Jun 20
Exciting news, Folks! A new interview with J.W. Northrup hit Youtube yesterday, and it really is a stormer. J.W. and I discuss a list of questions as long as the arm of a giant. You really need to click the play button and watch this one. J.W. talks about the writing process, the all-important business of promotion, and the very important details of how to handle a publisher! Wait… Why am I telling you about it? Go over and see it!
Jun 19
The first stop on the Lloyd Tackitt blog tour is… Novel Ideas. I borrowed Lloyd for a few minutes to ask him a few questions. Now, how can you borrow Lloyd? Easy! You just wander up to him and ask nicely if you can talk to him for a few minutes. Lloyd is one of the most down-to-earth people I have ever met. A bestseller? Sure! Just don’t expect him to tell you that…
Let’s go and see what Lloyd had to tell me about the ingredients of a bestselling book.
Q) Let me start by asking you, Lloyd, when someone uses the word “bestseller” to describe you, how does that feel?
A) It feels disconnected from me. When I started writing my first book a little over two years ago, I had hopes of selling a couple of thousand books at the most. I thought that was a fantasy, an over the top kind of hope. When I published it I was happy just to see it up for sale. When I got the first paperback in my hands it felt like a dream, and it still does. It’s crazy how the book sold–far, far better than I was ever willing to let myself hope for.
Q) What is the ultimate for you as a writer? The publishing process? The last line? What makes you contented and happy?
A) There are a series of high-points along the trail. Writing the first line, finishing the first draft, finishing the final edit, seeing the final cover art, getting the book published and out in the public. But I think the very best is the first positive review. Then, and only then, can I tell myself that at least one person enjoyed it. If one person enjoyed it, then it’s a success to me. I push myself to write because I enjoy spinning a story out and entertaining readers. I guess that’s because I am such an avid reader myself and enjoy a good book more than just about anything else in the world, so it’s a thrill to be able to give someone else that reading pleasure.
Q) Do you believe all writers can be as successful as you?
A) I would really like to say yes to this, but I’ve read quite a few self-published works that tell me otherwise – at least initially. I believe that with persistence and practice ninety-percent could, even if it comes to them only after writing several books.
Q) Is it a case of practice makes perfect? Can writing be learnt by trial and error?
A) There is quite a bit of scientific study that suggests that it takes ten-thousand hours of practice to become a master at any craft or art. I don’t know how many hours I have in, but it is in the thousands, several thousands. I’ve seen, and the reviews that readers have left for me say, that I’m getting a bit better as I go. I hope to be writing for years to come and hope that I grow as a writer with each step. So, yes, I think most writers can be successful if they persist and grow.
Q) What has been your worst experience as a writer?
A) It’s that period of time when I’m editing…I’ll start getting doubts about the story. It’s a bad feeling. I think it comes from living with the story for so long that it has ceased to hold surprises for me. This is generally after completing the first edit and before the final edit. I’ll have gone over the text dozens of times looking for errors, finding better (hopefully) ways of writing certain passages, then I start to feel a doubt that anyone will find this story interesting. I eventually come out of it again, generally about the time I send it off for professional editing.
Q) You are on a desert island… Which three books do you choose to take with you?
A) What a question! Okay, 1: To Kill A Mockingbird; 2. Simplified Boat building Techniques And Tricks; 3. Astral Navigation For Dummies. Yeah, I think that would work.
Q) Okay, Lloyd for a million dollars answer this one– What do you think is the main ingredient to a bestseller?
A) I have no idea. It’s not like I have a detailed roadmap or game plan. I think all you can do is write to your best ability and put it out there; then immediately start on the next book doing your very best with it. Then repeat, and repeat…
Q) Wise advice!
A) Thank you, I hope I won the million dollars.
Q) Well, let’s see if you get the bonus question correct, first. Why do you think the “Eden” series has been so successful?
A) My guess? My guess is that it’s mostly the niche within which I tell a story. I think that all thinking people give at least a passing thought, every now and then, to what would it be like to live through an apocalyptic event, survive it, and live on in that post-apocalyptic world. I’ve tried to think through, in a logical and consistent way, what that world would be like, what it would take to survive, and how it might turn out – and I try to make it an interesting story along the way. That’s what I think – but I don’t know that for certain.
Q) Thank you for your time, Lloyd.
A) You are most welcome, Nick.
With that last question, Lloyd left with a smile. I think we can all learn from the answers given by a true, bonafide bestselling powerhouse of a writer. Let me know how the answers worked for you…
Jun 19
Dear Friends,
Allow me to introduce myself, my name is Tom Ufert. I am a 47 year old physically challenged American author surviving nearly twenty-one years with three disabilitiy–Multiple Sclerosis, an incomplete spinal fracture (C5/C6), and HIV. As the author of Adversity Builds Character, I’ve sought to inspire others and demonstrate the awesome strength of the human spirit in overcoming adversity.
Most of my life has been spent seeking to make the world a better place through public service and fulfilling the notion of “noblesse oblige.” I have served on eleven political campaigns, been an LBJ U.S. Congressional Intern, a White House Fellow Nominee, been a constituent aide to two U.S. Congressmen, studied abroad as a Rotary International Graduate Fellow at Australian National University specializing in East Asian Political Affairs, been a member of three charity 501(c)3 boards of directors, and received a double BA from Centenary College of Louisiana in political science and history as a scholarship recipient. I live by the precept that because of God’s blessings upon my life, I have an obligation to give back to my community as so many have given to me. For that reason not only does my book seek to inspire others coping with life’s slings and arrows, but a percentage of every book sold goes directly back to charity. I have already raised small amounts for AIDs charities, Literacy Volunteers, food banks, the American Red Cross, and music education.
This is where I need your help. Please take a moment to visit my website, http://www.authortomufert.info/index.html, and see for yourselves if my endeavors are worthy of your support. There you will find links to my book, hear music that is meaningful to me, see photos of me in action, watch video trailers, read quotes and blogs from my writings, and hopefully be inspired to join my cause of making the world a better place – one person, one day at a time. Regardless, I hope and pray that my story may console those facing their own adversity and give them renewed hope to “NEVER SURRENDER!”
I am sincerely and most humbly yours,
Tom Ufert
Contact me at authortomufert (@) yahoo.com
Jun 18
Fort Story Beach and for a moment, he considered not getting out. Beaches in Virginia during the Thanksgiving Holiday weekend were either mild and sunny, or cold and rainy. Today was definitely classified as a cold and rainy day. The wind gusts were near gale force. It was coupled with a light but steady rain that seemed to blanket the whole world, while the temperature hovered around forty degrees.
First Landing State Park of Virginia is the site of the first landing by the Jamestown Colonists on April 27, 1607, before they moved further upriver to the famous Jamestown settlement site. But Steven wasn’t here to enjoy the beach or bask in the history. He was here answering a personal summons.
Looking around the parking lot as he stepped from the safety and the warmth of his limousine, Steven noticed that there was only one other car in the parking area, and it belonged to General Charles (Chip) Clarett. It was his personal car. Steven thought he had to be an idiot, to be here in this kind of weather. Hell, he’d be lucky if he only caught a cold; but Chip’s secretary, Captain Rutland, had asked him to meet Chip here, saying it was urgent. So he cleared his schedule and here he was.
Steven pulled his coat collar as high as he could on his neck, opened his umbrella and tucked his head down. He used the umbrella as a shield against the wind and rain as he strode across the sands towards the solitary figure, standing just off the high tide line. Steven’s security detail fanned out about him and Chip in a defensive perimeter, similar to the type that the secret service used to protect the President.
All of the security men were dressed in rain slickers, ball caps and no-fog rain goggles. They each carried an MP10 in plain sight and Sig-Sauer forty caliber handguns under their slickers. Steven’s chauffeur, who doubled as Steven’s personal body guard, provided additional up close and personal protection and was always less than ten feet behind him. He carried his MP10 under his overcoat. It had a collapsible stock, which allowed it to be pretty much undetectable to the untrained eye, and he was a highly skilled at hand to hand combat.
A quarter mile away, at the entrance to the park, a van with five more men, all former military, sat ready to act at a moment’s notice to intervene on Steven’s behalf.
As he approached Chip, Steven called out, “Hey, buddy, why the cloak and dagger stuff?”
Chip didn’t answer and he didn’t turn around. He just stood there facing into the wind and the rain. Steven, somewhat perplexed by the lack of response, stepped up next to him and stood there looking out to sea, just as Chip was doing. After a few moments of awkward silence, Steven asked, “What are we doing here, Chip?”
Chip shrugged his shoulders, his gaze focused on the sea. Steven, not sure what say, stood silently for a few more minutes, then touched his friend’s arm, while looking at his face and asked, “Care to share my umbrella?” That was when Steven noticed that Chip wasn’t really looking out to sea. He was just staring into space with a look of deep sorrow on his face. When Chip didn’t answer, Steven asked, “What’s wrong, Chip?” as he waved for his personal guard to back away and give them space.
Chip blinked his eyes and sighed before he answered. He then stated quietly, “They killed them!” His eyes continued to look straight ahead as the wind driven rain pelted his face.
“Who killed who?” Steven asked.
“The terrorists killed Elaine and the kids! They killed Ryan and Nichol, they were just babies,” Chip stated through a catch in his voice. Chip’s eyes appeared to be on the verge of tears, or maybe he was already crying. It was hard to tell in the rain.
“Elaine and the kids? Where? How?” Steven inquired.
“They were in San Antonio at the shopping mall that the terrorists attacked Friday morning.”
“Oh God, no! That can’t be. Oh, no Chip, I’m so sorry! Let’s get you on my plane. I’ll fly you there. Come on let’s get you to the airport,” Steven offered as he started to turn away.
“That won’t change anything or help anyone. David has his friends to console him. We were never that kind of close, anyway. I’ll attend the funerals, or rather the funeral, after the medical examiner confirms the IDs and cause of death. I’ll catch a flight on my own for that.”
“I won’t hear of it. Let me fly you there. I know that Mary will want us to be there for you and David. You’re family, as far as we’re concerned.”
“No. David wants a very private ceremony–just a priest, himself and me at the internment. It’s a cremation. All three will be buried together,” Chip replied curtly in a near sob, his pain showing on his face, as well as in his voice.
Steven took no offense. He knew his friend was hurting badly, and he was struggling to vent his pain. They stood together looking out at the sea and after several minutes, Steven placed his hand on Chip’s shoulder. “Come on, let’s get out of the rain and find a place to have a drink. I know you can use one.”
“I need to know a few things, Steven,” Chip blurted out, while failing to move at his friend’s touch.
“Like what?” Steven asked, with a puzzled expression on his face as he turned his back to the rain.
“How committed are you?” Chip asked.
“How committed to what?” Steven replied.
“I turned in my retirement papers this morning. And now I need to know if you were serious about your private army, or rather your security force?”
“I’m very serious!”
“I’m not talking about some half-assed operation. It has to be all or nothing,” Chip stated brusquely.
“What would you like me to do to convince you? Write it in blood or something?” Steven teased, trying to lighten the mood a bit.
Chip turned and looked his friend directly in the eye. “That would be a start,” he stated coldly without a hint of humor. After a moment of silence, still staring at his friend, Chip continued in a stern, clear voice. “There’s going to be lots of blood. The people you’re asking me to protect you from don’t care if they live or die, and they certainly want to kill you and me. There is likely to be an ocean of blood, and it’ll get on everyone and everything close to it. There won’t be any positive spin to put on this if the wrong people find out. Everything and everyone you hold dear will be at risk.”
“Like, they aren’t now!” Steven blurted out. “I’m a target and my family is a target, just because I’m successful. The fact that I’m a westerner is icing on the cake! Look around,” Steven loudly uttered as he waved his arms expansively. “You think I like having to travel with this circus? And you know my family has even more people watching them. I don’t have a choice. I’ve got to do what I’ve got to do, to protect my family, my company and my country. Yeah, I’m prepared to take the heat. The group will provide everything, and we won’t spare the money to do more, or to get the best of both men and equipment. You have carte blanche. You’re in charge, totally and completely,” Steven stated with an air of finality.
“I’ll walk the minute you try to tell me to ace some politico here in the States or a business suit that you simply don’t like. I’ll also spill everything to anyone who’ll listen. The only rules I’ll accept are the Marquess of Queensbury Rules,” Chip stated flatly.
“What are those?” Steven queried.
“Those I place on myself. It’s a deal breaker,” Chip stated, his voice as cold as the dark side of the moon.
“You have the final say, on everything we do.” Steven assured him once more.
“The first operation will be to go after the cell that killed my family.” Chip’s voice was hard and final. His eyes were locked on his friend in a cold stare.
“I can live with that, as long as you also have teams working on the regular protection details and boosting corporate security, as well,” Steven stated as he looked off in the distance. Not enjoying seeing this side of his friend, he hesitated for a moment and then said, “I know you. You don’t think the government will do anything about the attacks. You feel the only way to get justice is to kill them yourself, right?”
When Chip didn’t answer, Steven laid into him. “Now who’s on the ego and power trip? Huh?” Steven asked,- echoing Chip’s comments from the night they talked about Steven’s reasons for wanting to do this, just eight days ago.
Chip’s expression didn’t change and his words were hard as stone. “I don’t care how you feel about it. It’s another deal breaker. You know damn well, just as I do, the government won’t bother to find them. They won’t take the action needed to ensure that there will never be another attack because someone, somewhere, will be offended if they do. They’ll bend over backwards to keep things politically correct,” Chip snarled.
“If you have half the connections and half the intelligence capabilities you claim, we can find them and we can kill every last son of a bitch. It’s time that we started acting like them and started terrorizing them. That’s the deal. Take it or leave it!” Chip’s voice was sharp as a razor’s edge.
Steven stood staring out to sea for several moments before he spoke again. “So why did we have to meet out here in the rain?”
“Because I didn’t come to this decision lightly, and I didn’t want anyone watching or listening. The rain causes problems for prying eyes and ears. But mostly, I didn’t want to taint my office or yours with talk of treason,” Chip stated.
“I am turning my back on my government and my country which I have spent my whole adult life supporting and defending. That stops today! The assholes in charge do not deserve my loyalty. Their inaction has caused the death of my family and will cause the death of my country if I don’t take a stand.”
“The Declaration of Independence states, or maybe it was just Thomas Jefferson who said, ‘For evil to triumph, it all it takes is for good men to do nothing.’ I’ve stopped being a good man doing nothing! So where’s my post?” Chip curtly asked.
“I think you’ll find it satisfactory. Have you got time for a trip today?” Steven asked as he put his hand on Chip’s shoulder. This time, Chip let him lead him to the car.
*********
Jun 18
Tom Ufert is a disabled guy, and he doesn’t want your pity or your money. He wants you to better yourself and fulfill your potential. His first book “Adversity Builds Character” is a must-read, inspirational story that tells you exactly where Tom comes from, where he has been and why you will want to root for him, forever more. Tom has been everywhere, struggled, succeeded and always helped others.
Adversity Builds Character:
From an early age, author Tom Ufert can remember his grandmother proclaiming that adversity builds character. At the time, he didn’t completely understand what it meant or know that he would actually live it. In Adversity Builds Character, Ufert shares the events that altered and shaped his life and shows how, with God’s help, he was able to survive, thrive, and inspire others. In this memoir, he narrates his life story and tells about the adversity he has faced–his mother’s early divorces; the breakdown of his relationship with his sister; his adoption by family friends; his mother’s illness and murder; his contact with a predatory pedophile; his questioning of his own sexuality, bisexuality, and eventual acceptance of being gay; alcoholism and sexual addiction; diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis and HIV; and paralysis from a car accident. Revealing, honest, painful, and tender, Adversity Builds Character communicates the power of the human spirit to overcome the trials of modern life. It shows how Ufert’s suffering paved the way for a deep appreciation for life and God’s role in the world.
Reviews:
“An impressive story about the author’s life.
I felt compelled by the honesty and openly Tom narrates his life an how, from all the adversities and tribulations that came one after another, he was able to learn and to get the necessary strength to continue living with energy and willingness to do more.
I liked the openness and sincerity in touching very personal aspects of his life. It’s very hard to find such a person that, by sharing his experience, may inspire others to appreciate what they have in life.”~ Eduard Lopez
“As an author myself and a radio host who has interviewed many authors, including Tom Ufert, I was thoroughly impressed with the character and resolve of Mr. Ufert.
Adversity Builds Character will take you into the mind and life of Tom Ufert. Through most of the book I noticed my mouth agape in shock, in horror, but mostly with an overwhelming sense of love for Tom and what he has endured.
I look at what he went through and I’m in complete awe of his amazing attitude, maturity, and insight into life itself.
You won’t be disappointed with his personal story and how he has overcome tragedy throughout his career. Nothing is impossible for Tom Ufertand you will understand why when you read his book, Adversity Builds Character: An Inspirational True Life Story of Disability, Addiction, and Acceptance.
A well deserved 5-Stars!”~ Brae Wyckoff
“Adversity builds character is the story of a young man’s life struggles to find his way through the trials and tribulations, family turmoil, self-determination and personal judgment.
This transformational life experience, like so many, demonstrates the triumph of the human spirit over the pitfalls in our modern world. From a divorce wrecked family life brought on by that by a disease ridden single mom, he is blessed with the first of many second chances. His godmother and her family, which becomes his stepparents, cause him to overcome personal character flaws. This new home life radically averts potential disaster and leads him to greater heights by redirecting the God-given talents of his character leading to never before realized academic and social achievements. At the height of his newfound career, his world is shattered yet again by the sudden tragic loss of his mother in a bizarre event of a mercy killing and suicide. While attempting to put this catastrophe behind him, drinking and sexual experimentation almost ruin his future hopes of a promising political career.
He decides to study abroad and finds the first real love of his life. Yet short-lived and having to return, divorce of his stepparents again forces a change of direction, ultimately pointing the way to his true self. While postponing his career, he relocates and discovers a world where he finally feels at home and accepted without ridicule. As is so often the case where comfort and overconfidence leads to weakness and self-destruction, it is at this moment that one either succumbs to the burden of outside influence or gathers up all his strength to rise above like a Phoenix.”~ Susan Mahoney
Jun 17
During a recent webinar, I let slip that I would be working with Michael Haden in the near future. Today, I woke up to a bunch of reader emails asking in what capacity. Now, I think it’s about time I let you all in on the secret…
The secret is… Michael will be touring blogs very soon to promote his book “A Deal With God”. The tour will kick off on Novel Ideas and move over to several other blogs, including an appearance on the Angie Harris show and culminate with a premiere Google hangout show that will be hosted by yours truly. I know this comes only a few days after I announced a similar tour with Lloyd Tackitt., but you have to grab the bestsellers when you can.
Watch this space. You will be seeing more of the very talented Michael Haden on Novel Ideas.
Review:
“A Deal With God – The Power of One is a unique love story inspired by a true story and real events. Author Michael Haden, delivers an entertaining and delightful fictional novel that is full of romance, real-life drama and intrigue. A true testament to the love and grace of God, revealing the power of perseverance and the power of one, this novel exemplifies absolute trust and faith in God.
Follow Deana Murphy, a promising young woman with a bright future ahead, abruptly cut short when she was hit head on by a drunk driver. Upon her death she begged God for another chance. He gave her that chance, but in the form of a mandate. Her mission-to leave the familiar, forsaking the past and to fully commit herself and her future to a man of God’s choosing. This will require complete trust and dedication, a forsaking of one’s own will to fulfill the call of God, in the pursuit of saving others.
Be introduced to Leon and Rebecca Samuels who were college sweethearts. Due to an unexpected pregnancy Rebecca found herself reluctantly getting married before she could finish her college degree. Leon was a good man, but didn’t understand why Rebecca was always so unhappy. Time passes, more children are bornand things can suddenly change.
As unexpectedly as Leon’s life changed, Deana Murphy came into Leon’s life. She was a God send-literally. Escape to a romantic call to family, love and the enduring power of God’s saving grace, this book is captivating and a page-turner. You’ll fall in love with Deana and root her on as this tenacious young woman takes on the challenge presented to her by none other than Almighty God.
Entertaining, sweet and romantic this book will delight the reader and is a fun, fast-paced read. You’ll not want to put this book down once you begin, so get comfortable. Author Michael Haden’s writing style is captivating and engaging, one chapter at a time.
A highly-recommend, quality book that is well-written, engaging, romantic and encouraging with a surprising twist ending that delivers an unforgettable journey of the human spirit while promoting commitment to faith, family and love revealing that inner strength and healing is available, even in the face of insurmountable obstacles.”~ CBM Book Reviews
Catch an interview with Mike here!
Jun 17
Contact: Nick Wale
Email: Nick@nickwale.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DOCTOR IVAN RATBURN IS SET TO PUBLISH HIS WORLD-CHANGING BRAINOGRAPHY MANUAL
It was announced yesterday that Dr Ivan Ratburn will be releasing his much anticipated, tongue-in-cheek manual regarding the state of modern mental health. The manual will focus on over prescribed medications and the way the modern world has created a need for prescription anti-depressants.
“Brainography” should be on general release by the end of the month.
Jun 17
Tonight will not swing. Tonight is for Serious.
Inside, Cliff Roberts is at one with his laptop, sitting in a sleeved shirt he sits with a straight back. A cigarette smoulders in the ashtray to the left of his huge, overpowering arms. A pair of glasses, tinted, sit on his forehead. He is a writer at work.
Outside, in the hall, a man waits, wondering what to do with his hands.
Unruly fingers, that love typing like they love paper cuts, type methodically. Cliff Roberts has a manuscript to finish. This one is called “Fatal Mistake.” It will be his first.
Cliff’s wife, Donna, stands by in anticipation as the final few paragraphs are finished. The story is now complete.
“You ready?” he asks Donna. “It’s done.”
She nods with a smile.
Cliff stands up with the now fully loaded thumb drive. He walks towards the door and with one swift movement finds himself outside in the hall. A conversation occurs. The man who had been waiting leaves with the thumb drive and all is well.
The book has been delivered to the publisher.
Cliff Roberts has been a pauper, a pirate, a poet and a police commissioner. His home is a tribute to his long career. Awards for salesmanship hang from walls, pictures of meetings long forgotten adorn his desk. Now, he has turned a new corner. He has lived enough for two lives and can now write of September. Of the bruising days. Of the rouged lips and bourbon times. Of chill winds. Of forgotten ladies who ride in limousines.
His mind may wander back to days of old Detroit or days of forgotten political campaigns. Perhaps, he thinks of the day he arrived; perhaps he is thinking of the day he will leave.
September can be an attitude or an age or a wistful reality. For Cliff Roberts, it is a time of achievement. A time to write.
A thousand days of writing.
Find Cliff Roberts on Facebook and catch previous news about Cliff here!
Jun 14
Contact: Nick Wale
Email: Nick@nickwale,org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NOVEL IDEAS SIGNS PROMISING NEW AUTHOR FOR TEN BOOK DEAL
At 12.13 EST Cliff Roberts signed a contract to become the latest addition to the Novel Ideas family. The multi-book deal is said to begin with the release of the much anticipated first Roberts novel, “Fatal Mistake.”
Roberts said that he “felt like he was at home,” with the Novel Ideas family. The first Cliff Roberts novel will be available later in the month. Further details will follow.
Jun 14
Tommy Clark and Ellen Mae Franklin are both highly regarded fantasy writers. It has been said that the fantasy genre is overcrowded with newbie writers who want their wild imaginations to become the next bestseller. I think it would be fair to say that Tommy and Ellen have both managed to create wonderful books. Ellen has just authored her first, hot selling novel,”The Unseen Promise,” and Tommy has written the highly rated “Rogue’s Phoenix Chronicles“.
I thought it would be rather fun to interview them both together. So, here for the first time, I am happy to present the wonderful Ellen Mae straight from Australia and the very talented Mr Clark from the U.S.A…
Will I ever get a Russian writer on Novel Ideas?
Ellen Mae Franklin has been tearing the fantasy world up with her first release “Unseen Promise.” Have you read it?
Nick: A huge hello to Tommy Clark and Ellen Mae!
Ellen: Great to be here, Nick!
Tommy: Hi, Nick!
Nick: How does it feel to be together on Novel Ideas?
Ellen: I love the interviews you do, Nick. I find myself visiting your site more and more often these days.
Tommy: Sometimes I visit in my sleep… It always wakes me up.
Nick: Good one Tommy and thank you so much, Ellen! Let me start by asking you something, Tommy. When did you know you would grow up to become a writer?
Tommy: I just sort of fell into it. I did theatre in high school. I did forensics and did improv for competition. In college, I started to work behind the scenes and eventually wrote, directed and produced a movie for the student one-act show. After that, I just couldn’t stop.
Nick: You produced a movie? Can you tell me more about that?
Tommy: Oh geez. It was a horrible attempt. It was a script I wrote to tell my view on my Christian belief. I believe we are Christians living in a secular world and wanted to express to people that we shouldn’t be so strict or uptight about our beliefs. It was about four college roommates– one of which wasn’t a Christian. The other three were each a different “style” of Christian.
Nick: What does it mean to be Christian to you, Tommy?
Tommy: Oh my – there’s the question. I believe we are each correct in our own way. I don’t believe that there is “one” correct way to believe, and if a person’s beliefs guide them into a humble and respectable lifestyle–one where we treat others well and do the best we can with what we have–that sort of sums it up. We are all in the same position. What would make me better than the guy standing beside me? Absolutely nothing.
Nick: I think that’s a very apt point, Tommy. So, Ellen, what do you have faith in?
Ellen: I have a deep faith. It’s quite personaland I find as people we hold a tendency to embrace the chaos of things around us. We also have the capacity to do great things. I have faith in this.
Nick: So, let me ask you, how does faith affect your writing?
Ellen: It doesn’t at all. I do try to bring in characters that show a balance on human behaviour to outline that all actions have consequences. To do good takes more effort than doing bad. Through my words I endeavor to point this out.
Nick: What about you, Tommy? Does your faith shine through your writing?
Tommy: Actually, I agree with you, Ellen. When I write a story, I try to keep my faith out of the story unless my faith is the reason for it. I have a couple of scripts inspired by visits to church when I was in high school or what I saw in others. It is stories like Mental Health Day where I write to speak to the reader as a human being. I will write characters who act in ways I wouldn’t dare. It is fun to do this. People are very surprised when they read about these characters.
Nick: What actually makes a great character, in your opinion, Tommy?
Tommy: Someone the reader can relate to. Whether they love the character, hate the character or enjoy what the character brings to the story. I believe my favorite type, no matter the genre, is the comic relief. That character can keep a person reading even if the story slows a bit.
Ellen, I agree. While my beliefs are very liberal in both of those environments, I know several people who believe otherwise.
Ellen: I would like to mention that, as you know, fantasy is endless. I am moralistic by heart. My short stories enforce that more, for I can give them endings with a ‘See what would happen if?’ I like to create new characters not seen before. Complex personalities and worlds that are non existent make the greatest characters.
Nick: Have you ever hated a character you’ve created, Ellen?
Ellen: I love my characters – even the very evil ones. In fact, the more evil, the more complicated a personality, the more endearing they are to me.
Nick: Tommy, do you think people love to hate some characters?
Tommy: I am going to show my “nerd” side here but, I love watching Wrestling. I enjoy it for the same reason most men do. I love the storyline element as well as the finesse of the characters. I do not watch UFC because I am not a fan of real fighting. I love the stylized and over the top version. With that being said, many people would agree that your “Face” character is only as good as the “Heel” he is up to. There are some wrestlers who you don’t like and don’t want to see wrestle. But there are some wrestlers you love to hate. I have seen shows or read stories where I have absolutely hated a character. Terry Goodkind has done a fantastic job at this with his Cara character. Anyone who has taken the time to read his work knows exactly what I am talking about.
Nick: Interesting comparison, Tommy. So, let me ask you Ellen. Have you ever read another writer’s work and thought, “Hell I can beat that.”
Ellen: That’s a question that could get me into trouble and will make me sound rather smug. But, yes and that is not to say that what I have read is bad, just different I suppose.
Nick: What is bad to you, Tommy?
Tommy Clark is burning up sales lists as we speak
Tommy: To me I don’t believe there is “bad” in writing, or movies or television for that matter. I believe that there is
just some material that is not for me. Now with that being said, and I have made this mistake, if a piece of work hasn’t taken steps to provide a clean read with minimal error, that might be “bad” in my mind. I am not the best reader, but seeing many errors back-to-back makes me not want to continue.
Nick: Well, we are out of time. I would like to thank you both for coming over for this chat with me.
Tommy: I loved it. We should do this again sometime.
Ellen: You bet!
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