Just My Opinion

What is your favorite color?
MARK: Black, no wait, that’s the absence of color. Uh, blue.

Do you find the time to read?
MARK: Yes, but it’s become harder and harder to find the time.

Last book you purchased? Tell us about it.
MARK:  Albert Speer: Architecture: 1932-42 by Leon Krier. It’s a re-issue of a 1980s book about Albert Speer’s designs for Berlin under Nazi Germany, which was very controversial when first published. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson but Layce borrowed the book before I could start reading it.

Who do you admire?
MARK: Layce.

What’s your favorite place in the entire world?
LAYCE: My mind :]
MARK: When my massage therapist says, “Imagine you’re in your favorite place. Imagine the sounds, imagine the smells and be there”, you don’t want to know what I’m thinking.

Are you reading any interesting books at the moment?
LAYCE: Understanding Comics by Scott McCloud and Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Ran.
MARK: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson… now that Layce has returned my copy.

If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?  New Zealand and St. Lucia, two beautiful places with warm, caring people.

How do you write – lap top, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk?  All of the above.  I write everywhere and I use whatever’s at my disposal.

Where do you get support from? Do you have friends in the industry? It takes a village, so there were many people inside and outside of the industry who read, edited, inspired, and supported me through the writing and marketing process.

How much sleep do you need to be your best?  I’d love eight hours sleep, but I can settle for five to six.

Every writer has their own idea of what a successful career in writing is, what does success in writing look like to you?  Success for me was seeing my novel in print for the first time.  I felt like a kid opening a present at Christmas.  However, one element of ultimate success to me would include making the NY Times Bestsellers List, winning a writing award, selling a million copies, or seeing my book on the big screen.

True friendship endures all obstacles…right?

Three college friends search for true love, NFL fame, and a successful engineering career. Will one friend’s quest for happiness endanger all three of their lives?

Naïve, romantic Melody Wilkins aims to find true love at college just like her parents. But will she sacrifice her soul to obtain it?

No-nonsense Imani Jordan strives for good grades and a chemical engineering degree. When a friendship offers more, will she follow her head or her heart?

Lance Dunn is only serious about two things: football and protecting his girls, Melody and Imani. When a threat enters their lives and tests their friendship, can he stop it before it kills them?

After the torrents of jealousy, sex, and abuse subside, will their friendship survive…The Colors of Friendship?

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Genre – New Adult, Contemporary

Rating – R

More details about the author

Connect with K R Raye on Facebook and Twitter

Website http://krraye.com/events.html

 

 

Quality Reads UK Book Club Disclosure: Author interview / guest post has been submitted by the author and previously used on other sites.

What are some of the best tools available today for writers, especially those just starting out?

I use a lap top for writing and a spreadsheet for outlining. Recently, I’ve found Dragon Naturally Speaking speech-to-text software to be highly productive.

How did you develop your writing?

I started with short stories and entering contests. I accepted and took seriously the review comments and suggestions I received over the years and worked to improve my skills. Nothing helps like writing, writing and more writing. Eventually, you find you flaws and perhaps occasionally a few gems.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

I read and reflect on what I find there. When I write I stand on the shoulders of these great authors.

What other jobs have you had in your life?

I started out serving in the U. S. Navy as an engineer on nuclear submarines. Since then, I’ve been a scientist at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and a computer software Professor at a community college (see www.hpeteralesso.com )

How much sleep do you need to be your best?

Sleep is not just important for health, during the semi-waking periods before drifting off to sleep or while you are just waking, ideas and concepts creep into your thoughts. You can find creative images and speculations cropping up. That’s why I keep a pencil and paper besides my bed.

As the last star fighter in squadron 111, Midshipman Henry Gallant is on his way from Jupiter to Mars. With the United Planets’ fleet on the verge of annihilation, he can expect no help as he passes through the asteroid belt and threatening aliens. With so much uncertainty about the aliens’ capabilities and intentions, analyzing the captured computer equipment in Gallant’s possession could prove crucial. The fate of Earth could rest on the abilities of Midshipman Henry Gallant. Unfortunately, it is his abilities that have been much in doubt during his tour of duty.

In an era of genetic engineering, he is the only Natural (non-genetically enhanced) officer left in the fleet. His classmates and superior officers have all expressed their concern that he will not be up to the demands of the space service.

Only bright and attractive junior officer Kelsey Mitchel has shown any sympathy for him. Now as his navigator on the last fighter in squadron 111, her life as well as a good many others, depends of Henry Gallant.

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Genre – Science Fiction

Rating – G

More details about the author and the book

Connect with H. Peter Alesso on Facebook

Website http://www.hpeteralesso.com/Default.aspx

Quality Reads UK Book Club Disclosure: Author interview / guest post has been submitted by the author and previously used on other sites.

What movie do you love to watch?

Oldboy

How do you feel about social media websites such as Facebook and Twitter? Are they a good thing?

The same way I fell about prostitutes. I don’t love them but they get job done.

If you could do any job in the world what would you do?

Football Coach

What are you most passionate about? What gets you fired up?

Besides art. Sports.

What makes you angry?

The state of the literary scene for both sides. I think the indie community sucks and so does the literary community. I am really passionate about literature and it is an unhealthy state.

Great White Sharks Attack the White House!

The Federal Government is behind on its loans and Chinese President Xi Jinping wants his money. Having brought members of the China Task Force together in the White House for a meeting, Jinping, with the help of weather control and PETA, unleashes genetically modified great white sharks in an effort to force President Obama and the C.T.F. to make the tough decisions on how to meet the dear communist’s commands.

Can the C.T.F. escape the wrath of Red China and the great white killers, or will Obama be forced to disband the government and bring the country to brink of anarchy?

Paul and Thomas (the writers of G.W.H., not a folk group) have weaved a wicked tale of governments run amuck in this “grindhouse” novella. With elements of “South Park” meets “Sharknado” meets “Olympus has Fallen” meets “White House Down” meets other movies/TV shows featuring charismatic black presidents, G.W.H. illustrates just how far politicians can be pushed as they work to survive the horror of the ocean’s greatest murderers. America has bills to pay and China’s “loan sharks” are ready to collect that debt in blood.

These sharks don’t see Red or Blue—they are equal opportunity eaters.

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Genre – Fiction, Humor

Rating – PG-13

More details about the author and the book

Connect with Christoph Paul on Facebook & Twitter

Quality Reads UK Book Club Disclosure: Author interview / guest post has been submitted by the author and previously used on other sites.

Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you?

They are always supportive. But writing and publishing is a mystery to most, so they tend to be awestruck by the whole process

Do you plan to publish more books?

Absolutely.  I have moved into a publishing model instead of an author model nowadays. A number of books are in the pipeline. The next title in the current series will be the Accountability Workbook – a companion guide to my current best seller on Accountability Leadership.

What else do you do to make money, other than write? It is rare today for writers to be full time…

I am a management consultant and executive coach. I work with CEOs and senior executives to design and direct programs of strategy development, enterprise transformation and change.  It’s true that many writers find it difficult to sustain a full time writing career. That’s why I am shifting my business model from writing to publishing.

What other jobs have you had in your life?

Management Consultant, Human Resources Director, Theme Park Owner, Native Animal Rehabilitator

If you could study any subject at university what would you pick?

How to make a $1million on eBay in the first year J

Accountability Leadership Saves Tech Company

In 2005, HCL Technologies was in trouble.

The Delhi-based IT firm was losing market share, as competitors grew by 50% annually.

By 2009, HCL’s president, Vineet Nayar had turned the company around, nearly tripling annual revenues and doubling market capitalisation despite the recession.

Nayar accomplished all this through a top-down culture of accountability, beginning with the leadership qualities of himself—the CEO—and other senior managers.

The Rules Of Accountability Have Changed

Great business leaders understand that acceptance of greater personal accountability and responsibility leads organisations back on the path to success.

But with the evolving nature of 21st century business, the practical steps that go into creating a high performance culture of accountability have become more muddled than ever.

Many organisations have seen temporary improvements, implementing traditional systems of accountability in an attempt to drive high performance in the workplace—only to quickly revert back to their old ways, or worse.

Accountability Leadership Will Teach You:

• What it really takes to lead a high performance culture of accountability
• Why so many of today’s employees avoid personal accountability and responsibility like the plague, and how to reverse that trend
• How to sustain great performance through inspiring feedback, feed-forward and follow-through
• What an accountability plan is, how to create one, and why it’s considered the “secret weapon” behind successful business transformation

Filled with real world case studies and straightforward, easy to digest research, Accountability Leadership offers practical solutions that are direct, engaging, fast, cost-effective, proven, and easy to implement…

Immediate, Concrete Solutions You’ll Take Away From This Book Include:

• How to transform the “dark side” of accountability into a positive force for change
• Why carrots and sticks no longer work—and what they’ve been replaced with
• How to create compelling consequences that inspire people to perform at their best, and achieve the ultra productive workstate known as “flow”
• Crack the code of high accountability conversations, turning confrontation into a productive and positive opportunity

Accountability Leadership Also Sheds Light On Topics Like…

• How negativity bias covertly sabotages your feedback loop with your employees
• The optimal ratio for positive to negative comments in feedback
• The right amount of autonomy to give employees—without overdoing it
• What lack of recognition is really doing to your workforce (hint: it’s staggering)
• The surprising biochemical effect of praise, and why it cannot fail

Plus, You’ll Also Receive A Special Bonus

Reader’s can claim an exclusive 20-minute podcast interview with top-rated thought leader Marshall Goldsmith, sharing his powerful experiences and groundbreaking ideas on coaching for accountability leadership—absolutely free.

A Personal Message From The Author

Accountability is arguably the number-one issue that makes or breaks leadership performance today. Yet most of us were never taught this critical skill—not by our parents, teachers or business leaders.

The good news is, accountability can be coached.

The ideas in this book draw from extensive research and 25 years experience working with executives to improve performance through high accountability.

These ideas work.

Buy Now @ Amazon

Genre - Business, Leadership, Workplace Behaviour, Human Resources, Executive Coaching

Rating – PG

More details about the author

Connect with Di Worrall on Facebook & Twitter

Website http://www.diworrall.com.au/

What is your favorite food?
Pizza
What’s your favorite place in the entire world?
My bedroom
How has your upbringing influenced your writing?
Because my parents were supportive with my writing, they never discouraged me from doing it or told me I wasn’t good at it.
Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
I started reading Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings fanfiction years ago, and I admired how the writers would tell stories almost if not better than the original author. I started writing fanfiction first, until I realized it was more fun to create my own characters and worlds. Then I started writing original fiction, and I’ve been doing it ever since.
When and why did you begin writing?
I started writing six years ago. First with fanfiction, but that was a brief period. Then I started writing original fiction because it was more fun.
How long have you been writing?
I’ve been writing professionally for five years.
When did you first know you could be a writer?
In elementary school, I knew that I had a good way of articulating my thoughts, and I had a vivid imagination.
What genre are you most comfortable writing?
Adult Romance

Are you a city slicker or a country lover?

I grew up in cities and have lived in them my whole life so I guess I’m addicted to the “convenience factor” of having everything close by. But I love being out in the country and I love reading books set in the country or on farms or small, out of the way places. So I guess at heart, I am and should have been a country boy. Ha!

How do you feel about self-publishing?

My first two books were self-published through two different companies. I enjoyed the experience, but also found it difficult because I don’t really have anyone who will read and edit my stuff for errors or typos or just continuity problems, and thus mistakes found their way into the final products. Also, the marketing was all on me because there was no company that would benefit financially from marketing it themselves.

In addition, there is always some expense involved in self-publishing, but if you can promote yourself and get sufficient traction for your book, all the royalties go to you so that’s the biggest plus. If Harmony Ink passes on the sequels to Children of the Knight, for better or for worse I’ll be back in the self-pub biz! Oh, well . . .

Do you know your neighbors?

Actually I do, at least the long-termers. Oddly enough, I had just moved into my first house and had been living there for maybe two-three months when we had a huge earthquake out here that killed power, damaged water lines, damaged most of the houses on my cul de sac and otherwise wreaked major havoc for us all.

That was my first real introduction to my neighbors since we all needed to pull together to assist each other with whatever our needs might be. I recommend getting to know your neighbors, but I don’t recommend having a big earthquake to facilitate that knowledge. Ha!

What is your favorite quality about yourself?

I’d say it’s my ability to be understanding of everyone and by extension accepting of everyone. That’s why I was successful as a teacher because I didn’t expect the kids to be anything other than who they were.

Same with the incarcerated kids. I accept them, don’t judge them, just listen and do my best to understand where they came from and how they’ve gotten to this point in their lives. If people are disrespectful then we have a problem because that’s a behavioral choice, but I find with most people, kids included, if I’m respectful of them, they are of me.

What’s your least favorite quality about yourself?

I’m woefully unorganized and don’t multi-task well, except when it comes to reading books. Ha! I can be reading two or three books at a time in different venues or situations (i.e. listening to one in the car, reading one at the gym, reading another at home before bed.) But my house is always unorganized and when I’m writing I tend to let other things slide too much. Very bad boy, I know. LOL

According to legend, King Arthur is supposed to return when Britain needs him most. So why does a man claiming to be the once and future king suddenly appear in Los Angeles?

This charismatic young Arthur creates a new Camelot within the City of Angels to lead a crusade of unwanted kids against an adult society that discards and ignores them. Under his banner of equality, every needy child is welcome, regardless of race, creed, sexual orientation, or gang affiliation.

With the help of his amazing First Knight, homeless fourteen-year-old Lance, Arthur transforms this ragtag band of rejected children and teens into a well-trained army-the Children of the Knight. Through his intervention, they win the hearts and minds of the populace at large, and gain a truer understanding of themselves and their worth to society. But seeking more rights for kids pits Arthur and the children squarely against the rich, the influential, and the self-satisfied politicians who want nothing more than to maintain the status quo.

Can right truly overcome might? Arthur’s hopeful young knights are about to find out, and the City of Angels will never be the same.

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Genre – Edgy Young Adult

Rating – PG13

More details about the author and the book

Connect with  Michael J. Bowler on Facebook & Twitter

Website http://michaeljbowler.com/

How did you come up with the title?
I did an internet survey, got about 30 recommendations, didn’t like any of them, and came up with my own out of nowhere.
Can you tell us about your main character?
My main character is you. You are a good person. You are trying your best but are being held back by lack of practical information. When you are presented with simple, realistic solutions to your challenges, you are able to make real, positive changes in your life.
How did you develop your plot and characters?
I don’t. I give you the information you need in a usable form, and you develop yourself.
Who designed the cover?
Tina MV Campbell, freelancer. She was wonderful.
Who is your publisher?
Fine Life Books.
Why did you choose to write this particular book?
Excess body weight is one of the biggest challenges of our time. When I see a big challenge, I want to help out.
What was the hardest part about writing this book?
The actual writing. I have writer’s block 95% of the time, and not much talent, but a lot of determination. My high school English teacher would tell me there’s no such thing as good writing — only good rewriting. For me, it doesn’t get good until the 4th or 5th rewrite. Part of the problem is I’m a perfectionist. Three cycles of professional editing helped.
Did you learn anything from writing this book and what was it?
Almost everything in the book is new to me – insights into nutrition, exercise, psychology.
How do you promote this book?
I have promoted it mostly with KDP Select at Amazon.
Will you write others in this same genre?
I will write more self-help books.
How much of the book is realistic?
100%

If you could have dinner (and dessert) with any fictional character who would it be and why?

The question refers to a fictional character, so if I had to choose one it would have to be Anne Frank. She is one of the most amazing characters I have ever read about. I was hoping the question might ask for a real person, so I will tell you my choice anyway. I would love to have met Red Skelton. Skelton was a most wonderful man, on stage and off stage. He showed the world humor didn’t have to be dirty, and that not only is laughter the best medicine, but laughing at yourself is the panacea for all of your woes.

Do you have any weird or necessary writing habits or rituals? How do you write?

I don’t consider my writing methods weird, but my family does. I sit in an old (and I do mean old) recliner, leaned back just slightly, legs up,(of course), with my laptop, and our dog, a poodle named Mindy Lou ( but we call her Minmin), in the chair beside me, and I spin my tales.

Do you believe in Writer’s Block? If so, how do you break through it?

Oh, yes. I watch TV for a while, go outside, play with the dog, anything to get writing completely out of my mind. I find, when I come back to the old recliner, my creative juices begin to flow again. It never fails.

Who was your favorite character to create?

I hadn’t thought about that, but I would have to say “B-roy and BD.” It would have to be the two. Without one, the other is not much of a character. For those who haven’t read my book, High Cotton, let me explain a little. These two are based on friends from my past, Roy and Jamie. Jamie was born mentally handicapped, but he was still included in our neighborhood gang of kids. It seems we all understood his problem and we dealt with it. No question, No problem. We affectionately called him, BD, which stood for “brain dead. ” Jamie’s brother was named Roy, but BD couldn’t talk plain, and he stuttered badly, so when he tried to say Roy, it came out B-Roy. Both names stuck, and that’s where those two characters came from.

Can you tell us where people can find you? Website, social media, blog, etc.

I can be found on Facebook at face bookcom/PJDunn, on Amazon at amazon.com/author/pjdunn. My blog, pjdunn49.tumblr.com, my website, http://www.pjdunnbooks.com

How did you name your characters?

I have explained my favorite characters, but naming others is sometimes quite odd or strange. I have used family members, ancestors, and friends. I have searched the internet to come up names from the time period I am writing about and even researching to find out if a well known person might possibly have been a particular area or situation where they may have witnessed, or possibly participated in some phase of my book. I did this just to create interest, after all…It is fiction.

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Genre - Historical fiction

Rating – PG

More details about the author and the book

Connect with PJ Dunn on LinkedIn, Facebook & Twitter

Blog http://www.pjdunn.tumblr.com/

If you could study any subject at university what would you pick?

History. I was too young to appreciate it the first time around and history plays into so many of my novels, including Bulletproof. When I’m considering scientific advances, I frequently study the past to see who, how, and how fast we reached where we are today.

How much sleep do you need to be your best?

Six hours is ideal, but I can cope for short stretches on much less. That’s the motherhood factor.

What’s your favorite meal?

Just about anything I didn’t have to cook. While I enjoy baking, I get easily frustrated with daily meal planning. While I was coming down to the wire with Bulletproof, both the writing and the marketing part of the process, my husband was a saint and applied all those skills in the kitchen that had me saying ‘I do’ over twenty-two years ago.

What color represents your personality the most?

That might depend on which book series I’m working on. Red is my gut-call answer. Red is strong, vibrant, and determined. Red is also the font color for my name on Bulletproof and the Unknown Identities series cover art. Coincidence? I think not. LOL

What movie do you love to watch over and over?

My son would say Enchanted (with an eye roll and a long-suffering sigh) but during my husband’s recent deployment, I found I couldn’t watch the happy ever after ending without blubbering for missing my personal hero. Our action-genre family movie library got me through, with everything from the Losers to the Bourne movies to the James Bond 007 films.

What my daughter would tell my son with an air of big-sister superiority is how many times I’ve stayed up late and watched The Man From Snowy River. I love that movie! (and now she does too) The scenery and cinematography is stunning and it never gets old.

“Dark, gritty, sexy suspense with one hell of a hot hero.” -USA Today bestseller Debra Webb

A soldier is nothing without his honor.

To avoid a dishonorable end to his decorated military career, John Noble made a deal with the devil. He gave up his name, endured harrowing training, and accepted every mission thrown at him for one purpose: redemption.

When he accepts his latest orders, providing personal security for a reporter in trouble, he bargains hard to guarantee it will be his last job for the shadow agency he knows only Unknown Identities (UI).

An ambitious reporter, Amelia Bennett, is about to break the story of her career, if she lives long enough to tell it. Caving to her boss’s demand, she hires a bodyguard and soon it is obvious John Noble is the only obstacle standing between her and certain death.

Just when John believes he has found someone he can trust and love, who loves him unconditionally for who and what he has become, his orders are amended: Amelia Bennett is to be terminated.

Introducing Unknown Identities: an alternative for elite soldiers and spies facing criminal charges… if they can survive the program.

Don’t miss Double Vision, the next installment of this sizzling, action-packed series.

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Genre - Romantic Suspense

Rating – R

More details about the author and the book

Connect with  Regan Black on Facebook & Twitter

Website http://www.reganblack.com

If you could do any job in the world, what would you do?

I would be an action movie superstar, just like Bruce Willis, only the female version.

Who do you admire?

I admire President Obama for what he has accomplished and for being so lovable.

When you have free time on the internet, what do you want to read about?

I am on the internet for hours everyday researching different topics about social media, diet, self improvement, almost anything that helps me improve my life.

What do you do to unwind and relax?

I love to read inspirational books in the bathtub. I can sit in there for hours.

What’s the best thing about self-publishing?

I love the freedom to write whatever kind of story I want to write, about any character that I want to write and display any cover that I like.

THREE beautiful redheads – THREE Motives – ONE Murder

Tapping into the common wish to be someone else, if only for a short time, this suspense drama explores what happens when a woman, bored with her humdrum existence dyes her hair red and takes on the persona of her late sister.

After the murder of her beloved sister, a quiet and warmhearted legal secretary, Charlie Weiss, who works for the prestigious Whitley & Austin, is in search of an escape. A few sessions with her psychologist propel her to the realization that the excitement that she seeks is in a new life, the life of her late sister.

With a daring wish to continue the wild life of her late sister, she colors her hair red and dares to reinvent herself. And with this new persona comes a different type of experience, including becoming one of three redhead suspects to a murder.

“This whodunit suspense drama will keep you guessing until the last page.”–Elance book editor

Parker Paige has been writing fiction for several years with a passion for creating eccentric characters. She is fascinated with true stories and for that reason, she is drawn to the network Investigation Discovery like a drug. She is the author of “The Color Pink” and “Whitley and Austin.” She is not completely insane, maybe just a little bit crazy. She lives in Los Angeles.

Buy Now @ Amazon

Genre - Romantic Suspense

Rating – PG-13

More details about the author

Connect with  Parker Paige on Twitter

Website parkerpaige.wordpress.com

What genre are you most comfortable writing? I consider myself a mystery writer, though my books are not classic mystery or crime. They don’t follow the rules of the genre, but they do have a puzzle to solve. I really deviate from mystery in the fifth book to which I just gave birth. (It’s not out in the world yet.) I’d say it’s bordering on general fiction, since it has elements of romance, psychological thriller, historical fiction and mystery. I just go where the story takes me.

What inspired you to write your first book? One day on a long drive I noticed an operator in a red Canadian lumber jacket working the lift bridge. I imagined that people passed him by every day without registering his existence. I began to wonder: what if he is a monster who cleverly blends into the scenery? From that came a book that explores the juxtaposition of unspeakable evil with love and community. The theme runs through most of my books. I’m fascinated by why people become murderers or abusers.

Who or what influenced your writing once you began? When I first retired and began serious work on my unfinished novels I was advised by a friend to join Sisters in Crime and Crime Writers of Canada. These organizations led to critique groups, mentors, friendships and networks. In the last couple of years, my publisher, Cheryl Tardif of Imajin Books, has been a huge influence.

Who or what influenced your writing over the years? My daughter has been an enormous influence on my writing. She encourages me, inspires me. Even when she was little she was interested in what I wrote. My son is a scriptwriter so his advice and direction have helped enormously. My husband has supported my obsession without faltering once. I’m very fortunate to have a family and friends who encourage me all the way, who offer critiques and spend hours editing, and motivate me to finish.

What do you consider the most challenging about writing a novel, or about writing in general? I think perseverance is my biggest challenge. It’s similar to a love relationship. In the beginning you’re all excited and the interaction is easy. Then come the more difficult times, in turns boring and frustrating. You get bogged down by detail. If you stick with it, you’ll come out the other side and enjoy your affair once more.

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Genre –  Psychological Suspense

Rating – 18+

Connect with Catherine Astolfo on Facebook  & Twitter

Website http://www.catherineastolfo.com/

Who is your favorite author?

Stephen King. The Stand is one of my two favorite books, the other being A Prayer For Owen Meany by John Irving

What book genre of books do you adore?

Horror. I know it’s weird since I write romance and thrillers, but straight horror is my thing. I also really like historical fiction, and non-fiction.

What book should everybody read at least once?

I think every woman should read Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale. Sometimes I read what’s going on in this world right now, how women and girls are being treated, and that book comes right to the front of my mind.

Is there any books you really don’t enjoy?

There might be individual books I don’t like, but I can’t say there’s an entire genre I dislike. Well, wait, maybe Oprah books? I don’t like books that have beautiful words but no real story. Books that manipulate you only book-club picks. (Except East of Eden–I LOVED that book. Oh, and Pillars of the Earth–I loved that one too!)

What do you hope your obituary will say about you?

“She and her husband lived a long and happy life together, surrounded by their beautiful, healthy children and grandchildren. And she wrote some books.”

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Genre - Thriller

Rating – R

More details about the author and the book

Connect with Leslie Kelly on Facebook & Twitter

Website http://www.leslieAkelly.com/

Could you tell us a bit about event writing used in Invasion?

Sure, but let me point out the key difference. The traditional chapter style way of writing tells a story sequentially from beginning to end – much like programming was back in the last century. Basically, information is read in order, building on the previous, until reaching the end. Events, however, are similar to programming in today’s world. Each event contains sections or packets of information that combine together to create a story. Each event follows the same structure by combining information and building on it. This method of storytelling creates a dynamic atmosphere because the source of information is always changing. For instance, an individual event may contain three sections. The source of information contained within each section will be different. Some of the information may come from short stories, but a lot of it may come from documents, recordings, or even raw data. One section may contain the main storyline while another section tells a completely different story which reinforces, builds, and completes the other. For present tense writers this concept is limitless because it allows the story to break the sequential mold.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

I pull my inspiration from the world around me. I watch and listen. I try to imagine things beyond what is presented to me. Technology is one of my main subject matters. I disguise it very well within my stories because to me, the story is the most important aspect of my work. However, the story typically originates from something I’ve seen or heard such as the concept of panopticism. I first learned about it many years ago while in college, and it will be one of the governing themes in my next novel. I tend to take an idea and run with it, sculpting, bending and twisting it into something exciting and different. The idea may become part of the story itself or just an overlying thought. I pull a lot of information from my surrounding environment from topics and themes to names and locations.

Do you plan to publish more books?

Absolutely, I keep an active folder where I jot down all my ideas. Over time I add to the original idea, even changing it if needed. I have several future novels outlined this way that I hope to someday complete. Currently I have four books planned over the next couple of years of which two will be in the Darkness & Daemons series. The current novel I’m working on is Cult of Tattoo, and once I finish that I will complete the Darkness & Daemons trilogy. I have a couple more novels planned later next year but nothing is written in stone at this time.

How and where do you write?

Actually I prefer to use a desk top computer. I never enjoyed using notebooks, too small and uncomfortable when typing. I spend most of my time at my desk pounding away at my keyboard. When I do write, I focus just on writing and begin early in the morning and can write late into the evening. Twelve hours of writing is nothing new to me. I tend to only write when I’m in the mood. Usually when I begin a new project I’m fully prepared and motived to write it, so I tend to keep writing until the manuscript is complete. I’ll spend months if need be at my desk completing whatever project I’m working on without distraction. This is when I slip into my silent mode, nobody will hear from me during this time. That’s why in between books I try to get all I need to get done before beginning the next such as promotions or updating my website. No matter what I’m doing, I’m always at my desk it seems.

Every writer has their own idea of what a successful career in writing is, what does success in writing look like to you?

I measure success first by being able to complete the projects I set out to do. Writing a novel is a major undertaking for anyone to endure. It sounds easy enough, we get an idea and write about it, but it is so much more than just that. Everything has to come together. The story needs to move along swiftly and stick to the storyline. Editing and revisions can be very time consuming and is mentally straining work. Completing the project is a huge accomplishment, publishing and sharing it with others is part of the reward. Any more success after that just adds more icing to the cake. We all would love to become rich and/or famous, but I don’t use that as a measure of success. I take it one milestone at a time, and after each milestone is conquered, a new level of success has been met.

An otherworldly force opens a gate in a remote mountain range in Colorado and unleashes an alien organism into the forest. Once the gate opens, a shield is placed over the entire area blocking all communications in or out of the zone. It then releases a time pulse every 30 minutes locking everything inside the shield into a checkpoint. If anything destroys the gate, everything within the shield is reset back to the previous checkpoint before the gate was destroyed.

The organism is highly infectious and anything it touches mutates and joins the invading force. They become soldiers with a darker will and help spread the infection even further. Survivors caught within the shield try to escape and stop the organism from leaving, but something keeps destroying the gate, resetting time, and changing their fates.

INVASION is the first volume in the Darkness & Daemons series, event 1-10.

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Genre – SciFi Horror

Rating – PG-13

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Connect with  Michael Dismuke on Facebook & Twitter

How much of the book is realistic? I guess it would depend on your definition of realistic. I don’t believe people would be kidnapped and put into a gruesome experiment. However, I hope that the characters I have written are real to the reader and that they invoke anger, sadness, joy, and other emotions.

Have you included a lot of your life experiences, even friends, in the plot? Very much so! When I write, I try and take my own emotions from life experiences and place them into the story. Sometimes I take the personalities of friends and make them into characters, though most of the time, a character contains a different aspect of me in some way, whether it’s a habit they have, or the way they speak.

How important do you think villains are in a story? I think it depends on who the villain is and what their motives are. Villains can create much needed conflict and move along the story’s plot. At the same time, a story doesn’t always need an antagonist.

What are your goals as a writer? My goal is to write stories that shape your reality and challenge your thinking. Will every story do that? Maybe not, but I enjoy trying!

Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)? Not yet! But maybe someday!

What books have most influenced your life? The Circle Trilogy by Ted Dekker has influenced my life the most. I couldn’t recommend them highly enough. The story is thrilling!

Have you ever considered anyone as a mentor? I’ve never really had a mentor in my life. I hope to have one someday!

Have you started another book yet? I’m currently working on the second book in The Midas Trilogy. The first book, Erased, is soon to be in the hands of an editor.

Where do you see yourself in five years? I have no idea. I like taking things one day at a time!

What are your current writing projects now? I’m promoting BoX, all the while trying to prepare Erased for editing, working on the second book of The Midas Trilogy, and planning a secret project for the future!

How far would you go to save yourself? Would you compromise your religion, morals, or integrity to avoid death?

Twenty-seven people wake up to discover they are imprisoned in isolation cubes. They are forced to endure multiple trials in an experiment designed to test the limits of human nature.

In each cube is a pistol. During any test an individual can use the gun to end the torment and take their own life. In doing so, they believe the test would immediately end for everyone and potentially save the lives of others.

Would you lay down your life to save another? Would you pass the tests?

It’s the ultimate trial for human nature and the will to stay alive.

Would you survive the experiment?

This story is a novella, at around 100 pages, or 26000 words.

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Genre –  Thriller / SciFi

Rating – PG13

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Connect with Lucas Heath on Facebook  & Twitter

Website http://lucasheathbooks.com/

Did writing this book teach you anything and what was it? Writing this book taught me to never, ever, ever quit my day job.

Do you intend to make writing a career? At this stage of the game, I think that question should be directed at the person who might hire me and if you know who it is, I’d appreciate getting a phone number.  Otherwise, I’d say it’s more of a hobby at present.

Have you developed a specific writing style? I’d like to think so.  My first person work is generally very consistent in tone and rhythm and the jokes reflect certain comedy rules, at least where such rules exist.

What is your greatest strength as a writer? I think it’s being able to see the humor in everyday situations and conveying that humor in a way readers can relate to and identify with.   My other great strength as a writer is using spellcheck.

Have you ever had writer’s block? If so, what do you do about it? I have had writer’s block and find the only way to deal with it is to just sit in front of the computer until something comes, no matter how mundane, that you can work with.  I often start my blog posts without having the slightest idea what I am going to write about.

Can you share a little of your current work with us? These are some jokes that will be part of my next book
~ I don’t know why people say you should follow your dreams. In almost every one of mine I’m being chased to the edge of a ravine by a pack of headhunters from New Guinea.

~ If I was on a jury where someone was being tried for murder and their defense was that they had sunscreen in their eyes at the time, I would vote to let them go because I’ve had sunscreen in my eyes and let me tell you, it’s no picnic.

~ Monopoly isn’t fun anymore. As soon as I start winning, people just walk away from their mortgages.

~ I purchased a Magic 8 Ball in Little Italy and every time I asked it a question it said, “I don’t know nothin’.”

~ I wonder, if Jesus were alive today, how many of the disciples would be texting during the Last Supper.

~ If I was going to murder someone, I would use a pumpkin because it’s hard not to laugh when you hear that word, especially in the context of a very grave situation, and that could come in handy at the trial.

~ I thought I would be one of those few people who didn’t need yoga but my doctor just told me I have to stop drinking WD-40.

~ According to a national survey, 4 out of 5 cardiologists agree that people who jog in place while waiting for a traffic light to change look silly.

~It was so hot today in NJ, three Jehovah’s Witnesses rang my bell and offered to convert to the religion of my choice if I would let them sit in front of my air conditioner for 15 minutes.

~Just launched my new line of “Big Screen TV Dinners” available at supermarkets everywhere. Don’t worry about asking for them by name. Just look for the handsomely packaged 52-inch box in the freezer section.

How did you come up with the title? “The Barber’s Conundrum and Other Stories” includes a story of the same name that chronicles my 50 year plus history of never getting a really decent haircut.

The Barber’s Conundrum and Other Stories has been nominated for a 2013 Best Indie Book Award by The Kindle Book Review

The Barber’s Conundrum and Other Stories is more than just a collection of thirty-seven short literary humor pieces and humorous jokes that will make you laugh. It provides a treasure trove of tips and invaluable advice to help you navigate safely through marriage and relationships, raising kids and to finally understand the more peculiar aspects of day to day living that up until now, had been tossed into a big heap as just another one of God’s mysteries.

For example, did you ever wonder why weather reporters continue to stand in the middle of raging hurricanes to tell us what hurricanes are like when everybody else already knows what hurricanes are like? Did you ever wonder why people stop their cars in the middle of the street to let geese walk past even though geese have been flying long before Cro- Magnon Man was in knee pants? Did you ever think that if aliens do exist on our planet, most of them work in customer service? They do!

All of that, and more is in the book, so what do you say? At $8.99, you’re guaranteed to receive at least $10.50 worth of terrific advice and life extending laughter, which as we know is the best medicine, and there’s never a co-pay with laughter so you’re up well over $20 already and this is only the back cover. Think of the possibilities to save when you read the whole thing.

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Genre –  Humor

Rating – PG

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Connect with John Hartnett on Facebook & Twitter

Website http://monkeybellhop.com/

Where do you get your inspiration from?

My inspiration comes from everywhere. Current science trends and research fuel the innovative and imaginative advances I put into the Shadows of Justice series.

The beauty of being a ‘pantser’ is never having to apologize to an outline for leaving it in the dust. The daily surprises that come from my characters as we venture through the story is inspiration enough to keep me writing.

What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing?

With all the recent changes in publishing, no matter what route an author chooses to go with a particular book, the marketing falls on the author’s shoulders.

While social media has made marketing more enjoyable and I am thrilled that it is easier than ever to connect with readers, marketing is still the toughest part of the process for me.

Savvy marketing involves so much more than telling the universe the book is out there, please go buy it. It’s the cover design, the blurb, the technology advances, genre trends, and more. Marketing requires consistent attention to effectively balance all of those elements with the vital feedback from readers and still move forward with the next project.

Wine helps.

What marketing works for you?

The direct kind! These days I prefer connecting with readers online through twitter and Facebook or through bloggers and reviewers who are gracious enough to host me and my novels.

Do you find it hard to share your work?

Only in the very, very early stages. In fact I usually don’t share at all anymore until the book is done. I used to need feedback early in the course of a novel, but now I  keep it to myself. If I get in a tight bind, I call on a friend (or two) and have them talk it out.

Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you?

My family and extended family of friends is tremendously supportive. Past and present, they have read rough drafts, listened to me bat around ideas, given feedback on artwork, been the technical experts I’ve needed, and offered a shoulder to cry on when all seemed lost. There’s no way to adequately describe how much my family and friends have done to carry me through this otherwise solitary career.

Do you plan to publish more books?

Yes! For as long as I’m breathing, I hope to create as many books as I can possibly write well, and then afford to pay my editors, cover artist, and formatter to finish!

Whoever said, “You only live once” didn’t know Jaden Michaels.

The year is 2096 and evil is running rampant in Chicago. As the police chief, Brian Thomas has seen it all, until he runs into a would-be thief on her way to the museum.

In every life Jaden has chased down a predatory demon, exacting her fatal brand of justice, only to lose her own life in the process. This time, as she searches for the weapon that will banish the demon forever, she must also fight for the love that has always managed to slip through her grasp.

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Genre – Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy

Rating – PG-13

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Connect with  Regan Black on Facebook & Twitter

Website http://www.reganblack.com

Are there any new authors who have sparked your interest?

Yes, E.L. James.  I absolutely love the book.

What do you do to relax?

I drink coffee and watch Lifetime TV.

Are you reading any interesting books now?

I am rereading the Prospering Power of Prayer.

What is your new book about?

The Curse is a teleplay based on HBO’s hit series, Curb Your Enthusiasm.

Why did you choose this particular book?

I love the HBO TV series, Curb Your Enthusiasm and wanted to write an episode myself.

From HBO’s hit series, “Curb Your Enthusiasm” comes, “The Curse, a teleplay:” After Larry David quarrels with his lesbian neighbors, he finds himself under a seven-day curse of bad luck.

LONDON TRACY is an author, screenwriter and freelance writer. She lives in Los Angeles.

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Genre – Comedy

Rating – PG-13

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Connect with  London Tracy on Twitter

Website http://londontracy.wordpress.com

What genre of books do you adore?

I love almost every kind of romance. Military and romantic suspense – sweet, small town love stories – even racy erotica. Give me a love story and I’m a happy lady.

Are there any books you really don’t enjoy?

I can’t read anything with torture or really cruel violence. I can sometimes handle serial killer stuff if it’s not too graphic.

How did you develop your writing?

It’s still developing and I hope that continues forever. I get a lot of help from a critique group I belong to and my editors are wonderful teachers. I also read the reviews my readers leave and take their comments into consideration. I’m not afraid of criticism when it’s constructive and can help me grow as a writer!

Where do you get your inspiration from?

Sometimes from the things that happen around me and the people I meet. Some of the scenes in the book come from real life. For those who have read NEGOTIATION TACTICS, the mountain scene really did happen;) Sometimes I read something and an idea springs out of that.

What marketing works for you?

I’ve done a lot of different tours and reaching out to readers through social media. I love hearing from readers and getting to chat with them online. I think one of the biggest things, though, is just continuing to write and getting new stuff out there!

Do you plan to publish more books?

Absolutely! I am part of a fabulous romantic suspense boxed set that just came out on November 10^th. It features nine full length novels by bestselling romantic suspense authors and a Christmas bonus by NY Times bestselling author, Rebecca York. You can purchase it at: Amazon US: http://amzn.to/18Ya4Oc. It is only 99 cents this week!

I am also working on a new novel right now that may be a stand-alone or may be part of a trio. I’m not sure yet. I’m shooting for February of 2014 with that one.

Jennie Evan’s heart broke when she lost her high school sweetheart and husband just after college graduation. She’s found some semblance of a new life with good friends and a job she loves at Sutton Capital, but she knows she’ll never love again. That part of her died with Kyle.

Chad Thompson sees the heartache Jennie hides from the world. Despite the chemistry he and Jennie always fight against, Chad vows to keep their relationship friendly. Anything more would hurt Jennie and Chad knows he can’t cause her more pain.

When their well-meaning friends throw Jennie and Chad together in a plot designed to push their comfort zone, Jennie ends up in more danger than anyone could have foreseen. Chad knows he can protect her, but he isn’t able to protect his own heart in the process.

Fans of Sutton Capital have been waiting for Jennie and Chad’s story. Dive in and fall in love right along with them!

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Genre –  Romantic Suspense

Rating – R

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Connect with Lori Ryan on Facebook & Twitter