Mar 18

The Man Who Makes Sexy… Sexy… James Gordon!

Author of REVENGE OF THE ORGASM

United States

 

James Gordon is another man I am proud to call a friend. He calls me “Slick Nick,” but he’s really the slick one! A huge hit book, an acting career and a talent for just about everything. Enjoy your time with the “Greatest Poet Alive.”

 

1796420_528176393963991_1158407634_n

 

*****

Revenge of the Orgasm contains adult subject matter.

As you are driving, your body involuntarily jumps. Sweat begins on your forehead and appears on your body, even though it is the middle of Winter. Inside of your left thigh, there is a tapping that is not harmful but noticeable. And you begin to wonder if sanity has departed or control of your motor skills is no longer your own. Then, the epiphany becomes clear. This is Revenge of the Orgasm.

 

*****

How long does it take for you to put together a poem? What does the perfect poem need?

 

It doesn’t take long at all, a few moments. Sometimes, I go into the poem no matter where I’m at or where it is. By that, I mean it begins writing itself in my head. The “perfect” poem just needs to be, and after that, it needs to be shared, then it has to touch someone.

 

Have you ever written a poem that could have been considered “TOO EROTIC?”

 

There are two poems that might be considered “too erotic”— “Extreme” and “Nightmare on the Red Line.” Those were wild. WOO!!!

 

How long did it take you to write Revenge of the Orgasm?

 

It actually took six months to write the first version, then I had to take my time for the additions to the second one.

 

What does that title mean anyway? What is the “Revenge” of an “Orgasm?”

 

Revenge of the Orgasm has happened to everyone, unless that individual is incredibly inept or extraordinarily evil. Revenge usually has the connotation of something sinister, but in all of those instances and looking at the prefix “re-” which means to do over, an individual comes back or returns. That said, Revenge of the Orgasm is the recollection of events intimate or sexual that were so meaningful that they return. This is what I wrote about in my book.

 

How many times have you rewritten a poem to get the best out of an idea?

 

The poem “Wait for Me” has been written and performed six different ways until I arrived at the award-winning version it is now.

 

Has your poetry improved since you started writing?

 

I am much, much improved, and this is directly related to the wealth of experiences I have had, both good and bad.

 

Define erotic and how erotic feels.

 

Erotic has no boundaries. It has no relative size, can be large or small.  It is an overwhelming, overtaking, and invigorating feeling. When it comes to writing, it makes you feel every word that is written.

 

What has been your most erotic experience and have you written about it?

 

In the poem “Westin Incident,” I describe an encounter with a woman while nonverbally communicating with another woman across the way. That poem is in both editions of Revenge of the Orgasm.

 

Do you find that being an erotic author makes you more comfortable with the opposite sex?

 

I wouldn’t consider myself an “erotic” author. I am just adept at this respective sub-genre, but I think it puts women on alert with me. It’s like a sign that says, “Be careful of this guy.”

 

Is sex part of being erotic or is erotic part of sex?

 

Both questions turned into declarative statements are correct. Also, intimacy is not sex.

 

How do you define sensations?

 

To me, sensations are the senses’ actions. Take for instance, a woman placing her hand on my cheek gives me a warm sensation. Why? She is touching vulnerable parts of me, my face and invisible barrier. Tasting cheesecake (my favorite) is another example of sensations because when the cheesecake hit my palate, WOO!!! Everything in my brain says, “Hell, Yeah!!” Just thought of this—senses are outward, while sensations are inward.

 

What inspires you most? Attractive women or great smiles?

 

Beautiful women, life experiences, and settings inspire my writing. The more curves a woman has makes for an in-depth and well-detailed poem.  This applies to the other two examples as well.

 

What do you think of when you write? Are you thinking “erotic” thoughts all the time as you write?

 

Not thinking erotic thoughts, usually. I think in terms of romance. But the “thought” comes after the writing is done, making sure everything works. I may think of a particular woman or a place I want to be, then it’s “go” time!!

 

Do you like to write with music in the background or does that distract you?

 

Love writing with music in the background, as well as the TV on. It’s like my own soundtrack.

 

When did you first discover you could write poetry?

 

In 2007, I was incarcerated, and on the top bunk, I started penning poems for fellow inmates to send to their loved ones. It was as though I had to go to prison to learn to write and begin my poetry career.

 

Which poets do you admire and why?

 

Blake, Giovanni, Angelou, Hughes, Brooks, and I admire them because they represent reaching the highest level of greatness. We still discuss them now, read their work now, and some of them have gone on to the next realm of existence.

 

What is a poet? A messenger? A storyteller? A purveyor of feelings?

 

I don’t know. G.P.A. is actually redefining or maybe creating another lane for what he does. A lot of people write poems and perform poems, but it ends there. G.P.A. does everything and extraordinarily well. Acting, hosting, recording, etc., are some of the things he does, navigating from one role to the next seamlessly. But take those things above and add several things to them, and you have G.P.A.’s definition of a Poet.

 

How do you overcome writer’s block?

 

Do you even suffer from writer’s block? Writers block is a myth. You hear people claim it because they allow their minds to get lazy, and they feel like they are real writers by stating it. The opposite is true.

 

What is the perfect woman? What does she have that no other woman can have?

 

My mother is the perfect woman, and she has a few flaws. Back to reality, the “perfect” woman has the combination of intellect, humor, ass, beauty, faith in God, and a tolerance for some of my egotistical tendencies.  Oh, it’s even cooler if she is into and understands sports.

 

Can you write the first 5 lines of a poem using the words “smoke” and “thighs” right now?

 

Dark, decadent club on the south side of Chicago filled with either cigarette or manufactured smoke.

 

There she was, dressed in nothing but black; this was her: heels, cashmere sweater, and leggings forming a second skin upon her thighs.

 

Ordered me a Jameson’s and Coke with a lime, waved me on over.

 

Seductive undertones, as she placed my hand in between her Bermuda Triangle.

 

Smirk crossed my face, as fingers begin their lengthy trip.

 

 GPA book cover

 

Connect with the Greatest Poet Alive:

 

Website: http://www.iblowyourmind.net/

 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.gordon.395

 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/gr8estpoetalive

Mar 16

Bestselling Author Cliff Roberts – “Writing Your Way To The Top Isn’t Hard!”

Cliff Roberts wago wheel

 

“Reprisal! The Sorrow,” the book cover says.

This is Cliff Roberts — a talkative guy in a pair of slacks with a manuscript in in his hand.

“I just gave up cigarettes and wrote better than I ever believed I could have,” he says, sitting in his office. Sales awards litter the walls.

This is Roberts — Clifford Ezekiel Roberts from Dearborn, Michigan, where he almost became a life-long politician instead of one of the most popular Indie thriller authors of the year. His success grew quickly simply because he has both adult and juvenile appeal.

The Kindle-after-dark sets dig him the most.

Republican hearts turn misty when they read his books. Democratic eyes take on a far-away stare.

Like his peers in the thriller business– Roberts is a man with a story on his mind every single minute of the day. The trade is saying that if Cussler had Roberts self-assurance, he could be another Cliff Roberts.

This is Roberts, with the two personalities, telling me he has “a desire to be the biggest writer in the world because his stories can’t be held back.”

He said, “There are two Robertses — the one the public sees, and the poor boy from Dearborn who wants to make enough dough to eat.

“Roberts is me in this room where I worry about the next book for weeks. Roberts is also the guy who goes out there and moves books. The struggle is between Roberts and Roberts.

“Some night I’ll probably write something I will feel confident with from it’s moment of conception.

“The struggle is to match a book with it’s audience. I have to struggle to bring Roberts home and write the smash hits he’s capable of.”

Roberts is controversial — and as self-assured as an bomb.

“How do I feel about publicity?” he asked me with a serious look on his face, and then answered, “I love it.”

He continued, “I guess I’m controversial because I say what I feel. I can’t tell anyone I don’t worry about the threat of terrorism. I do and I worry that we are all in danger. I get into trouble because am too vocal about my beliefs at times. My PR guy hides his face.

“Well, I’m 57 but I feel 24. There are only two things I won’t talk about — my personal life and my political career.”

This is Roberts, too —

“As Cliff Roberts, I’ve been able to have things Clifford Roberts wanted — a home for my books and a fan base willing to read them. Nothing is more important to me than the people who read my books.”

“You know what else?” he says with a smile. “Lots of people call me to ask when my next book will be released. I’ve had around 10 calls over the weekend and around 40 e-mails from people asking to see the first chapter pre-release. For an Indie writer this is unheard of, I guess. But Clifford Roberts back in Dearborn always had a dream about this really happening. Somewhere in his head he knew it would become a reality.”

This is Roberts, who says: “I’m a funny kinda guy, really. I have a feeling for writing the kinds of books that would horrify the average person. I write about terrorists and acts of terror; and believe me, it scares me too, sometimes. A year ago I thought there was something wrong with my ability to write about these people, but today I just accept it as creativity.

“I refused to change my style of writing; readers just changed their style of reading.”

This is Roberts, who has been approached to make a movie out of his book Reprisal! The Eagle Rises. “I want to make a movie akin to some of the best thrillers Hollywood makes. I want to be a personality writer– a writer who writes for people who like to watch action unfold.”

“I can’t wait my next book to be released– it’s called Reprisal! The Eagle’s Sorrow. I’m no longer running. I’m just walking real fast and keeping the pace up.”

This is Cliff Roberts.

And you have now met one of the most exciting writers of our times.

 

Reprisal! The Eagles Sorrow final

 

Mar 06

A Very Special Interview With Foal

You may or may not know this, but “Foal and the Angels” is now on sale. I wanted to get an interview with Foal and show you why this book is a must-buy for your Kindle. Now, I’m not going to give you a sales speech here, I just think you should read the interview and make up your own mind. “Foal and the Angels” is about a journey to understand the great wisdom hidden behind life. Through a series of dreams and insightful messages that provide Foal with some pretty intensive lessons, the mystery of life unravels, and he shares these spiritual discoveries with other seekers.

Q) How would you describe “FOAL and the Angels” in two sentences?

A) It is the story of a boy who has a hundred thousand questions and wants to contact God and the Angels. He receives his answers through incredibly vivid dreams and Angels’ voices. It’s a short fairytale but full of grace and wisdom from beginning to end.

Q) How long did it take you to write to write “FOAL and the Angels?”

A) Well, the dreams and messages were received and typed down in the span of 6 years, but after deciding to write the book, it took me one and a half years.

Q) So, what purpose did you have in mind when you wrote “FOAL and the Angels?”

A) It felt as if I was on a mission. I knew I had to write everything down as it happened, and most of all I knew I had to share with the world these beautiful teachings. They could not be meant for me only. It would make no sense, you see. I could feel the potential of great healing  and the potential for inner growth contained in these messages, and I wanted just everyone to have a chance to be exposed to such beauty/wisdom.

Q) If you had the opportunity to get a message across to a lot of people—what would that message be?

A) Nowadays, people tend to feel  lonely or they believe they are alone in their inner struggles. I want to tell them that this is far from the truth. We are never alone. Angels/entities/energies/guides, people who passed on or whatever more exotic or fancy  names you  opt  to choose  ….other layers of dimensions are literally filled with them, and they constantly look over us and help us strive to finish what we promised ourselves to do here, before incarnating. Well, at least this is my personal view, based on my own experiences in the astral.

Q) Do you ask yourself questions or do you settle for what you know?

A) Well, since the `hero` FOAL is basically me, when you read it, you will see how I do ask many questions, and when I cannot answer them myself, I try to ask… `the Guys above`!!  That is basically the story of FOAL and the Angels.

Q) When it’s all said and done—will you have said more or done more?

A) Actually neither.  Not in FOAL 1, at least.  I think FOAL 1 starts and ends beautifully, meaning this not in a self-praising way, but rather that in the story, there is a thread that starts and ends in a meaningful, `conclusive` way. There were many more experiences I would have liked to share, but they would have been redundant in the story of the first book. Since it is a series, I felt there was no need to rush or to jam too much in one tiny book. The rest will come as it will…!

Q) Which activities make you lose track of time?

A) After a beautiful or insightful dream, I can’t refrain myself from going back to it with my mind, trying to re-live those beautiful moments or trying to understand more fully all the profound teachings I know are in there, although I can’t grasp them all. So I do spend hours thinking about my dreams and their meanings, the messages that are hidden in there, a real treasure chest of truly beautiful and eye-opening insights, and I get so absorbed that I totally lose track of time. Completely lost in astral space, you might  say.

Q) What’s your single greatest moment of personal failure?  Looking back on it now, did it make you weaker or stronger?  What did you learn?

A) My greatest moment of personal failure is something so private, because it concerns one of my kids, that I cannot talk about it here. Nevertheless, I can tell you that yes, I did learn a lot . I don’t know if it made me stronger , but it was a huge incentive for spiritual growth.

Q) Joy is found with simple awareness.  What does your joy look like today?

A) My joy is in the tiniest moments of life, in the great happiness I derive from simple moments of love in the family, simple acts or words of appreciation and esteem with friends, or being in communication with nature, with pets and animals in general, and of course with the Angels of my dreams. Really, I don`t believe in a `big` happiness. For me, joy resides in the very, very small, but permeates all.

Q) If your life was a novel, what would be the title and how would your story end?

A) The title? FOAL and the Angels!! The end?? With my being re-born in next dimension of life, unfortunately and unwisely called, for the most part, death.

 

FOAL AND THE ANGELS IS NOW ON SALE! GET YOUR COPY TODAY! 

Mar 03

A Tribute To Author James Caskey– A Man With A Story To Tell

I want to share this interview again in honor of James Caskey who died today. I met Mr Caskey through my dear friend and client Boyd Lemon. We interviewed together a few times and spoke on the phone– it was always a pleasure and his interviews were always top notch. 

This interview was featured in the last issue of “Novel Reads By Novel Ideas.” Mr Caskey saw the interview and was excited to be in the “zine.” The world of computers was new to him– but he was giving it a go. Enjoy this interview with a man who really had a story to tell.

 

james caskey

A friend of mine asked me if I wanted to meet a friend of his. Sure—why not? Well, that friend turned out to be the very talented James Caskey and what a friend he turned out to be! Great book, and great writing that will keep you laughing until the early, early mornings.

 *****

This is a hilarious memoir of humorous stories and anecdotes that the author accumulated during 51 years of marriage. They include: 

• Burying the family dog after rigor mortise had set in.
• Talking to a bank officer about acquiring a loan to build an ark.
• Shopping with the wife and the pitfalls involved, such as when the saleslady called him a tasteless idiot.
• Avoiding any word that might be construed by the wife as a comment on her weight.

 

*****

How would you describe your writing style in two sentences?

 

I go to the computer, look out at the river, mess with the dog and think back many years ago, and some amusing happening will pop into my mind. I will type up that memory as accurately as I can.

 

How long does it take for you to write a chapter?

 

Depends on how quickly the thoughts find their way into my mind. If I have several humorous thoughts, I can type like a house afire. My book in not in chapters but in circumstances

 

What is the best part of the writing process for you?

 

Putting the thoughts down on paper so they will be saved for future generations for the amusement of my kids and grandkids. Those situations should be remembered.

 

If you had the opportunity to get a message across to a lot of people, what would that message be?

 

Hell, that’s easy. Live your life to the fullest. Explore every avenue, talk to people, do things you are not comfortable with. Laugh a lot, tease a lot, love a lot.

 

Do you ask yourself questions or do you settle for what you know?

 

If there is a topic I am unfamiliar with I will research it and see how it pertains to me. Other than that, I rely on the experience of living life and what I have learned.

 

When it’s all said and done, will you have said more or done more?

 

Everybody looks back and examines their lives, and we all could have done more and said more. I could have worked harder, but then I would have less opportunity to be with my family. If you are on the road a lot you learn how to really schedule tightly.

 

As far as saying more, I think I always said what was appropriate at the time to help with problems.

 

Which activities make you lose track of time?

 

Playing with the kids and grandkids. I lose track of time when we are talking and teasing and laughing. Laughing with the whole family during holidays. Playing tennis with the grandsons. Playing poker with the kids and bluffing an 8-year-old out of a 15 cent pot.

 

What’s your single greatest moment of personal failure? Looking back on it now, did it make you weaker or stronger? What did you learn?

 

Dropping out of my freshman year of college because I partied too much. It made me stronger as my dad made me pay him back for that semester. I did graduate with a double major in Accounting and Finance. Nothing is a free ride in this world.

 

Joy is found with simple awareness. What does your joy look like today?

 

It’s packed jam full. Kids are all well and happy. Grandkids and doing well in school and are happy as larks. They all still enjoy coming to see grandpa and grandma. Always lots of laughs when we are at the beach picking and steaming crabs.

 

Life is very, very good.

 

If your life were a novel, what would be the title and how would your story end?

 

“It’s your life..LIVE IT!!”

 

It would end with me sitting on the screen porch looking at the river late one evening and a voice whispers in my year and says, “You ready?”

 

I would look back on many wonderful years, the family all well and happy, and whisper, “Yes.”

 

Get your copy of “The Gentle War and Other Idle Thoughts” by James Caskey here.

 

 

Feb 28

Making Susannah Run! Author Susannah Cord on the Record

Good children’s authors are a rare commodity. Susannah Cord is one of those rare children’s authors. Her book “Fenella: A Fable of a Fairy Afraid To Fly” is a really special book. “Fenella”  is a beautiful young fairy with a wonderful family and a perfect life – except for one thing. Unlike the other fairies in the fairy kingdom, Fenella is afraid to fly! How will she ever get over this fear and discover her true name? Join Fenella on an exciting journey as she discovers that maybe flying isn’t so scary after all.

Pure class!

Q) Good morning! So let me start by asking you a short, sweet and simple question. How would you describe your writing style in two sentences?

A) From the heart.  I have to feel it to write it.

Q) How long does it take for you to write a chapter?

A) That depends upon the length of the chapter! I really have no way to give a clear answer, because I don’t write chapters to fit a number of pages, but to tell their part of the story, then shut up.  Each chapter has a life of its own, and I don’t really get to say how long a lifespan it gets! In my book Each Wind That Blows, some chapters are maybe 10-15 pages long, others only a page or two. But I can write a lot in a short time when things are really cooking. One drawback is that I spell a lot better than I type, so I have to go back and fix a lot of typos if I’ve been flying along.

Q) What is the best part of the writing process for you?

A) Both the beginning when the wall crumbles and the words start to flow, and hitting ‘Save’ with a big sigh of relief. That feeling of having said all I wanted to say in a way I feel expresses what’s been tumbling around inside me. The afterglow of a really good writing session! I feel peaceful, content, I am able to put my mind to rest, something I am not generally good at.

Q) If you had the opportunity to get a message across to a lot of people—what would that message be?

A) Don’t take yourself for granted. Time flies. Be who you came to be and to hell with the rest.

Q) Do you ask yourself questions or do you settle for what you know?

A) Oh, I ask questions to the point I want to mute myself. Sometimes I wish I had a mute button for my brain.

Q) When it’s all said and done—will you have said more or done more?

A) I hope that’s a question I won’t be able to truly answer for a very long time! My bucket list is about ten miles long.

Q) Which activities make you lose track of time?

A) Anything creative. Writing, of course. Time in nature – riding safaris completely lose me time-wise; by Day Three I have no idea what day it is or how long I’ve been there. Photography. Drawing and painting, which I don’t do enough anymore at all. Designing anything. My mockbook for my children’s book Fenella is legendary at the publishing house. They asked for something simple, and I gave them this book of text, drawings, doodles, ribbons and so on. I didn’t intend to – it just happened, and time took a back seat to the process.

My horses are great time assassins. I look up and 6 hours just flew by while I played at the barn. People may not think being with horses is particularly creative, but when you train with the horse in mind, you have to be open to your creative instincts because they will tell you what the horse needs, whereas know how and technique only ever tell you what you want (but usually aren’t getting). And to be a good trainer, you have to answer the horses’ needs to get what you want.

Q) What’s your single greatest moment of personal failure?  Looking back on it now, did it make you weaker or stronger?  What did you learn?

A) Not being true to myself, my sense of right and wrong and me. It always comes back to that. The effect of my single greatest moment of personal failure was complete humiliation to my own mind, if not to others, only because I knew the battle that had raged within before I fell down on my own sword. It made me question who I thought I was, everything I thought I knew about myself, and extremely vulnerable and somewhat pathetic for a time, but now – it’s just like the body. What was broken grows back stronger.

Ultimately, I learned that the price for selling out in order to feel wanted is too high a price to pay. The right people will always want you, even when you say no to their need for you to fit a certain mould.

Q) Joy is found with simple awareness.  What does your joy look like today?

A) Hmmm. What does my joy look like…Eric Bana. Just kidding. My husband, of course.

I think my joy looks like a good champagne, all pale gold and bubbly. It arises in me when I am with my animals, immersed in nature in some way, with loved ones, with people of good humour. In Kenya on horseback I feel like I am hooked up to a ‘joy drip,’ it’s near-constant. And I like to joke around and laugh a lot, and anytime that energy starts to flow with other beings (including animals) I am filled with joy.

Q) If your life were a novel, what would be the title and how would your story end?

A) The title would be ‘Desperately Seeking Susannah’ and it would end with me disappearing on horseback into some remote wilderness area, accompanied by my dogs, cats, donkeys and Eric Bana.  Because my husband doesn’t do camping.

 

ENJOY “FENELLA” WITH YOUR KIDS TODAY!

Feb 26

An Interview With “The Cruising Serial Killer” Author Don Michael Fess

Here we have it! An interview with a man many of you have already heard of. For those wondering who wrote “The Cruising Serial Killer” I am here to tell you that his name is Michael Don Fess. I caught him for an interview and you will enjoy it. Indulge, enjoy and learn from a writer who has a lot to say.

Q) What does writing give you?

A) It’s one of the creative outlets I enjoy. I also do sculpture, paintings, music arranging, creative landscapes, etc.

Q) So, what is so creative about writing?

A) You get to invent characters, situations, adventures, and just explore many fictional escapades

Q) I wonder– have you always been an adventure seeking kind of guy?

A) I’ve spent a lifetime enlarging the envelope, trying new things, and to use a trite expression, going where no man has gone before.

Q) What is the most extreme example?

A) Probably, in my thirty plus career as a developer, buying old buildings and changing the use with creative remodeling. It was very challenging and profitable.

Q) Let me ask you this: Are books profitable?

A) Not yet, in monetary terms, but they’ve been a bonanza in reader responses and feedback.

Q) What do you like to write about?

A) My favorite subjects are mystery tales in the Caribbean. I also had fun writing about the wild Louisiana politics during the 1964 period, but that doesn’t seem to have a wide appeal. My non-fictional work is also a little controversial, but appealing to many. I’ve had some great response from readers.

Q) Mystery tales? Are your tales more “Murder She Wrote” or “Law and Order?”

A) The Caribbean tales are more like adventure stories and high-tech mysteries. I like to end my stories on a happy note.

Q) Do you believe readers react positively to happy-ever-after endings?

A) They seem to . . . it gives them a good feeling. I think there is enough ugly, depressing material in this world. I don’t want to add to it.

Q) Ah! Do you believe the book market is flooded by miserable, depressing books then?

A) I don’t know, but I see a lot in other creative fields like art.

Q) Artists are just miserable by nature?

A) Some artists try to gain quick fame with “shock” art. There are also a lot of scam artists in the marketplace.

Q) Have you written a book with all of these characteristics in mind? How has your audience reacted so far?

A) No, but an art expose’ is on my list of fictional tales. I also have some issues with most museum curators. They have helped proliferate some of this trash art.

Q) Do you feel, as many other authors feel, that the book world has its fair share of trash?

A) I do . . . especially in the eBook selections. Many are poorly written, poorly formatted, and are just plain crude.

Q) What do you think about book covers? How do you rate a cover as an artist?

A) I’ve learned that covers are important when marketing through retail vendors. I originally used my art as covers, but I’ve changed several of them for a more appropriate visual connection to the novel.

Q) How have sales been? Can you say changing a cover has increased sales?

A) I think so, but I’m just getting into that market; and as you know, there is a time lag between sales and getting paid. Most of my sales have been through book signings where you can discuss the content with the reader. The cover doesn’t seem to matter in that area. Readers have downloaded hundreds of eBooks from most of the retailers.

Q) Would you say book signings are important for the modern writer?

A) Of course . . . I think people like to know the author. It makes the book personal for them. Some people buy a book, get it signed, and never read it.

Q) Have you done many interviews? Is this a process you are comfortable with?

A) I’ve had one television interview about my non-fiction book. I’ve conducted several interviews on my art website. I’m pretty comfortable with the process, having done a lot of public speaking.

Q) What’s your non-fiction book about?

A) It examines the evolution of Christianity over the last 2000 years. I look at the way the Catholic Church has perverted the message of Christ. I also analyze the two biggest money pits in the history of man, war and religion.

Q) That must have taken a pile of research. How are readers taking to it?

A) I’ve had a lot of good feedback. The book seems to say what a lot of people think but are afraid to say. I have conducted several group presentations and sold many books at them.

Q) Was it hard to jump into the fiction world after writing a hard core non-fiction book?

A) No, It’s like deciding to eat steak or fish. The fiction world allows my creativity to reveal itself . . . much like when I played Dixieland music, as opposed to overtures and classic music.

Q) So, if a reader asked you which of your books he or she should pick up, which would you recommend?

A) It would depend on whether they want a quick, entertaining read or a serious round of head scratching. The novels are definitely more fun and entertaining.

Q) How do you keep your novels fun and entertaining? What makes a Michael Don Fess novel?

A) I feel the story should have one or more “larger than life” characters. It should also have several sub-plots along with the main plot to keep the reader from out-guessing the author. If the reader can forecast the storyline and the ending, they become bored. Unexpected twists and turns are important to maintain the reader interest. The characters should tell the story and each should have a distinct voice. The tale should have enough facts to convince the reader that it is believable and possible.

Q) Of all your characters, which is your favorite and why?

A) A good question . . . most of my main characters use some of my own personality traits, so it would be difficult to pick one. Probably, if I had to pick one, it would be Minor Fox in “Politics . . . Louisiana Style.”

Q) Tell me about your big hit novel “The Cruising Serial Killer.”

A) You gave a wonderful description in your review. I couldn’t say it any better. So, to add to your words . . . Cruise ship passengers had no idea they were being watched by a serial killer as they walked down the pier to tour the island. He always selected a man who looked similar to himself, lured him away, killed him, and assumed his identity to enjoy the cruise.

A high-tech chase ensued from Miami to Puerto Rico as his hired guru electronically stole money from various accounts found on his victim’s iPad. The FBI tracked him with the help of a computer forensic expert until he outsmarted them. Can they ever catch the slippery con man, the worst serial killer in history?

Q) It is part of a series, correct?

A) Yes, some of the characters continue on in sequels with some pretty wild adventures.

Q) Like what?

A) The head of a security firm involved in tracking the serial killer sells his business based on multiples of those revenues and uses some of the killer’s unique methods to enrich himself. His live-in girlfriend teams with a widow in the third novel to help the FBI rescue some amazing artifacts. They use her yacht to evade the mafia and save those artifacts found on Elbow Cay.

Q) Thank you for your time, Michael.

A) Thank you, Nick!

Pick up your copy of “The Cruising Serial Killer” today!

Feb 17

Tim Flanagan Fights Martians and Writes Books

It’s not often I get to interview someone like Tim Flanagan. Tim is NOT just another author. He’s THE science-fiction author of today. I want you to read what he has to say–and then disagree with that statement. He’s a fantastic writer, a well-read reader and most importantly one of those bestselling authors. Enjoy!

 

the moon stealers all books

If you could work with any author who would it be?

John Wyndham. He’s the guy that wrote Day of the Triffids, The Midwich Cuckoos, and The Kraken Wakes in the 1950′s. I’ve loved his books ever since I was a child. Although, at the time, they were classed as science fiction, they were more like prophetic fiction, dealing with issues such as genetic engineering and human evolution that are still as topical today as they were fifty years ago. I want my own novels to have a sense of realism and possibility that makes your spine tingle from an underlying simmering threat that you realise could happen. Although I haven’t had the pleasure of writing with Mr Wyndham, I have been lucky enough to work with other creative people such as Dylan Gibson, the illustrator I worked with on The Curious Disappearance of Professor Brown. I’m also looking at collaborating with other artists on cover art for my future projects.

Who is your favourite author, and is your writing style similar to theirs?

The authors that I like tend to change over time, but my most favourite author whose books I have read over and over again is a guy called Michael Cox. He’s only written two fictional books, but his first, The Meaning of Night, is a gem. It’s set in Victorian London and reminds me so much of a Dickens book. I wish I had written it. Currently I’m reading Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, which I’m really surprised with. Considering how long ago it was written, it reads very easy with language that is not too dissimilar to modern day. Although both of those books are historical fiction, the style and genre couldn’t be further from my own. My writing style has been said by many to be very visual which is a great compliment especially when you consider the market I’m aiming for – visually stimulated teenagers.

What’s your favourite part of a book?

I enjoy writing the beginning of a book. As you lay down the foundations of the world and its characters, you get a very privileged peek into a different world, life or event. These are very private moments between an author and their book and its like nurturing a baby and watching it grow. These times can be just as exciting for a writer as they are for the reader.

When naming your characters, do you give any thought to the actual meaning?

I give the names of my characters an awful lot of thought and consideration. It’s a part of the writing process that I enjoy and find fascinating. I like to try and pick names that suit the character and reflect a part of their personality. The Internet is a great place to find names which, although the meanings are not commonly known these days, I believe there is some sort of inbuilt ancient instinct in us that collates centuries of information to help you form an opinion of that person before they even open their mouth. Using Latin in a name is also quite a useful way of creating names for people and especially creatures.

How have your personal experiences affected your writing?

I don’t think they have, but a lot of my personality is in my writing. Everything I write about I find fascinating and writing about it is a great way to research and learn something new.

What genre of books do you like to read? Do you limit yourself to only the genre that you write yourself?

I read many different genres depending on what I feel like at the time. One of the best things for me, when I finish reading a book is standing in front of my book shelves and choosing what I will read next. Recent genres that I have read include Fantasy by George R R Martin, Historical Detective Fiction by Philip Kerr and Military Humour by George MacDonald Fraser. With my writing, I like to mix up genres a bit. With the Moon Stealer series, there is a bit sci-fi, fantasy, adventure and dystopian. Then another book I’ve written is a comical detective story. I like to write what I enjoy and I have a broad range of interests as I’m sure most children have. Why should they be confined to one genre? Being young is all about experimenting and finding the things you like, and I think that can also apply that to teen books, there is so much more than vampire romances out there for them.

Were you always good at writing?

No. I still have a report my English teacher wrote when I was about 14 or 15. In it he said that I was not going to pass my English GCSE because I wrote in short sentences. Being really stubborn, I decided to prove him wrong and set about writing a story that went on to gain the highest mark he had ever given to a student. When I was 7 or 8 I remember sitting down and writing stories during the school summer holidays in an attempt to pass the time and I would often staple sheets of paper together to make a little book and draw some pictures to go with it. I’ve always enjoyed writing but find that I now have the motivation and dedication to stick with a story until the end, something that maybe I didn’t have so much when I was younger.

How do you get started with writing a story (as in, how do you start developing the story, how do you get inspired for it)?

Inspiration comes from the most unexpected places some times. I have a little notebook that I keep next to my computer which has odd words or phrases written in it. They are just words that stimulated some sort of reaction in me that make me want to find out more. The inspiration for The Moon Stealers came, quite innocently, one morning nearly three years ago when I was in the bathroom. My son and I were getting ready, and he just asked me to tell him a story and the idea for the creatures in the Moon Stealers arrived. He liked the idea and wanted to draw some pictures so I began writing so he had something to illustrate. When I’m thinking of a new story, I allow a few ideas to bounce around in my head in quiet places like the shower or when I’m driving. That generally gives me the start and main characters in the book. I ultimately know what the ending will need to be, but not necessarily what the journey will be to get there. At that point I start writing. I get a feel for the characters and allow the story to move forward itself.

What advice would you give to people who “run out of creativity” when writing?

Take a break. Sometimes the brain just gets exhausted and no matter how hard you try, you can’t get over the brick wall. Allow your brain to focus on other things, a computer game, a film, family outings. Although I don’t run out of creative juices (I always have the next two or three books percolating away inside me), I do run out of energy. That’s my cue to take a break and not write. My brain may still think about the story and it works out a way to move it forward, then usually after a week I’m desperate to get back to writing and it flows quicker than ever.

What is the most important lack in your life?

I lack enough time to do everything I want to do. Juggling a “real-world” job and family, whilst trying to get time to write can sometimes be a struggle. It’s a shame that during the 24 hours of a day we have to waste 7-8 hours sleeping. I could be so much more productive.

Why a fictional book? You are well known as a “non-fiction” writer—what caused you to decide to write fiction?

I wrote two non-fiction books back in 2007 and 2008 to do with my day job, but they are very specific and the market is always going to be limited, plus they weren’t really very exciting! You can learn from a non-fiction book, but a fiction book is a new world waiting to be discovered, one that excites an emotion and entertains you. Reading is a sacrifice of time so it has to be worthwhile. These days I’m usually reading a fiction and non fiction book at the same time – one feeds my mind, the other feeds my soul.

You are in Waterstones looking at books—you see your new book on the shelf—what do you think?

My initial reaction would be to make sure that the spine is not facing in and the front cover is clearly on display. Then I would probably point it out to my wife or children, making sure I spoke just loud enough for other customers in the shop to hear without being too obvious. There is huge satisfaction in seeing your name on the front of a book. I get a huge buzz out of it every time I have a new book released.

You are on a plane and someone asks if you are Tim Flanagan and raves about your new book—how do you handle it?

I have no issues admitting who I am and I would feel very humble that they enjoyed my writing. I would happily answer their questions and be grateful to have met them. We all need some sort of positive feedback to encourage us to keep writing. I had a similar experience to this at a school recently that me and my son were going to look at. A boy spotted me in the corridor and said “I’ve got your book!” I thanked him and asked him if he enjoyed it. I think my son was more embarrassed than me! Without readers and fans, our books are just lines of ink on a page. Stories only come alive when they are read.

You have the #1 bestseller in America—what would be your first thought?

I would have to double check first! Then ring my wife, closely followed by my mum.

Are you at ease when interviewing? Do you find interviews generally exciting or boring?

I’m happy to be interviewed and like giving an insight into my life and personality. For an audience to connect with a writer they need to get to know them and get to like them, and it’s the least we can do as thanks for investing their time and money in our books.

Are you a man with strong convictions and do those convictions shine through when you write a novel?

I’m a very moral and honest person. I have a very open mind to a lot of things but will always research things myself before making up my own mind. I don’t like being swayed by others people’s opinions.

What puts you off when reading a book? Bad grammar? Awful editing? Slow stories?

Slow stories without a doubt. If the story is interesting, fast paced and absorbing, your eye can easily skim over spelling mistakes and typos.

Is paradise self-made or can it be found? Is writing your paradise?

I have found an amazing sense of enjoyment and contentment from writing. Everybody has different aspects to their soul that need to be fed. My creative side needs to make something and what could be better than a story that no one else has read or seen until I press publish. I believe you hold your own destiny in your hands and it is up to you to move your life in that direction. It won’t be easy, but nothing worthwhile is. It’s not going to just land in your lap, you have to put the effort in, it’s the price you pay.

You’re out on a date with a woman and she tells you that she hates reading—does that end the date or do you just consider that to be her loss?

If she truly ‘hates’ reading, she probably dislikes books as objects as well and I could never live in a house that doesn’t have books. She may also be unsupportive with regards to my work. So, I think it would have to end before it went any further. Life’s too short – surround yourself with people who understand you.

You enter “The Twilight Zone” and find yourself in a world without books or reading. Is your first reaction to explore this new place or to leave in disgust at the illiteracy of this new world?

I would be torn between two minds. I would be intrigued to find out why there are no books, but part of me would feel empty without being surrounded by the written word.

Why do you think reading has become such a rarity in the UK? Do you blame video games and modern pop music for its decline?

No, cultures change and trends fade in and out, but there will always be books. Recently the change in publishing and the arrival of Kindles has made books and reading more accessible to everyone, and at a price anyone can afford. There is such a diversity of books available today, that there is quite literally something for everyone. There will always be alternative distractions like video games and music but there will always be a need for stories. Stories build the games, provide lyrics for songs and adventures for films.

Do you agree that writers have to be salesmen in the Indie world?

Totally. Once the book has been written, your journey as a writer has only just begun. Most people think the hard work has finished once they write the last line, but the hardest part awaits. Marketing your book amongst the swamp of other books is an ever growing difficulty.

Feb 06

The Salesman and His Song

Cliff Roberts was the number one champion salesman in America during the 90’s. In this new book he explains how sales occur and how those relationships make deals go smoothly. If you want to know how to sell… This is the book for you.

Novel Ideas handles bestselling author Cliff Roberts. Cliff has written several #1 bestsellers including "Reprisal: The Eagle Rises."

Cliff with his sales awards behind him. A wall of pure gold.

How would you describe “Is There Something I Should Know” in two sentences?

This book is important if you want to learn how to be a better salesman, and you’re willing to put in the effort to make the changes you need to succeed.

How long did it take to write “Is There Something I Should Know?”

It took me about six weeks to write “Is There Something I Should Know?”  But it took the better part of thirty years to finally figure out I had something to say–thirty years of struggling to learn it all on my own.

What purpose did you have in mind when you wrote “Is There Something I Should Know?”

It seems funny now, but when I first got into sales, I spent a good deal of time trying to convince myself it was okay to be salesperson. That just because I was selling for a living, I wasn’t a bad guy. That salespeople could be nice and honest because I was one.

If you had the opportunity to get a message across to a lot of people—what would that message be?

We can all be successful and achieve our goals–legitimate goals–by helping each other. Success is not predicated on taking advantage of anyone as society tends to teach us by villianizing those who have become successful.

Do you ask yourself questions or do you settle for what you know?

I am always asking questions. I can’t help but think that there is more information revolving around our lives than that which we can easily take advantage of. I believe if we understood that Information, it would help make our lives better. My book is about helping to answer some of those questions I’ve asked over the years and at the same time, answer the questions I’ve heard others ask in sales meetings only to be told either to ignore those kind of thoughts or lie to the customer if it gets them to buy. I never could do that and never will.  I’ve shown the reader how to avoid that and how to take situations where you’ve been put on the spot and work through it to a sale.

When it’s all said and done—will you have said more or done more?

I think I will have said more since I am a salesman at heart; but I am also hopeful that my actions will have shouted ten thousand times louder than any words I’ve had to say. It’s easy to talk about it and hard to do it. I have been a doer, even if  I failed at first. I kept doing, I kept trying. I hope that when people look at me they will see a man who, when he was met by one life’s challenges, may have gotten off to a slow start sometimes, but it was never in doubt that I would overcome the challenge or die trying.

Which activities make you lose track of time?

Whenever I write I lose all track of time. I stop worrying when I should do this or that, and I just write. It’s an act of creation, it’s an act sharing yourself with the world, and I just can’t see me setting a stopwatch and trying to hurry through it. I also lose track of time when I am with my grandchildren. I can’t help but feel that I can make an impression upon them. To teach them what is truly important in life and balance their conscientiousness so that they don’t suffer from ‘total garbage in’ syndrome. That’s where the world (and those people desperate for power) are trying everything to influence our children, and it’s my job with my grandchildren to stop it. To teach them think rationally and to recognize and use their common sense.

What’s your single greatest moment of personal failure?  Looking back on it now, did it make you weaker or stronger?  What did you learn?

I’m not sure I have a great moment of personal failure. Oh, sure, I’ve not gotten jobs I’ve wanted, and I’ve failed to make the sale that would have won the contest. But those are not failures as some people would say. I have for many years thought of them as opportunities to learn how to do things differently. But I do have a regret in life and that is that I accepted other people’s opinion of me as if it had value. It doesn’t. For years I was mired in the shadows because I believed my father when he said I was stupid and not capable of succeeding. It wasn’t until I was having a conversation with my oldest brother one day that I realized my father was lashing out at me because he felt he had failed in own life. It wasn’t easy as a child, and it held me back for years until my wise older brother shared that insight. My two older brothers were off traveling most of my life and Father was not going to allow me to come to him for encouragement, and so for years I thought he was right.

Then I had the great opportunity to see Zig Ziglar in person twice. The second time I actually got the chance to ask him a question. I don’t remember what the question was, but I remember what he replied. It was his stock answer, and for a while I thought he had blown me off. He said, “If you help enough people get what they want, you will get what you want.” It was his trademark statement. It took two years before the statement started making sense to me. I realized at that moment all the hurtful things my father had said meant nothing because I knew he was wrong. I was a manager at the company I was working for, and I was only twenty-five years old. I was capable, just not so much when I was under the constant belittlement I endured as my father’s son. I can’t help but wonder what might have been if I had realized at that point that what other people think doesn’t matter. It’s what you believe and how strongly you believe it. Where there is a will, there is a way.  One of my favorite sayings I’ve coined is, “Many a talented individual never succeeds. Many a mediocre talent garners success simply because they desire it so.”

Joy is found with simple awareness.  What does your joy look like today?

As I have aged, my pleasures have become more cerebral. I take joy in the mountain scenery around me. I enjoy my grandchildren, friends, a bit of travel and completing another book. I also enjoy passing along what know and seeing those who accept it begin to flourish. Nothing gives me more pleasure than to have made a difference.

If your life was a novel, what would be the title and how would your story end?

Checking my vanity are we? Well, I do have goals and challenges I’m working to and through. I suppose if there were to be a novel written about my life it would be titled “Perseverance.” Now, the ending of the story is tricky because one doesn’t want to be considered too vain or egotistical. But when the story is about perseverance and one man’s struggle to overcome the challenges that life places in his path, I think it would end well at a large public function. A roast of the main character. The other characters all get their turn to poke fun at the man, while listing the accomplishments he had achieved. Finally, it’s his turn. He thanks everyone for coming and then thanks them again for the inspiration they have been to him. He ends his time at the podium by quoting himself from one of his own books: “You are the only person on earth who can decide the limits of your abilities.” He then bows and walks past his friends, shaking hands as he goes until he’s reaches the side of the stage and walks off behind the curtain—The End

 

Feb 02

Andrea Raine Speaks Seriously About “Turnstiles”

A Conversation With
ANDREA MCKENZIE RAINE

 

Author of
TURNSTILES

CANADA

 

Martin Sourdough is a homeless person who has chosen to turn his back on the corporate, material world; Willis Hancocks, Jr. is a barrister, an alcoholic philanderer, and a misogynist; and Evelyn (aka Yvonne) is a prostitute. Turnstiles speaks to these social problems through the smaller scope of each character’s individual trials. There is a struggle that exists between the need to serve one’s own needs and the expectation to participate in the larger social scheme. Martin and Willis are both trying to fit into the world, but on their own terms. They are naïve, searching for an Eden-like state of being. Through a broader experience of personal fortune, misfortune, travel, and social interactions, they each learn to accept their path and take control of their own destinies. 

 

*****

 

How would describe your book, its genre?  Do you write in more than one genre?  

 

The genre of my debut novel, Turnstiles, is literary fiction. I also write poetry, and my poetic voice definitely influences my fiction writing. Many fiction writers also write poetry.

 

How long have you been writing? How long did it take to write your book? And what motivated you to write it?

 

I have been writing ever since I could hold a pen. I’m serious. I remember being given assignments in grade one, two and three to keep journals and write stories. While the other kids groaned, I got really excited.

 

It took me fifteen years to write Turnstiles. I wrote it in the midst of work, university, relationships, kids, and life in general, but I never dropped the thread. I always wanted to write a novel. When I returned from a two-month solo backpacking trip through Western Europe and the UK in the summer of 1998, I felt like I had something more important to say.

 

Is Turnstiles a stand-alone novel or part of a series?

 

Turnstiles is a stand-alone novel, but I am also working on a prequel novella.

 

If it is a stand-alone book, would you consider making it a series? Why or why not?

 

I do believe that Turnstiles has more legs. As I mentioned, I am working on a prequel novella to lend a back story to a main character who is deceased from the beginning of Turnstiles, but still has a large influence on the characters and events that unfold in the story. I also have an idea to write another novel or novella that focuses on the lives of a group of secondary characters in Turnstiles. Friends who have read my drafts-in-progress have commented that they are intrigued by those characters and would be interested in reading a book solely about them.

 

Who are your main characters in Turnstiles and how would you describe them?

 

The main characters are Willis Hancocks, Jr., Martin Sourdough and Evelyn (aka Yvonne). Willis is a barrister and a Londoner. He is a cocky, white collar, womanizing, alcoholic misogynist who is in his mid-twenties and emotionally stunted. Martin is a naïve, idealistic youth (early twenties) who is disenchanted with the corporate, money-grubbing, career-seeking world. He is trying to find his own way. Evelyn (aka Yvonne) is a young prostitute who was handed a less than ideal life from day one and consequently has been pulled down a bleak path. She is smart, but she doesn’t believe she has the tools or the choices to make a positive change.

 

Is there any symbolism in your book that you’d care to share with potential readers?

 

I think the idea of turnstiles is symbolic in the book:  going through a passage, embarking on a journey of place and self, and coming out on the other side of something; figuratively and literally.

 

Do any of the characters resemble you? How about friends or relatives?

 

I believe that Martin most closely resembles me. I’ve never been entirely in his situation (i.e. homeless), but I have had times when I felt pretty worn down and fed up with the whole ‘rat race’.

 

Have you tried submitting your book to publishers? If so, how many? Would you still want to work with a traditional publisher now that you have self-published?

 

I tried submitting my book to three literary agencies. I received positive feedback:  they enjoyed reading the first few chapters, but the subject matter was not what they were seeking, or they weren’t taking on any new projects. I would still like to work with a traditional publisher in the future, although my experience in self-publishing my first novel was a joy.

 

What has been the most difficult part of your writing experience? Dealing with publishers, agents, editors, getting reviews, query letters?

 

I think writing the query letter was the biggest challenge after writing the novel itself. However, I feel that I managed to summarize the plot, characters, and motivations in a concise and compelling way.

 

Do any of your characters have secrets you can share with our readers?

 

Not really. All of the main characters and most of the secondary characters are quite open, and reveal themselves to the reader. One of the secondary characters, Maury, is a bit more dark and complicated. I do think he has one or two secrets up his sleeve.

 

If you were to be offered a movie deal, who would you like to see play the main characters?

 

I won’t deny that I haven’t thought about this happening. Especially since many people who have read the earlier drafts have commented that the novel is very descriptive and ‘plays out’ like a movie. Let’s see… the actors would all have to be young and not necessarily big Hollywood actors. Although I do have some ideas about who could play the main characters, I would rather not put any preconceived images of the characters in the readers’ minds before they read Turnstiles.

 

Describe your writing process. Do you outline, create rough synopses, do you do detailed biographies of the characters before starting to write?

 

I have done some character sketches, and I do tend to write brief outlines or make notes as I approach each chapter. I don’t have a clear sense of the whole story before I start writing… I find out what is going to happen as I write.

 

How much research do you do before starting to write?  Where do you find most of your background materials? How do you fact check?

 

I concentrate on getting inside the heads of the characters, which doesn’t require much research, only trust. After a ‘zero draft’, I go back and check what I’ve written—places, cultural references, etc.—for accuracy. Mostly, I use the Internet to fact check (I do check more than one source!), or I ask my brilliant husband who is a walking encyclopedia and stickler for details.

 

What didn’t you mention in the synopsis that you can reveal here?

 

Willis Hancocks, Jr. is struggling with the passing of his estranged, wealthy father who, in the wake of his death, has left him an obscene amount of money. Willis is trying to reconcile his father’s parting gift while grieving his unrequited feelings and the emotional bond they never shared.

 

If you had to do the experience of writing your work over, would you still write it? Would you change it?

 

I would write it all over again, and I would write it all the same to the best of my memory.

 

How did you choose the story you wrote?

 

I think the story chose me. My first spark of inspiration for the story came from when I was in London, going through an underground walkway to get to the other side of a street beside Hyde Park. I walked past a man who was in a sleeping bag in the tunnel. He had a backpack with him. Of course, I’ve seen many homeless people on sidewalks in sleeping bags, but I just happened to think “what if he isn’t homeless? What if he is just a young guy backpacking around?” He stayed with me, so I came home and started writing about him. Then the other characters just came along and jumped on board.

 

How did you choose the title?

 

The title really just came to me in a flash. I thought about the symbolism of turnstiles:  destinations, going through certain rites of discovery, rites of passage, trains, being turned around. Yes, Turnstiles.

 

How did you decide on the cover and did you design it or did you use a professional designer?

 

I had the opportunity to choose my own book cover, but the decision was also made through consulting with a professional designer at Inkwater Press. I wanted an image that represents the book in a way that is symbolic and intriguing, but also simple and concrete.

 

Can you summarize your book in 140 characters or less (Tweet size)?

 

Through personal fortune, misfortune, travel and social interactions, the characters learn to accept their path and take control of their destiny.

 

Who were the authors that influenced you? What about them and their style appeals to you?

 

Patrick Lane, Diana Gabaldon, and Dostoyevsky. I believe I have found my own voice in my writing, but these authors gave me permission, in a sense, to go a little deeper:  to explore the dark, the sad, and the honest; to explore the human inner workings of the heart and mind. They write simply and colourfully.

 

What did you learn that surprised you while writing your book? What was the most difficult part?

 

I was surprised by how I could pull little threads of my own life into the book—experiences, lessons, books I’ve read, places I’ve visited, ideas—and make it work as fiction.

 

What types of hobbies do you have? Do these activities find their way into your books?

 

Aside from reading books and writing, I like to play piano. I also like to work on scrapbooks. I’m not sure these activities find a tangible way into my writing, but I am a nostalgic person, and I navigate through life based on sensory and feeling.

 

What is your favorite time of the year and why? And did you incorporate that into your story? How?

 

I love summer. Yes, summer is depicted in Turnstiles—I believe that people are more free and open to explore and interact when they are in warm, comfortable weather. Summer gives way to movement.

 

Have you traveled at all? How has that experience helped in your writing career? How has the type of employment you’ve had helped to enhance your writing career?

 

I have traveled extensively, but I’ve never lived anywhere else. I’ve been to Europe and the UK numerous times, across Canada, New York, California, Hawaii, Cuba, Mexico, Norway, Morocco and Estonia. Experiencing other places, cultures and meeting people from all over the world has definitely influenced my writing and the way I perceive the world as a community.

 

I’ve also been fortunate to be employed in many writing positions:  publishing assistant, copywriter, and communications officer. Currently I am working as a correspondence writer in government. It helps to work with people, situations, and words all day long.

 

What do you feel is the best personal quality you bring to your writing career?

 

I feel that my intuition is the best quality I bring to my writing.

 

Who are your top five favorite authors? And which book of theirs is your favorite?

 

Patrick Lane (There Is A Season:  a memoir), Jane Austen (Pride and Prejudice; Sense and Sensibility), Diana Gabaldon (The entire Outlander Series), Frank McCourt (Angela’s Ashes, ’Tis, Teacher Man), Dostoyevsky (Crime and Punishment).

 

Tell us something about yourself that you don’t usually share with anyone but close friends.

 

I come across as being quiet and a bit shy. I do tend to like staying in my comfort zones, but I’m also quite social. People close to me know that my mind is always buzzing, and I am just busy taking in the world, reflecting and formulating my thoughts. Another little secret of mine that I usually only discuss with people who are close to me is that I am quite interested in the paranormal and feel that I am slightly more receptive or closer to spiritual energies.

 

Where do you see your writing career going? Why do you think that?

 

I hope to see my writing career flourish.  My ultimate goal would be to write full-time and stay home with my boys. There are more books in me to write—both fiction and poetry.

 

Do you have a special theme, or design that you intend to continue throughout your career as your signature item?

 

I am drawn to writing about the internal lives of my characters. I believe my stories are more character-driven than plot-driven;  it is the choices the characters make that dictate the way they change, think, and behave. In turn, these choices cause a shift in the way everything outside of them changes, too.

 

What is your end goal for your writing career?

 

I simply hope I am able to publish more books and that my books are enjoyed.

 

Do you use a pen name, why? What is your real name?

 

My pen name is Andrea McKenzie Raine, which isn’t a stretch from my real name. McKenzie is my maiden name and my first book of poetry, A Mother’s String, was published under that name. When I got married, I didn’t want the trail of my previously published poems to vanish for future readers; my husband also reminded me that I had been writing Turnstiles long before I set my eyes on him.

 

Connect with Andrea via her Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/ARainewriter) or on Twitter (https://twitter.com/ARainewriter)

 

Turnstiles by Andrea McKenzie Raine is available on Amazon now. Pick up your copy today! 

Jan 31

King of Horror? I Want Your Crown–A Meeting with Author Paul Levas

Paul Levas is a man who knows where he is going. As a writer, he will be writing till the day he dies. I wanted to interview Levas here for the site, and I really wanted to get him to tell you why you need to be reading his books. As a horror writer, he takes his inspiration from Stephen King– what better education could there be? Read, learn and enjoy….

If you could work with any author who would it be?

Stephen King and Michael Bray.

Who is your favourite author, and is you writing style similar to theirs?

Stephen King, and I have been told my style is very similar.

What’s your favourite part of a book, Paul?

The ending. But I love the entire story. See how things develop.

When naming your characters, do you give any thought to the actual meaning?

No, however, in a novel I am about to start, the main character’s name is Donald King–for Donald Westlake and Stephen King.

How have your personal experiences affected your writing?

Greatly.  I write what I know. For example, I just wrote a story titled Restroom, where a young boy is locked inside a porta-potty. When I was six or seven, I myself was locked inside. I was terrified. My aunt rescued me.

What genre of books do you like to read? Do you limit yourself to only the genre that you write yourself?

For about a year I read Stephen King and Joe Hill, but now I am on year #2 of Harry Potter. To answer your question, I love Horror, Fantasy, thrillers.

Were you always good at writing?

Most authors of whom I am a fan started writing very young. I was a video game junkie until I turned sixteen. Since then, I’ve been writing. At first I wasn’t good. Like anything else, I’ve learned a lot as I’ve written and read more.

How do you get started with writing a story (as in, how do you start developing the story, how do you get inspired for it).

My novel, 43, which is in edits, is about an abused boy named Jason Dillinger. With that one, I didn’t really get an idea. I observed someone I know. I observed him so much, I felt like I was him–the one being abused. Angry, sad, hurt, etc. I started writing every day–1,000 words a day–and I ended up with an 88,000 word manuscript. Another novel I wrote, Trials of Life, simply came from a quote that popped up in my head: ‘The choices you make depict your future.’

What advice would you give to people who “run out of creativity” when writing?

WRITE every day. Read every day. The only way you will ever get better are through those two things, and to be around positive people. I know from personal experience that stress and anxiety interrupt the process.

What is the most important lack in your life?

Sadly, my family- brother, sister, mother.

You are in Walmart looking at books—you see your new book on the shelf—what do you think?

I will scream inside, with a smile like Heath Ledger’s character the Joker. I will be proud and happy.

You are on a plane and someone asks if you are Paul Levas and raves about your new book—how do you handle it?

BEWILDERED AND HAPPY. I will give them all of my time and a “Thank you!”

You have the #1 bestseller in America—what would be your first thought?

Thank you Lord God, and thank you for everyone that helped me along the way.

Are you at ease when interviewing? Do you find interviews generally exciting or boring?

Exciting and nervous.

What puts you off when reading a book? Bad grammar? Awful editing? Slow stories?

Slow story and bad grammar.

Is paradise self-made or can it be found? Is writing your paradise?

My soon-to-be wife and writing are my paradise.

You enter “The Twilight Zone” and find yourself in a world without books or reading. Is your first reaction to explore this new place or to leave in disgust at the illiteracy of this new world?

Explore. A great idea could arise.

Why do you think reading has become such a rarity in the U.S.A? Do you blame video games and modern pop music for its decline?

Video games are great after a long, productive day, but if you play them every day non-stop…well, I don’t feel productive. I HAVE to write. Even if its fifteen words.

Do you agree that writers have to be salesmen in the Indie world?

With self-publishing, yes; but even if you’re with a publisher, it would never hurt to start a conversation about your work.