Sunday, October 26, 2008

*Contest* Leigh Savage


**Contest** For a chance at winning a copy of Leigh's book, all you have to do is leave a comment and she'll pick a winner at the end of the week, you don't want to miss out so make sure to leave an email addy so we can contact you :)
Author Pen Name: Leigh Savage

CA: How did you choose your pen name?

Leigh: I took Leigh from Vivien Leigh who I’ve always admired. Then Savage came from my Fathers pen name Kain Savage. The combination of the name fits me very well with Leigh showing my romantic side of my writing and Savage being for the dark side that my writing sometimes leads me.

CA: What genre(s) do you write? Why do you write the stories that you write?

Leigh: I write mostly vampire paranormal romance. I’ve had several poems published online and in print. In November my first children book The Smile Box (written under my married name Carrie Lea Williams) will be available to buy.
I would say that even at a young age I was drawn to anything paranormal and that carried over into my writing.
CA: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

Leigh: In high school I became a huge Romance junkie and I loved to read any romance that had anything paranormal however at the time those type of books where had to find. So I started writing my own paranormal romance short stories to help get my fix. I remember sitting in my science class and a couple of the boy and girls would want to see what I had written so they’d be sitting in class reading my stories instead of their science books. Our science teacher never said anything to them since they where A students.
After graduating and entering the work force I had given up writing. I had seen over the years the ups and downs that my Father had gone though trying to get published and decided that I wasn’t going to put myself though that. Then in 2002-03 writing found me again with the story Angel of Death. I had to get it out…I remember at the time I was working as a waitress and ideals would come to me while at work so I’d write whole chapters of the book on napkins. Everyone that worked with me would get a kick out of me standing in the waitress station trying to hurry up and write my ideals down before I’d get a new table.

CA: Who or what was your inspiration for writing?

Leigh: I would have to say my Father even though he mostly wrote horror but he took the time to write stories just for me and he would read them to me at bedtime. My Father installed the love of reading and writing into me. My Father was also the one person when I first started writing that I could run all my writing through for guidance. In some ways he was my first Editor. In 2005 I lost my Father and my mentor. I still find it hard sometimes when I come up with a new ideal I want to pick up the phone and call him and I have to remind myself that he’s no longer there.

CA: What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

Leigh: For the most part since I’m working with a on demand publishing company I have no deadlines so I have lots of freedom with my schedule. Once I start writing down ideals I’m very in the zone don’t bother me. My kids will come up to me and ask for something and I’ll tell them to wait just a minute and the next thing I know it will be a hour later.

CA: Your book is about to be sent into the reader world, what is one word that describes how you feel?

Leigh: Mixed…I can’t just choose one emotion there are too many.

CA: What was your biggest challenge in writing your book(s)?

Leigh: It has to be my spelling and punctuation. I got my Father’s love of writing J but my Mother’s horrible spelling abilities L

CA: What do you like to do when you're not writing?

Leigh: I spend time with my husband of 12 years and my daughter who’s 5 and my son who’s 3. I’ve been a stay at home mom since the birth of my daughter. Hang out with my other Mom friends. When I get time to myself *sighs* I love to curl up and read a book, watch TV (mostly anime), gaming, chatting online with MySpace friends and of course surfing the clearance racks for great bargains. I also enjoy drawing and painting. This came very handy when designing the book cover for Angel of Death and the illustrations in my children book.




CA: How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?

Leigh: Angel of Death is my first in print novel. Soon to follow will be my children novel The Smile Box.
Still in the works is the follow up novel to Angle of Death called Shadows of my Past I also have a collection of short stories that I wrote with my Father called Bound by Blood and A book of Poetry that I’m still working on to get them ready for print.
It’s really hard to choose a favorite book…hummm…My favorite characters would be…Mika from Angel of Death and Desi from Shadows of my Past because both of them are strong female charters that can kick a** but at the same time be soft and loving.

CA: Do you tend to base your characters on real people or are they totally from your imagination?

Leigh: For the most part my characters tend to create themselves taking on a life of their own while I’m writing. So as I’m writing I get to see my charters develop and grow the same as a reader would the first time they read the book.

CA: Do you have any advice for the aspiring writers out there?


Leigh: I don’t know if I’m one to give advice…but I will say that this is one of the best times to become a writer there are so many ways to get your work out there that only a few years ago weren’t available. Now with E books, print on demand, blogs as well as more traditional methods of getting published. If you have the will you can find a way to get your work out there.

CA: How can a reader contact you or purchase your books?

Leigh: They can Email: leighsavage@sbcglobal.net

Become one of MySpace friends: www.myspace.com/leighsavage

You may buy Angel of Death at:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1434843017/ref=cm_pdp_arms_dp_img_1

https://www.createspace.com/3337961

Coming Soon: The Smile Box

https://www.createspace.com/3340332


CA: Is there anything you would like to add?

Leigh: I would like to take the time to thank you Crystal for taking the time to have me on your blog and interview me. I’d also like to thank the readers for taking the time to stop in and read the interview.

If you’ve read the interview and leave a comment I’ll enter you into a drawing for a chance to win a Signed Copy of Angel of Death. I’ll choose one winner a week for the remainder of October.

If you buy a copy of Angel of Death and email me at leighsavage@sbcglobal.net with the confirmation of the order I’ll enter you for a chance to win a Signed Angel of Death T-Shirt. I will choose one winner a week for the remainder of October.

I will post a list of names of all winners on MySpace Blog at the end of the contest.

CA: You heard the lady, a chance at winning her book! All you have to do is leave a comment for your chance to win!! Thanks so much Leigh for hanging out this week : )

Hubert Mullins




Hubert Mullins Interview

CA: So Hubert since the last time we spoke and I reviewed your last vampire novel, Rage of the Vampire what have you been up to?

HM: I’ve been hard at work on the third and final book of the trilogy titled ‘War of the Vampire’. I’ve just begun work on my newest book, a prequel called ‘Birth of the Vampire’.

CA: Where do you get your inspiration for your novels?

HM: Usually just every day life. If you pay attention to people and situations, you can come up with really interesting things. I can create a whole character simply by cobbling together personality traits and mannerisms of real people around me.

CA: Why vampires? What makes them more attracting than say… werewolves?

HM: For me, it was the idea of breaking the ‘cookie-cutter’ mold that has plagued vampires in common literature and media. I wanted to make them different, or at least rewrite the rules for their being. This idea fascinated me. Who knows, maybe one day I’ll give the same treatment to werewolves.

CA: How do you balance your writing with your daily life?

HM: It’s all about scheduling. I’m a very systematic person. If I can squeeze in just one or two hours a day of writing, I can make that go a long way. At the end of the week, I try to schedule in at least a whole day of writing or world-building.

CA: If you could accomplish one thing with your writing, what would that be?

HM: Just to entertain people. I’m not trying to change the world. If I can make one person forget their problems for a few hours, then I’ve accomplished my goal.

CA: What age group do your books fall in?

HM: Generally my age group is around 18-25, but recently I’ve discovered this has opened up. Lots of older people have started enjoying my books and I’ve even talked with a few children as young as 12 who have read them.

CA: Who is one person living or not so living… that you would like to meet? Why?

HM: I would love to have met H.P. Lovecraft. He is one of the few authors who dabbled in dark fantasy. That is such a rare thing today and Lovecraft did it like no other.

CA: Are you planning more vampire novels in the future?

HM: I’m currently working on a prequel novel that revolves around the life of famed vampire Kersey Avonwood, titled Birth of the Vampire and should be released next fall.

CA: How can readers learn a little more about you and your books? Do you have websites they can visit?

HM: Sure, I invite readers to visit my website at www.HubertLMullins.com or my MySpace at www.myspace.com/hopescovenant

CA: Is there anything you would like to add? Maybe an exerpt?

HM: I have just posted the first chapter of my new book War of the Vampire on my website. I encourage everyone to check it out.

CA: Hubert, thanks so much hope you enjoy the interview!

HM: Thank you!

J. Walt Layne



Author Pen Name: J. Walt Layne

Author Interview Questions:

CA: What genre(s) do you write?

JWL: I guess you could say I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up, I’ve written a legal thriller (Frank testimony, featured here), co-authored a Cthulhu Mythos tale, a trilogy of espionage/ techno thriller screenplays, and I’m currently working on a series of old school pulp detective novels, written in the hard boiled style.

CA: Why do you write the stories that you write?

JWL: This is a good question, I’m never happy with the way I answer it. In some cases, I’ve resurrected stories forgotten or in progress, or tied them together to help out a writing friend, as in the case of The Coming of T’Loal (more on this later). In another case, with Frank Testimony, I didn’t even know the story was inside me until I got a prompt from a flash fiction group I belong to, I blew that flash, but 40 days and 144,000 words later I had a novel, my first work over 100,000 words.
It isn’t always clear to me why I am writing a story, sometimes not until long after it’s done. Writing is a compulsion with me, and when I sit down to write I can usually tune in to the muse within a couple of paragraphs and then it just sort of takes care of itself.
With the pulp series, I think it is a combination. I love the pulps and have wanted to do some detective stories for a while. I think this is part tribute to my favorite writers; some of it is just a fascination with the language, and curiosity at whether or not I can actually pull it off. All in all I guess I write the kind of thing I hope I’d like to read.

CA: Tell us about your most recent release:

JWL: Frank Testimony is the story of Frank Burchill. The road to death row at the notorious Parchman Farm Penitentiary is long and difficult for Frank. He inherits a fortune when Mae, the woman he loves dies, but throws it away in the blink of an eye to square up with the guy who killed her. Bobby Lee Russell the antagonist in the book is that mean kid everyone knows from grade school. He’s mean because he’s ignorant and unsophisticated. He never grows out of it and becomes the perfect recruit for the grand old hate club. I set the story in the rural town of Bedford in Nathan County Mississippi; I like to think that the location is a very important character in the story.

CA: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

JWL: Oh, I’ve been writing stories since I learned to spell the words. I had and entire bookshelf full of notebooks and legal pads full of stories I’d written through the years and actually lost a lot of it during various moves and purges of excess stuff over the course of my younger years. I started thinking seriously about writing and being a writer when people who didn’t have a vested interest in not hurting my feelings were telling me that my stuff was solid. When other writers said so, it really meant something to me and I wanted to write more.

CA: Who or what was your inspiration for writing?

JWL: I think somewhere inside me is a very angry person who needs a lot of therapy. My inspiration aside from that voice I refer to as the muse, comes from mileage, life experience, walking a lot of miles in my own boots, and having a lot of overbearing influences in my young life telling me what I couldn’t do and assuring me that I’d fail… They were right; I sucked at doing it their way.

CA: What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

JWL: Ha, I’m a mad man… I get up early and write before work, sneak in some time to write at work, take my laptop and write before class, and then if I’m not too exhausted after helping kids and myself to homework I write before bed time.

CA: Your book is about to be sent into the reader world, what is one word that describes how you feel?

JWL: Excited and maybe a little scared. I’ve had several people who’ve read it email me and tell me how much they like the story, including two of my professors. I don’t expect everyone will like it, but that’s the beauty of being human beings, everyone’s taste is different. I do hope that people read it all the way through before they pass judgment.

CA: What was your biggest challenge in writing your book(s)?

JWL: Time- I have four full time commitments family, work, school, and writing. Luckily my wife and I own our business. Before I left my job to help build our business (Independent Accounting & Bookkeeping Service, Inc) I would sometimes write through the night and then try to work on no sleep… It was crazy. I certainly never suffer from writer’s block, if anything I have more trouble turning it off so I can get some rest

CA: What do you like to do when you're not writing?

JWL: Spend time with my wife and kids, I read a lot, I like movies and we watch the crab show on Discovery. We do lots of family stuff, it’s the second marriage for both of us and we are making the most of it. We have three girls between us (hers, mine, and ours) and we do as much as we can with them, building a good crop of stories to tell the grandkids, which better not get here for another 20 years. Cooking, my wife and I love to be in the kitchen together. We believe that teaching the girls to cook helps them learn responsibility. They’ve made everything from dill pickles to chicken enchiladas.

CA: How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?

JWL: I’ve completed maybe a dozen novel length stories, and I’ve published two of them… My current favorite is Frank Testimony, my legal thriller. It came about in an odd way, and I guess that’s why I’m attached to it.
I belong to the writing community at http://www.zoetrope.com/; I used to participate in a couple of flash fiction offices there. In the more active of the two, there was no flash planned for the weekend of new years (2006). Another member of the office, posted a challenge, the prize was going to be publication in her online magazine The Redrum Tavern (no longer online). The prompt was Death. As I mentioned earlier, I really blew that flash, but I managed to write my best work to date… Happy accident that.

CA: Do you tend to base your characters on real people or are they totally from your imagination?

JWL: I like to think that my characters are themselves, born entirely from my imagination, but I know that the influence had to come from somewhere. Most all of my characters have their own distinctive voice and personality, very few of them have I sat and done painstaking character studies on. I like for them to live and breathe so you can get attached to them, so when I kill them off you’ll genuinely feel bad for them and want to keep reading and see the antagonist get his, or hers.

CA: Do you have any advice for the aspiring writers out there?

JWL: Yes, absolutely. If you want to write and publish your work to sell, you have to read and write a lot. Don’t be afraid of writing the wrong thing. It’s a dumb idea, but I hear new writers say it a lot. I had a professor who dearly loved reading and writing, a PhD and lots of hours of post doctoral study on writing… She couldn’t write because the rules were in her way, she said she envied the ability to just write on impulse… I told her the same things I’ve said here- read and write a lot, don’t be afraid of writing the wrong thing… There is no right and wrong when it comes to telling your story. Right and wrong come into play when you are talking about grammar, and diction, and structure. You’ll know when they do; if you’ve done this part wrong it will hit your ear like nails on a chalkboard. The first draft is for the writer, tell the story, and let it unfold, listen to the story as it plays in your mind and just type or write it out…. In the second draft you tighten up the language and the grammar. This is where you’ll spackle over any small pits to answer any vague questions. You’ll know if something doesn’t work when you proceed through this. Then print a copy to farm out to a few people to read. I like to give each reader a different color pen to make notes with on the hard copy, if they’re reading it from a word document, then the comments tool is brought into use. You’ll get there, its all trial and error.

CA: How can a reader contact you or purchase your books?

JWL: Readers and fans, if I have any (READ ADORES THOSE WHO LIKE HIS WRITING) can contact me through my website at http://www.jwaltlayne.com/ or www.myspace.com/crimewriterguy to purchase Frank Testimony please go to www.lulu.com/jwaltlayne

CA: Is there anything you would like to add?

JWL: Yes, I’d like to thank you for the opportunity to share with your readers about myself and my writing. I’d also like to thank my wonderful wife, Paula for all the most precious gifts in my life.

CA: J. it is always a good thing to thank your wife, more men need to learn that! And thank you, for taking time out to hang out at the blog with me this week!

Monday, October 20, 2008

Pamela S. Thibodeaux



** FREE STUFF **

*Free Stuff*
Also, everyone who posts a comment will receive a .pdf file called Thib’s Teaser which contains blurbs and excerpts of all my published books/stories, a Free short story and discount coupons worth over $20 in savings when they purchase books directly from me!

Author Pen Name: Pamela S Thibodeaux

Author Interview Questions:

CA: What genre(s) do you write? Why do you write the stories that you write?

PST: I write Inspirational ‘with an edge’ romantic and women’s fiction. I write romance because I love – LOVE and all those gooey emotions that go with it. I write Inspirational to share my faith and God’s goodness with the world.

CA: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

PST: I don’t remember ever ‘wanting’ to be a writer. I’ve always been an avid reader and after reading one too many disappointing books, thought I could do better. A bit arrogant as it turns out that writing well is a lot harder than I initially imagined.

CA: Who or what was your inspiration for writing?

PST: As I mentioned in the previous question, thinking I could do better than what I currently read was the impetus for me to begin writing. However, in 1989 I recommitted my life to Christ and my writing to Him and that’s when my focus changed from secular romance to what I write today.

CA: What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

PST: Well, like many I maintain a full-time job so my writing is limited to mornings, evenings and weekends. When I’m actively writing or editing a book or story, I try to focus mainly on that in the time that I have. If I’m between projects, I use that time to promote, blog, write articles, etc.

CA: Your book is about to be sent into the reader world, what is one word that describes how you feel?

PST: Humbled.


CA: What do you like to do when you're not writing?

PST: Read. I sometimes watch a good movie with my husband but I LOVE to read!

CA: How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?

PST: I currently have 5 published novels, 1 contracted novel, and 1 not-yet-contracted, which is a total of 7 full-length novels (70K words or more). My favorite is the one I haven’t written yet. J Seriously, it’s hard to pick a favorite out of those I’ve written as I become attached to the characters and story so much during the writing/editing stage that I can’t pick just one! I love the creating process. I also love when the story is over because then I can move on to the next one.

CA: Do you tend to base your characters on real people or are they totally from your imagination?

PST: I’m sure each character has traits similar to those of someone I know, but they are all totally imagination. Each one takes on a life of his or her own.

CA: Do you have any advice for the aspiring writers out there?

PST: Whatever you write, write well. Strive for excellence. Stay teachable, pliable, and flexible. Never believe that you know it all because knowledge is power and the more you know the more valuable you become. Above all share what you learn with others and make someone’s load lighter to bear.

CA: How can a reader contact you or purchase your books?

PST: Readers can email me at: pthib-7@centurytel.net or pthib07@yahoo.com or pthib07@hotmail.com
My Website is: http://pamelathibodeaux.com/
My Blog: http://pamswildroseblog.blogspot.com/

My E-books are available through The Wild Rose Press and ComStar Media and the print books are available through Amazon.com and other book stores online.

Readers can also read some of my articles at Associated Content and/or Rate them at Helium!

CA: Is there anything you would like to add?

PST: Yes, I’d like to THANK YOU, Crystal for interviewing me for your blog. I’d also like to THANK my faithful readers for their continued support and to WELCOME new readers into my world. Most of all, I’d like to THANK GOD, for His continued blessings and faithfulness in opening doors for the publication of my work.

*Free Stuff*
Also, everyone who posts a comment will receive a .pdf file called Thib’s Teaser which contains blurbs and excerpts of all my published books/stories, a Free short story and discount coupons worth over $20 in savings when they purchase books directly from me!

CA: Thank you Pamela, I’ve not read your books yet but I hear good things, so you must be doing something right : ) Hope you have a wonderful week!














Shawn Oetzel


Author Pen Name:

I use my real name, Shawn Oetzel

Author Interview Questions:

CA: How did you choose your pen name?

Shawn: I worked too hard on my writing to let some unknown entity take credit! I use my real name, Shawn Oetzel.

CA: What genre(s) do you write? Why do you write the stories that you write?

Shawn: I tend to stick more with speculative fiction though I do dabble into crime fiction, fantasy, and horror. I write the stories I do because if I ignored them I am fearful my head might explode! Seriously though, I just have a passion for the craft and an incessant need to write. It is the one thing I do which brings me true happiness.

CA: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

Shawn: I think deep down on some primal level I always knew. I learned to read at a pretty young age. When most of my peers were reading See Spot Run, I was already reading novels. This led to a natural curiosity to try and write my own stories. I really started my writing seriously about six years ago. I got my fist short story published around that time, and from then on I was hooked.

CA: Who or what was your inspiration for writing?

Shawn: Terry Brooks has always been an inspiration. I was given his novel The Sword of Shannara the summer my parents got divorced. I was in the third grade. Whenever things got too heavy I could always lose myself in the worlds Mr. Brooks had created. I always hope I can have that same kind of effect on a young reader, and this is what continues to drive me.

CA: What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

Shawn: I do not have any kind of set schedule for when I write. I know some writers try and write everyday, and I tried doing that when I started out. It was a complete disaster however and my writing suffered. I have these creative moments or frenzies which is more accurate that come over me and that is when I sit down and write. There is no rhyme or reason to it. I do tend to write better at night and I never sit at the computer to write. I ink all my work on to legal pads and then type them into the computer. I find if I sit and stare at the monitor I freeze up and can’t write a word.

CA: Your book is about to be sent into the reader world, what is one word that describes how you feel?

Shawn: Jubilant!

CA: What was your biggest challenge in writing your book(s)?

Shawn: Fighting myself. I don’t get writer’s block per say, but I do experience writer’s laziness from time to time. Plus I have three kids that range in age from 3 to 13 so life tends to get in the way sometimes as well.

CA: What do you like to do when you're not writing?

Shawn: I love to read and go to the movies. I think those are two natural hobbies for writers. I am also a huge sports fan. I have been a die hard Chicago Cubs fan my whole life and have been savoring every minute of this season!

CA: How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?

Shawn: Dying Moon is my only novel being published at this time, but I am hoping to change that soon. I also have a middle grade/young adult novel entitled The Adventures of Captain Kitchen which I am shopping around to agent and publishers. I am in the process of putting the finishing touches on a project tentatively titled “The Agency”in the speculative fiction genre, and I honestly believe it is my best work to date and therefore my favorite.

CA: Do you tend to base your characters on real people or are they totally from your imagination?

Shawn: I would say it’s a combination of the two. Usually my main characters are an amalgam of people I know or have met. I take bits and pieces of family, friends, and acquaintances and incorporate them into my characters, but I also put my own spin in there as well.

CA: Do you have any advice for the aspiring writers out there?

Shawn: Write! If you have a story or an idea write it out. It’s the old axiom of practice makes perfect. Study the craft and write…write…write!

CA: How can a reader contact you or purchase your books?

Shawn: Sadly as of yet I have not joined the modern age and have my own website, but I can be found at my MySpace page at: http://www.myspace.com/dogfarmer73. My email is oetzel@verizon.net, and I would love to hear from your readers.

My book will be available January 28, 2009 through LBF Books. It will of course be available through their website: http://www.lbfbooks.com/ as well Amazon, Barnes & Noble and the other major chain websites.

CA: Is there anything you would like to add?

Shawn: First let me thank you for having me. I greatly appreciate this opportunity to tell a little about myself. I would also like to ask your readers to look for my short story “Scrunchies from Hell” which will be appearing in The Horror Express’s anthology later this year. Also please check out the latest issues of Tales of the Talisman magazine and Shroud Magazine which will have some of my book reviews as well as an interview I conducted with David Lee Summers. And of course keep your eyes open for my debut novel Dying Moon from LBF Books due out January 28, 2009!

CA: Thanks Shawn for taking the time out to do the interview, I’m sure the readers will enjoy : )

Lawrence Watt-Evans


Author Pen Name:
Lawrence Watt-Evans

Author Interview Questions:

CA: How did you choose your pen name?

LWE: I didn't; the editor of my first novel did. I wanted to use another pen name he thought was stupid. I explained that I couldn't use my real name unless we included the middle name because there was another author with that name (who, it turned out, was never going to publish another word after 1978, but I couldn't know that in 1979), and Lester, my editor, came up with the current hyphenated version as a compromise.

CA: What genre(s) do you write? Why do you write the stories that you write?

LWE: I write fantasy. I like the freedom of fitting the world to the story, rather than making the story fit the real world.

CA: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

LWE: Second grade. My teacher praised a writing assignment I'd done – my very first creative writing assignment, actually – and said maybe I'd be a writer someday, and I realized yeah, I wanted to do that. A lot.

CA: Who or what was your inspiration for writing?

LWE: Haven't a clue. I've just always wanted to tell stories.

CA: What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

LWE: My wife goes to bed around 11:00; when she's asleep I go down to my office and start writing. I quit around 3:30 in the morning and go to bed.

CA: Your book is about to be sent into the reader world, what is one word that describes how you feel?

LWE: Depends which book, but really, I mostly don't worry about it because I'm already focused on the next one.

CA: What was your biggest challenge in writing your book(s)?

LWE: Well, for this one, which is my first book-length non-fiction, I had no idea how time-consuming the research would be. It wasn't all that difficult or unpleasant, but going through everything over and over to make sure I had it all straight and hadn't missed anything significant ate up a lot of hours.

CA: What do you like to do when you're not writing?

LWE: I'm boring. I watch TV and mess around online.

CA: How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?

LWE: I lost count, and it depends how you figure it – do collaborations count as one or as fractions? Do reprint collections of short stories count? What about novelizations?

But it's more than forty, fewer than fifty.

My favorite is probably Dragon Weather. I think I got it right with that one.

CA: Do you tend to base your characters on real people or are they totally from your imagination?

LWE: They're mostly out of my own head.

CA: Do you have any advice for the aspiring writers out there?

LWE: Don't quit your day job. Even more than in times past, writing's a very precarious source of income; the web is changing everything.

CA: How can a reader contact you or purchase your books?

LWE: My books are in bookstores everywhere, and all the usual online outlets, but if you can't find them or want to reach me, my website's at www.watt-evans.com. New readers are always welcome in my discussion area.

CA: I have a copy of Mr. Evans’ book for review so check out my blog site within the next few weeks for that : )

Monday, October 13, 2008

J.S. Marlo * GIVEAWAY*


Ebook giveaway! All you have to do is leave a comment with your email addy to be entered for a chance to win Salvaged. I’ll draw a winner next Monday, the more comments the better chance you have to win.

Author Pen Name: J.S. Marlo

CA: How did you choose your pen name?

JSM: Marlo is a nickname my hubby gave me a long time ago, and J. and S. are the initials of the two people responsible for getting me to write again.

CA: What genre(s) do you write? Why do you write the stories that you write?

JSM: I write romantic suspense. Why? Well, I can either thank or blame my overactive imagination for that. What can I say, I like to take my readers for wild rides and keep them holding on to their seat, but at the same time, I also believe in true love and happy endings.

CA: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

JSM: Always and never. I’ve always dreamed of writing, but I never thought it would become a reality.
As a child, I loved to read and imagine different endings to my favorite books. I used to write short stories in my math class. My teacher turned a blind eye on my creative activities as long as I let her read them (and finish my homework). Since I was raised to be practical, I let writing slip away to earn a business degree. Then, four years ago, by accident, I stumbled on a writing site and rediscovered my passion for writing, except this time, I held on to it.

CA: Who or what was your inspiration for writing?

JSM: As a military wife and mother of three spirited children, I’ve had the pleasure to travel over the country, to live in wonderful places, to meet “memorable” people and to experience “unforgettable” adventures. Notice the words in brackets and the wicked smile on my face? Okay, you can’t see the smile, but it’s there. I guess every day life was an inspiration.

CA: What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

JSM: Totally random! My laptop follows me everywhere. I’m writing this sitting in a restaurant for breakfast. I try to write 1,000 words a day. Sometimes the words I labored over are gone the next day. I find I’m most productive between midnight and 2am when the house is asleep and the wind is blowing against the windows. Unfortunately, I’m usually too tired to stay up that late more than once or twice a week.

CA: Your book is about to be sent into the reader world, what is one word that describes how you feel?

JSM: TERRIFIED!!!

CA: What was your biggest challenge in writing your book(s)?

JSM: Language. English is my second language. I’m French Canadian and I only learned English in my late teens. Twenty-five years later, I still struggle with the language…and I never lost my accent.

CA: What do you like to do when you're not writing?

JSM: Does eating chocolate count? I love to walk, read and travel to go see my children scattered over the country.

CA: How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?

JSM: “Salvaged” is my first original novel and very special to my heart. I’ve also written two dozen stories for an online romance site. They’re all my babies, some more rambunctious than others. I’ve learned a lot from each of them, and I had fun writing every one of them.

CA: Do you tend to base your characters on real people or are they totally from your imagination?

JSM: Mostly from my imagination, though some of my characters share a few traits with people I’ve known over the years.

CA: Do you have any advice for the aspiring writers out there?

SJM: First, NEVER GIVE UP. If I made it that far, you can. And second, write for yourself, have fun with your characters and love your story. It will show in your writing.

CA: How can a reader contact you or purchase your books?

JSM: People are welcome to visit my webpage at http://members.shaw.ca/JSMarlo and email me at JSMarlo@shaw.ca
To purchase my book, follow the link to my publisher or go directly to http://sapphirebluepublishing.com

CA: Is there anything you would like to add?

JSM: Grab a book, buckle up and enjoy the ride. You’ll love the destination. Thank you!

CA: Thanks J.S. it has been fun reading your interview!
**Ebook giveaway! All you have to do is leave a comment with your email addy to be entered for a chance to win Salvaged. I’ll draw a winner next Monday, the more comments the better chance you have to win.

Kara Griffin *Giveaway*


* GIVEAWAY* If you’re reading this post, leave a comment and I’ll enter you into a drawing to win one of two jump drives preloaded with ebooks. You’ll get my latest release, Cosmic Hearts, a sci-fi romance. You’ll also get stories from Lizzie T. Leaf, Maura Anderson, and Celia Kyle. Not bad, eh? I’ll check periodically to add names to the drawing and we’ll choose a winner next Monday. Good luck!

Author Pen Name: Kara Griffin

CA: What genre(s) do you write? Why do you write the stories that you write?

KG: I write in many genres, whatever strikes my fancy. I love sci-fi romances, historical/paranormals, erotic contemporary, and even vamp romances…or other paranormals. My first love is historical/paranormal. I suppose I write it because I love history and revisiting it even if it’s only in my mind. But when I need a break from it, I delve into sci-fis. For me sci-fis are fun and I can be zany.

CA: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

KG: I’ve always had stories floating around in my brain, but seriously writing for me began in 2000 when a story just wouldn’t go away until I began typing it. I’ve been writing ever since.

CA: Who or what was your inspiration for writing?

KG: It’s funny…none in my family are really big readers. I have always been, since I was young. I’ve been inspired by many authors whose stories delighted me so much that I sometimes reread them again and again. For me there is nothing more inspiring than opening a book.

CA: What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

KG: Grumbles… I wish I had more time to write. From September to June, I work in school so my time is crunched, especially when you add in family things. So during the summer I’m usually writing from sunup to sundown and beyond. I sometimes forget to eat—which is probably why I only weigh…well…a girl should never tell. I can spend hours on the computer, and the kids tease that that’s when they ask me the questions I’ll say no to.

CA: Your book is about to be sent into the reader world, what is one word that describes how you feel?

KG: Excited!

CA: What was your biggest challenge in writing your book(s)?

KG: Getting published. Seriously, lol, writing is the easy part. Finding a publisher is a difficult thing, especially a publisher with whom you can develop a relationship with. I’m very lucky to be with Aspen Mountain Press and Midnight Showcase. My advice to aspiring authors…don’t give up – no matter what. Your dream is reachable.

CA: What do you like to do when you're not writing?

KG: Hmmm…that’s hard to answer because when I’m not working in school…I’m writing. The only thing that takes me out of my writing world is my 3 teenaged daughters. So I’d have to say spending time with them or helping them with something…or heaven forbid, cleaning their rooms.

CA: How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?

KG: I’ve fully written about ten books so far including anthologies. There’s about twenty more started, waiting on my laptop. My favorite would have to be Claimed By A Charmer, the second book in the Pith Trilogy, a historical/paranormal. The reason…I can so connect to the heroine and there’s a lot of me in her – except she’s more courageous that I ever have been. If I could be one of my heroines, it would definitely be Isabel. And I suppose that even though I’m happily married…having Douglas wouldn’t be bad either.

CA: Do you tend to base your characters on real people or are they totally from your imagination?

KG: My characters are solely based on my imagination. The only thing I might include are expressions or the way a person moves, or basic gestures. Non-writers might think this is strange (can’t help being a bit eccentric), but the characters tend to control who they are and what they do. I’m just along for the ride.

CA: Do you have any advice for the aspiring writers out there?

KG: Writing is one of the most pleasurable things a person can do. Enjoy it, and write what makes you smile or happy. Write from the heart and you can’t go wrong. And as I said earlier, don’t give up on your dream if you’re having a hard time. Keep working, keep submitting, keep moving forward.

CA: How can a reader contact you or purchase your books?

KG: I always love to hear from readers. They can contact me at karagrif66@comcast.net and to find my books, check Fictionwise or my publisher www.aspenmountainpress.com or they can always visit my website for a complete look into my books at www.karagriffin.webs.com

CA: Is there anything you would like to add?

KG: *Giveaway* If you’re reading this post, leave a comment and I’ll enter you into a drawing to win one of two jump drives preloaded with ebooks. You’ll get my latest release, Cosmic Hearts, a sci-fi romance. You’ll also get stories from Lizzie T. Leaf, Maura Anderson, and Celia Kyle. Not bad, eh? I’ll check periodically to add names to the drawing. Good luck!

And, thank you, Crystal for such a fun interview and for allowing me to share on your blog! It’s been fun.

CA: Thank you Kara for doing an awesome giveaway and for a great interview! I wish you tons of luck and keep it up : )

Elyse Draper



Author Pen Name: Elyse Draper

CA: What genre(s) do you write? Why do you write the stories that you write?

Elyse: I’ve actually written in both Non-Fiction and Fiction. In Non-Fiction I wrote for an anthology entitled “Voices of Autism”, a reference guide and support book for families and care providers dealing with autism. Why? Well I’ve worked with children for about seventeen years and over the last three specialized in working with those that have special needs. Having the opportunity to write for such a wonderful group as The Healing Project, who have published many “Voices” anthology books covering issues from cancer to Alzheimer’s, was too important to pass up.
In Young Adult Fiction, I am writing a series that falls into the genre-bending categories of a paranormal, science-fiction, fantasy. The inspiration for the series came from dreams that started soon after my latest stint of hospice work. The idea of good people dying so young left me sore from the unfairness of it all. In my dreams I created a world where special people, lost too young and traumatically, weren’t really lost. That proposal grew into a story about a world intersecting with ours, and explains all sorts of mystical questions. Playing in parallel myths, teenage angst, and wonderful characters both dramatic and independent, this is turning into a ghost story that has been truly exciting and compulsive to tell.

CA: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

Elyse: To tell the truth, I never really thought of my writing as anything more then a creative outlet. After encouragement from family, friends (one old, very good friend in particular) and a Philosophy professor who has became a wonderful friend as well…I decided to take the chance that my writing could be more then just an outlet. I’ve always been self conscious about my spelling, but with Spell-check… I didn’t have any excuses not to try. I’ve learned that this is not an easy business, but with patience, perseverance and a good support group you can accomplish anything.

CA: Who or what was your inspiration for writing?

Elyse: I’ve had many sources of inspirations for writing…most have come from watching very tough people cope with very difficult situations. In particular my mother, with her philosophies, internal strength, and a remarkable writing talent of her own; she inspired me to always keep pushing forward.

CA: What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

Elyse: I still work regularly with my Special Needs Children, and I’m a mom and wife; so finding time can be difficult. I have learned though, that in treating my writing as a full time job, I find time…at least 36 hours a week to write. If the novels aren’t flowing, I still sit in front of the keyboard and free write in my journal until something clicks.

CA: Your book is about to be sent into the reader world, what is one word that describes how you feel?

Elyse: Relieved

CA: What was your biggest challenge in writing your book(s)?

Elyse: Finding time, and then sticking to that schedule no matter what.

CA: What do you like to do when you're not writing?

Elyse: I love to read, swim, box, paint, and enjoy the outdoors. When doing any activities, including writing, I always have music playing.

CA: How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?

Elyse: Three. I’ve enjoyed them all for different reasons, but my favorite so far would be my second book in the “Free Will” series; “Consequences”.

CA: Do you tend to base your characters on real people or are they totally from your imagination?

Elyse: I do tend to base my characters on real people…but then they develop personalities outside that foundation. By the end, they are completely different creatures built almost entirely out of imagination.

CA: Do you have any advice for the aspiring writers out there?

Elyse: When I started writing fiction… I had to switch the gears of my imagination from drawing and painting to writing; a smoother transition then I thought. Book finished, I thought the hard part was over…WRONG. Finding representation, queries, self marketing, promotions…I still feel the aggravation. So, I developed a theory that helped curb the frustration.
There is a farmer in the UK who loves his cattle so much he actually paints with their manure. The truly crazy part is; he actually has a following. There are people that genuinely like his stuff. Just goes to show; if you find the right market, you can actually sell excrement on a canvas.
-Moral of the story, frustration aside…if you believe your work is sellable; with patience and perseverance you will find a market.


CA: How can a reader contact you or purchase your books?

Elyse: Amazon and Barnes and Noble both carry “Voices of Autism”, and please check out The Healing Project at http://www.thehealingproject.org/main.html. I’m am still in the process of selling the novels, but I do have sneak peeks at both “Free Will” and “Consequences” on my MySpace blog. If you would like to contact me, just send me a message on my MySpace page, http://www.myspace.com/authorelysedraper.


Sunday, October 5, 2008

Mary Dressel



Author Pen Name: Mary Dressel

CA: What genre(s) do you write? Why do you write the stories that you write?

MD: Right now I write Historical, Paranormal, and Contemporary Romance. I have to write the stories I write. The ideas just come to me, and I have to make a story out of them. I feel complete when a particular story is finished, like it was the story that was calling to me.

CA: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

MD: Oh, goodness, I have always known that I would be a writer! Ever since a child, I wrote, or made up stories and poems. Writing has always been something that's been important for me. It’s my solace.

CA: Who or what was your inspiration for writing?

MD: Other authors have been my inspiration, and still are. Always being an avid reader myself, I envied the people who had their name on books, and could fill the pages for other's enjoyment. When I was a child my dad was the one who got me into reading. He was a reader, so I in a way, he inspired me, too. Writing is my warm fuzzy! It's one of the most important things in my life. Whether or not I ever got published, or if I never get published again, I will still write.

CA: What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

MD: I usually write in the evening since I have a regular job during the day. I work at a middle school for ten months of the year, and I feel so lucky to have summers off to write. Then, I usually get up early before anyone else, and stay up late. Sometimes now, I write in a notebook at night while family stuff is going on, then later put it in the computer. When I am really motivated and the words are just flying free, I call it my “writing frenzy” because I can't stop. I try to fit it in every free minute I have.

CA: Your book is about to be sent into the reader world, what is one word that describes how you feel?

MD: When my books are ready to go into the reader world, I am both scared and ecstatic at the same time. I so want my readers to love it, I guess that's why it's scary, and of course ecstatic because I'm so proud of what I've accomplished.

CA: What was your biggest challenge in writing your book(s)?

MD: Finding time is and always has been my biggest challenge. With my first book, I had a family and ailing parents to work around, and now it's a full time job, and a new family to work around.

CA: What do you like to do when you're not writing?

MD: Photography is my hobby, and I enjoy creative photography. I'm still an avid reader, and have two or three books I'm reading right now.

CA: How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?

MD: Well, I've written the two I have published, and have three or four others in progress as we speak. At first Visions of Enchantment was my favorite. Then I wrote the second in the series, Enchantment's Embrace, and to date, that is probably my favorite. I'm beginning to really love the paranormal (vampire) I'm working on, too. My most current project is a novella, and it’s a bit more than sensual. Quite different for me. It’s winning a good race of my favorites!

CA: Do you tend to base your characters on real people or are they totally from your imagination?

MD: Probably about 97% of my characters are totally from my imagination. There are a few of my characters who are actually inspired from people I have known. My grandmother, whom I was very close to, inspired me to create one of my characters. Most come right out of my imagination!

CA: Do you have any advice for the aspiring writers out there?

MD: The best advice I can give aspiring writers is the same advice I got, and that is Write What You Know. When you have to write about something that you don’t know, then research until your reader believes you know it. And, most importantly, Never Give Up On Your Dream of becoming a writer.

CA: How can a reader contact you or purchase your books?

MD: I have an official Website and can be reached through that via guestbook, or email. That address is http://www.maryjdresselbooks.com My email address is dresselmj@aol.com I personally answer all my email, and love to hear from my readers and friends.

CA: Is there anything you would like to add?

MD: I write newsletters on a regular basis, and would like to invite everyone to read, and then hopefully subscribe to them. They can be found at http://www.maryjdresselsnewsletters.blogspot.com My February newsletter has an interview I did with C.J. Hollenbach, Fantasy Hunk of 2001, and Male Cover Model. Yikes! You have to check him out. In April I interviewed a Book Cover Designer who actually designed the cover for my two books, and one even won a Best Book Cover Art Award. He works at my publishing company. You can visit my BLOG, too! Http://www.maryjdresselbooks.blogspot.com

Lisa Pietsch



Author Pen Name: Lisa Pietsch (That’s my real name too ;-)

CA: What genre(s) do you write? Why do you write the stories that you write?

LP: I consider myself a cross-genre mutt. I write espionage with lots of action/adventure and romantic elements.

I write the stories I write because, if I don’t, the characters keep bugging me and keep me awake at night acting out new scenes. It sounds crazy, I know, but my characters pretty much write the stories themselves. I see the scenes being acted out in my head like a movie and I just have to put them on paper.

CA: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

LP: I’ve always wanted to write. My parents succeeded in convincing me that I needed a trade rather than a dream of success in the arts so I bounced around a bit and then joined the Air Force. It wasn’t until after I got married that someone actually encouraged me to write. I wrote my first novel for kicks after our first son was born and when my husband liked it, I realized I wanted to go the distance with writing novels.

CA: Who or what was your inspiration for writing?

LP: My life, the things I’ve done and the people I’ve met along the way are my inspiration.

CA: What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

LP: Ha! Everybody I’ve met who writes professionally says “Create a schedule and stick with it.” Well, I can’t do that. I have a pre-schooler and an infant at home so I have to grab writing time whenever I can. I prefer to do my writing early in the morning so I get up at 0400 to get a few hours of writing in every day. At the end of the day, I’m so drained that I can barely put two words together.

CA: Your book is about to be sent into the reader world, what is one word that describes how you feel?

LP: Thrilled!

CA: What was your biggest challenge in writing your book(s)?

LP: Finding the time to do revisions when I finally got a publishing contract. One thing after kept popping up. My oldest son got sick, then the baby got sick, then I got sick. By the time I’d recovered, a month had passed. Then my computer crashed. Once I got my fallback computer set up and ready to go, it crashed too. There are always going to be challenges when we choose to follow our dreams. We have to just adapt, improvise and overcome. Nothing worthwhile is easy.

CA: What do you like to do when you're not writing?

LP: I like to read real news stories and non-fiction about arms dealers, terrorists, human trafficking, drug trafficking, kidnap & ransom. I love reading Ian Fleming’s James Bond books and Cindy Gerard’s The Bodyguards series of books is another favorite. I also like watching movies about all of the above: James Bond movies, movies like Lord of War, Blood Diamond, Proof of Life, the Bourne movies.

I’m not all business though. I love Jane Austen, J.K. Rowling and Shakespeare too!

CA: How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?

LP: I’ve written one and am currently in the middle of revisions on it for my publisher, Sapphire Blue Publishing (http://www.SapphireBluePublishing.com). This is the first book in a series of seven books I have planned. The other six are outlined already. I also have a trilogy outlined to work on after I’ve finished this series.

CA: Do you tend to base your characters on real people or are they totally from your imagination?

LP: Every character of mine begins with the seed of reality. Some are based more loosely than others on real people. Then there are others that I just completely dream up.

CA: Do you have any advice for the aspiring writers out there?

LP: Don’t let anyone squash your dreams. If they try to, kick them to the curb. Keep pressing on. There are some questions I always asked myself when I got down about writing:

How many people say they want to write a novel before they die?
Of those, how many of them actually write one?
Of those, how many try to get it published?
Of those, how many do get published?

Writing the manuscript is just the first step but it is a huge step and praiseworthy.

CA: How can a reader contact you or purchase your books?

LP: I love making friends on MySpace! http://www.myspace.com/lisampietsch
My website is http://www.lisapietsch.com.
My publisher’s website is http://www.SapphireBluePublishing.com

CA: Is there anything you would like to add?

LP: There is no more amazing feeling than that which fills you when you follow your dreams and do what you are truly passionate about. If writing is what makes you feel alive then pursue it with every bit of your being. Don’t give up!

Valerie Anne Faulkner


Author Pen Name: Valerie Anne Faulkner

CA: What genre(s) do you write? Why do you write the stories that you write?

Valerie: My first novel, “I Must Be in Heaven, a promise kept,” is ‘a true, inspirational love story’ and has just been published in paper back. You ask why I have written this particular story…
Well, I never considered writing a book, however I have always enjoyed telling stories, and listening to them. Everyone I’ve ever met seems to have a story or two to tell, if you know what I mean.
My story literally had to be put on paper and shared. Its message is meant to offer hope, and insight. I personally experienced God’s presence in ordinary people, total strangers that I met, at the time this story takes place. Seemed one after another showed up… just when I needed them. Quite often people are placed along this path we call life; they shed light, on our darkness. But, we are too scared… we’re all afraid of the dark!
I for one had to keep faith when life seemed way to dim. And, I had to open my heart and my eyes to ‘see’ the light glowing, from these angels amongst us.

CA: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

Valerie: For me, I decided to write this story, when I realized I needed to write it all down and remember the miracles… and since I had made a promise, I needed to stay true to my word. At first, I planned to actually “Tell the Stories,” then the thought of writing a book to share them with people everywhere came to me.

CA: Who or what was your inspiration for writing?

Valerie: God has definitely been my inspiration.
Allow me to explain…It all began, due to a turn of events in my life. See, my hubby and I go back along way… childhood sweethearts, marriage, kids, ‘life was good.’ In May of 2005, life as we knew it, changed.
I endured a month of distress-dismay- and constant prayer at a hospital… watching, wondering if my husband whom had a brain aneurysm explode in his head, would survive! His prognosis was not good at all, and I asked family, then friends, and even mere acquaintances for their help in prayer.
One night while saying my prayers; I asked-like so many times before-for a miracle. It was that night I felt a presence like never before, and realized…should say I promised… to ‘Tell The Stories.’

CA: What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

Valerie: Yipes, well I’m an electrician with my husband during the day (well most of the day) so I try to get out my correspondences in the morning, e-mails etc. as I am always working to get the word out so-to-speak. I also write a column for the Christian Fiction Online Magazine… so that takes quite a bit of time. It’s fun though so I love doing that. As far as another book… I’ve been asked already to continue with a sequel but I have only mulled that around in my head at the moment.
Evenings I do things like this! And my hubby, God bless him, works at his computer too, and then we go to bed. One funny thing people always ask, is how we can be together 24/7 and not get in a tiff? It’s love!

CA: Your book is about to be sent into the reader world, what is one word that describes how you feel?

Valerie: Blessed!

CA: What was your biggest challenge in writing your book(s)?

Valerie: I tend to be a bit fanatical, and I desired perfection. In writing I would write-write-write, then read it, then have my husband read it – then rewrite it and start over again. It was a process that I eventually accepted, however if I didn’t go through all my steps… I couldn’t begin the next chapter. Of course it was pretty neat at the finish. I had very little I found that needed to be changed.
Then I sent it out to an editor for grammar and punctuation as well as flow. We compromised on ‘very few’ changes and the rest is history!

CA: What do you like to do when you're not writing?

Valerie: I like my regular job except this time of year it’s hot and Bill, my husband and I get dragged out and tired after a full day. He taught me how to do electrical wiring and the trade, as well as the people we meet are definitely interesting. If I’m not writing/working I love to go to the beach or swim in the pool. I am very fond of my dog Jake, and when possible he goes everywhere with us.

CA: How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?

Valerie: One, ‘I Must Be in Heaven, a promise kept” and it’s my favorite, too!

CA: Do you tend to base your characters on real people or are they totally from your imagination?

Valerie: Since this book is based on a true story, all the characters are very ‘real’ people.
I did consider who could play the movie roles since Bill and I resemble them so well. He could be Mathew McCaughnehey and I could be Kate Hudson. J

CA: Do you have any advice for the aspiring writers out there?

Valerie: Actually I do. This business of writing will amaze you, especially when you have your first book in hand. Try to focus on each day and each accomplishment rather on the ‘big ‘picture. Be patient, keep the faith, and be the best you can be. Write with your own voice! If you are satisfied and have given your project your all, be happy with your accomplishment. And constantly remember, to thank God, for the special gift he has given you. Then go out into the world with confidence and ‘show and tell’ them about your story!

CA: How can a reader contact you or purchase your books?

Valerie: I have a website. I also do book signings at local Florida locations, and keep an up to date calendar on my homepage. Basically if anyone outside my area wants a book they can also go to the website and purchase through pay pal. I sign and mail those copies, myself.

www.imustbeinheaven.com (and /or) shop at amazon.com
I am set up there as well, and they can take your order.

CA: Is there anything you would like to add?

Valerie: Crystal this has been most enjoyable, and I hope you will keep in touch. I am so glad you invited me to join you and your friends today.

CA: Thank you Valerie for hanging out and sharing your works with the readers! I’m sure they will enjoy it!