Jun 23

Wild Is The West: An Interview With New Western Bestseller Weldon R. Shaw

 

weldon shaw imageLone Wolf is a novel for those who believe in true love and sacrifice for that one special person you love. To love someone so much you are willing to die for them to insure they are safe. It unfolds in the time frame of the 1840’s, in a wilderness of Montana which had not been tamed as of yet. It was a time period when peoples lives where lived in the harshest elements and death was a reality. This interview with author Weldon R. Shaw is all about the process behind the book. Let’s find out what Weldon has to say…

Why was it important for you to write Westerns? What drove that ambition?

I am a country boy who has always had a love for history, especially the history of what our country was built on.  Like most kids during my era, I was raised on the Old West movies.  I am a quarter Chikasaw Indian out of Oklahoma, and I love to read, talk and learn about the Native American cultures. The idea for Lone Wolf came about because of this love for the Native American culture.

How closely does the Western mirror the American way of life?

Lone Wolf is an action romance.  It is built on good morals and values.  It’s about breaking through cultural barriers, establishing trust between a man and a woman.  It is about real life and the forming of a true friendship that leads to true love.  The character Lone Wolf was brought to life by the values I was taught as a kid on how a woman should be treated.

What are your favorite Western movies?

That is an easy one—any Western made by “The Duke,” John Wayne.  I am also a big Sam Elliot fan, as well. My favorite writer is Louis L’Amour. He was a Rhodes Scholar and put great detail into his works.

How did those movies influence the way you write?

The Western movies were always about the true American values, the good against the bad.  I think movies like this not only influence the way you write, but more importantly, I think they influence young minds on how to carry themselves in life as they become adults.

Would you ever write a book about the Alamo or other historical events?

My first novel released was a historical fiction titled Pachuco.  It was about the transformation of Alta California to California and how it affected the Hispanic people through the years of a changing and evolving government.  When I write, I try to incorporate historical and cultural elements into my novels.  I am very selective of what I write about.  I try to stay away from the subjects that have been written about numerous times.

Do you believe in good and bad? Is that a concept that all who write Westerns should keep in mind?

Yes. Even in Lone Wolf, the story line is built on good and bad.  Lone Wolf will not hesitate to protect another person who cannot protect themselves, especially a woman. Let’s face it, there are very few books or even movies out there that are not based on good and bad.  It is as much about the story’s plot as any character in it.

Who is the greatest American folk hero from the West, in your opinion, and why?

I would probably say the James Younger gang.  They became outlaws—and who they were—because of people who had the backing of the federal government.  They were considered bushwhackers during the Civil War because they attacked Union-based cities and robbed them.  The Union also had their share of atrocities in the killing of civilians and the burning down of farms and cities, as well. I guess, overall, the Civil War in itself produced many folk heroes from both sides because it was the turning point of this country.

What will your next book be about?

Well, I am writing Lone Wolf: The Resurrection, novel 2 of the Lone Wolf series right now as we speak.  I will end the Lone Wolf series in novel 3. I have a Western in mind that is strictly an idea at this point. I also have a romance novel call Victoria In Search Of Myself that I need to finish. Also a horror novel call Interview With The Immortal One.

Do you think it’s important to have a large publisher as a Western author?

It is not necessary to have a large publisher, but if you get to the point where you are contracted by a major publishing house, it shows you that you have arrived as a writer, and your ability as a writer is being recognized.  Is it hard for a new writer to get into a large publishing house? Yes, very hard because they require your work to be submitted to them through an agent.  Is it hard to get an agent? Most difficult hurdle to jump over that you can imagine. I have been fortunate. All my books have been contracted by traditional publishers.

Are you ever surprised by how many Western readers there are in the world?

No, not really. I believe people like books about old history and, more importantly, good versus bad.  They like to see that guy portrayed who will stand up with good morals and take on a battle even if it isn’t his battle.

Would you ever write a non-Western?

I have two non-Westerns written as we speak. Pachuco is a historical fiction which starts in the 1860s and ends in the 2000s; and I have a self-help for parenting called The Rise And Fall Of Our Youth.  My next romance novel that I will write is Victoria In search Of Myself.  It will be based in current time.

How many Westerns have you written?

The Lone Wolf series will be the first that was written in the Old West time frame.  Pachuco is a narrated novel by an old man in his 80s who walks the reader through four generations of his family starting in the 1860s and ending in the 2000s.

How have reviewers treated your books?

The reviews of my books have been fantastic.  I sent Lone Wolf out to several female readers to get a feel for their reaction, and they are ecstatic about it.  Even though Lone Wolf is considered a romance, it is based on action, and because of this the men readers will love it, as well.

If you could travel back to the West and be a cowboy—would you?

Well, there is a lot to be said about that time period. Life was simpler as far as fewer distractions and less government oversight, but life was harsher.  The simple things we take for granted was a big deal back then.  Food is more plentiful now, you live in an air conditioned house now, even if it is a swamp cooler. Back then, there were no cool houses.  Food was not plentiful nor was money. The luxury of taking a bath, which most of us are use to taking once a day, was not that way back then.

If you were a ranch hand, you would more than likely go several days before you bathed, in some cases months.  For a lot of them back then, it was a horse trough or nearby creek. Going to town was a luxury and not a daily occurrence.  Electricity—how many can do without that? No, I think I am happy living in this day and age. It is not perfect, but it is convenient.


Are you looking for a great new Western book to read? Why don’t you pick up a copy of “Lone Wolf: A New Beginning” today from Amazon. 

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Jun 23

On The Trail To Amazon: Alex Cord Talks “High Moon”

alex-cord-movie-starFrom movie star to TV star to award-winning author, Alex Cord has done it all. His new book has taken him back to his roots– the Western. When Alex was asked to write a Western, it didn’t dawn on him how popular this decision would turn out to be. Western readers are still a force in the book world, and this new Cord Western should prove to be one of the most popular Western releases of the year. How does a multi-faceted man like Alex Cord approach writing a Western? Let’s find out… This is the first interview with Alex Cord about his new Western novel, “High Moon.” Enjoy!

Which Westerns have most influenced your life?

Red River, Lonesome Dove, Monte Walsh, The Westerner, Stagecoach, My Darlin Clementine, The Wild Bunch, One-Eyed Jacks. I list them not in order of preference. They are all fine films that I have seen more than once, some more than three or four or five times. Any of John Ford’s films. John Wayne, Ben Johnson, the great, Gary Cooper, Walter Brennan, Slim Pickens, Marlon Brando, Karl Malden. These are the finest of the fine.

How did you research your Western?

I didn’t consciously do any research. Just living my life. Watching the films and many others made indelible, lasting impressions and consequently have influenced, inspired and educated me. I suppose you could call that research.

Tell us about the series. What is the overall story of the series?

Love. Seeking justice. I create the characters and see where they take me. I believe they are rich, fully realized, breathing individuals who have a lot to reveal. I am looking forward to seeing what paths they choose to follow

Do you prefer writing about the heroes or the villains?

I prefer to write about human beings and discover who and what they are. There are elements of heroes and villains in all of us. Shakespeare wrote entire plays about one element of humanity. Evil: Richard III, jealousy: Othello, heroism: Henry V. I like to delve into the depths of an individual and see what I can find.

A good villain is hard to write. How did you approach writing your villains?

I don’t find them any harder to write than anything else. I just go to the villain in me and see what he has to say. I don’t like to spend too much time there. It can be a little disturbing to discover the evil in one’s self. But there it is.

What real-life inspirations did you draw from for your book? Are any of your characters people you know?

My life is filled with experiences with all kinds of people. A rich bank from which to draw truth. Most of my characters are either based on people I know or have elements of them. I have made a practice of acquiring characters throughout my life and studying them. A creative artist, writer, actor, painter, dancer, musician, must be intensely curious, perceptive and interested.

Where do you think the Western is heading? Is it dying or growing? 

I don’t know. As long as there are people like me around, I think the Western will live. I suppose one chooses one’s friends according to a level of compatibility. I have many friends who will and do work hard to keep the genre alive. I dedicate my new western book, “HIGH MOON” to COWBOYS. I am grateful to Clint Eastwood, Tom Selleck, Rob Word and many more who are hard core believers in the western genre and contribute enormously to keep the blood flowing.

What was the hardest part of writing the first book?

Coming up with a story idea that motivated me to want to tell it. I think that everything one can think of has been done in one fashion or another. The trick is to tell it in a way that engages the reader. I cannot tell how to do that. I believe it is a God-given gift.

Can you see your series turned into a TV series or movie? 

A movie. I see it as a love story, with sweet violence, redemption and caring for another person more than anything else in the world.

Did you learn anything from writing this book and what was it? 

I did. That writing is fun, challenging and bloody hard work. Many people say they would like to write a book and I believe that everyone has a book in them. Getting it out from within and onto blank pages is another matter. It requires huge belief and relentless commitment.

Is there a message in your novel that you hope readers will grasp?

Yes. That I am a good writer, and that they will care about what I have to say and the way that I tell it.

alex christmasWhat comes next?

Deeper development of the characters and curiosity about where they will take us.

If you couldn’t be an author, what would your ideal career be?

A scientist. A conservationist in Africa. I’ve been to Africa many times for extended periods of time. I found it to be fascinating in the extreme and actually gave serious thought to living there. That was years ago. Unfortunately, politics have corrupted it to the extent that it is not a comfortable place right now.

Where can readers reach you to send ideas for your books?

nick@nickwale.org I would take great pleasure in hearing from you and welcome clever ideas for stories. Meanwhile, be well, and read, read, read! And thank God for your eyesight and brain.

 

Do you want to know about the new Alex Cord Western as soon as it’s released? Fill in the contact form below and we will notify you the moment the book hits the market!

 

Jun 22

The Challenge of Writing With Bestselling Author David Watts

david wattsAn interview with the ebullient David Watts is always something to cherish. From the astounding beauty of his writing, one must believe that he is one of the writers we can truly call talented. His new book, “The Lucifer Connection,” is currently riding high on the bestseller charts, and this interview will explain how that so very popular book came to be. This interview is frank, fascinating and free to read. Read on…

Which books have most influenced your life? 

The Web of Life, Frost’s Collected Poems, The Great Gatsby, Siddhartha, Jack Gilbert’s Collected Poems, Catch 22, Uncle Remus, The Alphabet vs. The Goddess, To Kill a Mockingbird, Doctor Zhivago, West Side Story, The Cherry Orchard, Ol’ Man Adam and His Children.

How did you research your latest book? 

By living it. Well, at least part of it. Here’s the deal. I was in San Francisco during the Summer of Love. Because of my job as a medical intern, my participation was limited to attending a few Bill Graham rock concerts, walking Haight Street to mingle with the colorful crowds there and occasionally dancing along with the other wild people in the park. Enough to get the flavor, to pick up the vibe, so to speak, which, along with some reading about specific names and places of the time, about did it. The trick is, of course, to place inside a carefully-made authentic environment a compelling group of characters on an exciting journey. That’s what makes it interesting.

Tell us about this new book. What is the overall story? 

Hero gets knocked off his horse by getting blamed for a death. Police botch the investigation. Boy meets girl. Boy calls upon an old, crazy as hell friend, and they set out to save the day. Lots of danger. Some smart planning. Chemistry.

Do you prefer writing about the heroes or the villains?

Ah, that is the question. Mostly the heroes are visible. The villains. . . that’s another story. Because they lurk, they are more interesting. So to make it right we have to include a little villain in the hero as well. Isn’t that more like life? We do find some interesting villains in this book, but I do not guarantee that we find them all.

A good villain is hard to write. How did you approach writing your villains?

They have to have at least two sides. Maybe more than two. No one is all bad. What makes a villain seductive is the ability to charm. One cannot charm without a personality that recognizes and has participated in the good side of life. Like Lucifer, the Fallen Angel, himself.

What real-life inspirations did you draw from for your book? Are any of your characters people you know?

A writer’s characters are always people he/she knows. Not exclusively, of course, much gets mixed in. I myself am in the book in certain ways. Others are people I know whom I’ve idealized for the purpose of character enrichment. But they are real, even if they are not.

Where do you think the book is heading? Is it dying or growing? 

By leaps and bounds, growing. Every time we release something, the sales peak. Reviews are mostly 5-Star. There’s a buzz on. Hollywood’s even interested. If that happens. . . you know the rest.

Can you see your series turned into a TV series or movie? 

I wrote the book with that in mind. You will see that it is highly visual and the dialogue fits well to a screen adaptation. Characters are ones you love to love or love to hate. This could last a long time.

Did you learn anything from writing this book and what was it? 

How really hard it is to write a f—ing book. I did at least five drafts before the final one. But like the artist who keeps going back to the museum where his exhibit is hanging carrying a paintbrush in his hand, there is always something to be added or subtracted. The problem is deciding when to kick it out the door.

Is there a message in your novel that you hope readers will grasp? 

Friendship. Generosity of spirit. Staying ahead of evil with courage and intelligence.

If you couldn’t be an author, what would your ideal career be? 

I’ve done several careers: music, television, radio, acting, medicine. They’ve all helped me to be a better author and a better person. I suppose I’d just fall back on the bevy of careers I’ve already done. But that’s hypothetical. This is working.

Jack Barnstone is an outside-the-box, motorcycle-riding physician who, finding himself in two kinds of trouble, leaves Texas to start a solo practice near Chinatown in San Francisco. When a patient walks in his office with an undiagnosed mortal illness Barnstone’s life changes forever. Finding himself in deeper trouble than ever he must work his way through a malpractice suit, the mistrust of his colleagues and the suspicions of the San Francisco police in order to vindicate himself. Since he has arrived in San Francisco just at the start of the Summer of Love to pursue his quest he has to learn the inner workings of Hippie culture, the sinister workings of the Satanic Church while he is dodging the unpredictable actions of the San Francisco Police. With help from his new Hippie girlfriend and an old flagrantly gay East Indian assistant coroner he discovers why the case was so difficult to solve, confronts the perpetrator and stumbles upon a well-hidden and sinister web of criminal activity. Download your copy today from Amazon.

The Lucifer Connection 1

Jun 21

Are You Ready To Sell Books? The Key To Making Your Book Successful

purpose findMany people ask me how authors make it. What causes author X to be a bestseller? Was it a special trick of the light? Was it luck? What causes success? I’ve explained many times that consistency is one of the most important ingredients to success. The ability to push your books with consistency is crucial to the success of having your book read by the reading public—but the other key ingredient is purpose. I want to talk a little about purpose here.

I knew a man who retired. He didn’t want to retire, but he retired because he was deemed useless. The day after his retirement commenced, he took to his bed. He was finished. Done. He was waiting for God. His purpose was gone. He had spent many years in the aerodynamic industry and had untold wells of knowledge—yet his knowledge, his paychecks, his career hadn’t saved him from becoming a man without a purpose.

One day, he rose from his bed and decided that he had to find a reason to live. He applied for jobs, but was told that he was too old. Too old at 60. He decided to start a business, and it succeeded—but it didn’t give him purpose. He travelled the country—but never found purpose. He wrote a book and his purpose was found. He vowed to spend his whole life in one place, doing one beautiful thing—he would write until he died.

I met this guy a few years ago, and his purpose inspired me. Because his purpose and my purpose overlapped. He wanted to spend his whole life writing—and I wanted to spend my whole life pushing and promoting the work of others. His books didn’t immediately take off, but over time, they grew and became bestsellers. He is now an award-winning author who has written a slew of bestsellers. His purpose is still as strong as ever.

It is human nature to want to wither and shy away from challenge, but it is the spirit of man that causes us to seek out purpose and create new goals, and reach for new achievements. The greatest thing about my job is the opportunity. The opportunity to help people find their purpose, to revel in its glory and achieve their dreams. It is truly my belief that “if you can dream it—you can achieve it,” and I don’t believe anyone was born to be without purpose.

So I have a question for many of you reading this article. An important question—do you have a purpose? Is your purpose to stay in one place, doing the one thing you love? Is your purpose to write Westerns like the fella we talked about just now? If it is, then I’d like to meet you because I don’t believe our meeting was a coincidence. Are you in need of a purpose? Are you unsatisfied with the way your books are being accepted? I truly believe our purposes can help each other out. I believe we will find mutual satisfaction in our friendship. I believe in you—but do you believe in yourself enough to reach out to me? Do you believe in your purpose? Are you ready to realize your dream? If you are, you can reach me through the contact form below. I hope you’ll join me.

 

 

Jun 21

The Amazing Mr Breland: An Interview With Bestselling Western Author Jeff Breland

81X8tTkav7L._UX250_For Jeff Breland, it comes naturally. It’s a natural thing for him to sit down with a pad and pencil to write a story. A story that could take him many places, to many different times. For readers, it’s a natural thing to want to read a Breland story. An educated man might wonder at the style and scope of today’s literature– but that same educated man will sit down and voraciously read a Breland bonanza without a care in the world. This interview with Jeff Breland should be educational and fun. It should balance great writing with the ability and confidence a writer needs to express their ideas in a coherent and educational way. Let’s see what the ebullient Mr. Breland has to say…

I present Jeff Breland, bestselling author and Western connoisseur and his new book “A Gunman’s Rendezvous with Death.”

 

Which Westerns have most influenced your life? 

Growing up, I read a few Zane Grey books. In later years, I became quiet fond of the works of Peter Brandvold, Ralph Cotton and Robert J. Conley.

How did you research your Western?

I probably do half of it on the web. I also have a lot of books about the Old West.

Tell us about the series. What is the overall story of the series? 

The series is called “Loner with a Badge.” Jake Stone is foremost an investigator. Of course, the benefits from his job often come in the form of bounties. Some people often refer to him as a bounty hunter, but a lot of his work entail things other than looking for wanted outlaws. He’s good enough in his work that he is often called upon by the U.S. Marshal’s office. He holds the position of Special Deputy, which presents him with a badge. Most of his work is done alone, hence the Loner with a Badge.

Do you prefer writing about the heroes or the villains?

I would say that was about equal. You have to have good villains to have good stories. They can also lend to a little humor on occasion.

A good villain is hard to write. How did you approach writing your villains?

It all depends. Most of the villains are not likeable characters. On the other hand, you can often have a villain people like and often relate to.

What real-life inspirations did you draw from for your book? Are any of your characters people you know?

Yes. When I was a child, a neighbor boy threw a tin can and severely cut the top of my head. I still have a scar. I put him in my first book and killed him in the second chapter.

Where do you think the Western is heading? Is it dying or growing?

I think there is a resurgence. That could well be because some of the people who loved Westerns as a child are now retiring and find more time to read. It also seems some of the younger people have started to read Westerns.

What was the hardest part of writing the first book?

Discovering how hard it is to write a book. One has no idea how hard it is until they have done it.

Can you see your series turned into a TV series or movie? 

Yes, I can. In fact, I would like to venture in that direction.

Did you learn anything from writing this book and what was it?

In most all of my books I have done research and learned things I didn’t know before.

Is there a message in your novel that you hope readers will grasp?

Not really. I strive to make the stories as exciting and as fast-paced as possible and just want the reader to enjoy what he or she is reading.

What comes next?

At this moment, I am working to make a full-length novel with a short story titled “Badman and the Banshee.

If you couldn’t be an author, what would your ideal career be? 

Like most authors, I wasn’t always an author. If I could just ask and receive, I probably would like to have been an actor.

Where can readers reach you to send ideas for your books?

I am very accessible on Facebook and you can also contract me via my publicity office Nick@nickwale.org. I love to hear from readers.

The stage on which bounty hunter Stone is traveling suffers a busted wheel coming off the peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. A blizzard is imminent. There is a railway only a few miles away. Attempting to expedite their rescue, Stone strikes out in search of the railroad. Not only does he find the railroad, but he finds a train. Unfortunately, this train has been robbed and all but one of the crew is dead.

Taking a quick lesson on engineering from a wounded brakeman, with the tracks up ahead destroyed, Stone fights to move the train—backward. The trick seems to work until snowdrifts and deadfall cause the train to derail. Stranded miles from anywhere Stone discovers that the outlaws did not find what they wanted when they robbed the train… they will be back. Will Stone manage to subdue the gang—or will they be the criminals who finally retire him?

Download your copy of “A Gunman’s Rendezvous with Death” today from Amazon. You won’t want to miss the latest bonanza from Breland!

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Jun 20

The Reward of Being Western: An Interview With Western Author J.C. Hulsey

hulsey dourBeing a Western writer is one of the most rewarding experiences a man can have. Being a Western publisher must give J.C. Hulsey a pile of pleasure. This interview is all about the man behind the books. It’s all about writing books. His books have sold thousands of copies, and have won awards. His first book “Angel Falls, Texas” is considered by many Western readers to be an essential read.  But what turns a man into a writer? What turns a writer into a publisher? What turns a publisher into a magazine magnate? Let’s find out…

 

Which Westerns have most influenced your life? 

So, you’re gonna start off with a hard question. There are so many, I can’t even begin to name them. Gunsmoke, especially the first ten years with Chester in it; The Rifleman; The Restless Gun; the list goes on and on. I also have to mention the old radio shows that I listened to like The Six Shooter, Death Valley Days, Frontier Town, Gene Autry, Gunsmoke; and just like TV, the list goes on. As for as movies, it’s the same story. Of course, anything with John Wayne, Glen Ford, Henry Fonda, etc.

How did you research your Western? 

I really didn’t do a lot of research. I did utilize Google quite a lot to make some of the things realistic.

Tell us about the series. What is the overall story of the series?

Jedidiah Isaiah Jenkins is a young man who, because of circumstances beyond his control, had to go on the run because he killed the sheriff’s younger brother. He meets a couple of fellows who travel with him. When they travel to a town that is held hostage by a bad guy, Jed steps up and takes care of the trouble. It wasn’t long until he is called on to travel to other places and clean up their troubled towns. Therefore, he is dubbed the Traveler.

Do you prefer writing about the heroes, or the villains?

The Traveler Series is about a Christian gunfighter, and most of my stories are about the guy wearing the white hat; however, I got this notion in my head that the guys wearing the black hats also has a story to tell, so I have written a few about bad guys.

A good villain is hard to write. How did you approach writing your villains?

Villians are just human beings. They had a mama and a daddy, but someplace along the line something happened or perhaps they were just bad from birth. What I’m trying to say is everybody has a story, and it deserves a chance to be told.

What real-life inspirations did you draw from for your book? Are any of your characters people you know?

I think each person draws from their life experiences when they write. We might not even realize that’s what we’re doing, but I find myself thinking about certain incidents that happened in my life when I’m writing.

Where do you think the Western is heading? Is it dying or growing? 

Maybe in the distant past, the Western looked as if it were dying, but with the birth of the internet, I’ve found that there are many, many folks who are working very hard to keep the West alive. Authors, singers, poets and others.

What was the hardest part of writing the first book? 

That’s an easy question to answer. The hardest part is talking yourself into sitting down and get started. It took me basically all my life before I finally made that decision to, as Larry the Cable Guy says, “Git’er Done!” Your worst enemy is yourself. You’ll talk yourself out of it time and time again.

Can you see your series turned into a TV series or movie? 

We can dream, can’t we? At one time, I didn’t think I could or would be an author—now look at me. Sure, I think any of my stories would make a great TV series or movie. Why not?

Did you learn anything from writing this book and what was it? 

I learned it wasn’t as hard as I thought and not to listen to others when they tell you something isn’t possible. I learned that if you dream big, big things are possible.

Is there a message in your novel that you hope readers will grasp?

I hadn’t really thought about any message in my stories. Perhaps with Jedidiah, I would want folks to realize that God has a plan for each of us, and it is imperative that we follow the path He has set before us.

What comes next?

I can’t really tell you what’s next. As far as my stories, I have put them on the back burner while I help other authors reach their dreams by publishing their stories in our publishing house, Outlaws Publishing. It’s a goal of mine to educate new and old authors alike to be leery of any publisher who wants to take money to publish their stories.

If you couldn’t be an author, what would your ideal career be? 

I’ve already traveled that trail. I’ve had a good life working in the world. I retired from all that, and now I’m enjoying my new career as an author, a publisher, an online radio host and a digital magazine editor.

Where can readers reach you to send ideas for your books?

Facebook is a good place to reach me, along with all the social media sites and, of course, my websites. Jchulseybooks.com, outlawspublishing.com, theoutlawsecho.com and you can send me an email to jc@outlawspublishing.com or jc@theoldcowboy.net.
 

Are you looking for a great Western adventure? Something that will keep you entertained throughout the week? Why don’t you try “Angel Falls, Texas” by J.C. Hulsey. It’s well worth the price of admission.

Angel Falls Texas Cover

 

Jun 20

How John D. Fie, Jr. Broke Through the Noise and Became a Western Bestseller

 

ind1Westerns have been captivating audiences around the world for a long, long time now. Western books, in particular, have been incredibly popular– and no writer has been more popular with modern Western readers than John D. Fie, Jr. Since arriving on the scene, he has scored three major hits. His books have been read wherever books are read.

How did he do it? Consistency. Consistent promotion. That’s the goal. He has never been much of a flip-flopper. His promotional schedule has stayed the same since he began. He advertises, pushes, promotes and makes himself heard. This interview with Fie is part of that consistency. Let’s meet the man with the hits…

Morning John,

Good morning, Nick!

What does it feel like to be one of the top authors in the Western genre?

It feels pretty good. It’s good to know that somebody is enjoying your story.

How do you approach promotion?

I think you have to have a balanced promotional diet. I believe that it’s important to make sure everything you do works with all the things you’ve been doing. Make sure you are touching readers every single day, and make sure people are following you. Don’t just try one thing– try many things and pull them together to make your books known.

Do you enjoy interviews?

They’re not my favorite thing to do. But I do them because they are needed. I would be happy to talk to you all day– but I’d rather be down by the lake while doing it.

Is advertising important?

Yes. Can any product be sold without advertising? I don’t think so.

Why are Westerns still so popular?

As surprised as people are at the success of Westerns, I’m really not. I’ve always enjoyed the West, and I know many others have, too. I think there’s a lot of hype when it comes to romance, erotica and horror—but the Western fanbase is just as busy buying the books they want.

What can we expect from you in the future?

A sequel to Blood on the Plains will be released soon entitled Benson’s Creek, plus another short story later on in my Wild West short story series.

Tell us a little bit about your cover art. Who designed it? Did you have your covers in mind before you saw them?

Blood on the Plains, at first, had a very bland looking cover. I had a contract with a different publisher at the time. The book wasn’t moving. Outlaws Publishing took a look at the book and the cover. It wasn’t until I signed with Outlaws Publishing that the book was pulled from the market. The cover was re-designed, and I immediately saw the difference. The book, with the new cover design, just jumped at you. I knew right then I had made a good decision going with Outlaws. They specialize in the Western genre. Luke Pressor, U.S. Marshal also had two different book covers. Several covers were designed, and we put our heads together and again came up with a colorful book cover with eye appeal.

Let’s talk about “Blood on The Plains” for a moment. Is there anything you’d change about that book?

With Blood on the Plains, I would say the ending. I left the reader with a rather short ending. I  maybe should have embellished on the romance between Sally Phillips and Matt Hutchens. In Luke Pressor, U.S. Marshal, I think perhaps I should have introduced the marshal into the story earlier to add a little more excitement.

Give us an interesting, fun fact or a few about your book or series.

I like to use small, quick one-liners in my stories to add a little comedy. Also to have a few characters that are somehow different from the others.

What other books are similar to your own?  What makes them alike?

I honestly can’t think of any. I try to be different than other authors. There is one complaint that I hear all the time about Western books—that they’re all the same. I try hard to be different.

How can we contact you or find out more about your books?

You can go to my Amazon author page (amazon.com/author/johnfie or go to Outlawspublishing.com). Visit my blog on the Cowboy Campfire at Outlaws Publishing or email my publicist at Nick@nickwale.org.

What can readers who enjoy your book do to help make it successful?

The best thing a reader can do for an author is to leave a review. Tell others about your experience. Let the author know about your experience with the story.

Do you have any tips for readers or advice for other writers trying to get published?

For new writers, make sure you get an editor. You can’t edit the book enough. When you’re ready to publish, look around and choose wisely, then stand by for the reviews.

What do you think is the key to success?

Good writing, good promotion and making sure you surround yourself with those who will help you, rather than hinder you. A good publisher, publicist, and editor will make you as an author. A poor publisher, publicist, or editor will break you. I need say no more. Invest in yourself, your product and hire a good publicist.

 

Why don’t you give the latest John D. Fie, Jr. novel a chance? “Incident at Benson’s Creek” is currently available on Amazon. You can also find out more about John D. Fie, Jr. by visiting his official website. 

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Jun 17

Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs with Western Top Dog Author Lon Safko

Lon Final Cover 3Since the release of his first Western, “Massacre,” the world has been hearing a lot about Lon Safko. With that first book now available as an audiobook, and his second book on the market, I decided to sit down and find out the motivation behind the success of Lon Safko. What makes him such an interesting author to read? What gives his Westerns that ‘punch’ fans love? Why was his first book such a genre favorite?

As we conducted this interview, it became clear that a writer like Lon Safko has to exist. There has to be a writer who screams quality, and tells the tales of the West we never knew. Without any further discussion, I want you to read this interview with one of the finest Western writers of our age.

Lon, why did you want to move into the Western world?

I’ve always been fascinated by Westerns. As a Western reader, I’ve been noticing lately that there’s low supply—and high demand—so I decided I would start to share my own stories with readers. I think the Western is one of the most important genres in the world. The Western is America, and we need to cherish it. We need to cherish our history. Everyone is all excited about the romance novels, the erotica, the vampires—but Western readers are plentiful, and they yearn for stories of the Old West. With time to spare and plenty of ideas in my head, I thought I might be able to please some of them.

Do you think the Western is going through a resurgence?

No. I don’t think it’s ever been out of fashion. I think the publishing houses have forgotten them—but the readers are still there. Just because Pat Boone isn’t making record sales anymore, it doesn’t mean people aren’t buying tickets for his concerts. Unfortunately, every entertainment industry is hemmed in by what is popular, or hip, or cool, or considered desirable. The consensus is that if what you have isn’t part of the “cool,” it’s not going to sell. Well, it just isn’t true. Some of the greatest artists have been pegged as not being part of the in-crowd, yet many of them are sitting in Malibu drinking their pina coladas because they have strong fanbases who don’t care if they’re number one; they just want to see, listen and read what they like.

Why do you think Westerns have maintained their popularity?

Simply because people respect the beginnings of our great country. People want to be part of what we have to offer, and they want to re-live some of the most exciting times ever. Can you imagine what it must have been like for the pioneers? The gunfighters? The early lawmen? Can you imagine what it was like to live in a lawless place? You can’t get into a time machine, but you can live the life through fiction.

How many Western novels do you plan to release?

A whole series. I can’t put a definitive number on how many books are in my series. We have just released the second book, “Love, Lust, Death,” and will be moving onto the third book this month. The first book in the series, “Massacre,” was very well received, and I believe people will tune in to see what happens next.

Do you enjoy other Western novels?

Certainly. I have read a great many of them. From classics by names like Zane Grey to some of the newer stuff by Cliff Roberts, G.P. Hutchinson, Frank F. Fiore… the list goes on. Do you know what makes a great Western novel? No? A great Western is one-third Bible-based, one-third action-based and one-third dialogue-based. You have to have an age old theme—and all the age old themes of note are in the Bible. You have to have the right amount of action to keep readers reading, and you have to drive the story with dialogue. I’m not sure that I’ve managed to write the great American Western—but I’m sure trying—and making sure to follow my own rules.

How do you write your novels?

How does anyone? I sit down in front of my computer and spill my ideas onto a Microsoft Word page. Then I arrange them in such a way that I can see a story. Then I connect my ideas together and take out the ideas that don’t fit. Then I hone, shape and fascinate myself with the story I’ve created. Sometimes, I ask myself if I wrote the story, and I’m not entirely sure I can say I did. I think my subconscious did all the work, and thank God it did because my stories seem to keep readers entertained.

What was your first experience of the Western?

My first experience of the Western was John Wayne. I saw his movies when I was a kid. We would pile down to the local movie house and see them one after the other. I don’t think there was ever another movie star like The Duke.

Would you ever consider writing a series outside of your current series?

You bet. I have one in mind at the moment that would take place shortly before the Alamo. I also have a Western detective series, and a crime series that I’d like to get out there. I just need to sit in front of the computer and let those ideas spill. Once the ideas are out, they can never go back again. They must be read.

Where can we find your latest book?

Head over to Amazon, punch in my name, and pick out the book called “Massacre” first. When you’ve finished reading that one, move onto “Love, Lust, Death.” Then keep your eyes peeled for the other books in my series. There will be more coming—that’s something you can be quite sure of.

You can download your copy of “Love Lust, Death: The Secret of the Lost Dutchman Western Series: Book 2” today from Amazon Kindle. It’s just 99 cents… so enjoy your weekend with a book that will give you pleasure, for less investment. You can’t go wrong with Safko.

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Jun 16

A Man For All Audiobooks: An Interview With Audiobook Narrator Paul Provo

Paul Provo in actionThis new interview is with audiobook voice Paul Provo. Paul, who resides in Spain, has just completed working on the mammoth task of recording a train orientated audiobook for the Railroad Artifact Preservation Society in Amarillo. This brilliant new book will entertain all train enthusiasts from 1 to 101.

But what about the voice behind the book? How does he make these audiobooks sound so good? What does it take to be a voice of audiobook quality? That’s the purpose of this interview… Let’s learn what makes one audiobook voice tick… You can learn more about using Paul’s voice by emailing Nick@nickwale.org.

 

What is it about writing, and the writings of others that really gets your interest, Paul?

Writing is very important in my life and only grows in significance as I get older. It is an art craft that will endure, of that we can be sure. Since I was a young boy, I´ve remained a steady reader. I started with things like Five on a Treasure Island by Enid Blyton, all I could find by Mark Twain, and at eleven, started dabbling in the scary world of Edgar Allen Poe. At fourteen, I was into Wilhem Reich, Carlos Castaneda, Herman Hesse and a rather long list that progressed to the Irish reality, yet hilarious story tellers such as J.P. Donleavy and the likes of Frank Mc Court or Wodehouse. Malachy Mc Court, also a favorite, along with Brenan O´Behan and Patrick Mc Ginley. My writing ambition and my current shared task of narrating audio-books is probably genetic: I love the gab, always have, and my ability with words flow naturally, but one has to be careful; the love of gab has a price.

How do you keep all the voices straight?

If the character is properly developed, then he or she already HAVE their own straight voice…no need for me to do anything but give it life through mine. Unfortunately, many authors I run across have this problem.

Who were the most influential voices on you?

“Here´s Johnny!” on the Johnny Carson show. Ed Mc Mahon was the voice that set me off! In the sixties we listened to the radio all the time. I loved the special effects that today are electronically replaced. No matter.

Were you always such a voracious reader?

I would have to say that reading came naturally to me, however, my father was an avid reader. His hobby was reading dictionaries and killing everybody at Scrabble. He must have had some influence on me.

What kind of books should be turned into audiobooks?

There is no barrier in the audio-book realm.

Why do you enjoy working on the Westerns?

I love Westerns and have done several. Being Texan, I enjoy playing with the drawl and twang of cowboys as I imagine them jawing with one another out there in the hot desert, cussing and trying not to step on rattlesnakes while Indians are charging. You get me. Yep, Western audio books are doing very well. Something about the former Wild West and its lawlessness, mixed with pure dangerous living on the edge, generates interest for readers from all over the world.

If you could go back to any time period—where would you go?

I am happy in this life and where I live, though given a choice on where I´d like to be in the past, I´d chose Outer Mongolia.

How would you describe your voice?

I´m a story teller. I have a story teller´s voice. I envision myself sitting around a campfire, shooting the shit with the boys, and it works fine for me.

What will your next project be?

Boy. I´m so busy. Nick Wale at Novel Ideas in London keeps me on the ball. In the last two months, I´ve completed a Western short, a long-ass autobiography—a whopping fourteen hours long, and another very popular book on trains. I have two novels waiting on the list—one is a Western by a new author who is going to leave a mark, and the other a four hundred and fifty page autobiographical novel.

How do people get submissions to you?

To reach me, you must go through Nick Wale. He will get us in touch if he determines I can add zest to your creation. He is choosy, mind you.

Are you ever surprised by how many readers there are, still, in the world?

I am not surprised by all the readers in the world. There are plenty who have exchanged paper for screen, big deal. In the end they are READING. Thanks to audio books, they can expand, and that´s a good thing.

Is there any kind of book you would love to narrate from a different genre?

In answer to that, sometimes I have to turn down a book. Genre is secondary to me. If the writing excites me, I go for it. If it´s plain flat, there´s not a helluva lot I can do. I love surprises, though, so send it by Nick, and let´s see what we can do!

Do you think writers read more books than the average reader—or is that just a myth?

I´ve never met a writer that is NOT an avid digester of books. I can’t imagine it.

How have reviewers treated your books?

Reviewers, hmm. Well, there´s a zillion voices out there doing what I do. I don´t keep a tally. I honestly don´t care about anything more than that the listener enjoys and feels my engagement.

And your luxury item to take to a secluded island is….?

Luxury item I´d take to a secluded island? A bunch of assorted seeds, some basic tools, and pencil and paper.

The new Paul Provo project will be available on the market over the next few weeks. You can hear samples of Paul’s voice work by watching the video below.

Jun 16

Western Star Lon Safko Has A New Book On The Horizon

“Massacre! Book 1 in the Secret of the Lost Dutchman” is the first book in a new and exciting Western series from bestselling author Lon Safko based on the true story behind the legendary goldmine.

The secret of the Lost Dutchman goldmine has been legendary for as long as anyone can remember—this is the true story of that legend. When the Spanish government ordered distinguished officer Miguel Peralta to enter the United States with his military detachment, they have gold on their mind. The Spanish have been working the secret Lost Dutchman mine for years—but when a new deal is made with the United States, they will lose access to the almost infinite supply of gold held within it. Peralta’s mission is to remove as much gold as possible from the mine and transport it safely back to Mexico. As his small army winds towards the location of the goldmine, they slowly learn that they are not alone… and they crave only one thing—survival. As Peralta fights to keep his soldiers, including his brother, alive as a murderous enemy stalks them across the desert, he starts to realize the true cost of the gold, and the true meaning of how failure will change his life. Will Miguel Peralta manage to save his men, the gold, and his life, or will everyone die fighting for the gold the Spanish so desperately want?

Action-packed, fast-paced and written to entertain readers around the world, this new Western will be not only your introduction to Lon Safko, but the beginning of your addiction. Ride along with the Spanish soldiers sent to claim the gold of the Lost Dutchman goldmine. You can learn more about Lon Safko by visiting www.secretlostdutchman.com.

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Lon Safko Cover

First there were the Western movies. You saw them all.

Then there were the Western periodicals. You read them all.

Now you are reading the Western novels. You read them on Sunday,when you have that kind of lazy day– ‘I’m watching the Alamo, honey. I’ll do that yard work next weekend” kind of feeling going on. You read them at night when you have that “I’m kinda tired, but too tired to watch Jimmy Kimmel” kind of way with you. You read them in the morning before work. Hell, you read them before you make your weekly pilgrimage to Walmart. Let’s face it– you spend more time reading Westerns than doing anything else. But you haven’t read anything by Lon Safko. This, too, will change.

Safko, by definition, is an epic personality. He has pretty much turned the world of business into his own private playpen. He talks, he walks, he sells, he buys. He’s the Don, the boss, the dude. But a Safko Western? You’ve got to be kidding me–didn’t you know already? He’s the Duke. Take this here little known novel “Massacre!” and read it, and tell me if it makes you move the way you want to be moved. If it doesn’t, we are going to making an appointment with Doctor Kildare to see what’s wrong with you. If it does–you’re hooked. You’ve bought into Safko’s epic writing style.

Soon, I hope to be able to afford another visit because he’s sure as hell has cornered the market of addictive reading. The Western is alive and well, and Lon Safko is the king at the top of the tree.

You can catch the latest interview with Western star Lon Safko today by clicking play below!