Jun 03

Greek Gods and Fallen Angels: An Interview With Hybrid Author Megan Elizabeth

megan elizabeth photoMegan Elizabeth is one of the most exciting authors to appear on the book scene in some time.Megan moved to her new publishing home, Scorched Publishing, and released a new edition of “Sinners Craving: League of the Fallen.” Megan, herself, is driven to succeed with the kind of determination rarely seen in the world today. She lives in New Jersey and certainly has a ‘New York State of Mind” when it comes to success. With “Sinners Craving” climbing the bestseller listings, she has nothing to worry about. If you are looking for a great new paranormal series to start you can get the first book in her “League of the Fallen” series for 99 cents!

Where did the idea for the League of the Fallen series come from?

I had been thinking about writing my own paranormal series for some time but was unsure of what the story would actually be. Until, and you can laugh, I had a dream about Matteaus. Once I saw him clearly, I built upon his story from there.

Can you tell me in your own words what the series is about?

The League of the Fallen is about the first angels to fall from grace. In their pursuit of redemption, they decide to take on Lucifer and his creations. When they enlist the help of the most powerful immortals, the Greeks, things become very interesting as each of these heavenly warriors comes to terms with finding the mate who will turn their worlds upside down.

How would you describe the characters?

I enjoy writing strong leading men and the women who can throw them for a loop. It’s the unexpected couple who makes for the most interesting story.

What made you turn it into a series?

After I developed Matteaus and his fellow warriors, it seemed only fitting for each warrior to have their own story. From the beginning, the League of the Fallen was always intended to be a series.

How do you feel about writers like JR Ward who are doing similar things to yourself?

Writers like JR Ward and Kresely Cole are the queens of paranormal. They paved the way for writers like myself. Those ladies set a standard that is impossible to meet, but I try to do so every time I write.

There are currently two books in the series—how does Borrowed Sins continue the story?

Borrowed Sins is the story of Mika, Matteaus’ second in command. His story is so very different than Matteaus’. Mika’s is a love story that defies the ages and goes over time. We get to see the characters grow and go through incredible highs and the lowest of lows. In truth, I love Borrowed Sins.

Which character will readers identify with most?

I feel most readers will identify with Taylor, my heroine from Sinner’s Craving. Though she’s immortal, she has modern day struggles—she’s a single mom just trying to do what’s right for her son. It’s a struggle many women can relate to, including myself.

How easy was it to develop the story? Did you know where you were going?

This story is very personal to me, and so it developed naturally, flowing over a longer period of time than any of my other novels. Ultimately, I did know exactly where this story was going. It was one of the most difficult things I’ve ever written, but in the end, I love the story of Matteaus and Taylor. They’re utterly epic.

What will the third book in the series be about?

The third book in the series will be about Aidenuli and Meena. We were introduced to them in Borrowed Sins, and their story is full of twists, turns, betrayal, sacrifice and above all else—love. Aidenuli will face the most challenging moment in his existence brought to him by Lucifer and even the one female he might be destined to love… Meena.

How have readers reacted to the series so far?

My readers have been very supportive, showing plenty of love for Matteaus and Taylor. I love hearing what each of them think and look forward to reading their reviews.

Do you think the series could be turned into movies?

I think all of my series hold the potential to be anything. I can’t deny it would be awesome to see them adapted onto screen.

What are your three favorite books?

I only get to pick three? Doesn’t seem very fair. Okay, here goes: The Darkest Surrender by Gena Showalter, Lothaire by Kresley Cole, and Lover Awakened by JR Ward. Each of those books has been etched into my memory and have some of the greatest characters ever written.

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

I think as a writer you need to read. It’s a way of improving your writing skills and freeing your mind to write your own stories. It also develops a deep love for the written word.

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

My luxury item would be my Kindle or Nook so I could download and read books in the sun all day. Cliché but very true.

*****

sinners craving1When the sins of the past claim the future, the craving for more can turn deadly….

When the Goddess of Love and the Father of Evil determine your fate, do you fight back?

Matteaus, leader of the Fallen, never backs down from a challenge.

Not even when his fated female proves to be the most challenging of them all.

A former warrior in the Heavenly Kingdom, Matteaus, bears the scars from a past filled with misguided deeds. Determined to right wrongs, his drive for atonement is his only companion – until his next assignment brings him in to the fiery path of a beautiful female who’s been on the run for reasons of her own.

Taylor, having no patience for an unwanted love affair, tries to ignore the instant attraction to Matteaus. Yet, as their desire for each other begins to overtake, Matteaus’ steadfast determination keeps him on the path of righteousness, and away from Taylor’s searing touch. Now Taylor and Matteaus must join forces to protect the ones they love.

Could this be the mission that finally earns his redemption? Or will his past cost him everything, including the one female he is destined to love? Download your copy today from Amazon for 99 cents!

Jun 02

12 Good Reasons To Download “Redemption: A Classic Western (The Frank Palmer Stories Book 1)” Today For Free

Stephen Wilson is an American author. His first book was, “Harvey Couch – An Entrepreneur Brings Electricy to Arkansas”, published in 1986 by August House publishers. He also has won awards for his screenplays which have been presented by the Writer’s Workshop program at the American Film Institute. His mystery, “The White River Killer” was developed as part of the Summer Words program at the Aspen Institute.

Other books include: “Redemption – A Western” is part of a series of westerns featuring the outlaw Frank Palmer. Palmer is working to redeem himself and finds himself helping many people in other books in the series. His newest book is “The Hunt for Frank Palmer.”

This interview is with J. Scott Bennett who narrated the first two books in the series. If you’re looking for a great new Western novel you start… you can’t go wrong with “Redemption – A Western.”

What drove you to start recording audio books?

Well, I’d say my love for reading did.  Last summer when I was on break from school (I’m a middle school reading/English teacher), I found an article online describing how one could go about narrating books for audio.  I thought, “That would be a cool thing to do over vacation.”  I researched it, got some recording gear, and starting doing it.

What drew you to Stephen Wilson’s work?

He put his book on ACX and opened it up for narrator/producer auditions.  I think the cover caught my eye first.  I checked out the audition piece and thought it sounded interesting.   So, I recorded an audition, and he selected me.

What did you like about his books?

Definitely the action!  His books are not dull at all. Also, I like the main character.  He’s an outlaw, but one you just want to pull for because he has a conscience and doesn’t want the outlaw life.

What actually happens in the first book?

Frank Palmer (along with the gang he rides with) is making a getaway.  They come across a group of massacred Indians.  There is a baby who is living.  He can’t just leave it to die.  This is his opportunity to separate himself from the outlaws.  He’s still on the run, but having this baby with him gives him a way to take on a different identity.  He joins up with a wagon train and tries to find someone to care for the baby.  The rest of the first book has to do with the troubles encountered on the trail.

Did you have any trouble with the characterization?

Not really.  I’m from Tennessee, and my natural accent morphs easily into a Western drawl. I did a lot of drama back in high school and college, so taking on different roles was fun for me.

How many voices did you have to do for the book?

I had to do all of them.  (Sorry, I couldn’t resist the smart-aleck response.)  Seriously, I think there were a handful of characters that had major dialogue.  In all, probably a dozen different voices.

Did the story surprise you at all?

Yes, actually.  The book was not cliché at all. You don’t expect an outlaw to have the “soft” heart to want to take in an Indian baby.  Then he doesn’t get the girl (sorry for the spoiler there).  I was a bit surprised that the story ends without meeting up with the Colter gang again.  It is a series, however, so one accepts the fact that it isn’t resolved completely.

Of all the books you’ve worked on—how would you rate his books?

I’ve done a lot of different genres, so I can’t really compare it to all of them.  Of the Westerns I’ve worked on, this is definitely one of my favorites.

Will you be working on his next book?

I did do the second book in the series, and if there’s a third, I hope to be called back into action.

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

I’m not surprised at all by that.  I know I still enjoy Westerns along with other types of fiction.

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

I think they probably do.  I know that I, as a narrator, am definitely reading many more books than I ever did before.  That’s one of the coolest parts about my job.  I get to do what I love (read), and I don’t have to pay for the books!

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

It would have to be my Kindle e-reader.  Any time my wife and I go on vacation, we both have to take our Kindles.  We can carry our entire library wherever we go.

This is the first of a series following Frank Palmer. If you like the story please leave a review. Let me know what you think. Palmer will end up running from the law and his former gang while helping people along the way. The second full-length novel will appear next month.

A novella of 86 pages,After robbing a bank, the Colter Gang stumble on the scene of the massacre of a Cherokee hunting party by Calvary soldiers intent on “pacification”. The sole survivor of the raid is a young Indian baby. Even with a posse hot on their trail, young outlaw Frank Palmer refuses to simply leave the child to die from exposure to the cold. He pledges to join up with the gang as soon as he can find a place to drop off the child.

His plans go awry and he finds himself joining a wagon train to avoid the lawmen closing in on him. Still with the baby as his responsibility, he forms close ties with a preacher’s family and their beautiful young daughter. Palmer finds it difficult to leave both the girl and his young charge to their fate when the Cherokee target their wagons in retaliation for the massacre. To survive, the wagon train needs the help that only an experienced gunman can provide. But will Palmer take on the impossible challenge as protector of the train or take flight to rejoin his gang?

You can get your copy for free today from Amazon.

Redemption Western Cover

 

Jun 01

The Memoir Man: An Interview With Aviator & Author Mike Trahan

Mike Trahan haMike Trahan, pilot, father, and author, has been writing books for some years now. His series of memoirs has now been completed and has been on the market for some time now. The series’ success has been a mix of understanding his audience, knowing how to write without incurring boredom, and being able to relate exciting stories in literary form. This new interview has two purposes– those who already enjoy Mike’s writing will be enthralled to learn more about the man. Those who haven’t yet had the pleasure will have the opportunity to download three books that will keep them entertained over the summer. Everyone’s a winner when they read this interview…

Thank you for agreeing to this interview, Mike.

It’s my pleasure!

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

At first, I didn’t think my story was any different than most others, but I came to realize that it was unique in many ways.  My three-volume trilogy is about a flying career that spanned forty-five years and included experiences in general aviation, military (including combat) and airline flying.

“The Gift – The Beginning,” “The Gift -The Air Force Years,” and “The Gift – The Delta Years” are all about the airplanes I flew and the people I met along the way, many of whom became mentors to me.

I started this career at age fifteen, and I felt that my story would be important to write because it might inspire some other young people to go for this dream – if it were theirs, too.

How closely do you try to keep to historical fact?

Since these books are autobiographical, and I had first hand knowledge of the events and experiences depicted, I tried to stay close to the facts as I remembered them.  I verified things (dates, places, names) where I could.  Otherwise, I just recounted what I remembered.

What were the most influential movies on your writing?

I suppose all the flying movies I have watched repeatedly over the years had some influence on it.  They gave me an idea how to present my flying career in an interesting and enjoyable way. I wanted this to be a journey the reader took with me.

What first got you interested in the written word?

I think I have always been fascinated with good storytellers, and that’s all writers are.  So I hoped to become one of them someday.

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

Probably not.  Those things have been covered from every possible angle by historical authors.  I have nothing to add to what they have written.  Now, if it were an historical event that I took part in or was witness to, I might write about it from that perspective.  For example, by a quirk of fate, I was in Selma, Alabama the day that famous Civil Rights March took place. I wrote about that in “The Beginning.”

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

If you are referring to good and evil, then yes I believe both of those exist.  I think that is a concept we all should keep in mind all the time, and hopefully, always choose good over evil.

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

I think I would have liked to have been born in 1922 instead of 1942.  That way, I would have come of age at the beginning of World War II and could have become an Air Force pilot back then.  I always envied those great pilots who flew Mustangs, Corsairs, P-47s and all those other magnificent prop-driven fighters in that war.  WWII and Korea were the last two wars where air combat was more like jousting in the skies at close quarters.  With the advent of air-to-air missiles, air combat changed, and it was possible to shoot down an enemy aircraft without ever seeing it.

Can you describe all of your books in one easy-to-read answer?

My books tell the story about a man who had a very ambitious dream, of a career in aviation, and that dream was realized in ways that were much greater than anticipated.

What will your next book be about?

I am working on an outline for a book about growing up in the ’50s in my old home town.  I was fortunate to spend my high school days in the late fifties, and those were fun years in which to grow up.  I am thinking about the title “Our Happy Days – Growing up in Orange, Texas in the 1950s.”

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

Is that a trick question?  I think any author would love to have some big publishing house throwing seven figure book advance checks at him, and marketing his book in every book store in the world, but that is rare.  I am just happy I have found a publisher/publicist (Nick Wale of Novel Ideas) who has helped me publish my books independently and has helped me achieve good success in getting my books out there to the readers.

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

I believe the most informed people will always be avid readers – whether it be books, newspapers, or even blogs and social media on the internet.  Many readers read to escape their day-to-day world, and because of that, I don’t think the supply of readers will ever run out.

Is there any kind of book you wouldn’t write, or couldn’t write?

I won’t write a hit piece, a kiss and tell, or pornography. Basically, I would never write anything that would hurt anyone or that I wouldn’t want my grandchildren to see.  What kind of legacy would that be?

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

I think the good writers do.

How have reviewers treated your books?

They have responded to them very well.  I am happy to say that most reviews I have received have been Five Star Reviews.

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

Since there is probably no electricity on a secluded island, I would want plenty of pens and paper, so I could continue my writing.  Even if nothing was published while I was there, maybe someday someone would stumble across it and want to publish it.

You can download all of Mikes books by clicking the banner below. Enjoy!

mike tra bppls

 

 

Jun 01

The Meandering Trail: What Every Cowboy Needs

Cliff Roberts OfficialI am not a cowboy by birth. No, I was born in the big city. A city slicker. I only became a cowboy, in my dreams, through Saturday morning Westerns on TV and Western movies starring John Wayne and James Stewart. So when I started to write Westerns, a friend of mine asked what were the essential items a cowboy needed? To be honest, I was stumped. What does a cowboy need to be a cowboy?

First off, this is kind of a no brainer. He’s got to have a horse—a well-trained and strong horse. It doesn’t matter if it’s Appaloosa or Paint as long as it is young, smart and a good horse. No swaybacks need apply, and no lumbering plow horses, either.

Then you can ride a horse without a saddle but not that well. So the saddle is essential to being a cowboy because you can hang a rope off it, your rifle scabbard, and tie your bed roll to the rear edge of it. The saddle also is used extensively when wrangling cattle or horses. Once you lasso the critter, you tie off the rope the saddle horn, thus freeing up your hands to do other work. It also keeps the critter from pulling you off the horse when it decides not to cooperate.

It stands to reason, I guess, if you’re going to be wrangling cattle or horses or maybe a wayward lady or two, you’ll need a rope with which to lasso the critters. It’s got to be a strong rope at least thirty feet long. In fact, you might want two ropes in case you need to scale down some rocks to chase a wayward calf or rescue some greenhorn, who fell down the steep hill face.

The cowboy also has to be prepared to defend himself against rustlers, Indians and wild animals, so he’s gonna need his six shooter and a repeating rifle. Of course, that’s two items, but I’ll classify them as being two parts of the whole, under protection. I think most cowboys, at least in the movies, preferred a Colt cartridge revolver and a Winchester rifle. If a man is smart, he makes sure both weapons fire the same caliber cartridge. That way he always has cartridges for either weapon. Of course, under protection, he also needs to have a knife. It’s good for fighting off Indians and for skinning that varmint for dinner. It’s also handy for cutting ropes, cow hide and whittling around the campfire after riding herd all day.

It seems to me, I’ve never seen a cowboy without his hat. So a hat must be an essential tool of the cowboy, too. It keeps the sun from beating down on his head and causing heat stroke. It helps shed the rain and snow, and it’s really good at hiding the bad haircut the cook gave you on the trail.

Right next to a man’s hat is his bandana. It’s a multi-purpose tool. First, it keeps the sun off your neck. Next, it catches the sweat that drips down your neck. Then you use it to wipe the dust, dirty, sweat and blood off your face. When you need to cool down, you can pour cool water over it and wipe or wrap it around your neck. If you get hurt, it functions as a bandage, tourniquet or a sling. If you lose your hat, you can wear it on your head to keep the sun off you. Yeah, your bandana is an essential tool, too.

And then there’s a cowboy’s chaps. If you’re gonna go into the brush after strays, you had better be wearing chaps because otherwise the thorns will shred your pants in short order.

Next, you’ll need to have a solid pair of gloves. Rawhide gloves. Can’t be wrestling ropes and critters all day long with your bare hands. Talk about a blister buster. Plus, the brush is mighty prickly, and if you’re spreading those branches with your bare hands, you’re just asking for trouble.

And what about a cowboy’s boots? You bet they have to be functional and comfortable, if a cowboy was going to wear them. They have to protect his feet. They help keep him from twisting his ankle on the rough, uneven ground. They also protect him from snake bite by running up his leg to nearly half-calf. Plus, a man’s boots are where he wears his spurs. They kind of go hand in hand with his boots. A good cowboy uses them judicially, so as not to harm the horse. They are a reminder to the horse it needs to dig a little deeper in certain situations, like running away from Indians or trying to pull a full grown cow out of the mud.

I thought I was done at this point until I remembered the cowboy needed to have some way to transport his earthly belongings with him. The cowboy typically doesn’t own much, but what he does own, he has to carry with him. So the last item, essential to a cowboy, is his saddlebags. In them, he carries his one extra change of clothes, his extra ammo, maybe a good book (if he can read), tools to fix his horse’s shoes, a sewing kit, and utensils to cook his food and eat it.

Yes, the cowboy carries his world with him on his back and on his horse’s back. If it isn’t an absolutely essential item to his work or to save his life, or is close to his heart, he doesn’t carry it with him. The cowboy is typically a man of few words, direct actions and simple lifestyle. It sounds almost idyllic, until you realize you’ll be eating beans and bacon for months at a time. Talk about hot house gases!

By Cliff Roberts

You can learn more about Cliff Roberts Westerns by downloading your copy of his Western latest novel “Draw!“

draw!

May 31

Are The Best Book Boyfriends Sinners? Try A Taste of “Sinners Craving”

sinners final coverReaders have been enjoying Megan Elizabeth for some time now. Her first book “Sinners Craving” is currently available for 99 cents. If you are looking for a new paranormal series filled with great writing, this might be the series for you? You can learn more about the author through this interview… Why don’t you give up your day job… and take up reading?

How important are characters, and how much time do you spend developing characters?

Characters are essential to every story. It is the characters to whom the readers connect. Without characters, there is absolutely no story. I spend a great deal of time on character development. From start to finish, it is a constant work in progress.

Where do you find the most inspiration for your writing? Do you write about your own life?

I never write about my own life; however, I find inspiration around me on a daily basis. From the smallest interaction at a store to major drama swarming around me, anything and everything can inspire a great scene or character.

What do you think makes a relationship great and engaging in a romance novel?

Characters within a romance novel need to have a certain spark that attracts readers; it’s like a fire between the two of them. It could be any emotion, though: anger, sadness, playfulness. Whatever it is, it needs to connect with the audience as well as your characters. I myself am a great fan of banter between characters.

What do you personally look for in a book you are writing? Are you looking for a particular kind of character? A female lead? What drives your interest?

While I’m writing my books, I really focus on the relationship between the characters, keeping the conflict in the story interesting, and writing hot sex scenes which hopefully people will like.

How do you handle sex—should it be all in—or should it be toned down?

I feel that the natural progression of relationships leads to sex at some point. When it gets to that point, I am all in. I want my readers to read my scene and not be able to put my book down at all. I want them to connect with where my characters are at emotionally as well as physically.

Where do you do most of your writing?

I do most of my writing late at night while sitting in my bed with my portable desk and laptop on my lap. For some reason, I find inspiration when it’s dark outside, I’m comfortable and have quiet all to myself.

How do you plan a book?

I plan my books in three phases. First, I start thinking about what I want to write, who the characters will be, and where it’ll take place. Then I start my outline, determining which plot twists and turns I want to happen in each chapter. Then I start writing my first draft, whereby I will inevitably deviate from my outline and change everything around as I write. Then comes the editing phase where you hate all your work and you’re convinced it’s going to kill you, then once you’re done, you hopefully have something you’re proud of.

If you hadn’t become an author—what would you have done with your life?

I’d continue on with my day job as a teacher, which I also love doing. It’s just that writing calls to me in ways that teaching does not.

Who are the authors you instantly buy?

This is an easy question. Kresley Cole is hands down my favorite author of all time. Anything she writes I download the day of release and read it non-stop until I’ve read it from cover to cover. She’s amazing, and I would recommend her books to anyone.

Who would be your perfect book boyfriend?

My perfect book boyfriend would have to be Max Stella from Beautiful Stranger. Just enough sweetness mixed with spice to get my attention and keep it. Plus, I’m a sucker for a good accent.

What was the last great book you read—and how did it inspire your writing?

I recently just finished The Player by Kresley Cole, and it was amazing. The characters were so well developed, the story was completely addictive and the ending was something I did not see coming. I couldn’t wait to dig into my next book after reading that.

Of all your characters—which one do you really identify with?

Out of all my characters so far, I identify most with Taylor. She’s the first female character I ever wrote, she’s so bad ass, just wants to do the right thing, is a single mom and struggles with man problems. I love Taylor because she appeals to be on a deeper level, and I think as my first female character, I put more of myself in her.

Which place would you love to see—but haven’t seen yet?

I am dying to go to Europe. Don’t ask me a specific country because I want to see them all. I’m greedy like that.

If you could say one thing to your readers about your books—what would it be?

Thank you for taking the time to step into my world for a while. I hope you enjoy it.

sinners craving1

When the sins of the past claim the future, the craving for more can turn deadly….

When the Goddess of Love and the Father of Evil determine your fate, do you fight back?

Matteaus, leader of the Fallen, never backs down from a challenge.

Not even when his fated female proves to be the most challenging of them all.

A former warrior in the Heavenly Kingdom, Matteaus, bears the scars from a past filled with misguided deeds. Determined to right wrongs, his drive for atonement is his only companion – until his next assignment brings him in to the fiery path of a beautiful female who’s been on the run for reasons of her own.

Taylor, having no patience for an unwanted love affair, tries to ignore the instant attraction to Matteaus. Yet, as their desire for each other begins to overtake, Matteaus’ steadfast determination keeps him on the path of righteousness, and away from Taylor’s searing touch. Now Taylor and Matteaus must join forces to protect the ones they love.

Could this be the mission that finally earns his redemption? Or will his past cost him everything, including the one female he is destined to love?

******

meganMegan Elizabeth is a bestselling contemporary romance, and paranormal, author who currently resides in New Jersey, United States. Her first book “Sinners Craving: League of the Fallen: Book 1” was released in 2014. She has since written another book, in that series called Borrowed Sins, and has written her first contemporary romance novel “Bound To Me: The Leather Series: Book 1.”

Megan enjoys reading, watching movies and spending time with her family when she’s not working on her books. Download your copy of “Sinners Craving” today right here.

May 27

When Will “Lone Wolf” Hit? An Interview with Western Writer Weldon Shaw

weldon shaw image

Since his retirement, Weldon has had two novels published and set for release in 2015—“Pachuco” (historical fiction) and “The Rise And Fall Of Our Youth” (self-help). He enjoys writing fiction/ romance novels. He believes this gives him the ability to share his inner self and feelings about life with other people. Currently, he is working on a two-novel series entitled Lone Wolf. When Weldon writes, he places himself in the main character’s roll to bring them alive, thus you will see a hint of how this author thinks and feels. 

This new interview with Weldon will explain why his writing has been so popular over the last few years. But the important question is this… when will his new book “Lone Wolf: A New Beginning” hit the marketplace, and where can we get our hands on it?

 

Welcome, Weldon!

Thank you!

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.

You can learn all about Weldon R Shaw by checking out his Amazon author page. His new book “Lone Wolf” will be released later this year. You can buy a copy of his current bestseller “Pachuco” today from Amazon.

pachuco cover

 

May 26

Western Star Lon Safko Arrives On “The Wild West Showdown With J.C. Hulsey”

“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.

****

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!

May 26

Do Westerns Mirror The American Way of Life? An Interview With Western Superstar Cliff Roberts

Cliff Roberts Official

From politician to writer… that’s the direction Cliff Roberts has taken. This new interview with him will allow us to take a look at the man behind the books. Does Cliff Roberts believe that Westerns mirror the American way of life? Does Cliff Roberts want to write more Westerns? Does Cliff Roberts love Western movies? The answers are all here… Are you ready to delve into the mind of one of the great writers of today? Are you ready to find out what it takes to be a success?

 

Cliff, thank you for sitting down to this interview.

You are very welcome!

Are you ready?

You bet!

What will your next book be about?

I haven’t decided what my next Western will be about yet. I’m leaning towards an Indian uprising tale of some sort. Don’t worry, it won’t be too long before I write it. I have a couple of thrillers I have to clean up and publish, then I’ll get to play again. I consider writing Westerns as playtime, just like playing Cowboys and Indians when I was a kid. My next crime thriller is about a politician who has figure his way out of not one murder charge but two murder charges. It’s title is SPIN. Check out my other books too like Fatal Mistake, Apollo Road, Conch Republic, and The Fishing Trip to name but a few. Just put Author Cliff Roberts into Amazon, and it’ll take you there. Enjoy.

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

I started Westerns because my PR man bugged for months to start. I’d always liked Westerns and was inspired as kid to write them, but life got in the way. I wasn’t sure I knew how to write a Western. I mean, how do you complete with Louis L’Amour? Then I remembered, I write books similar to James Patterson and Dean Koontz, and John Grisham and Tom Clancy, so why not try my hand at Westerns?

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

Yes, I was surprised at the number of people who read Westerns. At first, I thought it was one of the niche genres and that Westerns had pretty much faded into history. I was wrong. The Western readers are great, friendly and loyal to fault. I greatly appreciate their patronage. Thank you for reading my work, and I’ll endeavor to make each new book better than the one before.

Do you think the Western mirrors the American way of life?

I think Westerns are the basis of the American way of life. The good guy is always honest, sometimes to a fault; and he believes in fair play, family and doing an honest day’s work for an honest day’s pay. In the Westerns, good triumphs over evil without exception.

What are your own favorite Western movies?

The list is long, but some of them are Fort Apache, The Searcher, Rio Bravo, Mackenna’s Gold, Tombstone, Wyatt Earp, How the West Was Won and dozens more.

How did those movies influence the way you write?

They, like the thriller and action adventure movies I saw, have helped me understand how to stage my story and keep things coherent and the timelines straight. Westerns have helped me to understand there has to be a hero in most stories—a hero that the reader can relate to. He may not be perfect, but he’s close enough that the reader is sure to root for him through his challenges.

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

I might. But all of the major historical events taking place in the West have been done so many times, it’s hard to think of new, fresh approaches to the story. But some of the not so well known historical stories might be interesting.

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

Good and bad, good and evil are the underlying themes in all Westerns. I do believe in the concepts of good and evil and that they need to be the basis of every Western—and of your life, as well.

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

That’s really hard to say. There are good and bad folk heroes, and they had equal influence because of the way the movies and the media have portrayed them to our generation. But since you’re putting me on the spot, I’d have to say it was the pioneers themselves who were the greatest American folk heroes. The pioneers had to have been some of the bravest souls ever to live. They took just the clothes on their backs and went west into the wilderness. They faced months of grueling hardship with no one to turn to if it got too rough. They either did what had to be done or died. They faced hostile Indians, not just a few, but hundreds of thousands from dozens of tribes. Wild animals, bears, coyotes, mountain lions and poisonous snakes. They had to hunt game and forage for fruits and vegetables to eat all while dealing with the cruel and heartless weather that the Great American Plains and mountain west are known for. And if that wasn’t enough, they had to deal with the outlaws. Men who either chose to go west because they preferred to live a life of lawlessness or were forced to flee west to escape the punishment they justly deserved for crimes they committed. Yet, even with all these challenges, the pioneers went west in search of a better life, of land to call their own. Some thrived and others died, yet they persisted and persevered. So, yeah, the greatest American folk hero is the everyday man, the pioneer.

What will your next book be about?

I haven’t decided what my next Western will be about yet. I’m leaning towards an Indian uprising tale of some sort. Don’t worry, it won’t be too long before I write it. I have a couple of thrillers I have to clean up and publish, then I’ll get to play again. I consider writing Westerns as playtime, just like playing Cowboys and Indians when I was a kid. My next crime thriller is about a politician who has figure his way out of not one murder charge but two murder charges. It’s title is SPIN. Check out my other books too like Fatal Mistake, Apollo Road, Conch Republic, and The Fishing Trip to name but a few. Just put Author Cliff Roberts into Amazon, and it’ll take you there. Enjoy.

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

I think it is important to have a good publisher, no matter in which genre you write. I’ve had several publishers who failed big time at actually helping me or being part of my team for success. The larger, well established publishers seem to be out for the almighty dollar and that alone. Your success as a writer doesn’t matter to them, other than they get more money. If you’re asking who I’d consider publishing my Western novels, I’d say use Outlaws Publishing. That’s who I use. They will treat you right, and they really want you to be a success and place their success secondary to yours. Outlaws has several divisions, so they can help you publish in almost any genre. If you’re looking for a publisher, send your manuscript to Outlaws and see if they can help you. Oh, yeah, they don’t charge you to up front to publish your book and are extremely fair on royalty splits.

Would you ever write a non-Western?

Yes, I write in lots of genres. Crime thrillers, mysteries, action adventure, horror, sci-fi and non-fiction. My next book out is a crime thriller entitled “SPIN.” It’s about a politician who has to try and spin is way out a murder wrap. Well… make that two murder wraps.

How many Westerns have you written?

So far, I’ve written eight Westerns and I’m working on numbers nine and ten

How have reviewers treated your books?

Reviews are hard to come by. So far, they have been pretty much what I had expected. Although I have only been writing Westerns for about a year, I have written a number of other books, and usually (there is always the exception), I receive reviews that are seventy to eighty percent favorable. Mostly four and five star. Occasionally, I receive interesting negative ones, like the one where they didn’t like it because they were expecting to read a thriller and they bought a true story dealing with religion. Go figure? Why they’d bother to write a review that had nothing to do with the book?

If you could travel back to the West and live the life of a cowboy—would you?

No, I don’t think so. Whereas part of the Old West seems romantic and peaceful, it was a very dangerous place. Knowing me as I do, I’d probably end up having to learn to be a gunfighter and fast because I don’t take injustice well. I’d be out there trying to stop the lawlessness and probably get shot dead. Maybe I’d even become an historical figure if I did. The quickest lawman to get killed. Ha, ha, ha.

You can find out more about Cliff Roberts, and his work, by checking out his Amazon author page. If you are looking for a taste of Roberts talent… Check out his latest western, “Draw!” You can download it here.

draw!

May 25

The Long and Winding Trail: An Interview with Western Writing Star E.C. Herbert

hertbert

E.C. Herbert, better known as Al, was brought up in Laconia, New Hampshire. His favorite childhood game, cowboys and Indians, inspired a lifelong love of the Old West and its history. His favorite author is Ralph Cotton. He and his wife, Marion, live in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

This exclusive interview with E.C should explain why he has been so successful with his Western novels. He is a man who writes to entertain. So, let’s see what makes E.C. Herbert tick… Then, perhaps, we can head over and see which of his books we should add to our reading list next.

 

Let me start by asking you this question. Who is greatest American folk hero from the West, in your opinion, and why?

That would probably have to be Davy Crockett. Here is a person who truly believed in the cause and was willing to give up his life for it.

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

As a small boy growing up in the ’50s, TV was limited, so I started reading Dime Store Westerns and fell in love with whoever the leading character was. This carried on until I was sixteen and bought my first car. Don’t really remember why I stopped reading. Retiring from a lifelong career, it didn’t take me long before I felt the need to be doing something. I took a position as a field tech rep. where I would have to travel the whole USA.  My first away trip found me in San Antonio, TX. “Remember the Alamo” came to mind. Soon, I was actually standing right in the middle of that historic structure. The rest is history. Over the next ten years, I was able to travel to and visit all the WILD WEST locations I read about as a boy. Tombstone, Dodge City, Wichita, Deadwood… etc. A heart attack forced me to retire, and once again I started reading my ever-loved Dime Store Westerns from the local library. Soon, I had the desire to see if I could write one. This now topped my “Bucket List.” My first Western, NEW DAWN at TWIN ARROWS, got written and published that first year. Another heart attack, two strokes, and having the first stages of Parkinson’s benched any more travel. Having enjoyed writing, I soon was on to writing another. GHOST RIDERS of BLOODY CREEK, BOUNTY HUNTER and NO MAN’S LAND followed. Now I am in the first stages of writing another.

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

Not really. Having been around for a while, not too much surprises me. If I was looking at income from my Western books, then I would say there aren’t many Western readers in the world. In that case, I would have to be surprised.

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

Not so sure it does anymore. The Western way of life was pretty simple. Although it was a hard way of life, most folk were happy with what they had. Today, Western movies paint a different picture. The American way of life today has an entirely different meaning.

What are your favorite Western movies?

WOW!! I really liked John Wayne, so my first choice would have to be THE ALAMO, THE COMANCHEROS and THE MAN WHO SHOT LIBERETY VALANCE. Newer movies: the LONESOME DOVE series, THE QUICK and the DEAD, and, of course, SILVERADO.

How did those movies influence the way you write?

I really can’t say they did other than help guide me through using right words and phrases: I found myself leaning back in my chair and saying out loud: “What would John Wayne say, or what would Augustus say, or Captain Woodrow Call?”

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

The four books I have out have lots of historically correct events in them with fictional characters. I don’t think I could write about just one event such as the Alamo.

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

For the most part, I think the reason people read books or watch movies is because they want to experience the good feeling that comes over them when their character “lives happily ever after,” once they successfully make it through the bad things in their lives.

What will your next book be about?

It is another Western. The main character is a U.S. Marshal tracking down someone who is counterfeiting money to be used to fund the assassination of the president. Not only does he have to track down the counterfeiter, but also an assassin.

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

I really don’t know how to answer that question. I guess it would all depend on your reason for writing. Writing for your own enjoyment, for enjoyment of the reader, or for income.

Would you ever write a non-Western?

Probably. The last book I wrote, NO MAN’S LAND, takes the reader back and forth between 1847 with the migration of the Mormons settling into the Great Salt Lake Basin and a present day female author looking for her next number one seller.

How many Westerns have you written?

Four: NEW DAWN at TWIN ARROWS, GHOST RIDERS of BLOODY CREEK, BOUNTY HUNTER and NO MAN’S LAND.

How have reviewers treated your books?

I have not weighed that yet as I have just started to promote my books and am getting name recognition out there. I hope they will love them. I think that’s the wish of every writer.

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

In a HEARTBEAT!!!!

Why don’t you check out one of E.C. Herbert’s great Western novels? You may be interested to know that “No Man’s Land” is now available as both a paperback, and as a Kindle download. You can also check out other great E.C. Herbert books here.

no mans land cover

May 25

The Writer Goes Adventuring: An Interview with Author Dennis Gager

dennis gager photo

Dennis Gager is a writer of all seasons, and styles. His new book “Outlaws Last Stand” has been on the bestseller charts for sometime now, and keeps bringing new fans into the fold. What makes a writer like Gager so successful? I believe it’s the humility he manages to exude at every turn, and the stories he manages to pen with every second he has free. Can a writer ever write too many books? I don’t think so. But a writer has to have good stories, and a writer like Gager has the ideas to make each one of his stories unique.

This interview is about the very essence of what it means to write. I hope you enjoy it… It should be an interesting adventure…

 

Dennis, let me start by asking why it was important for you to write?

I write because I have all these ideas come to me all at once, and it helps me to focus my thoughts when I write. I enjoy it.

What really drove that ambition?

I like the idea of creating new worlds and characters, and seeing how far I can push my boundaries.

How closely do you try to keep to historical fact?

When I write a story about a location, I try as hard as possible to keep it as close to the historical fact as I can so my story will be believable to the readers.

Which movies influenced your writing the most?

John Wayne films. They’re classics, and they influenced me to write Western tales of heroes like John Wayne was in all his Western films.

What first got you interested in the written word?

My grandma. She always read Western tales to me, told me about Westerns she saw as a kid, and about real outlaws she learned about. That got me into the written word because I loved her stories, and it made me want to do research on the Old West.

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

Yes, I would love to write a tale about events from the past like that and see how they would unfold through my writing.

Do you believe in the concept of good and bad?

Yes, I do believe in good and bad.

Is that a concept that all who write books should keep in mind?

Every story needs a hero and a villain—they play off each other very well. Without good and evil, there would be no story.

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

I’d go back to Tombstone and witness the greatest showdown in Western history—the gunfight at the OK Corral—and see what truly happened there.

Can you describe all of your books in one easy-to-read answer?

Fun, entertaining, mind-blowing adventure.

What will your next book be about?

A bounty hunter in the Old West who is hired to go after a cold-blooded killer.

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

Not at all. I think having a smaller publisher gives you creative control and a better environment to work in.

Is there any kind of book you wouldn’t write, or couldn’t write?

I wouldn’t write erotica. It’s not my cup of tea.

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

I can’t speak for other writers, but I enjoy reading a ton of books and always look for my next book to read.

How have reviewers treated your books?

Good and bad, but everyone is entitled to their opinion. I’m always open to fresh criticism and to see what reviewers like (and don’t like) so I can write a better story next time.

You can pick up the latest Gager bestsellers by clicking on the covers below. 

The Outlaws Last Stand New Cover storm to the past1