Today I’m happy to present Madeline Duffy and her “Angel Quest” book series.  I’ve attached my review at the end of this feature.

Hello Madeline, and welcome to my blog. Please tell my readers, how did you come to writing?

Hi Mary. Well we started with a non-fiction book about an NDE that a friend had and we felt the story needed to be told.  From there, my co-author Shane and I felt a need to write about the supernatural world of God. 

How did you come up with your stories?

We both have had many supernatural experiences and used this as our basis for our fiction books.  We also brought in many experiences that other Christians have experienced as well.  Although it is a fiction book, many of the experiences have really happened.

Is there a message in your novels you would like your readers to grasp?

Yes, that the supernatural world of God is invisible to us most of the time, but often we get glimpses into it.  God is real and still at work in our lives.

You have created great characters. Which one is your favorite?

Most people love Granny Rose, but I sympathize with Lily and her struggles.  I never had a granny like Granny Rose, so she is a wishful character.  Someone I wish I had in my life.

How much of your books are realistic? Are the experiences based on someone you know or events in your life?

Many of the events are very real and some have happened to either Shane or me.  Others are created from accounts of others.  Our intention was to make it as real as possible with an element of the supernatural.

Who would you cast to play the characters in a movie?

Lily could easily be Halle Berry.  Granny Rose might be Betty White.  JJ could be Matt Damon.  And Rory could be Daniel Dae Kim (Hawaii 5-0)

Are you like any of the characters (and how so)?

I did experience some similar things that Lily lived through, so yes. 

Were the plot and subplots completely planned from the start or did they change during the process, and if so, how?

Yes, many of the subplots kind of created themselves as we went along.  I always had a faint picture of the main plot, but it took twists and turns also, along the way.

What is your main reason for writing?                                                           

Well, we believe in some things that we would like to share with other people. God has blessed us with some glimpses into the supernatural and we would like others to look for it also.  It is glorious and a wonderful experience.

What are the best and the worst aspects of writing?

I found editing to be challenging and never completely done.  I have also found reviews challenging with all the different doctrines within the Christian community.  Some don’t believe in supernatural experiences and condemned the plot, even though it is fiction.  I was taken by surprise by this.  Angels don’t seem like a controversial subject, but I suppose actually seeing one, is.

Please share a little of your current work in progress or ideas for your next novel?

I have started a supernatural account that happened before Genesis.  It has been very hard to write and presently on a back burner as I think it through.

How do you balance marketing one book and writing the next?

I marketed a lot at first without many results.  I have since let up on marketing and just have let it run its own course.  Occasionally I will market, but not often.  I have turned it over to God’s will.

What do you do when you don’t write?

I am normally sitting in either a lot of background noise, or total silence, all depends.  My mind does not depend on a certain environment.  If it is active and thinking along the book’s plot, any environment will do.

Who are your editors and how do you quality control your books?

We are retired and on a sparse income, so we have done all our own editing and cover design.  I figure if the content won’t sell it, nothing else will.

How have you found the experience of self-publishing? What were your highs and lows?

There is a learning curve, for sure, but overall it was fun.  We enjoyed the whole experience.

What do you like best about writing? What’s your least favorite thing?

I would say good reviews are the most rewarding thing.  I always pray that it will cause someone to think in a deeper sense toward God.

What is your advice to new indie writers?

Just dive in and do it.  It will be a good experience no matter.

Who are your favorite independent writers?

My eyes have gotten worse over the years and I don’t read much anymore.  So, I can’t say that I have any.

Who are your favorite authors and what is your favorite book?

My favorite books are childhood favorites mostly, The Secret Garden and Little Princess.  The Late Great Planet Earth has affected me the most spiritually other than the Bible itself.

What books or authors have influenced you the most? Is there a writer that you consider a mentor? Do you have a favorite?

Hal Lindsay with his insight into the mysteries of the Bible probably influenced my writing the most.  Looking for and finding the mysteries of the Bible.

What book are you currently reading and in what format (e-book/paperback/hardcover)?

I am currently reading your book Mary, When Angels Fly.  It is an eBook.  I have an Empath personality, so I am hoping to be able to finish it without falling apart emotionally.  Losing a child has to be the most painful event in the world.

Do you work with an outline or do you just write?

No I am not that organized and I don’t like that kind of strict structure.  I am a very loosey, goosey type of writer.  I like to go with the flow of the current writing.

What makes you laugh?

Irony, animals with quirks, sometimes sarcasm, absurdity and sometimes human nature with its quirks.

What (not who) would you like to take to a lonely island?

Can’t say that I’d like to be on a lonely island.  But I suppose some kind of communication device, like a phone or computer that worked.

Who would you like to invite for dinner?

I would love to have a sit down dinner with God and ask him about some issues on this planet.  I would especially like to know the reasons for suffering, especially children’s suffering.  I’m sure his answer would satisfy me, but I would love to have a real answer on this.

What would your friends say are your best and your oddest quality?

I am quirky and love to be free.  I don’t like restraints of any kind.  I speak my mind, to some people’s displeasure.  You don’t have to guess where you stand with me, I will honestly tell you.

Tell us about your other books?

We have three novellas in the Angel Quest series and one non-fiction about a near death experience of a friend of ours.  We were amazed to hear his story and wanted to put it into written form for others to hear.

How do you handle criticism of your work?

It depends on the criticism.  If it is constructive and helpful, I like it.  If it is just an opinion about doctrine, I find it annoying.  I actually had one Christian upset that our friend who had the near death experience was still a sinner when he returned.  I was shocked.  That’s the entire point of the book and the hope it emanates.  She totally missed the whole point of the experience.

Author Bio

Shane Flynn and Madeline Duffy are co-authors that decided to tell a story about Lily Carpenter.  Like many of us, she’s struggling and learning about things in this world and the supernatural world at the same time.   The authors, having both experienced supernatural occurrences of their own (that are unexplainable in the world view) can both say that there IS a supernatural world surrounding us.

Just how do you explain the supernatural without sounding like a kook?  How do you tell people that a supernatural world really exists?  There is great risk in giving testimony to supernatural events.  People may label you as crazy or even as a liar.  The world does not seem willing to embrace the powerful supernatural world of the Almighty God.  But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist.  Whether you believe it or not, it does exist.  Your belief or disbelief doesn’t change the reality of its existence, it only affects your ability to tap into it and/or see it.  I strongly urge you to tap into it.

Retired from business, they have hobbies ranging from model ship building, painting, traveling and now writing.  Both are well educated with multiple college degrees between the two of them.  One is Southern born and bred, the other a Yankee.  Their varied life experiences combine in a sense of adventure and exploration.  Shane’s business experience is mainly entrepreneurship; Madeline’s is engineering and entrepreneurship.  Together they make a remarkable team, complementing each other in most areas of life.  They met under compelling circumstances and seemed destined to enjoy a relationship together.  God works in the most mysterious ways.

Since this is a co-authored book, you may find an inter-twining account of events.  As in any book, you may find us drifting into philosophical and thought provoking ideas.  We have found that we agree on many things and we feel this is reflected in our work.  Although this is fiction, you may find that supernatural events are common in our world.  Maybe you have had one of your own.

Review: Angel Quest, The Beginning by Shane Flynn & Madeline Duffy.

First the author’s book blurb found on Amazon. “Unexpected acts of fate throw Lily Carpenter into a search to find angels. What starts out as an ordinary day quickly turns into a supernatural search that will not only enlighten her but expand her life in directions that she’s never imagined. Lily’s life is about to implode and in the process she will discover hidden secrets in the Bible that she’s never noticed before. Her Granny Rose’s heartfelt experience will instruct her granddaughter on the mysteries she, herself has discovered. Lily has always thought of herself as a Christian, but it’s taken a backseat in her life of family and kids – not anymore. Everything will change as Lily discovers a new life in the supernatural world of God and His angels. Lily has been drifting through life without much purpose or depth. She will discover that we all have a purpose on this planet that we inhabit – many purposes in fact. A supernatural world has been surrounding her the whole time, but has gone unnoticed as the reality of this world distracts her from the reality of the supernatural world. Two worlds intersect at some axis – journey with Lily and Granny Rose to find that axis and see the supernatural. The first in a series of realistic, contemporary fiction eBooks, Madeline Duffy and Shane Flynn explode into the world of writing – achieving 5 star reviews right from the start. The second book in the series, Angel Quest, Take Flight has now been published and is available at most major book retailers. Don’t miss the first eBook that prepares for the second book which takes Lily Carpenter even further into the supernatural world. This supernatural world is available to all and just waiting to be discovered.”

I found Angel Quest, The Beginning a unique read. This novella is a fast, easy read, and quite enjoyable. The characters are well developed and the narrative makes you feel like you are right there with the main character, Lily. Lily is in a car accident on her way to her grandmother’s home. Grandma Rose tells Lily biblical quotes and how she can see darkness and light – the light of God. At first, Lily tosses her words aside, but events occur that culminates in Lily’s belief, and her faith. Granny Rose teaches Lily that belief is good, but faith is stronger. Despite marriage issues in Lily’s life, she does turn herself around through faith. This story could use some editing and polish.  I give four stars.

Links to Social Media

Amazon Book Page        Facebook Author Page      Twitter       

Books

The White Suit

Angel Quest, The Beginning

Angel Quest, Take Flight

Angel Quest, Insights

Walking Over Eggshells: Surviving Mental Abuse by Lucinda E Clarke

I have just finished reading “Walking Over Eggshells: Surviving Mental Abuse” by Lucinda E. Clarke and my review will follow Clarke’s book blurb on Amazon.

“Walking Over Eggshells is an autobiography that tells the story of a mentally abused child, who married a “Walter Mitty” clone. They moved from England to Kenya, from Libya to Botswana and on again to South Africa. It took all her courage to survive in situations that were at times dangerous, sometimes humorous, but always nerve wracking. She had a variety of jobs, different types of homes, and was both a millionairess and totally broke. She met royalty, hosted ambassadors, and won numerous awards for her writing and television programs. She also climbed over garbage dumps, fended off bailiffs, and coped being abandoned in the African bush with a seven-week-old baby with no money or resources. She admits to being the biggest coward in the world, but her survival instincts kicked in and she lived to tell her story. This book will make you laugh and cry and hopefully inspire others who did not have the best start in life either. All names have been changed to protect both the guilty and the innocent – and that includes the author as well!”

I have had this book for a while now and in order to decide which book I was going to read next, I spun my Kindle carousel and landed right here, on this book. With trepidation and a flow exhale of air, I started this book. I dreaded reading this book as I thought it would bring back my own PTSD and life of abuse, but I took the plunge! I felt a connection with Lucinda as both our mother’s had a narcissistic personality disorder. Despite Clarke’s home life, the life she led with her husband, who simply drifted from job to job, and the ongoing mental abuse from her mother – due to an ongoing adult relationship, Clarke arose victorious! Clarke’s career in writing and broadcasting is highly inspirational. Despite life situations, Clarke rose up to become extraordinary in her journey, and she is rich in her humanity! Within all the grief and sadness, Clarke wove uplifting pieces of her own motherhood, and adventures, which never satisfied her mother, sadly. Clarke maintains her self-esteem, something of which I struggle with to this very day, at age 56.

The pace is uneven in her story, and the descriptions in her narrative are well done. This well written narrative holds numerous messages that most everyone can take something away from this story, and apply it to their own lives, or the lives of others. I know writing this story had to have been cathartic for Clarke. Everyone wants love from their mother’s and some don’t ever receive it, sadly.

Today I’m glad to present Lisanne Harrington, whose book is called MOONSPELL,  Book 1 of the Wolf Creek Mysteries.  I’ve attached my review at the end of this feature.

Hello Lisanne, and welcome to my blog.

Thanks so much. Happy to be here.

Please tell my readers, how did you come to writing?

I can’t remember a time when I didn’t write. But I got serious about it after I left the corporate world back in 2006, took every online class I could find and really sharpened my skills and expanded my writing toolbox.

How do you come up with your stories?

They just come to me. It’s sort of like watching a movie in my mind. The characters start talking to me, sometimes months before they’re ready to actually tell me their story. With Moonspell, James and Beth struggled to be heard over each other, always vying for my attention. Finally, they worked it out and started telling me the Wolf Creek story. All I did was transcribe what they said.

Is there a message in your novels you would like your readers to grasp?

It’s important to be true to yourself. You are worthy. You are not alone. We all go through the same things. No matter what anyone else thinks, don’t be afraid to just be who you are.

You have created great characters. Which one is your favorite?

James is pretty cool, but I’d have to say Beth is my favorite. (Just don’t tell HIM that! J )

How much of your books are realistic? Are the experiences based on someone you know or events in your life?

Except for the whole werewolf thing, I think MOONSPELL is very realistic. Unfortunately, there are predators out there who murder for sport. And I think many adults tend to forget that kids are people too, with their own thoughts and opinions that shouldn’t be discounted simply because of their age.

I had a Logic and Deductive Reasoning teacher in college who murdered his wife and her lover (how’s that for logic!), but I’ve been fortunate enough not to have known anyone who was murdered. I did have a best friend as a child who died, although from natural causes and not at the hands of a monster.

I have had teachers like Mrs. Sommes, so battle-weary and time-worn that they seem to be counting down the days to retirement. They are the teachers kids can’t bond with or respect, and as a result, rarely learn from.

I was discounted as a child by many adults who didn’t want to hear my opinions (of which I had many, I’m proud to say).

Who would you cast to play the characters in a movie?

Ooh, that’s a good question. Let’s see… I actually had to do some research on this, but I think I’ve decided on Preston Bailey for James and Francesca Capaldi for Beth. Sheriff Brazelton could be played by Idris Elba, and Corin Nemec would make a great Riggs. Mark Wahlberg as Robbie Manarro and Lauren Graham as Annette Manarro. Laura San Giacomo would be a perfect Aunt Judy.

Are you like any of the characters (and how so)?

Beth is a lot like I was at her age: opinionated, confident, and a little too smart for her britches…

Were the plot and subplots completely planned from the start or did they change during the process, and if so, how?

Just about everything beyond the basic plot changed as I wrote. Even the killer changed two or three times! The characters seemed to delight in telling me different versions of the events and it took some time to sort everything out.

What is your main reason for writing?

Might as well ask why I breathe.

What are the best and the worst aspects of writing?

The best is creating a story that delights my readers. The worst is that so much of my time is spent locked away from my family and friends as I create those stories. The best and worst at the same time is that I suffer from a touch of social anxiety, so it’s really hard for me to get out there and meet people, have signings and readings and just generally mix it up with people. Once I’m there, though, I usually enjoy it. But being an introvert as well, I need time alone after these events to recharge.

Please share a little of your current work in progress or ideas for your next novel.

I just sent Moon Watch, the second Wolf Creek mystery, in to my publisher.  It’s two years after Moonspell, and James is struggling with who he is, much like many sixteen-year-olds. Beth and her mom have moved away, and James is on his own until he meets Shaniqua and her friend Watts. They band together against the Beautiful People who target them throughout the school year. Then the Beautiful People begin to disappear, and James wonders if it could possibly be happening again…

How do you balance marketing one book and writing the next?

Moonspell is my first published book, so I definitely have a lot to learn about this. So far, I take a few hours a day to market and have hired a publicist to help me, and spend the rest of my time working on Moon Shadows, the third and final book in the series.

What do you do when you don’t write?

I love to watch reruns of Gilmore Girls (can’t WAIT for the movies) and Eureka, horror movies like Sharknado and Fido, cooking/baking competition shows like Worst Cooks in America and Halloween Wars, and Investigation Discovery crime shows. I also spend a lot of time playing with my Miniature Pinscher and favorite clown, Fiona.

Who are your editors and how do you quality control your books?

I’m a bit of a perfectionist and write and revise many drafts. Moonspell took thirteen drafts and Moon Watch six. Plus I have an ace beta reader who can find even the smallest error or inconsistency. And of course, Faith and Shannon, my editors, keep me on track as well.

What is your advice to new writers?

Never give up.  **holds thumb and index finger up, about a half inch apart**  I was this close to quitting when I found my publisher. Took me ten years, but it was important to me that I go with a smaller, boutique publisher with whom I could form a real, meaningful relationship.

I really wanted to be published and couldn’t really see myself doing anything else but writing. You have to be true to yourself, write what you want to write and go for it.

Also, don’t believe the old adage that tells you to “write what you know.” That’s what research is for! If we only wrote what we knew, how boring would that be? For us and our readers.

Who are your favorite authors and what is your favorite book?

I have several “favorite” authors: Alex Kava, Jodi Piccoult, Bentley Little, Stephen King, Joe Hill, Andrew Klavan, Lisa Scottoline. I could go on. My bookcases are jammed with different writers. As for my favorite book, I could never pick just one, but there are a few I read over and over: Needful Things by Stephen King, NOS4A2 by Joe Hill, and the whole Maggie O’Dell series by Alex Kava.

The one book that holds special meaning for me is Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe. When I was a little kid, I had to bring big brown paper shopping bags on Troll Book Day because I always ordered more books than I could carry. Finally, my fifth grade teacher, Mrs. Carmona, got tired of watching me lug a dozen or so books home every month, gave me her copy of Robinson Crusoe and told me to expand my horizons. It was the first “adult” book I read, and I never looked back! Thank you, Mrs. Carmona.

What books or authors have influenced you the most? Is there a writer that you consider a mentor? Do you have a favorite?

I think Stephen King has influenced me a lot with how he portrays his characters. They seem like they could be your neighbors and friends. I hope my characters feel as realistic. I learned a lot from his book On Writing, and refer to it often.

As for a mentor, that would be the fabulous Bonnie Hearn Hill. She was one of my first writing teachers as an adult, and her teaching has been invaluable to me. Her students call her tough-but-fair critiques “getting filleted.” She truly wants her students to succeed and takes pride in them when they do. She has encouraged me and cheered each of my accomplishments since the beginning. I owe her a lot.

What book are you currently reading and in what format (e-book/paperback/hardcover)?

I don’t read many eBooks. Having worn glasses since I was seven coupled with the fact that I spend so much time writing on the computer that when I read, I like to give my eyes a break from the screen. Besides, there’s nothing quite like the feel and smell of a real book, is there? What am I reading? Well, I’m just finishing up with Library of Lost Souls by Ransom Riggs. Re-reading the series in anticipation of the movie of the first book in the series, Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children. Next up will be either The Fireman by Joe Hill (hardback), or Picture Perfect by Jodi Piccoult (paperback), depending on my mood.

What makes you laugh?

I laugh at Fiona, my little Miniature Pinscher, every day. Frankly, I don’t know what I’d do without her.

What (not who) would you like to take to a lonely island?

That’s easy. Fiona, a case of lined paper and pens, unlimited Diet Dr. Pepper, and my library. Oh, and sunscreen. My Irish skin burns just thinking about the sun…

Who would you like to invite for dinner?

The Stephen King family, Kathrine Hepburn, and Idris Elba.

What would your friends say are your best and your oddest quality?

I’m very loyal to those I care about, and hopefully, they’d say that was my best quality (!). As for my oddest, like I mentioned earlier, I have a bit of social anxiety and depression, and I’m also an introvert, and I think that’s hard for a lot of people to understand.

Tell us about your other books?

There are two more books in the Wolf Creek Mystery series, but I also have a stand-alone adult mystery coming out soon called Murder in the Family. When Orange County Sheriff’s Deputy Dana S. Sinclair’s mother is murdered twenty years after her father’s murder, she can’t just sit back and let others investigate, even if it means losing her beloved job. When a packet of photographs of Dana as a child shows up on her doorstep, her whole world is thrown into chaos, and she begins to question her very existence. Has her dead father returned from the grave to murder her mother and drive Dana crazy?

Murder in the Family explores the way our familial relationships color our lives, how far we will go to uncover the truth and what happens when we find out that our entire life has been based on a lie.

How do you handle criticism of your work?

I hope with grace, dignity, and a little humor!

My Review

Moonspell: Book 1 of the Wolf Creek Mysteries 

by Lisanne Harrington  

First a blub from the author:

“The nightmare of Wolf Creek starts the night of the last full moon in the summer of 2013, and the close-knit little community will never be the same again. Someone—or something—is murdering the townspeople during each month’s full moon. Incredibly, no one connects the murders to the cycle of the moon. At least, not until fourteen-year-old James Manarro is confronted by his eleven-year-old cousin Beth Ann with her suspicions about the identity of the killer. A werewolf. At first, James just laughs it off, but with each vicious murder, he’s forced to admit that Beth may be right…and one, or both, of them might be its next victims.”

I was given an ‘advanced review copy’ to read, and so I can only comment on this copy. “Moonspell” was published under a small (indie) press and I hope they edited the errors in spelling, grammar, and format before publishing.

Harrington has written a great YA/Horror book, she has woven the story tight, and the flow is smooth and easy. I can easily see young adults and lovers of horror stories loving this narrative of murder, mystery, and more. That said, I truly think this book should only be read by those age 18 and older (I’m not a prude – but some scenes and use of cussing/swear words necessitates my feelings and thoughts in this regard. Descriptions of rotting fetuses, etc. are a huge turnoff).

Harrington easily describes her characters and the overall feel and flow makes for a steady to fast read. Her descriptions of characters and surroundings are so good that they almost garner a five star review. In so many ways this book truly should be in the Horror category. Harrington’s imagination clearly comes out in the narrative. I give a four star rating for this book. If Harrington can provide me with an updated fully revised and edited eBook, I will revise my rating as appropriate. 

Author Bio:

After sixteen years as a paralegal, I staged a coup and left the straight-laced corporate world behind forever. Now I pander to my muse, a sarcastic little so-and-so who delights in getting the voices in my head to either all speak at once in a cacophony of noise or to remain completely silent. Only copious amounts of Diet Cherry Dr. Peppers and hamburgers will ensure their complicity in filling my head with stories of serial killers, werewolves, and the things that live under your bed.

I like scary clowns, coffee with flavored creamer, and French fries. Lots and lots of French fries.

I live in SoCal, in the small town fashioned after Moonspell’s Wolf Creek, with my Beloved husband, oldest daughter and persistently rowdy, always-has-to-have-the-last-word Miniature Pinscher, Fiona.

Links to Social Media

Amazon Author Page    Facebook Personal Page 

Twitter    Goodreads Author Page

https://www.goodreads.com/lisanne_harrington

Website  (in process)

All Book titles and links: Moonspell

Amazon    B&N    Smashwords     KOBO

ARe     BOB     iTunes     Scribd

Worth the time to read!

Reblogged on WordPress.com

Source: My Twitter Account Was Hacked, Now What?

I have finished reading, Shocking Finds: A Finder’s Keeper Novel by Tracey Clark, and I love this book!

First, the teaser found on Amazon:

An act of rebellion, Marin doesn’t think that running into the new store in town will hurt anything. Her aunt will never know… right? One car wreck later, her aunt is hospitalized, Marin is forced to spend her twenty-first birthday fighting for her life, and magic – the very thing her aunt has always sworn to be for fools – is real. And so is the irresistible Fae dedicated to Marin’s protection.

Kyland has searched Earth-side and all the other realms, looking for a missing Fae child. A child his Queen prophesied would be able to one day save the Fae people from the Danshue, as the evil Fae threat tries to overwhelm the entire Supernatural Community. A child that would know nothing of her blocked gifts, or her Fae heritage waiting to be claimed. A child that has grown into a curvy, delicious morsel he would love to taste.

Together Marin and Kyland will fight Fae assassins, overcome betrayals, and if they’re lucky … they will find the Danshue responsible for their plight. That’s if Marin doesn’t shock him to death with her erratic new gift, and her out of control emotions.

Review:

Although not my normal reading genre, I must say that Clark has truly written a wonderful entertaining Fantasy novel.  Clark pulled me into the fantasy world of her Fae/Earth realms and I was quickly reading the pages! There is enough supernatural to make this story a true fantasy novel without over doing it. I must say that Clark is highly talented.

We start with a young woman named Marin, who doesn’t know that she is a Fae Princess who wields supernatural powers of great immense. As the story unfolds we find out that her aunt is determined to keep Marin in check. As with all young adults, Marin is trying to figure out her place in the world, and then finding out she has powers that are remarkable to say the least. Another aspect that I loved is the love story between Marin and Kyland, a man Marin is destined to be with, and the love they share helps Marin throughout this lengthy book. I believe that not only young adults, but also all adults will find this a great read. This is truly a well-written book, and it was refreshing to read a book in which the grammar is perfect! I highly recommend this book! Five stars all the way!!

Today I’m glad to present Robert Colton whose book “Murder Most Convenient: A Mrs. Xavier Stayton Mystery” I have just finished reading. I’ve attached my review at the end of this feature.

Hello Robert, and welcome to my blog.

“Thank you!”

Please tell my readers, how did you come to writing? 

“I am a story teller, writing comes as natural to me riding a bike, I have crashed a few times at both, but you just get up and keep going.

How did you come up with your stories?

 “Everyday situations inspire little ideas that grow and grow. Often, a random comment heard, or a funny observation will linger in my thoughts until it weaves itself into a story.”

Is there a message in your novels you would like your readers to grasp?

 “Presently, no. My books are pure entertainment. I suppose since they are all mysteries, one could say that my message is –there is no perfect murder!”

 You have created great characters. Which one is your favorite?

 “Right now, Mrs. Xavier Stayton is my favorite character. Living in the present, her mind set is where I am in life. We have both had our disadvantages and our losses, yet we are pleased with life, she and I share a glass that is half full.” 

 How much of your books are realistic? Are the experiences based on someone you know or events in your life?

 “Well, the laws of gravity apply to all my stories, so there is a start into realism! When it comes to writing a series of books featuring an amateur sleuth, you must first give your reader a wink and hope they are kind enough to suspend disbelief, after you accept that this sweet young widow finds herself embroiled in murder after murder, everything else is quite realistic. Mrs. Stayton shares a few similarities with my grandmother. They wear the same perfume, Mrs. Stayton’s brothers are named after my great-uncles’, little things like that. We all anticipate Alfred Hitchcock’s cameo when we watch his films, I believe that when my grandmother reads my Mrs. Stayton books, she is waiting to find some nod to her.”      

Who would you cast to play the characters in a movie?

“If I can escape the bonds of reality and pick actors from different eras, Joan Fontaine at age 24 would play Mrs. Xavier Stayton, Joanna Lumley, at 55, would play Mother Stayton, and Rachel Weisz, age 25, would play Lucy Wallace.”   

Are you like any of the characters (and how so)?

“I share some traits with Mrs. Stayton; I like a good mystery, I am adaptable, and observant, and have an active imagination. Most importantly, we are both resilient.”     

Were the plot and subplots completely planned from the start or did they change during the process, and if so, how?

“The beauty of writing mysteries is that all you need to start a story is a victim. Next, you need a killer and a motive. Once that is done, you have your basic frame work and you can wander a bit with your red herrings. I let my secondary characters grow as I write them, they need to be as real as the whodunit or they do little to deflect suspicion from the murderer. The secondary characters create the subplot, we have to give them a background so we can wonder why they might have had reason to commit murder most foul, too.” 

What is your main reason for writing?

“Perhaps I should make up a great answer, rather than admit –I don’t know. Writing makes me happy, I am inviting others to step into my imagination and see the story playing out in my head.”

What are the best and the worst aspects of writing?

“I have never given that any thought. I guess the best part of writing is the fun of crafting an entertaining story and bringing it altogether. The worst part of writing is that there is never enough time to write all the plots floating about my head.”

Please share a little of your current work in progress or ideas for your next novel?

“Right now I am working on Mrs. Stayton’s 8^th Novella. “Murder Most Residential,” Mrs. X, as the press has dubbed her, has acquired a little place in a sleepy village, where nothing of much interest ever happens –until she comes along. The story is set on an old country estate that is being parceled off by the owner. We have a gardener and his daughter, a beekeeper and his wife, a helpful estate agent, and of course, a suspicious young woman renting the boathouse, as neighbors (and potential victims or murderers!”)  

How do you balance marketing one book and writing the next?

“I am not sure that I do! The best advice that I have ever had was, keep writing more books. I have two series of mysteries, and I concentrate on marketing only the 1^st book of each. If people enjoy the 1^st book, then it has done my marketing for me, and they’ll go on to read the rest.”

What do you do when you don’t write?

“I am the Director of Operations for a large non-profit organization, this keeps me fairly busy. Otherwise, I am walking my greyhound or reading mystery novels.” 

Who are your editors and how do you quality control your books?

“Melissa Gray proofreads and edits my books, professionally, and two friends give them a read through as well, both for errors and continuity. As you can plainly see that without their help I am the king of run-on sentences. A friend of mine read an early manuscript of Pompeii: A Tale of Murder, and remarked to her husband, I think that Robert is afraid of periods.” 

How have you found the experience of self-publishing? What were your highs and lows?

“I have found self-publishing to be very empowering. I have learned a lot about marketing, working with freelance artists, and things that I would have never learned before. I don’t think I have low.” 

What is your advice to new indie writers?

“Don’t stop writing, foremost. And, do not rely on your friends to read your work and give you critical feedback. Have you ever told a close friend that their baby was ugly? Well, they aren’t going to tell you that your book needs help. Hire someone to objectively read you book. I hired an author coach to tell me what worked and what didn’t work with my 1^st book, “Pompeii: A Tale of Murder in Ancient Rome.” Based on his feedback, I changed the pacing of the book and shifted around much of the action so that the book was a true mystery, rather than a story with a mystery.”

Who are your favorite authors and what is your favorite book?

“Robert Graves and Daphne du Maurier. du Maurier’s novel, Rebecca, is my favorite book.”  

What books or authors have influenced you the most? Is there a writer that you consider a mentor? Do you have a favorite?

“I have dissected the work of Agatha Christie and Steven Saylor, reading their books over and over to understand how a really good mystery is fashioned together. I love all of their books.”

“I read Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca at least twice a year, the book is simply perfect, and it reminds me time and time again how beautiful and engaging fiction can be.”   

What book are you currently reading and in what format (e-book/paperback/hardcover)?

“I am reading Busman’s Honeymoon by Dorothy L. Sayers. I am reading it in eBook format. Sayer’s work is marvelous stuff. Her Lord Peter Wimsey is like a crime solving Bertie Wooster.” 

Do you work with an outline or do you just write?

“I start with an outline. After coming up with the victim and murderer, I write out the various plot points that have to happen on 3×5 cards, this way I can move them around until everything fits. Most of Mrs. X’s stories end with the standard gathering of the players together in a parlor and pointing a finger at each person as to why they might have done the heinous deed. This type of ending requires perfect timing, so the clues have to be set just into place at the right time.  

What (not who) would you like to take to a lonely island?

“As long as I can figure out how they made electricity out of coconuts on Gilligan’s Island, I would bring my smartphone. I would be able to write books, read books, listen to audiobooks and keep up with kith and kin.”

Who would you like to invite for dinner?

“The English actor, Edward Petherbridge. His voice is amazing. I think he could make a grocery list sound like a piece of fantastic literature. I would bore him, and he would have little to eat as I asked him pointless question after question to keep him speaking. If you enjoy audiobooks, I suggest you listen to him narrating The Attenbury Emeralds by Jill Paton Walsh. He is a master of his craft.   

What would your friends say are your best and your oddest quality?

“I think it is the same answer, I am quirky. I am a little obsessive compulsive and when I like something, I really like it, and you are going to know about it.”   

Tell us about your other books please. 

“I have written 6 other books set in Ancient Rome. They are all mysteries involving poor Marcellus, a well to do lad accused of committing a crime he did not commit. He is watched over by his slave, who luckily has a bit more wit than he. Think Jeeves and Wooster in Ancient Rome.     

How do you handle criticism of your work?

“Who criticized my work?!  —Well, my first bad book review did nearly bring about the end of the world, but I have moved on. If the critique is respectful and objective, I try to learn from it. For instance, the first two Mrs. Stayton mysteries are introduced as manuscripts to be reviewed by agents. Within, I have little side notes directed to the reader. In the Mrs. Bradley Mysteries television series, Dame Diana Rigg breaks the fourth wall from time to time and speaks to the viewer. I love that, and wanted to do something similar. Well some people liked it, but others did not, so I left the little digressions out after the second book. However, I have stopped reading any reviews that are mean spirited or ugly. If someone doesn’t like my book, well then it simply wasn’t for them. Personally, I don’t care for Charles Dickens, but that doesn’t mean that his books are bad. I am a little amazed when someone gives me a scathing review, I am not sure how my warm hearted little cozy mystery can generate such furry. I feel that Amazon has empowered their customers to say whatever they feel, even when it isn’t objective. Luckily, most of my reviews are good, and every time I publish a new book, it starts selling the day it comes out –so, I think I am doing something right.

My Review: Murder Most Convenient: A Mrs. Xavier Stayton Mystery 

I have just finished reading “Murder Most Convenient: A Mrs. Xavier Stayton Mystery” by Robert Colton.

First a narrative Colton wrote on Amazon:

“It’s the Golden Age of Detective Novels, and Mrs. Xavier Stayton is convinced she can pen the best! Ripping fun at her late husband’s family estate turns to tragedy when murder most foul is committed. Once the inspector arrives, motives abound, and Mrs. Xavier finds herself the chief suspect. If she can avoid the gallows, the hopeful author may walk away with a manuscript that is the cat’s meow; if not, a dastardly killer has committed a perfect frame-up job. Journey with Mrs. Xavier Stayton and her loyal friend, Lucy, from the safety of Holland Park to the perils of Pearce Manor, where a sinister figure awaits them. 

What do the critics have to say?

“The best whodunit I’ve ever read.”
-Mrs. Viviane Stayton, the author’s mother-in-law.

“A true masterpiece in the field of mysteries.”
-Miss Lucy Wallace, close friend and assistant to the author.

“The woman is a hack. Every word is lie; I’m suing her.”
-Mrs. Joan Stayton, litigant.”

The story starts off with a young widow, Mrs. X., who thinks she is a good mystery writer. Although there is a real murder mystery involved, you will find yourself laughing in places. Colton has written a fast read and the story in itself in highly interesting in this lighthearted read.

This book needs a lot of editing due to grammar and spelling errors and as such I would normally give it four stars. However, Colton doesn’t address the need for a future editor so I can only give it three stars.  If Colton has this book edited in the future, then I will change my rating appropriately.

Author Bio:

Robert Colton is a resident of Saint Louis, Missouri. A lover of all animals, he has been a vegetarian his entire adult lifetime. Robert has a retired greyhound who loves to be doted upon. Despite aspirations of being an international hitman, Robert has worked as the Director of Operations for a non-profit organization since 2002. In addition to writing more books, he does hope to one day conquer the world. Robert’s books are historical mysteries, those involving Marcellus and Tay in Ancient Pompeii take place during the reign of Nero. The Mrs. Xavier Stayton mysteries take place during the interwar period.     

Links to Social Media:

Amazon Author Page      Facebook Author Page    Facebook Personal Page  

YouTube Page Book Trailer     Goodreads Page     Website  

All Book Titles:

Pompeii: A Tale of Murder in Ancient Rome

Pompeii: A Conspiracy Among Friends

Pompeii: Hazard at Bay

Pompeii: Pluto’s Maze

Pompeii: Boudicca in the Arena

Murder Most Convenient

Murder Most Posh

Murder Most Egyptological

Murder Most Decorative

Murder Most Haunting

Murder Most Plagiaristic

Murder Most Cosmetic