character traits in your book that are based on someone you know? /*Even if the whole character isn’t based on them?/

The closest one of my characters has gotten to being someone in my real life is in November Snow. Calhoun is very much like my father.

Do you read much and if so who are your favorite authors?

I read all of the time! Currently, I love Cassandra Clare, David Sedaris, Lauren Oliver, Garth Stein, Meg Cabot, and Billy Collins (poet.)

Where is your favorite place to read and write?

Shanon’s Website!

I generally read in bed, but I currently spend most of my writing time in a local hookah house. I love the atmosphere.

How do you market your book/s?

Marketing, to me, comes down to connecting with other authors and readers, so I spend a lot of time on social media sites, chatting away about writing and reading.

Do you have any advice for other authors on how to market their books?

Research a lot and don’t hesitate to ask another writer for help. Most writers are willing to help others. Get out of your comfort zone, try new websites, and find out what works best for you. For instance, blogging has been great for me, but I know a lot of writers who struggle with it. That’s okay. There are many ways to connect.

What do you do to get book reviews?

Shannon’s Facebook Page!

Lucky for us authors, there are a lot of readers who love a free e-book.

I mainly find them through blogs, Twitter, and Goodreads.

What advice do you have for someone who would like to become a published writer?

I truly believe in my mantra: “Write with passion; succeed with self-discipline.” It won’t be easy, but it becomes much easier when you remind yourself how much you love writing. Always turn negative energy into something positive.

Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included?

On my blog, I have an entire page set up for writing, editing, and publishing tips. I’m here to help!

How can readers discover more about you and you work?

Website: http://www.shannonathompson.com

Blog: http://www.shannonathompson.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Shannon-A-Thompson/495467393833780?ref=hl

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShanAshleeT23

Lnkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=240803974&trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Shannon-Thompson/e/B00AXANG76/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1383674634&sr=1-1

Purchase links: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Smashwords, Kobo, Diesel, Sony, and Apple.

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6880615.Shannon_A_Thompson

It was a great privilege for me to get to interview Shannon A. Thompson, who has inspired me in many different ways. Thank you Shannon!!! Good Luck with everything!

A Moment of Truth with Meglena Ivanova by Alison Strachan

**Win a Copy of My Book!!!** 

Wonderful interview, amazing woman, incredible friend, inspirational  author and person!!!

Alison Strachan

Alison is a fantasy writer who believes in the power of story-telling. She is passionate about the environment and speaking up against abuse of animals. Her novel in progress explores these themes and those of identity and belonging in a world where men and women live separately. She invites you to read the prequel to her novel and excerpts on her blog. On her Blog she have interviewed book designers, authors, and bloggers.

Today I am SO excited to share with YOU guys her interview with me!!! If you want you can read it here!!! Thanks to Alison I was able to share my thoughts, my journey and the release of my first book - The Legend of The Moonstone!!!

In the interview you will also be able to find out more information about - What I love most about being a writer; What is the weirdest thing I have ever done as part of the research for my book; What is the most demeaning thing someone has ever said to me about being a writer; What inspired me to write books , short stories and essays 

* If you would like to Win a copy of My Book – please leave a comment telling us a writing prompt inspirited by a Moonstone or another Gemstone.

Entries close on the 11/17/13 at 11.59 pm AEST (Australian Eastern Standard Time GMT +10) and Alison will choose the winner at random from the comments and then she will post it on her Facebook page and on her Blog. *

Alison, thank you so much for hosting me on your blog today. It’s been a pleasure working with you. The post looks amazing and I love your blog layout / background. Have a wonderful day!!!

P.S. You can find Alison’s interview for my Blog, here - http://meglenaivanova.wordpress.com/2013/10/27/a-moment-to-share-with-alison-strachan/ and more incredible interviews with amazing authors here - http://meglenaivanova.wordpress.com/reviews/ !!!

A MOMENT TO SHARE with Jeff Joseph

Today I’m very lucky to be interviewing Jeff Joseph author of A Novel Obsession and The Trials of Virtue. In spite of being a husband and father, Jeff has always been a daydreamer. True love and the inherent difficulty in finding it are what he daydream about the most, and to him writing a book is merely daydreaming and capturing our thoughts in print. “It makes them more real and provides the opportunity for others to share in them as well.” – Jeff Joseph

Jeff Joseph

Hi Jeff, thank you for agreeing to this interview.

Tell me a little about yourself and your background? What were you like at school? Were you good at English? What are your ambitions for your writing career? Which writers inspire you? Is there something that you feel you need to share?

I was very fortunate to have grown up in an idyllic middle class neighborhood with lots of kids on my street. We didn’t have any electronics to entertain us so we used something very outdated…our imagination! It therefore was a natural progression that I would eventually write fiction.

I was popular in school but never quite enough to have the Homecoming Queen as my girlfriend. I was the guy next door. I was the boy every girl wanted to be “friends” with but nothing more. I didn’t really care for school other than for the girls and sports.  I spent my classroom time daydreaming and rarely did any homework because I was always playing sports and watching TV instead.

Studying English seemed very clinical to me and very much like learning any language. I hated it. I remember diagramming sentences as among the most painful of things that I have ever done in my life!  There was one day in tenth grade however that I actually enjoyed English. My teacher played a Simon and Garfunkel album and we talked about what the songs meant.  My only other fond memory of English was in twelfth grade.  Our teacher was reading Cyrano de Bergerac to the class and was crying her eyes out. The other boys in the class were unkindly teasing her when she wasn’t looking.  Despite being friends with them, I did not engage in the teasing.  I did however find myself nearly crying (I would have died before letting them see me cry) while she was reading. It’s funny how I remember two days in 13 years of learning.

Jeff’s Website

My ambitions for writing are simple. I want people to read what I write and feel better for a while as a result. I want to touch my readers. That’s what my favorite books do for me. I have no grandiose plans of being rich and famous.  In fact, I’m not very good with a lot of attention.  But reading good reviews is incredibly rewarding to me because it tells me that I have done what I intended to do.

As for my favorite writers, I would say Nicholas Sparks, Daniel Silva, and my most favorite of all David Baldacci.  The Camel Club…it doesn’t get any better!  I’m also a big fan of Dan Brown, loved Angels and Demons, and have read numerous novels by Sandra Brown and even Nora Roberts. I love mysteries and political thrillers but I insist on there being a love story woven in somewhere. To me though a well written love story from start to finish is what I crave the most.

What was your life like before becoming an author? 

Pretty much as it is now and I am happy with that.  I’m blessed with a loving, supportive wife, a wonderful family, great friends, and am able to provide for my family, albeit on a modest level. I live in a beautiful part of the country where we enjoy four seasons of weather and have the perfect excuse to have fires in the fireplace every weekend during one of those seasons.  I have always been in relative good health experiencing only the occasional discomfort resulting from a very active athletic life as a boy and young man.  Now I am competitive vicariously through my favorite sports teams that provide for a full range of emotions throughout the year and a great deal of fun. I have my favorite movies that I watch over and over…I’ve seen Sleepless in Seattle 165 times (I actually started counting after the twelfth time), and several others 50 or more times.  I never grow tired of the romantic movies and they in part fuel my writing.

Being an author has added a deep sense of pride to my life although I have generally been very proud of the life I have led.

When did you decide to become a writer?

A Slow Waltz in Cedar Bend by Robert James Waller

I decided to try writing after reading A Slow Waltz in Cedar Bend by Robert James Waller, probably 15 years ago. I loved it and thought that I could have written it!  All of my life people have told me that I write well. So I decided to see if I could actually write a book from start to finish.  It had to be romance because that is who I am. But, I also was aware that I couldn’t write well enough to tell a love story and nothing else, at least at the time. So, I decided to spice it up with some mystery and suspense, which any overactive imagination can conjure up. I actually did write a book over a period of several years but didn’t think it was very good.  Still, I felt very satisfied for having finished it and had an absolute blast writing it from start to finish!  An editor at Random house said I wasn’t ready to be published but encouraged me to continue to write and I was only too happy to do that. It had become a hobby of mine, a release that never fails to make my troubles seem to dissolve. I was told that my writing would only get better and to this day I have found that to be the case.

Which comes first, the character’s story or the idea for the novel?

The idea for the novel has come first so far.  I don’t spend a lot of time in development. I just get an idea for a story and start writing. Once I get started and feel I have enough storyline to write a novel, I do take time to organize my thoughts and come up with a chapter outline.  I work on the outline while I’m writing the book because things constantly change as the story develops and it gets very exciting at times. But, for the most part I prefer to write and not plan. Writing is a joy. Planning is work.

Why do you write? What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

To me writing is nothing more than daydreaming and putting your thoughts on print. When writing fiction anything is possible and it is so much fun to create the impossible. I write because more than any form of relaxation I practice, it soothes and comforts me.  When I write something that I think is good, it fuels me and I become energetic and more upbeat. Of course now reading positive reviews drive me even more. I am so gratified that people read what I’ve written and really enjoy it. It makes it more than just a selfish and private pursuit. I’ve never been in a position to help people, at least other than in small numbers. If people read my books and they make them feel better, even for a short time, I feel like I’m helping my fellow man somehow. That sounds a little corny, but it’s true. And what is wrong with corny anyway!

My advice to aspiring writers would be to just start writing. You will probably be surprised at what you have inside of you. Getting started is what holds nearly everyone back. As with anything you have to do where you might be hanging your ego out there, taking that first step is always the most difficult part of the journey.  Just push through the fear and it will disappear.

So, what have you written?  Include books, novellas, short stories, poems, blogs, awards or anything of interest.

I’ve written two books so far.  As I said the first one was a practice book, a hobby really.  It is not that good but it got me started.

The second one is much better and has received numerous good reviews.

I am currently finishing my third book, which is a sequel to the second. Most of the reviewers state that they are looking forward to it and I don’t want to disappoint them.

Where people can buy or see them? /* include American, European and any other relevant links. Free, free promotions or prices can be included/?

My books can be viewed and purchased at:

1.   Amazon (US) – http://amzn.to/VrxHL9

2.   Amazon UK – http://amzn.to/ZXJyDk

3.   Barnes&Noble - http://bit.ly/11yVB7P

4.   Smashwords – http://bit.ly/SKfuUC

5.   Youtube Trailer – http://bit.ly/UhtJhe

Give me an insight into your main character from your last novel /first novel/. What does he/she do that is so special?

The main character in my last novel is of all things a novelist, a romance novelist. He is very accomplished and internationally renowned but unfortunately he lacks the love in his personal life of which he so eloquently writes. His smothering fame along with the lack of real love in his life is proving to be a lethal combination and he finds himself in a life altering, downward spiral. Then along comes a very special woman who may save his life. They meet in a most unexpected way.

What sparked the idea for your book/s?

The first book was inspired by a real life story of someone with whom I am very close.  There was no particular inspiration for the most recent book. It was just my active imagination.  I will say though that when I start out to write a story about love, whether augmented with suspense and mystery or not, the lovers have to experience a struggle before they can eventually be together.  That struggle makes the build up to the ending much more exciting and the ending itself more fulfilling and memorable.

Are there any character traits in your book that are based on someone you know? /*Even if the whole character isn’t based on them?/

Jeff’s Facebook Page!

The main character in my most recent book is more like me than not. He is probably more like the man I wish I was and am not, but I did draw from my personal experiences and feelings to write about him.

He is sensitive, funny, caring, and most of all a hopeless romantic.

He is also immensely talented and very rich and of course that is the part I wish for myself!

Do you read much and if so who are your favorite authors?

I did not read much early in life other than all of the Hardy Boys books. I have done much more reading as an adult and with my work and all of the traveling I do. I listen to books on CD frequently. As I stated earlier my favorite authors are Nicholas Sparks, Daniel Silva, and David Baldacci. They are all genius when it comes to storytelling.

Where is your favorite place to read and write?

I do most of my writing in my office at home in my spare time of which I presently have little. I have a full time job managing 250 people and that takes up most of my waking hours. But, one of the things I love the most about writing is that it can be done anywhere, anytime.  I travel with my laptop and I never fail to write no matter where I am. I have written at car dealerships while my car was being worked on, and I have even written in my car while stuck in traffic.  It is amazing how much aggravation that has saved me while my fellow drivers stood outside their cars yelling and screaming.

How do you market your book/s?

I market my work on line and via the social media. Even after all of this time I am amazed at just how powerful the internet is if used correctly.

Do you have any advice for other authors on how to market their books?

I would start with Amazon.com but by all means get an editor first. You can easily find one on the internet. Do some research online as to the other sites where you can publish books and get on them. You will learn a great deal every time you become involved with a new site.

What do you do to get book reviews?

Jeff’s twitter account!

I really don’t do anything to promote reviews other than to publish the book and see what people have to say about it.  It’s a little risky from an ego standpoint, but no risk, no gain!  I do have several people I trust to read and personally review the book before I attempt to publish it as a means of vetting it for content, and a good editor will also make comments about content as well. I try to minimize the risk as much as possible, but to me asking for a good review will diminish the benefit that an honest review can provide.

What advice do you have for someone who would like to become a published writer?

I would tell prospective authors, and have told them, don’t let your feelings of doubt limit you. You have more talent than you think. Most people dream of writing a book and never start one. Just sit down in front of a Word document and start typing away. You may very well be shocked and delighted by what comes out of you. It may totally change your life!

Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included?

No. This had been a very thorough interview and fun to do. Thank you for the opportunity to let readers know a little more about me.

How can readers discover more about you and you work?

I would suggest following my:

Blog:                              http://jeffjosephauthor.wordpress.com/

Facebook:                     https://www.facebook.com/jeffjosephauthor?sk=wall

Twitter:                          https://twitter.com/author_jeff

Linkedin:                        http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=164827293

Pinterest:                       http://www.pinterest.com/jeffjoseph1/boards/

Amazon Author Page:   http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B006WAFHVO

Smashwords:                https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/JeffJoseph

Goodreads:                  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2594068.Jeff_Joseph

  It was a great privilege for me to get to interview Jeff Josepf, who has inspired me in many different ways. Thank you Jeff!!! Good Luck with everything!

A MOMENT TO SHARE with Raven Mallo

Today I’m very lucky to be interviewing Raven Elenah Mallo author of The Bully Diaries, several flash fiction, short stories and two YA novels. She communicates from the soul of her characters and she loves to stretch her mind with poetry.

Raven Elenah Mallo

Hi Raven, thank you for agreeing to this interview.

Tell me a little about yourself and your background? What were you like at school? Were you good at English? What are your ambitions for your writing career? Which writers inspire you? Or something that you feel you need to share?

I loved English all throughout school. I remember my father hand crafting me a bookshelf when I was ten. I would spend hours rearranging all of the books I had and re-reading them. In English, I was able to get moved to Advance College Courses for English. English and Art were the only classes I yearned for. The first book I will never ever forget and the book that talked to me and inspired me to write was “The Catcher in the Rye” by J. D. Salinger. To this day, I have not forgotten it and still have my copy.

What was your life like before becoming an author?

I have wrote off and on my whole life. I remember sitting in my bedroom for hours, writing away in notebooks I would shove under my bed. Back then, I was afraid to let anyone read what I wrote. I was afraid to hear that writing was only a dream.

When did you decide to become a writer?

When I was ten. I knew someday I would write, but I had no idea I would be where I am now.

Which comes first? The character’s story or the idea for the novel?

My character’s drive my stories. They tell me what my novel is about…

Why do you write? What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

I write because it lets me lead exciting adventures every day. One day, I might be sitting atop a gigantic mushroom dreaming up spells, the next I could be dancing in a welcoming ceremony. Writing releases an energy and a spirit we all possess, but some of us don’t know how to locate it.

So, what have you written? /*Include books, novellas, short stories, poems, blogs, awards or anything of interest./

I self-published, “The Bully Diaries” in June of 2012. Since then I have wrote poetry, several flash fiction pieces and two novels.

I received runner up during my first f2k session of Writers Village University.

That alone gave me the confidence to follow my dreams.

Where people can buy or see them? /* include American, European and any other relevant links./

Free, free promotions or prices can be included / The Bully Diaries is $2.99 and can be found on Amazon.com @ http://www.amazon.com/The-Bully-Diaries-ebook/dp/B0088K31MS. Anyone who sends me an email and mentions reading my interview on your Blog can get a FREE COPY, just enter “Meglena Ivanovany” in the subject line!!!  

Give me an insight into your main character from your last novel /first novel/. What does he/she do that is so special?

The main character of the novel I just completed is a strong-willed character. She has been on her own for some time and lives in a world where no one can be trusted. Everyone is the enemy.

What sparked the idea for your book/s?

I love reading Dystopian novels and have always been obsessed with the future. I think it was only fitting that I would eventually write a story based on just that. One of my favorite movies, “Total Recall” was a strange movie but brought a glimpse into the writer’s mind of what the future could be like.

Are there any character traits in your book that are based on someone you know? /*Even if the whole character isn’t based on them?/.

I think all of my characters are in some way based on people I have met or know. I try to put myself out there to meet people as much as I can. I believe every person has an interesting story, you just need to know how to ask the right questions to find it.

Do you read much and if so who are your favorite authors?

Raven’s Website!

I read every day. I think reading has made me a better writer. My favorite authors include – Veronica Roth, Ann Aguirre, Becca Fitzpatrick, Ella James, and Marie Lu, just to mention a few but I also like a good true crime novel.

Honestly, I just love to read. On my desk are Sometimes a Great Notion, Atlas Shrugged, and The Great Gatsby. Reading is my passion. Writing is my life.

Where is your favorite place to read and write? 

About a year ago, I created a corner space in our bedroom. It is only a 5×5 foot space but I have an antique desk with a pretty, white shag rug, my bookshelf (the same one my father made for me) and a zebra colored chair.

I have things like Marvin the Martian, fairies, Monster High dolls and a few other things that help inspire me when I sit down. They also give me something fun to look at. My space is cluttered, but it is all mine and it drives me to be my best. Reading is something I could do anywhere, in my car, on the couch, but my favorite place is near water.

How do you market your book/s?

Right now I have been trying to market myself and my work through Twitter and through my website http://ravenmallo.webs.com/

Do you have any advice for other authors on how to market their books?

My advice would be to connect with other writers. I really believe that what you put out there comes back two fold. And to read. Read everything.

What do you do to get book reviews?

Raven’s Twitter account!

I have a reading group. One is a relative and one is someone I met a year ago and have become good friends through my writing. I send them a chapter at a time and ask for advice.

My plan in the next year is to get even better with engaging new readers.

What advice do you have for someone who would like to become a published writer?

Research. I have spent the past couple of months researching the best agents to send my work to. I feel that an agent can give me a better chance to get published, but I keep my options open and I continue to network.

Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included?

Writing is not a hobby. Some will compliment how nice of a hobby it is, but do not let this discourage your dreams. I live to write and write to live. As cheesy as it sounds, never stop striving to reach your dreams!

How can readers discover more about you and you work?

Blog: http://ravenmallo.webs.com/apps/blog/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raven.mallo.9

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/ravenmallo

It was a great privilege for me to get to interview Raven Mallo, who has inspired me in many different ways. Thank you Raven!!! Good Luck with everything!

11 GREAT AUTHORS AND THEIR INCREDIBLE MARKETING IDEAS

For Authors who want a lot more readers…

With hundreds of books released every single day, I know that many good books and great authors are lost in the chaos of the marketplace.

Me and my Book – The Legend of The Moonstone

In this post 11 GREAT AUTHORS will talk about their experience and their INCREDIBLE MARKETING IDEAS…

/ If you stick around until the end of the post and leave a comment, you could win a book! Before Christmas five of you will win a copy of incredible book!!! /

So like I said this post is about some of the creative ways those authors have reached out to readers in these days of rapidly changing technology and what they think will be The Next Big Thing in book promotion.

Social media…

As a reader and a blogger I truly do appreciate all that authors do to try and promote their books. There are so many choices out there, and with the bookstores carrying less and less in stock you can’t really just go in and browse to see all of the books available. Writing should come first, a fabulous book will sell me faster on other titles that they’ve written than anything else!

Let’s see what Jason Halstead, author of more than 41 books thinks about that…

“After several years of doing this, and spending thousands of dollars on marketing, the best marketing I’ve found is writing more books. I’m sure there are some surefire ways to make magic happen, but I’ve been doing pretty well where I’m at and, when I have the time and resources available, I try out new marketing tactics. Ultimately though the magic is writing more books.” You can find more about Jason here.

Another great opinion on “How do you market your books” is Marsha’s. She is author of H10N1,The Ups and Downs of Being Dead and Losing it All. At first, Marsha Cornelius dabbled in freelancing for magazines, and wrote a couple articles for the Atlanta Journal Constitution and Topside Loafing. Then she moved on to fiction, trying to write screenplays, before finally finding her niche in novels.

“Marketing is the hardest part of being an author. Even with traditional publishers, I understand most newbies are on their own to create a fan base and garner a buzz about your book. I spend time on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads, getting in touch with readers. I contact book clubs to visit or Skype. I sometimes offer my books at reduced rates on Amazon, and advertise about it on book websites.” You can find more about Marsha here.

As you begin to build your readership, you will start to discover the power of an online marketing system.

In his guest post in Alison Strachan’s Blog – Writing my truth, the self-published author Brad C. Anderson / author of Hammer of Amahte and In the Ravager’s Shadow/ talks about his experience with Social Media.

According to him you need to follow a couple steps to become a well known writer:

If someone buys your book, it’s because YOU sold it, so You Must Become a GREAT Marketer;
As a self-published author, it’s easy to work in a bubble, so You must have a Hunger for Constructive Criticism;
Your customers are people who read books, and readers read many books from lots of different authors, so You need to understand that Life’s Better if You Build an Author Network.

In his interview for my Blog, Brad gave me link to a great guidelines – Marketing Your Book  for Holiday Sales. You can check it out here. Also you can find more about Brad’s interview here.

The Legend of The Moonstone by Meglena Ivanova

You definitely have to hustle hard with promoting your book. Many authors don’t put as much energy on promoting as they do writing the book. Of course, you have to write a quality book, but it won’t sell unless people know about it.

THE most important tip is promoting early, long before the book launches. I was promoting my book – The Legend of The Moonstone long before I even published it. You can find more about my book here.

Another great author is Alison Strachan. She is author of the coming soon fantasy novel with the tentative title The Divided. Alison is a fantasy writer who believes in the power of story-telling.

“I plan on experimenting with different techniques like posting work on Wattpad, using Pinterest to generate interest in my characters and my world, as well as programs like Amazon’s KDP Select.”

That’s the great thing about being a self-published author – you have all the control!!! You can find more about Alison’s book on her Blog or from her interview for my Blog here.

It takes time to build relationships, learn your readers wants and needs and develop a base of rabid fans that glamour for more.

Grow your readership as you write your book, and when it’s time to launch your baby, you’ll already have an invested and eager audience waiting.

Here are Kimberley Grabas’s fey key things to remember:

Focus more on discover ability rather than selling. Your work is important, so help those who can benefit from it, find it.


Accept responsibility for the marketing and promotion of your book. Even if you choose to outsource some of the work, your book’s success depends on you taking action.


Marketing and promotion is just an extension of your author platform. The lines between platform building and book marketing are often blurred. For the biggest impact, combine these 71 strategies with the 101 Quick Actions You Can Take Today to Build the Writer Platform of Your Dreams.

Website / Blog…

Use your blog to report or update your readers and fans on the new book you are writing. You could do once a week. You know, the up’s and down’s, in’s and out’s-enough to whet the appetites, building excitement and buzz for the book. Perhaps they can participate by asking you questions. Anytime a reader can ask the author questions you can bet they are going to buy that book when it comes out.

More thoughts on Social Media, Giveaways and Reviews…

The incredible authors Eva Natsumi and Dianne Harman have some interesting ideas and advices for us on how to market our books.

According to Dianne Harmann, author of Blue Coyote Motel, Tea Party Teddy and Coyote in Provence, a great way to promote your work is creating an event on Goodreads, an Advance Review Copy event. More on her thoughts about Marketing you can find here.

On the other hand, Eva Natsumi / or Mary Catherine/, author of Drowing Ophelia, Bloody Valentine, Rue Bourbon Supernatirals, Beast, The Web and more, is giving us an example of Greatest Way to promote our work – Word of Mouth!!! To read more about her, her work and her unique world of words visit her interview with me here.

I wholeheartedly agree that we must write, and then write, and then write some more to enable our readers to be not only entertained, but being bated for more!

This philosophy is not only mine but also Lori Lesko’s, Shannon A. Thompson’s and Ellis Shuman’s. All of them are awesome and stunning authors from whom we can only learn a lot.

Lori Lesko is author of Our Daughters and a screenplay based on it called Diamond City. She is currently writing her second book titled COPYRIGHT. More about her and her journey as a published author you can read here.

“You Must Go Deeper When Writing”, says Lori in one of her posts on her incredible Blog. “What I’m slowly discovering with a little help from some friends, is that everyone one of us writes differently and that’s okay.” With these words Lori invites her readers to read and help with improving her stories. This is a great way to connect with readers and promote any books or stories.

Ellis Shuman, author of The Virtual Kibbutz and Valley of Thracians have another point of view on Marketing – “My biggest successes marketing my books have been when I ran promotions offering the books at discounted prices.” Soon you will have the amazing opportunity to read more about Ellis and his work here on my Blog under the INTERVIEW menu button.

Ellis and Jodie’s Bulgarian Adventure!

Ellis Shuman’s book – Valley of Thracians, is very close to my heart because the action takes place in my home country Bulgaria. His extraordinary adventure and experience in Bulgaria helped him to create a unique book with unique characters.

“Bulgaria is a fascinating country, with something for everyone – mountains, beaches, unique architecture, picturesque villages, and good food”, says Ellis in his interview with me and I’m very thankful for his words.

Most writers are willing to help others. Get out of your comfort zone, try new websites, and find out what works best for you. For instance, blogging has been great for Shannon A. Thompson, who is author of “Minutes Before Sunset”, “November Snow”, a lot of short stories and poems.

Her words perfectly explains the meaning of marketing and the importance of connecting with readers – “Marketing, to me, comes down to connecting with other authors and readers, so I spend a lot of time on social media sites, chatting away about writing and reading.”

Her interview would be post it in the end of this week here on my Blog under INTERVIEWS.

A little bit about my experience…

As a reader and author, I have to agree that a great book is the best promotion there is. I will still continue to read books by favorite authors who don’t do the Facebook / blog deal, but those authors who do take the time make the reading experience that much sweeter. Hope you will enjoy reading my books, short stories, posts and interviews.

You can find more about me here on my Blog or on my personal Website.

My point of this post is…

You have a message to share with the world. That message will only reach it’s full potential when it’s seen by reader. To get the recognition you know you deserve, and then you can help more people and achieve your goals readers have to see your book.

Joanna Penn’s Incredible Book!!!

There are probably hundreds of things authors could do every month that would promote their books, we just haven’t allowed ourselves time to sit down and make list…but what fun that could be especially if we allowed ourselves to think out of the box!!!

Warmly, Meggie

Question: If you are a writer, do you feel this tension between writing and promoting? How do you deal with it? Share everything you want others to know…

Thank you!!!

A MOMENT TO SHARE with Lori Lesko

Today I’m very lucky to be interviewing Lori Lesko author of Our Daughters and a screenplay based on it called Diamond City. She is currently writing her first novel titled COPYRIGHT - a psychological thriller due 2014.

Lori Lesko

Hi Lori, thank you for agreeing to this interview.

•        Tell me a little about yourself and your background? What were you like at school? Were you good at English? What are your ambitions for your writing career? Which writers inspire you? OR something that you feel you need to share? 

I was a pretty good student, very shy. I loved English class and especially creative writing and Science Fiction Literature. I also grew up dancing and acting in everything I could. My favorite authors are Emily Bronte, Robert A. Heinlein, Leo Tolstoy, Suzanne Collins, Stephen King, but the list keeps growing. My only ambition is to write to please myself. If I don’t enjoy what I’m writing, then what’s the point?

•        What was your life like before becoming an author?

I graduated college with a degree in Psychology and Theater. I worked as a therapist for about 5 years and got burned out. Then I worked at a financial publishing company as an editor until it went under. Now I work at home with a family business on a web site. My free time I spend writing.

•        When did you decide to become a writer?

April 2012.

•        Which comes first? The character’s story or the idea for the novel?

Always the story.

•        Why do you write? What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

It gives me a voice to write. One I didn’t have for a very long time. It’s healing. Read everything you can get your hands on. Don’t compare yourself to other writers and grow a thick skin.

•        So, what have you written? /*Include books, novellas, short stories, poems, blogs, awards or anything of interest.

I published a novella called Our Daughters and also a screenplay based on it called Diamond City.

I have the first draft completed on my novel Copyright which I hope to publish spring 2014.

Also, I write a weekly blog on my web site.

•        Where people can buy or see them? /* include American, European and any other relevant links. Free, free promotions or prices can be included

Only on Amazon.com!

•        Give me an insight into your main character from your last novel /first novel/. What does he/she do that is so special?

Amber Tyler is a famous author who gets her book stolen in COPYRIGHT. She falls to pieces at first and then she becomes bound and determined to risk everything to get it back, no matter what the cost is.

•        What sparked the idea for your book/s?

I think darkly when I am coming up with an idea to write about. And it’s every writer’s nightmare that someone will steal their idea or novel. So I simply asked the question, what if that happened?

•        Are there any character traits in your book that are based on someone you know? /*Even if the whole character isn’t based on them?

No, but I am always a part of each character I write.

•        Do you read much and if so who are your favorite authors?

Everyday and right now it’s all Stephen King.

•        Where is your favorite place to read and write?

Read outside by the pool and write in my bedroom.

•        How do you market your book/s?

Lori’s Twitter Account

Lori’s Website

Twitter and Google + is the best way right now.

Lori’s Google + Page

1. Book Links: Our Daughters: http://amzn.to/19fqcMg. 

2. Diamond City A Screenplay:  http://amzn.to/19fqcMg. 

•        Do you have any advice for other authors on how to market their books?

Read my blogs and follow other people who know marketing such as Rachel Thompson @RachelintheOC and @BadRedheadMedia on twitter.

•        What do you do to get book reviews?

I make my books free on Kindle every 3 months. 

•        What advice do you have for someone who would like to become a published writer?

Get your book professionally edited and proofread. Then begin to write a ton of emails and grow that tough skin as I mentioned earlier.

•        Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included?

No, you were very detailed !

•        How can readers discover more about you and your work?

See Info below…

Website: http://www.lorilesko.com

Blog: http://lorilesko.com/blog.html

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lori.lesko.7

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LeskoLori

Lnkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/lori-lesko/77/735/aa1

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/joelesko/boards/

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Lori-Lesko/e/B009HQ7T98/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1

Google +: https://plus.google.com/u/0/112464949926124379427/posts

Book Links: Our Daughters: http://amzn.to/19fqcMg

Diamond City A Screenplay: http://amzn.to/19fqcMg

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6607388.Lori_Lesko

It was a great privilege for me to get to interview Lori Lesko, who has inspired me in many different ways. Thank you Lori!!! Good Luck with everything!

A MOMENT TO SHARE with Marsha Cornelius

Today I’m very lucky to be interviewing Marsha Cornelius author of H10N1,The Ups and Downs of Being Dead and Losing it All. At first, she dabbled in freelancing for magazines, and wrote a couple articles for the Atlanta Journal Constitution and Topside Loafing. She moved on to fiction, trying to write screenplays, before finally finding her niche in novels. Her first novel, H10N1, is a post-apocalyptic thriller about a flu pandemic that has already wiped out most of the world’s population. Coming up? A fifty-seven year-old man dying of cancer chooses cryonic preservation over death. 

Marsha Cornelius

Hi Marsha, thank you for agreeing to this interview.

Tell me a little about yourself and your background?

I grew up in a small town in Northern Indiana, where wintertime meant ice skating and sledding, and summers were spent in the woods behind our house. There weren’t many female role models when I was young, but my friends and I still loved to pretend we were heroes, running down the hill to the meadow, our capes flowing behind us.

If you have read any of the Harry Potter books, then you may have some idea what I was like in school. Just like Hermione, I was an obnoxious girl in braids and glasses, waving my arm in the air, wanting to be the first to answer the teacher’s question. By high school, I had lost the dorky hair and glasses, and had even learned to curb my enthusiasm.

My college years were spent discovering who I was, living independently, making new friends, and smoking marijuana. Oh, and I did manage to get a journalism degree from Indiana University. After my graduation, I packed my car with as much as I could and drove to Atlanta to start my new life. I’ve been here ever since.

What was your life like before becoming an author?

While I was in college, I worked for both campus and city newspapers, but I wasn’t honing my editorial skills for a future Pulitzer Prize. I worked in the advertising, and production departments. So once I got to Atlanta, my first job was with an advertising agency. It would be a long time before the bug to write got me.

When did you decide to become a writer?

I was a stay-at-home mom with two small children when I finally decided to experiment with writing. First it was articles for newspapers, then short stories for magazines. When you have babies, you can’t stick with anything long than about 1500 words.

Which comes first? The character’s story or the idea for the novel?

For me, the idea always comes first. In fact, my first novel, H10N1, was based on a short story I wrote.  And even during the outline and first draft, I’m just getting to know my characters. Once I go back in with that first edit, I really get to know all of my characters’ little quirks and weaknesses.

Why do you write? What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

For as long as I can remember, I’ve heard conversations in my head. It probably started as excuses I rehearsed for why I couldn’t stay in my seat and be quiet during class. As I got older, I loved observing people and places, and elaborating on what I saw.

My latest book, Losing It All, has an old abandoned house that is based on a crumbling house near where I live.

As far as advice to aspiring writers? It’s more of a request.

Please, please, please go to your book shelf. Pick out your favorite authors, or your favorite books and turn to the acknowledgments. I want you to read where the author thanks his/her editor for their invaluable assistance.

Now if those authors are using professional editors, what makes you think you don’t need one?

If you are an indie author, you will have to pay for this service. If you aren’t willing to make this kind of investment to hone your skills, then don’t attempt to publish your work.

There is nothing more demoralizing than publishing a book before it is ready, then seeing all the one and two-star reviews on Amazon for the whole world to see. (Including your mother).

So, what have you written?  Where people can buy or see them?

So far, I have published three books.

H10N1 – is a post- apocalyptic thriller about two people who survive a deadly flu pandemic, and must find a safe place to live.

The Ups and Downs of Being Dead – Speculative fiction about a man who choses cryonics over dying of cancer.

Losing It All – Drama/romance. A homeless man helps a woman and her two small children get off the streets.

You can see all my books on Amazon:

        1. http://amzn.to/SLhv6O    (US)

        2. http://ow.ly/k96eE           (UK)

Do you read much and if so who are your favorite authors?

My husband and I both read a lot. For a while we were into Lee Childs (Jack Reacher books), but we’ve read them all now. I particularly like thrillers, adventures, mysteries. And I like some romance if it isn’t syrupy-sweet and unbelievable. I have a hard time identifying with gorgeous, perfect women who fall in love with rich, perfect men.

Where is your favorite place to read and write?

I write in my sunroom, where I have lots of windows, and I can look out at the woods beyond.  (Oh, and it’s very convenient to the kitchen if I need some candy, or chips, or some other snack.)

How do you market your book/s?

Marsha’s Website

Marketing is the hardest part of being an author. Even with traditional publishers, I understand most newbies are on their own to create a fan base and garner a buzz about your book. I spend time on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads, getting in touch with readers.

I contact book clubs to visit or Skype.

I sometimes offer my books at reduced rates on Amazon, and advertise about it on book websites.

What do you do when you’re not writing?

This past spring I decided to take up vegetable gardening.  What I actually did was feed lots of deer and rabbits, slugs and caterpillars. But I’ve learned from my mistakes. Hubby and I are expanding the garden area, and I’m taking up target practice this winter. (Just kidding.)

We got enough green beans and eggplant that I could freeze some, so I’m willing to share the wealth with my forest buddies. (Well, maybe not those gross, green caterpillars that ate all the leaves off my pepper plants.)

How can readers discover more about you and your work?

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4993738.M_R_Cornelius

Website: http://mrcornelius.com

Twitter:   https://twitter.com/marshacornelius

It was a great privilege for me to get to interview Marsha Cornelius, who has inspired me in many different ways. Thank you Marsha!!! Good Luck with everything!

A MOMENT TO SHARE with Brad C. Anderson

Today I’m very lucky to be interviewing Brad C. Anderson author of Hammer of Amahte /book #1 of the Triumvirate Trilogy/ and In the Ravager’s Shadow /book #2 of the Triumvirate Trilogy/. Brad is self-published author with a Masters of Science in medical science. Now he is currently working like a business instructor at Kwantlen Polytechnic University.

Brad C. Anderson

Hi Brad, thank you for agreeing to this interview.

Tell us a little about yourself and your background? What were you like at school? Were you good at English? What are your ambitions for your writing career? Which writers inspire you?

I started off my adult life working in the biotech industry where I (literally) made drugs for a living. Over time, I shifted more into the business development side of things, and eventually wound up as a business professor at a local university, which is a job I absolutely love.

I was always writing short stories as a kid, and then as I got older, I got into gaming (D&D, etc), where I’d create elaborate stories for my gaming group. So, storytelling has always been my creative outlet. I jokingly tell people I got back into writing as an adult because there’s nothing good on TV, and I’ll stop when they bring Firefly back on the air.

What was your life like before becoming an author?

Before getting back into writing I kind of lacked a creative outlet, which actually depressed me. It makes me realize how important it is to express your creativity through whatever medium is your muse.

Which comes first? The character’s story or the idea for the novel? 

Hmmm, tough one, since they both kind of evolve together. I’d have to say the idea for my story comes first, and then I people it with characters.

When did you decide to become a writer?

I suppose it was about 5 years ago or so.

Why do you write?

Because these stories keep forming in my head and they beg me to release them.

So, what have you written?

I have two novels out now: Hammer of Amahte and In the Ravager’s Shadow. They’re books one and two of a trilogy.

I’m currently in rewrites on the final book in the trilogy, which I’m expecting to get out Spring 2014. I also blog about a wide variety of topics (though my frequency on posting is pretty low).

Where people can buy or see them?

You can purchase my novels on Amazon or Lulu. Formats include paperback, Kindle or electronic. My blog’s at www.bradanderson2000.com.

Give me an insight into your main character. What does he/she do that is so special?

In the third book of the trilogy I’m working on, my main character is Marco. He’s a fast talker with a penchant for languages and an ability to fit in seamlessly with any group or culture. I wanted to make a character who was interesting, and relied on his intellect to make is way in a world where the universe seems set against him.

What sparked the idea for your book? 

People ask me that and I never know how to answer. The ideas just seem to appear in my head. I suppose one day I was reflecting on the physical difficulties of traveling between stars, and came up with an idea of seedships, that kept embryos in a state of stasis for the trip. That led me to envision multiple planets with civilization, each borne of seedships, giving them a bit of a common background. And then I thought, what if the makers of the seedships never gave directions back to Earth, and never told their progeny why it was a secret …

How do you market your book? 

Brad’s Bloog

Currently, mostly through social media, though now I’m getting close to finishing my trilogy, I’m thinking of expanding that.

Do you have any advice for other authors on how to market their books?

This just popped into my inbox last week, and I think it provides good guidelines for getting starting with the marketing racket. http://success.lulu.com/?mid=~memail~clulu~aholidayguide

What do you do to get book reviews?

Ask. Hope. Once my third book’s ready, I’m contemplating giving a free copy to anyone who’s written a review for the previous books in the trilogy.

What advice do you have for someone who would like to become a published writer?

Start now. Seek out other author friends who can support you. Desperately seek constructive feedback on your work, and when you get that feedback, listen to it.

Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included?

Brad’s Facebook Page

Imagine I said something witty here. Thank you Meglena for sharing the word about my writing.

How can readers discover more about you and your work?

Blog: (www.bradanderson2000.com),

Facebook: (https://www.facebook.com/bradanderson2000),

Goodreads: (https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5818437.Brad_C_Anderson,

Author page: on Amazon or Lulu.

It was a great privilege for me to get to interview Brad C. Anderson, who has inspired me in many different ways. Thank you Brad!!! Good Luck with everything!

A MOMENT TO SHARE with Jason Halstead

Today I’m very lucky to be interviewing Jason Halstead author of more then 41 books. Jason Halstead works by day as a Systems Architect and a small business owner, as well as a devoted husband and father, published author, competitive powerlifter, and life-long student.

Jason Halstead

Hi Jason, thank you for agreeing to this interview.

Tell me a little about yourself and your background? What were you like at school? Were you good at English? What are your ambitions for your writing career? Which writers inspire you? Or something that you feel you need to share?

My life as a child was spent in a rural setting without the benefit of satellite or cable TV. It was horrible at the time, but I was often advised to go play outside and that set the stage for everything. I could, and did, explore for miles around me. They were my adventures and they took me over streams, up trees, through fields, and every other place the combination of geography and imagination could conceive.

And yet I was always jealous of my friends that lived in town. They had cable TV and could watch just about anything. Lacking that, I turned to books. In hindsight, I got a better deal. That was how I was introduced to Terry Brooks, Piers Anthony, J.R.R. Tolkien, R.E. Howard, and other writers. When I finished reading my first epic novel (The Sword of Shannara) I distinctly remember thinking, “I want to do this! I want to write.” I was 9 years old and filled with the motivation and ignorance of youth. But the drive never left me even when I began to learn how the climb up that hill would feel Sisyphean at times.

What was your life like before becoming an author?

My love of writing turned to computers. Creating worlds and characters is one thing, but lacking the means of doing that and paying bills, I created programs and databases instead. I went into the IT field as a jack of all trades and shot up the ladder to become an IT Manager in the automotive industry. Unfortunately, the automotive industry underwent some epic upheavals with a recession and I became quite skilled at shutting facilities down and moving on to find another place to put my growing skills to good use.

About the same time I met a wonderful woman, got married, and had children. She also inspired me to go back to school and finish my degrees (associates, bachelors, and masters). Somewhere along the way we decided to get healthy and for the first time since I left the US Air Force behind I got in shape and ended up taking that to the extreme – I became a competitive powerlifter.

The same year I set two records in powerlifting I had my first novel accepted by a publisher. While moving extremely heavy weights around I felt like I was a character in the stories in my head. I had the raw power to make things happen. I identified with being big and strong. And when I tore my pectoral muscle off my arm it could have ruined me emotionally. Succeeding at finally being published softened the blow and helped me figure out a way to work through it.

I also had to move across country shortly after that happened. That left me developing my own physical therapy routine and, within six months of my accident I had recovered well enough to push myself back to within 75% of the weights I had once lifted. Writing and persevering taught me to overcome adversity and never accept defeat.

When did you decide to become a writer?

I don’t think anyone decides to become a writer. It just sort of happens because that’s who we are. We write. If we get lucky, we meet the right people and ask the right questions to figure out how to get out there. Other people have been a lot luckier than I have been, but on the flip side of the coin my books do well enough that I’m a lot luckier than the majority of writers. It helps that I’m relentless and refuse to accept luck as an excuse – or rather I believe through hard work and dedication we create our own luck.

Which comes first? The character’s story or the idea for the novel?

Yes! Long answer: It’s almost never the same process. Sometimes I get a character stuck in my head and they demand I do something with them. If I can, I’ll put them in a story or setting I already have. If I can’t, I make up something new for them. At other times I have a concept and I go from there, but my stories are always about people first. The environment comes later to enhance the story and characters on display.

Why do you write? What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

I write because I have to. There isn’t any other option.

As for others, just keep writing. Work on that first and stick to it. Write every day, a little or a lot. And don’t be afraid to ask questions – it’s the only way to learn. I could on and on about finding a professional editor and making sure the cover art is top notch, but I guess I already did. Simple concepts – but absolutely necessary.

So, what have you written? 

Some of Jason’s Books

Wow. I’ve written and published 41 books, with 33 of them being full length novels and the other 8 are novellas. I’m working on #42 and expect to finish it in a week or so. My specialties include science fiction and fantasy, but I’ve dabbled outside of those genres a bit too. Urban fantasy, fiction, romance, espionage, mystery, and even some a couple of naughty books. I like to push the limits.

Some highlights include the several series of books I’ve written:

Dark Earth – Urban fantasy / paranormal
The Lost Girls – Sci-fi / Urban fantasy
Wanted – Sci-fi
Vitalis – Sci-fi
Blades of Leander – Fantasy
Order of the Dragon – Fantasy
Voidhawk – Fantasy
Homeland – Espionage / Erotica


Where people can buy or see them?

More of Jason’s Books

My books are available on Amazon, worldwide, as ebooks. They are also listed on Barnes and Noble, iTunes, Smashwords, Sony, and other retailers. In many cases print books are also available on Amazon or through Createspace. Finally, more and more of them are being produced as audiobooks, available to audible.com, acx.com, and Amazon.com.

Give me an insight into your main character from your last novel /first novel/. What does he/she do that is so special?

My last finished novel doesn’t have a single main character, it has several that are equally important. It’s a science fiction / horror novel called Vitalis: Genesis. As for what they all that makes them so special is they all live, breath, and feel. They are human and they all have their separate wants and needs. One man wants to get away from the job he’s stuck in because he’s bored and miserable. Another woman aches to finish her contract so she can rejoin her husband and they can start planning their family. Others are driven to perform their research and leave their mark in the annals of human history. Ultimately, every last one of them is reduced to wanting one thing above all others – to survive.

What sparked the idea for your book/s?

Inspiration comes in amazing places. Sometimes it’s a picture. Sometimes it’s a song. At other times I’ll read something someone else had written and I’ll be struck with a different storyline and feel the need to write it. Movies have given me ideas and my children have given me ideas. The world is my muse and I am not the least bit ashamed to wring every last drop of creativity out of it.

Are there any character traits in your book that are based on someone you know? /*Even if the whole character isn’t based on them?/

 I never create protagonists after real people. With that said, I have had a few minor villains that bear a passing resemblance (in my mind, if not in text) to people I’ve dealt with and had a strong desire to choke.

Do you read much and if so who are your favorite authors?

I don’t read as voraciously as I used to, but I still read as much as I can. My more traditional favorite authors are Dean Koontz, Terry Goodkind, Raymond Feist, R.A. Heinlein, R.E. Howard, and probably a lot of others I can’t remember off the top of my head. Currently I find myself reaching for unknown writers more and sifting through a lot of crap to find the true gems. Then I reach out to those little guys and try to find out what’s going on with them and offer them a little help.

Case in point, I found one young man recently that so impressed me we ended up talking and talking for days via email. Finally I decided we needed to work together. Thus we’ve been creating a new urban fantasy series that I’ve yet to unveil, but it’s a co-written project that has him admittedly learning epic amounts. In return I’m treated to the mentoring role, which I really enjoy, and I’m getting to witness a story being born with my guiding hand and influence but little more than that (and editing, of course).

Where is your favorite place to read and write?

Wherever I am. I have an iPad with a keyboard attachment and I have a laptop I use for writing. I have my office at home and I have my stories easily available to grab and continue if I’m away from home. About the only time I can’t write is when I’m sitting in a tree stand waiting for a deer to wander by let me take it home for dinner.

How do you market your book/s?

After several years of doing this, and spending thousands of dollars on marketing, the best marketing I’ve found is writing more books. I’m sure there are some surefire ways to make magic happen, but I’ve been doing pretty well where I’m at and, when I have the time and resources available, I try out new marketing tactics. Ultimately though the magic is writing more books.

Do you have any advice for other authors on how to market their books?

Sure, write another one. Every book reaches a different audience. If a reader likes it, they’ll look for something else you’ve written. If they can’t find anything what are the odds they’re going to remember your name in three – twelve months when you’re next book hits the shelves? You’re odds are much better if you’ve got something else for them to choose from.

What do you do to get book reviews?

I used to beg and plead. Now I ask nicely if someone sends me some personal feedback. Otherwise I do nothing. Reviews are important, but rather than stressing myself out trying to eek out a few more it’s better to focus on writing the next book.

 What advice do you have for someone who would like to become a published writer?

Write your ass off and make sure you find people who don’t know you and don’t care about you that will read it and tell you what they think. Then, after you’ve crawled back out from the under the rock you retreated to, look at the book and force yourself to understand why they said what they said. Then try to fix it and repeat the process (with different random strangers). Only by embracing the barbed whip of critiquing can you ever hope to get better.

Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included?

Sure. Eat healthy, get some exercise, and don’t be afraid to breathe a little fresh air every now and then.

How can readers discover more about you and you work?

Website: http://www.booksbyjason.com

Blog: http://booksbyjason.wordpress.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/booksbyjason

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/booksbyjason

Lnkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=23625952&trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/booksbyjason/

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Jason-Halstead/e/B0049AXHP2/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1382923092&sr=8-2-ent

Smashwords: http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/JWHalstead

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3527553.Jason_Halstead

It was a great privilege for me to get to interview Jason Halstead, who has inspired me in many different ways. Thank you Jason!!! Good Luck with everything!