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Interview With Author Emilia Ramos Samper

July 8, 2023September 29, 2023Posted in InterviewsTagged Interviews2 Comments

About Emilia Ramos Samper

Emilia Ramos Samper is a teen author of a fantasy novel named “Crown of Scales and Wonder”. She is two-time winner of the LaPlume Young Writer’s Contest. She also won the Speaker Honor and Literary Icon Award for her debut novel at the 2022 LitFest. Her second novel named “The Shadow Heir Trilogy” is coming out this year (2023)

Emilia Ramos Samper Media Links

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Interview with Fred Snyder

July 7, 2023September 29, 2023Posted in InterviewsTagged InterviewsLeave a comment

Could You Tell Us About Yourself ?

I am a retired executive from a Fortune 100 Company, and I have also authored novels. My writing stems from my life experiences, my historical research, and my time in Israel.

What made you write your book (s) ?

Today there is a disturbing amount of misinformation about the middle east conflict and that prompted me to write a novel which I titled OF LESSONS LOST.

I still had to do quite a bit of research, because i wanted the fiction to be based on unlikely but real historical events. I just invented the characters that acted out a play written with a taste of reality, and I think that makes it all more interesting.

A few examples include how the Irish helped hungry holocaust survivors at the end of Worldwar two. I had never heard anyting about that before, and I thought readers would find that fact interesting as well. Or how an Arab peacemaker had to play a secret role to avoid retribution by his own family.

What’s your favourite book ?

My favorite book is Hemingways’ FOR WHOM THE BELL TOLLS. Hemingway had an original style, characters that I cared about, a love component, impactful battle scenes, and more. But some of his later books I found tiresome and lacking. I still read them because I had enjoyed Hemingway and wanted to get a full understanding of his collection and writing styles. And, if I could spend a day with Hemingway, I’m sure i’d learn something while enjoying more than one cocktail.

How do you celebrate when you finish your book?

I never really feel I finish a book because I seem to always find something that needs improvement. It is when the book is printed that I can no longer do a rewrite or edit— that’s when I accept that i’m really done with it.

Where do you get your idea (s) for your book (s) ?

I get the idea from my own imagination and my personal experiences interacting with different people, or hard situations and failures, or events that happen to me or I have read about. Sometimes I wake up with a brilliant idea, and then realize it’s not so brilliant, but i can improve on it.

How many hours a day do you write?

I write as time permits, so it takes me years to complete a novel.

Do you try more to be original or rather give readers what they want?

I try to be original. And what I’m sure is original can sometimes turn out to not be so original, but that is rare.

What kind of research do you do and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?

I do a little research by reading news events, opinions, what others tell me, but most of it comes from my own life experiences and my imagination.

How did publishing your (first) book ?

My first book was sent to a publisher who would edit for a fee and publish if he likes the end result.

How do you develop your plot and characters?

The plot and characters come from my own imagination, so some of it is based on my life experiences or dreams.

What’s your favourite and least favourite part of publishing your book (s) ?

Finding a publisher is difficult and reworking manuscripts can be tiresome, but the reward of finishing a novel makes it all worthwhile. Someone once likened it to a drug addiction. The most fun was writing “the end.”

What do you hope your readers take away from your book (s) ?

I would hope readers not only enjoy the book as readers, but gain more insight to the real history of the Middle East. I have heard comments about gaining insights from a few readers. I have received some very favorable comments and ratings from Amazon’s Readers. And that makes it all worthwhile.

Where can people who are interested in your book, buy your book ?

OF LESSONS LOST is available on Amazon, and can be ordered from Barnes and Noble and other book stores. It is also available internationally.

Fred Snyder Media Links

Interview with Margaret G. Hanna

July 1, 2023September 29, 2023Posted in InterviewsTagged Interviews2 Comments

Could you tell us about yourself

I grew up on the farm that my paternal grandfather homesteaded in 1909, in southwestern Saskatchewan, Canada. I can’t think of a better place or time (1950s) in which to grow up – I had freedom to roam and to play without supervision, and that freedom extended to walking by myself to the village, only a quarter-mile south of our farmstead, where I played with friends or visited with my grandmother. At the same time, I learned about responsibilities and hard work – both my brother and I had chores that became greater the older we got.

I attended Grades 1 to 8 in the local three-room school, but attending high school meant riding the school bus to the neighbouring town. I was always the smart girl at the top of whatever grade I was in, which meant I wasn’t always the popular girl.

Reading had been a favourite pastime from before I can remember. I devoured books, to the point that my parents subscribed to a series called “All About Books,” which is where I first read about archaeology. How exciting, I thought, to travel the world, dig in exotic locations, and find treasure. I decided I would be an archaeologist where I “grew up”. However, by the time I left to go to McGill University in Montreal, I had forgotten about archaeology. Instead, I was going to be a world-famous nuclear physicist. Fortunately for the world, that did not happen. Thanks to a chance conversation with a friend, I rediscovered archaeology and have never looked back. I may not have traveled to exotic locations or found treasure, but I have no regrets about my choice of career.

I graduated from McGill with First Class Honours (there’s that “smart girl” thing again) in 1970 and went on to University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, for my Master’s degree in Anthropology. By the time I graduated in 1973, I was sick of being a student. I worked on various excavations in northern Manitoba for the next couple of years; that’s where I fell in love with the boreal forest. In 1976, I decided it was time to go back to university to earn my Ph.D., which I did at the University of Calgary, graduating in 1982.

Thus began my career as an archaeologist working in Saskatchewan. After a year of working with the Saskatchewan Research Council, followed by another year of what I call “under employment,” I was hired in 1984 by the Saskatchewan Museum of Natural History in Regina. For the first couple of years, I traveled across the province to inventory and register privately held archaeological collections. This gave me the opportunity to meet some wonderful (also some “interesting?”) people.

In 1986, the Museum began to redevelop all its galleries, and that took me on an entirely different path. The new First Nations Gallery, as it was to be called, required that we work in collaboration with First Nations which, in Saskatchewan, encompasses Cree, Saulteaux, Dakota/Lakota, Nakota (Assiniboin), and Dene nations. This was well before museums thought collaborative work was essential or even beneficial, so we were breaking new ground. We worked with Elders, artists, and dancers; we held ceremonies, attended pow-wows, and many times drove across the province for a cup of tea with someone. It was a humbling experience. The First Nations Gallery opened in 1993 and, to honour the people it celebrated, the museum was renamed the Royal Saskatchewan Museum.

With the end of gallery construction, I returned to archaeology, especially the boreal forest of northern Saskatchewan. Once again, I worked in conjunction with local communities, more often as not with Cree families on whose traplines the sites were located. Together, we excavated everything from a 5000-year-old quartz quarry to an historic village founded in 1860.

My life took a left turn in December of 2005 when I traveled to Cairo, Egypt, to visit friends. Another one of their friends was visiting at the same time. He and I spent the day in the Egyptian Museum (still our favourite museum) and the rest, as they say, is history. The following year, he invited me to drive with him across Canada to Newfoundland, and a month later he asked me to marry him. I told him, I would think about it. In the end, I said yes.

In 2007, I married, retired, and moved to Airdrie, AB where I now live, very happily, with my husband.

What made you write your book?

I didn’t start out intending to write a book. It just happened. After my father died in 1997, I discovered my paternal grandfather’s diaries which ran from 1910 to 1939. My journey into creative writing began when I read one August Sunday morning’s entry: “Had to retrieve the bull from the village.” There’s a story behind that entry, I thought, so I sat down and wrote one.

That was all I wrote, until I moved to Airdrie and discovered a writers’ group met weekly at the local library. I read the “bull” story, and they encouraged me to write more. So I did. I combed the diaries for ideas, spent hours at the Saskatchewan Archives reading the extant copies of the Meyronne Independent, talked to my cousins, did genealogical research, found second cousins I didn’t know I had, and read a lot about the social and cultural milieu of the early 20th century.

That is how “Our Bull’s Loose In Town!” Tales from the Homestead came into being.

What is the first book I remember reading?

Oh heavens, I have no idea. However, I remember an incident from before I started school. Mother was reading Black Beauty, one of my favourite stories, and at one point I scolded her, “Mother, you left out that paragraph.” So maybe it was Black Beauty.

What is my favourite book?

Quite possibly whatever I am reading at the time.

Who is your favourite author?

I have a few. Ian Rankin, the author of the Rebus series, because his plots are so dense and his characters so human. Cormac McCarthy, because his writing just blows me away. e.e.cummings, because of how he paints with words.

How many hours a day do I write?

Probably not enough. It varies, sometimes an hour, sometimes less, sometimes more. Sometimes, writing is like pulling teeth – the words just will not come, or nothing I put on paper makes any sense. Other days, the writing just flows.

What is the most difficult part of the artistic process?

You mean, aside from the writing, the revising, the chopping out of beloved but extraneous parts, the editing, the asking for critiques, or the waiting for book reviews? I can tell you what the easiest part is: doing the research. I love research. The difficult part of that is knowing when to stop.

What do I need to stay focused?

Silence. No interruptions. I don’t listen to music, I don’t eat or drink anything.

Where do I get my ideas?

I’m still an archaeologist at heart, even if retired, which means I love delving into the past. Past events are an unlimited source of ideas, but I write about them as they effect the lives of ordinary people.

Do you try to be original or give readers what they want?

Who knows what readers want? I write for myself, first and foremost, to explore question(s) I have about something that happened once upon a time. There will always be someone who wants to read it.

How do you develop your plot and characters?

For “Our Bull’s Loose In Town!” my characters and plots were predetermined for me. It’s the story of my paternal grandparents, as if told by my grandmother, so the characters and the stories were predetermined both by what my grandfather wrote in his diaries and by my memories of the village and our neighbours.

Would you and your main character get along?

My grandmother and I probably would, at least we did when I was a child. Perhaps in my adult years, we would have had some differences of opinion but nothing a cup of tea and a cookie couldn’t fix. As for my paternal grandfather, if he was anything like my father – no! We would be too similar in character – stubborn, willful, contrary-minded, and opinionated – yet too dissimilar in political leanings and worldview. A recipe for an explosive relationship.

What part of “Our Bull’s Loose in Town!” was the most fun to write?

The opening chapter where Grandma Hanna tells those “young folks” she just doesn’t understand why they are so curious to hear her story. Her voice was so clear, it was almost as if she was dictating it to me.

What was the hardest scene to write?

Without a doubt, the chapter in which Grandpa Hanna dies. It was so sad to say good-bye to him, even if we disagreed on almost everything.

What do you hope your readers take away from “Our Bull’s Loose in Town!”?

How fortunately we are to be living here and now. We do not realize how spoiled we are until we learn what our grandparents lived through – no electricity, no running water, no telephone, no neighbours, wars, drought, depression, childhood deaths, no hospitals nearby. They had to be tough to endure.

How long did it take to write “Our Bull’s Loose in Town!”?

Several years, mostly because I didn’t start out for it to become a book, it was just a way of learning more about my grandparents. Also, I had to do a lot of research in original documents, all of which are in the Saskatchewan Archives in Regina, which meant traveling there several times a year.

Are you working on anything at present?

I have just sent the manuscript of my maternal grandmother’s story, Searching for Home, to be published. It will be out in July, 2023.

I am now in the initial stages of planning the next book, also historical fiction, about the rancorous, often downright nasty, 1929 provincial election in Saskatchewan and its ramifications for the inhabitants of a small town when neighbour was often pitted against neighbour.

My advice for people who want to become writers?

Find a writing group. Take classes. Keep writing. Don’t give up. Don’t get discouraged. Don’t compare yourself to others – you’ll never write like anyone else, but then neither will anyone ever write like you. Oh, and if I didn’t already mention it, keep writing.

Where can people buy “Our Bull’s Loose in Town!”?

It is available in hard copy from Amazon, and Barnes and Noble. It is also available in e-book form from Amazon and most other providers of e-books. You can always ask your local bookstore to order it in.

Margaret G. Hanna Media Links

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Interview With Author August Hill

June 30, 2023September 29, 2023Posted in InterviewsTagged Interviews2 Comments

Could You Tell Us About Yourself ?

For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved to write stories. I’ve wanted to be a writer since I was 12, and now, at 27, I’m finally published. Movies and books have always been a big part of my life, and story structure was always something I was analyzing. I spent so much time writing short stories growing up it was only a matter of time before I wrote a full-length book. It isn’t perfect, but boy do I love it.

What made you write your book (s) ?

I’ve always loved the horror genre, especially horror movies and television, and I wanted to create a T.V. show of my very own. My first novel, Division X, started as a pilot script for television, but then I googled the process of getting something green lit and abandoned ship. I turned my pilot episode into the first section of Division X and continued to write my would be T.V. series as a book series.

What is the first book you remember reading ?

I think it was Go, Dog. Go! or Are You My Mother? Not the Alison Bechdel graphic novel of the same name, but I’ve read that, too.

What’s your favourite book ?

Frankenstein by Mary Shelley. I’ve read it more times than any other book.

Who is your favourite author and why?

R.L. Stine. I owe him my love of horror and a large chunk of my childhood.

How many hours a day do you write?

Minimum of three hours. Not that I time it or clock in or out. It just so happens that’s the minimum amount of time I type behind the computer screen.

What one thing would you give up to become a better writer?

My cataracts. They make it hard for me to see the screen sometimes.

What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?

Editing. Everybody has their own idea of what my novel should sound like or read like. I feel like I can never get anything to sound right.

If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose and why?

J.K. Rowling. I’d want her to introduce me to her T.V. guys.

What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?

Music. It helps me block out the world.

What’s your favourite writing snack or drink?

Dr. Pepper, but I mostly drink water.

How do you celebrate when you finish your book?

I drink more Dr. Pepper.

Do you listen to music while you write your book (s) ?

Always.

Where do you get your idea (s) for your book (s) ?

They just come to me while I mull about. I’m constantly taking notes. If I sit still too long, my mind goes crazy. I try to keep myself distracted.

What is / was your writing process like?

I like to write during the day and pretend it’s a real job. It is in every way, except I don’t get paid.

Do you try more to be original or rather give readers what they want?

Give readers what they want. Nothing’s original. As long as you put your spin on something, it’ll stand out.

How did publishing your (first) book go?

It was like pulling teeth. Three years of constant rejections, almost 300 queries sent out, and in the end, I feel like I’m right back where I started when looking at all the books I have yet to publish.

What kind of research do you do and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?

I write horror fiction, so aside from researching locations, I mostly go in blind and operate on feeling.

How do you develop your plot and characters?

I spend years drafting the story arcs, the character arcs, and the settings I want everything to take place in.

What’s your favourite and least favourite part of publishing your book (s) ?

My favorite part of publishing is finally getting it over with and having my book out in the world. The whole process is very stressful. There’s a lot of moving pieces I have to make sure are running correctly. Editing is my least favorite. I hate feeling stupid.

What part of the book was the most fun to write?

I had the most fun writing Desert Appetites in Division X. In that section, our hero finds herself captured by a town full of inbred redneck serial killers in the New Mexican desert. Lots of carnage ensues. I went wild.

How did you come up with the title for your book (s) ?

Division X is structured like a season of X-Files or an MIB movie with multiple main villains, so I wanted a title that could hopefully convey the monstrous subject matter as quickly as possible. Division X is what I went with.

Would you and your main character get along?

Yes, definitely. We’re both writers, and we both aren’t that good at it, according to editors. We also both have siblings which drive us crazy. Our taste in movies differs, though. I love horror, but Randi hates it.

If you could meet your characters, what would you say to them?

I’d tell them I’m their creator, and then I’d tell them their futures.

Which of the characters in your book (s) do you relate to the most and why?

I relate to the main character the most. I feel like a vanilla person compared to most people around me, who are all more interesting. I’m really bland, but I gave my main character, Randi, a little more to work with. She’s a werewolf.

What is a significant way your book has changed since the first draft?

The structure. I initially didn’t have chapters, just six main sections and scene breaks within them. Throwing chapter breaks in really screwed some things up, but it helped with other things. Even though it allows the reader to take pause, it disrupts the flow of the novel in some noticeable areas.

How would you describe your book’s ideal reader?

Anyone who likes horror, creature features, and slashers will enjoy Division X. As the series goes on, I’ll have covered so many genres of horror. I really think someone who likes gore and monsters as much as I do will love this series.

What did you edit out of your book (s) ?

Some pointless conversations, and a lot of scene breaks which I think should have stayed in. The book reads the same, but a sudden P.O.V. shift will come out at you on occasion.

What was your hardest scene to write?

In the first section Bark at the Moon, Randi, the main character, and Becca, her cousin, are having a conversation outside by a former pigpen about the werewolf attack they just survived. It took almost 15 re-writes of this scene to get their characters to sound right.

How long did it take for you to write a book ?

Division X, the first in a series of four, took me less than a year. Division X 2 took me a year and a half, and so did Division X 3.

What do you hope your readers take away from your book (s) ?

I just want them to smile and enjoy themselves. If my book isn’t entertaining you, put it down.

What was the hardest part of writing your book (s) ?

Editing. I’ll plan ahead for years, write everything carefully and completely, and then be told, “Do it better.”

Did you get some negative feedback on your book ? and if so how do you deal with that ?

I did. Aside from my editors and their aforementioned feedback, the very first review I received was a DNF (did not finish). She said she stopped at page 86 citing the characters, narrative, and writing to be terrible. I didn’t get my second review for 5 days. It was a 5 star review, but those five days were long, let me tell you.

How did you feel when you first published your book (s) ? Scared ? Excited ? Nervous?

Excited. My manuscript was rejected for three years, so finally seeing it published was surreal. I almost couldn’t believe it was happening.

Where can people who are interested in your book, buy your book ?

Amazon and my publisher website. I’ll drop the amazon link here.

Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with your readers about?

Yes, I’m really close to starting Division X 4 while I’m busy editing the second and third books in the series. It’s a lot to take care of, but it keeps me busy.

After writing your book (s) what is your advice to people who want to become writers?

Write what you want to read. That way when the editors inevitably tell you how good it really is, you’ll still enjoy your book. In all honesty, just be personal with what you write. Leave your mark and worry about editing later.

What are common traps for aspiring writers and have you faced any of them ?

The get rich quick scheme applies to the writing industry as it does everywhere else. There’s no quick way to fame unless you get lucky. Just write the story you want to tell. Edit it later and publish it after that. If no publisher wants it, self-publish it. You may not make any money, but if you’re in this business to make money, you’re in the wrong place.

Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?

I read them all. I’ve heard all the good and bad things before. The way I see it, some people will like your book for what it is and others won’t. Readers want different things from you, but as long as you make your writing entertaining, you’ll find your audience.

Is there something more you want to tell us which I forgot to ask about?

My favorite color is red, thanks for asking ☹

August Hill Media Links

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Interview with Author Buck Lawrimore

June 24, 2023September 29, 2023Posted in InterviewsTagged Interviews2 Comments

Could You Tell Us About Yourself ?

I have been a professional writer since high school, when I began reporting for the local daily newspaper. I worked my way through Davidson College as a part-time writer for The Charlotte Observer and the College News Bureau. After graduating from Davidson with a psychology degree, I began working for The Charlotte Observer full-time as a reporter and editor. Then I returned to Davidson to run the public relations department, then called the News Bureau. Twelve years later, I launched Lawrimore Communications Inc., a strategic marketing and communications firm in Charlotte, NC. Through this process I became very focused on how to help companies and individuals be more successful, reading thousands of books and articles on that topic and applying “the best of the best” in the real world with clients. A few years ago I shifted to being a full-time writer and publisher. To date I have written eight books about personal and business success, philosophy, reality, technology, and related subjects. You can see them all at https://amazon.com/author/bucklawrimore. I am also a follower of God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, and a seeker of the truth.

What made you write your book (s) ?

A desire to help other people be more successful in life and business, sharing what I had learned over my long career and putting my faith into action.

What is the first book you remember reading ?

I can’t remember the names of books I read in elementary school, but as a teenager, I was enthralled with science fiction books by Robert Heinlein, most memorably “Stranger in a Strange Land.”

What’s your favourite book ?

Besides the Bible, which I read daily, I dearly love “Wholeness and the Implicate Order” by David Bohm because it is so close to my own perspectives revealed in my book, “How To Understand Ultimate Reality: Order, Energy and God.”

Who is your favourite author and why?

The Apostle Paul, who wrote most of the New Testament and changed the world for the better.

How many hours a day do you write?

If you consider all forms of writing, probably 4 to 5.

What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?

Since I write nonfiction exclusively, I would say organizing my ideas for a new book into a good outline, then creating chapters and content to fulfill the outline.

If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose and why?

Probably Ryan Holiday to learn more about his incredible ability to write blog posts, social media content, and book content every single day. He is amazingly disciplined and prolific.

What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?

My 27-inch iMac computer with an outline on one side of the screen and the evolving book on the other. I also rely on the Notion app to stay highly organized personally and professionally.

How do you celebrate when you finish your book?

A big sigh of relief and a prayer of thanks to God.

Do you listen to music while you wrote your book (s) ?

No. I am easily distracted by any kind of noise. Sometimes I put sound-deadening headphones on if there is a lot of noise outside, such as construction work.

Where do you get your idea (s) for your book (s) ?

I am an avid reader of email newsletters, blog posts and books by others throughout the day. In the evening I often watch and listen to informative YouTube videos. But some of my big ideas have been percolating in my brain since my college days.

What is / was your writing process like?

As noted above, I try to start with a solid outline, then write chapters to fill in the outline. In recent months I have become addicted to ChatGPT, which is the greatest tool for nonfiction writers ever invented. In fact, I wrote a book entitled “ChatGPT for Nonfiction Authors” explaining my writing process. However you must be careful about any content generated by ChatGPT, as it is prone to error. So unless you are writing about a topic you are already familiar with, it’s wise to check out each item of information using Google or Bing.

Do you try more to be original or rather give readers what they want?

As a longtime marketing consultant, I strongly believe in giving readers (customers) what they want. I use Publisher Rocket to help with that, as well as Google Keyword Planner. No point in writing a book that no one wants to read.

How did publishing your (first) book go?

I found the Amazon KDP format very easy to follow. I also read a number of books and articles by other authors on how to write, publish and promote books. Actually my first book was published through Lulu, before KDP even existed, but that too went pretty well.

What kind of research do you do and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?

I research extensively online using search engines and ChatGPT. I also research what other books are available in the subject area I have chosen, and try to read the best ones in full or through summaries if available. I research as I write, but overall each book can take anywhere from two weeks using ChatGPT or six months for a complete book like “How To Be Successful In Life” or “How To Understand Ultimate Reality.”

What’s your favourite and least favourite part of publishing your book (s) ?

I enjoy using the Amazon KDP system. It is very user-friendly. The hardest part is to get the page structure in your Word document to align with the page structures in the Amazon paperback and hardback previews. Especially difficult is getting subheads to start at the top of the page and not end up at the bottom of the previous page. Of course this is not an issue with ebooks, but it is hard for print.

How did you come up with the title for your book (s) ?

I had a few initial ideas that I checked using Publisher Rocket and Google Keyword Planner to be sure lots of people are searching for it, but not too much competition.

How would you describe your book’s ideal reader?

Adults 18 to 40, or anyone who wants to be more successful in life.

What do you hope your readers take away from your book (s) ?

Practical knowledge they can put to use to be more successful in life and/or business.

How did you feel when you first published your book (s) ? Scared ? Excited ? Nervous ?

Definitely excited. But since I have written thousands of articles, brochures and websites over the years, it was not radically new.

Where can people who are interested in your book, buy your book ?

All my books are available on amazon through my author page

I can be reached personally through https://bucklawrimore.com

Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with your readers about?

I am working on a book currently titled “Living with God in the Digital Age” about how one can use a wide range of apps, websites and other electronic tools to feel and be closer to God throughout each day.

Buck Lawrimore Media Links

Interview With Author Exie Susanne Smith

June 23, 2023September 29, 2023Posted in InterviewsTagged Interviews1 Comment

Could you tell us about yourself?

Wow, lol, where to start! I am an author of four books, a psychic medium, reverend, energy reader, speaker.

What made you write your books(s)?

When I was little, I loved books and as my mom read to me one night, I asked her if I could do that. She asked me what I meant and I said make that and pointed to the book. She smiled and said yes. She then said, hon you can do anything you want! I kept that in the back of my mind always. As my life went on, I had things happen to me that I knew I would never be able to tell anyone, so I started to journal. I was twelve years old when I started. What had happened was I saw a demon in my room, he was ugly, and overly charming. He offered me everything in life I could ever want. My father used to tell us, there is no such thing as a free lunch. This sounded like an offer of a free lunch. No thank you. I used these journals much later in life to write my books.

What is the first book you remember reading?

The first book I remember being read to me was the one I mention above. It was a book of poems written by a very good friend of my grandmothers. “From Magic Mirrors to Mud Puddles, by Elizabeth Laughton Claxton. My favorite was The Garden Court ship. A tomato proposes to a potato, so sweet.

The first book I read was “Charlottes Web”. I loved it but hated the end and cried very hard! The book was full of valuable life lessons.

What’s your favorite book?

Pride and Prejudice. The Garden of Good and Evil. Charlottes Web.

What is your favorite author and why?

This is tough, I love to read and am not an author follower, any more. I used to love Nora Roberts but her style has changed so much, that she has lost me as a LOVER of her work. I do still read her. Her Irish series was my ultimate favorite. She has grown and I honor that but have moved on.

Other than that I loved Jackie Collins, David Baldacci, James Patterson and Harlan Corben.

How many hours a day do you write?

Now, a few days a week. When I am on a book, I write daily in the morning, for at least 3 hours.

What one thing would you give up to become a better writer?

Nothing! The person I am is what has made my books what they need to be. Were meant to be.

What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?

Punctation!

If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose and why?

Jackie Collins! I loved her energy. Her stories were funny, intriguing, sexy, adult, and flowed.

James Patterson would be another author I would love to talk with. He is so smart, well versed, intelligent and funny!

What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?

Classical music, natural light, my lap top, good pens and a lot of paper. And no one at home!

Favorite writing snack or drink?

Used to cheese fish but read the ingredients lol. Maybe taco chips. Other than that cold water in a glass!

How do you celebrate when you finish your book?

A long (no rushing) hot shower, a glass of wine and a fabulous dinner!

Do you listen to music while you wrote your books?

Only classical. Anything else and I start to pay attention to it and not my writing.

Where do you get your idea(s) for your book(s)

They come from real life. My journals and then from what life has been dealing me.

What is/was your writing process like?

I purchase dollar store college rule paper and jell pens. The reason being, I hand write, without fixes, the entire book. After that is finished, I type it in word on my laptop. That also starts the edit process. I do a coupe rounds of editing. Once I am mostly happy it goes to my editor.

Do you try more to original or rather give readers what they want?

Original is the best for me. Ultimately, I do hope it is what they want.

How did publishing your (first) book?

I assume you mean; how did it go? I tried to get a publisher, thought that was what I needed to do. They I hired a firm that took it press for me. I left them and went Create Space/Amazon. It is easy and I make more money this way. I like the print on demand feature.

What kind of research do you do and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?

My journals and then the current happenings give me my info. Then I research. Sometime something I have seen, a ghost needs explaining. There are names for entities that I don’t know about. In the same vein, if something weird happens I need to know if that has a name or title. I search for answers for those things. I used to watch ghost hunting type shows and sometime would get answers for things from those.

What do you develop your plot and characters?

My nonfiction writing sort of fits this question but not really. I do make sure to crate a plot but not change the truth. I want it to be captivating, spooky, but true to the happening. Characters are real so that is easy. I do not use names of people but they know who they are lol!

What’s your favorite and least favorite part of publishing your book(s)?

Least part was the rejections! Then I switched up my thinking and went to print on demand with Amazon. My favorite is designing the jacket of the book. I have had three different artists for the four books. Each is my idea. Each jacket has light in it somewhere. Reason being, light is thing to look for. There is always light at the end of the tunnel. I like choosing the title too. That takes time. I sit and write ideas on paper, brain storming, titles.

What part of the book was the most fun to write?

I love the dedications. These to me are honors to be bestowed toward someone. They come from love and respect. I also love to title chapters. Although in my fourth book it was tough for some reason, so not so enjoyable! I think I didn’t want to repeat from the other books. Also didn’t want them too long.

How did you come up with the title for your book(s)?

They took some brainstorming. I know how all important a title and jacket are. You have a very short amount of time to catch a reader’s attention, keep it, and have them buy it. The first one, “Welcome to my Paranormal Life” came to me after I wrote the opening. It begged me to welcome you. My second book, as I wrote it, the stories were all of ghosts and spirits appearing for me, no matter where I was. So it is titled, “When the Dead Comes Calling.” The third book, “The Essence of Death”, is titled after my father. When he passed, I watch his DNA helix rise up out of his face into the air. It was his essence. And my fourth book, “Dialog with the Dead,” is exactly what it says. I talk daily (a lot) with the dead.

Would you and your main character get alone?

I am my mine character and no not always!

What is a significant way your book has changed since the first draft?

Great question. It has not aged but it has changed. I intentionally wrote it pretty simply, the wording, the structure. Over the last seven or so years, it is now 9 years old, I have changed up some of the words. Changed them to higher level words. I didn’t need it as simple as I had it. However, It was important to me that the book be easy for all to read, to understand. I am talking about some complex things. Plus, not everyone who reads my books believes in what I am writing!

How would you describe your book’s ideal reader?

My ideal reader at first was the person who like me had paranormal experiences and need help with that. Then it became a book that sold all the way around the world, through Amazon, and the reasons for reading changed. My readers were now reading for entertainment, they wanted to learn more, are interested in the paranormal and have questions about some or all!

What did you edit out of your books?

Names of people who were in events with me. Several reasons for this. When I wrote the first book in 2012, it was just the right time to start talking about ghosts and spirits out in public. Hard to believe but true. So, not to cause them embarrassment and me possible issues I chose to leave them out.

How long did it take for you to write a book?

The first book took three years! I didn’t want to let it go, I was scared. I used the excuse of it needing more editing. My husband and editor told me stop and turn it over. The other books were about a year and a half each.

What do you hope your readers take away from your book(s)?

That spirit is all around us. That they do exist. That is okay to not believe but understand that others do and let me believe.

What was the hardest part of writing your book(s)?

Getting started. Not believing that others would find it interesting. Then it was trying to find an editor. My first was a college LA professor. I paid her half up front; rest was due when she was done. She called me and said she couldn’t edit the book it scared her too badly. I went to her home to get the manuscript from her, she also gave me my money back! I ended up with a fabulous editor who has edited all but one of my books.

Did you get some negative feedback on your book? And if so, how do you deal with that?

I did get some for editing needing some work. You can edit your brains out and never catch all. Then there were people who didn’t believe in ghosts or spirits. But then would tell me a story of a ghost that came to them! That was all in the beginning. Now that the paranormal is wide open, tons of tv shows, I really don’t hear much down talk any more. I am happy people are opening up on the topic.

How did you feel when you first published your book(s)?

I was over the moon happy and very proud. It is a major accomplishment to write a book. Then after it started to sell and like I said, sold around the world, I flipped out with nerves. I didn’t anticipate the fact that I had started a business!

Where can people who are interested in your book, buy your book?

My books are on Amazon, Kindle and paperback, under Exie Susanne Smith.

Do you have any advice for people who wants to become authors?

My advice to others that would like to be authors.

Write and do it daily. Writing is a muscle and it has to be exercised to get strong and stay strong. To trust their instincts about their abilities and their interests/topics. And thicken your skin! What some people have to say can be hard, harsh. People don’t understand how hard it is to write a book, the amount of time and effort it takes.

Do you read the reviews?

I do read them yes. If I can make myself better from their thoughts why not read them. I ignore the rude people, lucky, only had one or two of those. They have no idea what it takes to do this, to have a dream and follow it all the way through.

Exie Susanne Smith Media Links

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Interview With Author Armand Rosamilia

June 17, 2023September 29, 2023Posted in InterviewsTagged InterviewsLeave a comment

Armand Rosamilia Media Links

Interview With Author Lauren Louise Hazel

June 16, 2023September 29, 2023Posted in InterviewsTagged Interviews1 Comment

Could you tell us about yourself?

I’m Lauren Louise Hazel and I’m a debut author. I’m currently writing Young Adult Fantasy novels, but I tend to get a lot of ideas in different genres that I’m hoping to explore one day! I work full-time in the Cyber industry and never imagined I would become an author, but I got some brilliant feedback which motivated me give it a go. I’ve just published The Reign of the Occult, a Young Adult Urban Fantasy novel, and I’m working on its sequel.

What made you write your book?

I started my first book, The Reign of the Occult, about a decade ago! I was recovering after illness and surgery and wanted something productive to do while I was bedbound. I’ve always written, and had lots of writing projects, but never finished a novel. I always came back to it now and then, and made slow and steady progress. And then lockdown happened, and I decided I was going to finish it. As soon as that decision was made – deciding that it was a job rather than a hobby – I finished it pretty quickly. Now I know I can finish one, I write novels pretty fast!

What is the first book you remember reading?

I was a big fan of Jacqueline Wilson and I read all her books as a kid. My favourite was probably The Story of Tracy Beaker or Double Act, which was about a set of twins. I loved my dad taking me to the bookstore every week as my sister complained I was taking too long reading all the blurbs.

What’s your favourite book?

I can never decide on this one. From a fiction perspective, I’m going to go with a classic: Jane Eyre. I always take it on holiday to read. My favourite books I read over and over. From a Young Adult perspective, Harry Potter and The Hunger Games were ground-breaking. I also enjoyed Cassandra Clare and the Shadowhunter’s universe.

Who is your favourite author and why?

I have a lot of authors I enjoy because if I like a book, I tend to read the whole series and catalogue. Meg Cabot has been one that has withstood the test of time; I always go back to The Princess Diaries if I need some light humour.

How many hours a day do you write?

It depends on my other commitments – I do have a hard and busy full-time job. When I schedule in writing time, I do it in blocks for a certain number of weeks or months. During that time, I’d do 2-3 hours a day on weekdays and more on weekends. I don’t do a lot of procrastinating though – once it’s in my diary, I will do it!

What one thing would you give up to become a better writer?

I would consider giving up on my one can of Diet Coke a day.

What is the most difficult part of the artistic process?

Just getting the words out! I tend to just write the words initially, get a lot of feedback from developmental editor, and then I spend a lot of time in the editing process. I find the editing much easier because you already have the words and it’s an opportunity to shape it into a great book.

If you could spend a day with another author, who would it be and why?

G.R.R.Martin so I could follow him around until he finished A Song of Ice and Fire! I’d be happy to help him out.

What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?

I need somewhere to use my laptop comfortably, as well as all my writing equipment. I have a lot of notepads, sticky notes, and stationery. I love buying stationery for a new project.

What’s your favourite snack or drink?

I start off with a coffee (milk, and plenty of sugar) and then move on to green teas. I snack a lot during the writing process. I need to get better at picking healthier options – I eat a lot of chocolate.

How do you celebrate when finishing a book?

I binge all the shows I’m behind on when I finally finish writing! There’s nothing better than switching off when you feel like you’ve accomplished something, and you can really enjoy it. I watch a lot of Marvel shows / films, anime

Do you listen to music when you wrote your book?

I can’t have a show on while writing otherwise I’ll end up watching it, so I put music on in the background. It’s usually folk and indie playlists that aren’t too distracting.

Where did you get your idea for the book?

I was reading a lot when I was bedbound after a surgery and was inspired to write something in Urban Fantasy. The Reign of the Occult was not a novel at first, but did become one the longer I worked on it. Although it took years to write (I didn’t write it in one go) it was the one idea that I kept revisiting.

What is your writing process like?

I slot in weeks / months at a time.

Do you try to be original or give the reader what they want?

The Reign of the Occult is the first in the series and so was without any reader input. I have taken feedback into account for the sequel, The Queen of the Underworld. I appreciate any feedback about improvements, but I wouldn’t let it make decisions about the series. The plot for the whole trilogy is already laid out.

How did you publish your first book?

I finished The Reign of the Occult during lockdown and decided I was going to publish it. I got a lot of great advice, by fellow authors and my editors. They definitely encouraged me to start pursuing writing as a career rather than as hobby.

What kind of research did you do and how long did you spend researching before beginning a book?

I started writing The Reign of the Occult first and the research happened organically. Because I took so long on the first draft I was able to research as I wrote. Writing The Burning Bandit however, my next novel, I did about 6 months of research. It was actually my favourite part! I watched documentaries and read books on different histories / eras, and I enjoy learning something new.

How do you develop your plot and characters?

When I’m developing characters, I usually have a pretty good idea from the start of what I what them to look like. The plots I develop as I write. I don’t find that I get writer’s block much (not once I’ve started writing) and my hands / fingers are slower than my brain – my brain is having ideas and my hands can’t write them quick enough.

What part of the book was most fun to write?

The fighting scenes in The Reign of the Occult were the most fun to write. I find the actions scenes vivid and engaging. I developed the main character Everett, based on my preference for action.

How did you come up for the title of your book?

I am terrible at naming things. Naming the characters and the title were amongst the hardest part of the process. I tried to brainstorm ideas, used keyword generators… but it just didn’t come to me. It was probably the only real writers block I had! I eventually picked The Reign of the Occult because it aligned with the rest of the trilogy which spans three worlds. The first book focuses on The Occult, a sinister organisation which hunts magic Users. It’s sequel, is The Queen of the Underworld.

Would you and your main character get on?

Everett is my main character, and my sister who told me that I based him on my little brother. I did not see it while writing, but in hindsight he does have some similarities, at least in look. Despite my brother being very annoying, we do get along.

If you could meet your characters, what would you say to them?

I would say, I’m so sorry for inflicting everything on you!

Which character from your book do you relate to most and why?

I relate most to the female protagonist, Prue. My sister said there are a lot of similarities between us which I didn’t realise when writing. Although I don’t have any powers to see the future, I enjoy art and painting like she does, and I do spend a lot of time keeping my brother out of trouble.

What is a significant way your book has changed since first draft?

The biggest change I had to make to The Reign of the Occult during editing was fleshing out the backstory. I spent a lot of time setting up the worlds and their histories which wasn’t in the first draft. I do this with most novels; I write it first, bare bones, and then I spend a lot of time editing.

How would you describe your book’s ideal reader?

Anyone who enjoys it!

What did you edit out?

For The Reign of the Occult, I didn’t edit much out. Although it is long for a Young Adult novel, it is pretty pacy! During the editing, I put backstory and history in. It got longer, rather than shorter!

What was your hardest scene to write?

Because I wrote The Reign of the Occult over many years, I didn’t write it in chronological order. I wrote the scenes I liked, and was most excited about, then had to go back and fill in the rest. I would not recommend this! It definitely took much longer. For my subsequent novels, I have done myself a favour and just written them in order.

How long did it take you to write a book?

The Reign of the Occult took many, many years. It was definitely a hobby I picked up when inspired (and had time). Once I realised I could finish a book, and it was a job rather than a hobby, I got much quicker. The Burning Bandit, my latest project, the first draft took a few months.

What do you hope that readers take away from your book?

After reading The Reign of the Occult, I hope that they liked visiting the universe and all its characters! And that they come for its sequel, The Queen of the Underworld.

What was the hardest part of writing your book?

The hardest part of The Reign of the Occult was finishing the first draft. I hovered around the 40k word count mark for years and years. It was only when I had more time during the Covid lockdown that I finally finished it!

Did you get negative feedback from your book and if so, how did you deal with that?

Luckily, not much! The reviews of The Reign of the Occult have been very positive! There are always things to improve upon and I will take critique and feedback into consideration going forwards. It should be an opportunity to learn and get better.

How did you feel when you first published your book?

I felt excited and nervous. It’s a strange thought to think other people read what you write. I’ve always just written what I wanted to read!

Where can people interested buy your book?

The Reign of the Occult is available on Amazon.

Are you working on anything at the moment you would like to share with the readers about?

I have two current projects: The Queen of the Underworld and The Burning Bandit.

The Queen of the Underworld is the second book in the Occult trilogy and the sequel to The Reign of the Occult. The draft is all done so I’m deep in the editing process.

The Burning Bandit is a standalone novel that should be out this year. This is all edited, so in the final stages of cover and proofreading. It’s a historical fantasy novel, inspired by feudal Asia, and I’ve loved writing it.

Lauren Louise Hazel Media Links

Interview With Author Oladapo. R. Osuntokun

June 10, 2023September 29, 2023Posted in InterviewsTagged Interviews2 Comments

Could You Tell Us About Yourself?

My name is Dr. Oladapo. R. Osuntokun. I live and practice in Scranton, Pennsylvania’s as one of the foremost psychiatrists.

I was born in Nigeria and emigrated to the USA many years ago.

Having trained as an orthopedic surgeon, by the time I got on the plane, I had an Epiphany. It was the voice of God gently instructing me about this impending mission.

The voice was reassuring but gently instructing me that I would no longer heal people with a “knife but the words. Fast forward till now, he uses the words in various ways, including his current mission as an Author, a Psychiatrist, and a Pastor.

I never imagined I would become a Pastor but now, he is the Word of God Parish pastor in Luzerne, PA. A Pentecostal Spiritual filled Bible-based Church.

I am also a guest/ visiting Professor at Clark’s Summit University, where I have taught African and World Religion since 2017 till early 2020.

I am a board-certified pediatric and Adolescent Psychiatrist and also a board-certified General and Adult Psychiatrist.

I have been an Associate Professor of Psychiatric Medicine at the Geissinger College of Medicine in Scranton, Pa since 2007 and has won the Top Doctor award for the past several years.

I have been included in The Marquis “who is who in America” as a biographical listee since last year.

What made you write your book (s) ?

The entire book was my idea to bring Religion and Psychology/Psychiatry together. Many pastors and Priests offer counseling services without formal training in the subject. This book is an attempt to help people learn how to improve their lives based on the life and struggles of the protagonist. The Priest can use the straight-talking point to counsel their folks. The deal is to bring people back home to God. No other book illustrates how to achieve this plan more than the Ordained Demon, as it displays Religion and spiritual difficulties and still offers appropriate coping skills.

What is the first book you remember reading ?

This is my first book, the second is titled-“keys to the troubled soul” is scheduled to be released in the summer of 2023

What’s your favourite book?

1. Devil on the Front Row, Seducing Spirits and Doctrines of Demons in the Modern Church.” by Ron Sutton.

2. Jesus and the Addict: Twelve Bible Studies for People Getting Free from Drugs by Dr. Pam Morrison.

3. Treasure Island bt Robert Louis Stevenson.

Who is your favourite author and why?

Macbeth, Williams Shakespeare-Like the story, enjoy the way he goes about telling it using lofty terms, this makes it exciting

How many hours a day do you write?

Variable.

What one thing would you give up to become a better writer?

Time

What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?

The editing and marketing, the writing is the easiest part of this.

If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose and why ?

I will like to meet the author of Dante’s inferno-Dante Alighieri

What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?

Silence

What’s your favourite writing snack or drink?

Peanuts and Coffee

How do you celebrate when you finish your book?

I take a long walk and a deep sleep.

Do you listen to music while you wrote your book (s) ?

Nope

Where do you get your idea (s) for your book (s) ?

From my dream

What is / was your writing process like?

I completed the initial draft within a week during my 2021 vacation

Do you try more to be original or rather give readers what they want?

Both

How did publishing your (first) book ?

self Published through KDP

What kind of research do you do and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?

My research process is as needed. I keep writing and I check whatever needs to be rectified. I try not to include ideas of too many people in my book

How do you develop your plot and characters?

Inspiration

What’s your favourite and least favourite part of publishing your book (s) ?

The proof reading and editing was painfully boring and repetitive. The marketing part is a nuisance.

What part of the book was the most fun to write?

The story/fiction part

How did you come up with the title for your book (s) ?

Spoke with my family and the first 2-3 people who read the manuscript along with my editor

Would you and your main character get along?

Absolutely

If you could meet your characters, what would you say to them?

I will tell Michael to repent, Paul not to disown his son and Beatrice she was too hard on Michael, her own son.

Which of the characters in your book (s) do you relate to the most and why?

Michael, the protagonist

What is a significant way your book has changed since the first draft?

I have changed the book cover once

How would you describe your book’s ideal reader?

Religious/ those who seek more knowledge of Christ but also, fun/adventure loving, and ages are variable.

What did you edit out of your book (s) ?

None

What was your hardest scene to write?

The sex and the murder

How long did it take for you to write a book?

A week, for the first draft and 3 months for the reviews

What do you hope your readers take away from your book (s) ?

That–Our lives are all for God, and it has to be about Jesus Christ, and those close to God need to prayerfully watch their back because of Satan. He is not too far from them with his old tactics of using Temptation to manipulate and steal their anointment and Glory. Every Pastor-young or old, practicing Priest and every disciple of God, minister, or anyone in high places in the church or secular life must read this book. They all must understand that regardless of the situation. They must return to Christ..

What was the hardest part of writing your book (s) ?

It’s tough to deal with Sleepless nights, after a hard day of work at the office.

Did you get some negative feedback on your book ? and if so how do you deal with that ?

Yes, I just smiled and kept praying about it

How did you feel when you first published your book (s) ? Scared ? Excited ? Nervous ?

Nervous and excited

Where can people who are interested in your book, buy your book ?

Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with your readers about?

There is another book will be released at the end of the month titled-“Keys to the Troubled Soul”

After writing your book (s) what is your advice to people who want to become writers?

It’s a very competitive Industry, and with the Artificial Intelligence, it’s even tougher. If you’re Talented you will be more than okay, if you’re keenly interested you will be fantastic, just keep writing and let the chips fall where they may.

What are common traps for aspiring writers and have you faced any of them ?

Marketing is a headache and getting a traditional publisher can be a very selective series of events. Never quit your day job until you’re known, if you do this could be a trap

Do you read your book reviews?

How do you deal with bad or good ones? I just pray about it and move on. I realize how I ‘am powerless about what is on the review. I put my energy back into writing.

Oladapo. R. Osuntokun Media Links