Tag Archive | author-interview

Where Is All The Grass Going

Oct9

Please welcome D. E. Fox to my blog. Good morning. Shall we have a chat?

Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post.

Hello my name is Deborah Fox, my pen name is D E Fox. I wrote my first book after the passing of my dog Jake to honour him. It’s a horror called Second Hand Rose and it’s about a small town called Friendship which on the surface seems perfect unfortunately it has a very dark secret. My second book is a young/adult, children’s book called Where is all the Grass Going? It’s about a secret detective agency run by dogs who solve mysteries the human police don’t know about. But when the grass from all over the planet starts being stolen the dogs are the only ones who can solve it and save the human race. Writing is my hobby, I work full time in a warehouse in the returns department of a global electrical wholesaler during the day, I push pallets sometimes twice the size of me! I open all the boxes of returns from customers and determine if they can be re-sold or scrapped. I live with my partner of 26 years, Paul, in the North of England. In the county of Yorkshire, I am a keen gardener and I grow various different fruits and vegetables. I enjoy walking, especially around gardens of stately homes. We are avid movie goers and we go to the cinema every week without fail and watch anything/everything. I’m also part of a film podcast where we talk about films old and new.

Has writing always been part of your life and when did you “know” that it was time to start writing your first book?

I didn’t start writing until my late forties, my dog Jake sadly passed away suddenly and I didn’t cope very well with his loss. We tried to keep busy after his passing and decided to go to the cinema to escape in a film. Unfortunately the film was awful. I turned to my partner and said “I’m going to write a book to honour Jake” he thought it was just a passing statement and I would never actually write it. But he was glad I was even thinking about it. Second Hand Rose was born. It had to be a horror as  I love horror/supernatural movies and stories. Writing the book really helped with the grieving process and actually made me feel better. Writing about Jake and focusing on positive thoughts was the therapy I needed.

How difficult was it writing your first book?

I didn’t find writing hard at all, I suppose because this is my hobby I have no pressure to write. I have a full time job as well. I write when I feel like it, and when I feel like it just flows out of me.

Have you ever wanted to give up and what stopped you?

I never thought I’d be a writer. I wrote Second Hand Rose purely for therapy. I didn’t send it to a publisher until I was 50. When they told me how much they enjoyed it and published it. I started book number 2, which is completely different from the first. It’s a young adult/childrens book called Where is all the Grass Going? A spy/crime mystery where the detectives are dogs.

Who is the most supportive of you and your dream to be a writer?

Definitely my partner Paul, my friends call him my manager for fun. He takes me to all the book readings I organize. Videos them so I can watch them back and work on my reading. I have social anxiety about reading aloud. He contacts reading groups to try to find book interviews, blogs, written interviews to promote both my books. We are very much a team, and because we both work full time it helps to split the marketing.

Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

When I wrote Where is all the Grass Going? I didn’t think about who this book was aimed at. I had so much fun writing it, I sat laughing while I typed. It wasn’t until people started reading it and contacting me that I realised this book was for anyone. 50 something readers telling me how my book helped them escape after a bad day at work. It made them laugh, cheer and maybe shed a little tear. I am so happy that readers feel exactly what I felt when I wrote it. I literally poured love into it, the love I felt for Jake.

What is the best advice given to you (book or otherwise), and by whom?

Keep writing, someday you’ll be someone’s favorite author. Another indie author called Katherine Black. Who is part of a huge group of authors on social media who support other authors. We’re like a big family.

What is your target audience and what aspect of your writing do you feel targets that audience?

Where is all the grass going? Is for any age I learned that very quickly from the readers/reviewers who contacted me. My book deals with being the underdog and overcoming obstacles to solve what seems an impossible problem. When we work together we can solve anything. It’s a very relevant message.

Did the cover evolve the same way, or did you work with someone to make it come together for you?

With both books I knew exactly what the cover should be, my publisher has an amazing team and the cover designer literally took the image I had in my head and designed it. I think she can read minds, because both my covers firstly made me cry. They were so good and secondly they captured my image perfectly. I suppose that’s the job of a designer but I’d never dealt with someone like that. The fact that she completely understood the brief blew me away.

What are you working on now? Can we get a peek, an excerpt?

Again this is something completely different and unexpected. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in March and had to have an operation to remove a lump. When they removed my lymph nodes it had spread to my spine. I made the decision I would write a book and write down all the bits I’d picked up/learned for myself about cancer. The quirky, and I know it sounds strange to say but the funny things about cancer because there are. I’ve had 6 cycles of chemotherapy and the treatment takes 4 hours. The nurses on the chemo suite and the other patients make the whole process fun. Being positive and dare I say happy helps you firstly cope and secondly feel stronger. I start the next phase in a few weeks which takes about a year. So I will piece together my notes and start writing an A-Z of weird and wonderful facts I’ve picked up on this new journey I’ve found myself on.  I’ve been given cancer for a reason and I believe it’s to help others, so that’s exactly what I’m going to do.

Any last words before we wrap things up?

I just wanted to add that Where is all the Grass Going? Won the Golden Wizard Book Prize in the 8-12 year old category. I was not only surprised to win but also shocked. I wrote my book to honour Jake. I had no idea it could win an award. Winning something like that makes me realize I am an author and to keep going and importantly have fun writing. Writing for me isn’t work, it’s an escape and I suppose so is reading. We all need an escape.

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Bio:

Deborah Fox lives in Yorkshire with her partner Paul. She currently works for a large electrical distributor, as well as being a budding author. Like many children, Deborah spent her time inspired by stories from AA  Milne to JM Barrie, and to this day her favourite story was and still is, Winnie the Pooh! Her writing talents didn’t materialise until later in life as most of her childhood was spent dancing and performing. Deborah’s passions are the outdoors, gardening, interior design, dogs and cinema. She has always been intrigued with all things supernatural and the time presented to her during COVID, and the inspiration from the sad passing of her dog Jake, was the start of her first novel ‘Second Hand Rose.’ With the support of family and friends and Blossom Spring agreeing to publish her story, it has fulfilled the dream to become a published author and has given the encouragement to write more stories.

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Meet George Yuhasz

Sep8

Please welcome George Yuhasz to my blog. Good morning, George. Shall we get started?

Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post.

I’m George Yuhasz, author of the children’s book IMAGINE THAT: THE MAGIC OF THE MYSTERIOUS LIGHTS and most recently the thriller novel RIGHTEOUS ALLEGIANCE. Both books have won numerous awards and have received great reviews. Very grateful. My thanks to you for taking time to read about my writing and me.

Has writing always been part of your life and when did you “know” that it was time to start writing your first book?

I did not begin writing until after I retired. My professional career and family were my main focus and did not afford time for writing.

How difficult was it writing your first book?

It was a challenge to write a children’s story. However, I was inspired by my granddaughter, who is the protagonist in the book, and was driven to create a special story for her as a gift.

Have you ever wanted to give up and what stopped you?

I never thought about giving up. Not an option.

Who is the most supportive of you and your dream to be a writer?

I never dreamed to be a writer. It’s a self-motivating thing with me; I prefer to live being a writer and it’s a great life. Being creative, working with ideas and random thoughts, putting all the pieces together-exciting! As an added bonus, you meet wonderful readers and creatives like Mary Schmidt (I couldn’t resist, Mary). Much support has come to me in all shapes, sizes, and colors and has been most welcome.

Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Having the freedom to read and write what you desire is precious. Hold it dear, fight for it if you have to.

What is the best advice given to you (book or otherwise), and by whom?

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow-from his poem “The Builders.”

Nothing useless is or low

Each thing in its place is best

And what seems like idle show

Strengthens and supports the rest

What is your target audience and what aspect of your writing do you feel targets that audience?

My target audience are those readers who are looking for something beyond being entertained by a story.  Life lessons. A new approach to solving a problem. Increased awareness and appreciation of our natural world. These are just some of the things that are important to me and I hope will resonate with my readers as well.

Did the cover evolve the same way, or did you work with someone to make it come together for you?

I worked with wonderful artists/illustrators for both books who understood my goals for writing each story.

What are you working on now? Can we get a peek, an excerpt?

I am working on another children’s story and also a sequel to RIGHTEOUS ALLEGIANCE. Both projects are in beginning stages at this time.

Any last words before we wrap things up?

Someone once asked me what I value as a writer. A heavy question. My response was in effect the following: I believe holding myself accountable in bringing my best efforts to creating meaningful, thought provoking and entertaining stories encouraging love, kindness, friendship, hope, and reverence for our natural world. My profound gratitude to all who continue to support and inspire me on this amazing journey.

George media photo 2

AUTHOR BIO

George Yuhasz is a former U.S. Government intelligence officer, special agent, and contractor. He has also worked in the private sector, owning and operating his own global security and investigative consultancy. RIGHTEOUS ALLEGIANCE, a Book Excellence Awards winner, is his first novel and was an Amazon #1 bestseller. Yuhasz is also the author of the multi-award-winning children’s book IMAGINE THAT: THE MAGIC OF THE MYSTERIOUS LIGHTS (Gold medalist Wishing Shelf Book Awards). He earned a B.A. degree with a double major in international service and government from American University, and holds a M.A. degree in psychology from the University of Northern Colorado. Yuhasz is a member of the Association of Former Intelligence Officers and is a Certified Protection Professional Life Member of the American Society for Industrial Security. He lives in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina.

Website: https://www.georgeyuhaszauthor.com

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Righteous-Allegiance-George-Yuhasz/dp/1977275621

Barnes and Noble: https://BarnesandNoble.com/Righteous-Allegiance-George-Yuhasz/1146435338

X-Twitter: https://Twitter.com/georgeyuhasz

Facebook: https://facebook.com/george.yuhasz.524

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-yuhasz-a918a9189

BlueSky: georgeyuhasz-7.bsky.social

Meet Tristan Peterson

Aug7

Please welcome Tristan Peterson to my blog.

1. Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post.

My name is Tristan Peterson. I write under the names T. A. Peterson, for the Fantasy Meta-Series “Vingt”, but for this particular project, I write under the name Netta Stirs-Peron. Which is an, admittedly lazy, anagram of my name.

Other than that, I don’t consider myself all that interesting a person, so I try to make my writing interesting instead. I love both Heavy Metal and Classical music, I’m a fan of old school Fantasy, such as Elric of Melnibone, and riding my motorcycle. I am, pretty much, just a nerd in a leather jacket.

2. Has writing always been part of your life and when did you “know” that it was time to start writing your first book?

Writing been a fixture in my life since I was a child. I’d say from the age of nine and on wards. I wouldn’t say I knew that it was time to write my first book, as I’d completed a number of manuscripts before. I just didn’t consider pursuing a career as a writer until I was in my thirties.

3. How difficult was it writing your first book?

Writing my first book wasn’t difficult at all. It was an idea I’d been kicking around for a long time, with characters I’d had percolating in my mind for just as long. It was all a matter of putting it all together. The truly difficult part was completing it – insofar as making sure those pieces were cohesive.

4. Have you ever wanted to give up and what stopped you?

I have, honestly, never wanted to give up. I will take a few weeks off of a project, rarely will I completely shelf one, but I always come back. I’ll probably die at a desk, with a pen in my hand. Personally, I am fine with that.

5. Who is the most supportive of you and your dream to be a writer?

That’s like asking a parent who their favourite child is! I have been fortunate enough to have friends, work colleagues, fellow writers, and even a few fans who have been nothing but supportive in my pursuit of a writing career. So, I feel I owe it to them all to give it my best shot and see how far down the path I can go.

6. Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

In terms of becoming an Author? Well, it would be to have an actual, paying job, first and foremost. Dreams don’t keep the lights on, or the fridge filled. Have a 9-to-5, to keep you self alive, feed the dream so you can live. If you truly want to make something of it, then you will find time for it. Even if its just half an hour a night.

In general? Listen to Motorhead. See Evil Dead The Musical. Live well, love free, and pay your artists.

7. What is the best advice given to you (book or otherwise), and by whom?

For writing: “Anybody can write a book; but not everybody should.” – David Eddings.

For life: “Each day we should one should hear a little song, read a good poem, see one fine painting and – if at all possible – speak a few sensible words” – Goethe.

8. What is your target audience and what aspect of your writing do you feel targets that audience?

My usual target audience, at least in the case of the Vingt novels, has always been Young Adult – around the ages of eight to sixteen. This most recent book, however, was a departure from that. Leaning more New Adult/Adult, as its themes and language might be a little much for younger audiences.

In terms of what aspect of my writing hits that audience, I would put that largely on the dialogue and the main character’s internal monologue. I get the feeling that a lot of it – not all of it, mind – will resonate with quite a few people.

9. Did the cover evolve the same way, or did you work with someone to make it come together for you?

There’s actually a story behind that! The concept of this book didn’t begin as a novel. It was intended to be a comic book. I wrote up the scripts and storyboards and, since I cannot draw all too well, sought out a local artist whose work I was familiar with. He was keen to take up the task, and seemed to really like the concept, so we worked out pricing and schedules. Then, all at once, I lost my job, my then girlfriend, and my house. Since I wasn’t going to ask the artist to work when I couldn’t guarantee payment, I shelved the project.

Many years later, I came back to the concept and drafted it as a novel. When it came time to create a cover, I sought out that same artist again. He was more than glad to do the artwork.

I believe I made the right choice in that. I had worked with them before and I have always like their style and their instincts on things, such as poses, blocking, and overall dynamics.

When I told him the cover would be “In the tradition of comic book covers – where what you see on the cover had little, if nothing, to do with the actual plot of the story” he ran with it and produced some excellent work.

10. What are you working on now? Can we get a peek, an excerpt?

For this current project, I am working on an Audiobook – which will be coming soon. I am also in talks with another writer, who wants to produce a short Prequel Comic/Graphic Novel for this story. I am also kicking around a possible sequel to this story and some other books set in this world.

I am, however, currently more engaged in releasing further books in the Vingt series. Book 2 is in the hands of a publisher, and a few others are with Agents right now. So, I can only hope things work out on that front.

If you want an excerpt, then I will be glad to show you something from the next Vingt novel “Lizard Hands” (Release Date TBA)

            “Why don’t you pray for your gods to heal you?”

            She instantly regretted asking this, as she recalled just how angry he tended to get whenever May questioned his faith. Nari was surprised, however, to hear laughter. Surprised, and more than a little afraid, as she was almost certain she’d incur some of his wrath. But there was no mocking, or any warning in his laugh, if anything he sounded genuinely amused. Sitting at the foot of the statue, he relaxed his posture and answered Nari.

            “The gods do not grant such boons to a sinner, like me.”

            “Then why are you asking them for help?”

            “One can only ask the gods for little things. To remove the stones from your path, so you might conquer the mountain.”

11. Any last words before we wrap things up?

Do not seek out a career in writing purely for the Money or the Fame it can bring. Such writers are a dime a dozen. It is why the current marketplace feels mired in tepid, vapid, ultimately cookie-cutter stories, released en masse by publishers who spent far too much on marketing.

Write because you would feel as if a part of you would be unfulfilled if you did not. Don’t be “the next Stephen King” or “Author of the next Harry Potter”. Be the first you. Wear your inspirations on your sleeve and write – even if nobody will ever see it.

If all else fails, then avail yourself to my personal credo:

Passion. Patience. Perseverance.

Links:

Current Book: https://www.lulu.com/shop/netta-stirs-per%C3%B3n/doctor-malevolent/paperback/product-w4ydr86.html?srsltid=AfmBOooc0cszb1eXaFvvAmBNAutAwIM0rzbM6GgYEvJ8RAl7Kt0nHowS&page=1&pageSize=4

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com.au/stores/T.-A.-Peterson/author/B0CDZGFL2F?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Goodreads

As T. A. Peterson: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/30869911.T_A_Peterson

As Netta Stirs-Peron: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/49746705.Netta_Stirs_Per_n

Twitter: @LawfulEvilBard

Meet Mick Arnold

Aug4

Please welcome Mick Arnold who writes as M W Arnold to my blog. Hello Mick. Welcome to my blog. Shall we have a chat?

Has writing always been part of your life and when did you “know” that it was time to start writing your first book?

Like a lot of authors, I’d thought about writing a book for years, it was only after I’d read a specific book (which I’m ashamed to say I can’t place right now) though that I felt I had to pick up my laptop and give it a go. That was around 7 or 8 years ago now, though that book has never seen the light of day.

How difficult was it writing your first book?

Surprisingly easy-ish. That’s probably because I had no idea what I was doing, how long it should be, how or where to finish it; let alone how to write. Wow, I was in for such a shock, and I also found I seemed to be a ‘panster’ type of writer; that’s someone who doesn’t plan (though I admit to knowing where I shall begin and how I’d like it to end).

Have you ever wanted to give up and what stopped you?

Oh, quite a few times. Especially when I had a few health problems a few years ago and simply didn’t want to even try to write. This was when I was writing romance, or trying to, but a very good author friend – Elaine Everest, who very sadly passed away not long ago – talked my ear off and advised me to give a different genre a go. I happened to be watching a documentary on tv about the Air Transport Auxiliary at the time and that’s how I came to be writing historical fiction. I’ll never forget Elaine for that.

Who is the most supportive of you and your dream to be a writer?

Even though I write something my lady wife would never read (not enough gruesome murders for her), I’d have to say she’s been behind me all the way, as has mu sister-in-law. Above all, I’m going to give a big shout out for the friend’s I’ve met through the Romantic Novelist’s Association, and it’s New Writer’s Scheme. This is a society I would recommend any aspiring writer to join, if you’re even semi-serious about becoming an author.

Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Simply that you have my profound Thank You, for finding and coming back to my books. You make me feel so welcome.

What is the best advice given to you (book or otherwise), and by whom?

If it’s regarding becoming an author then, read, and keep reading, even when you manage to get published. Don’t let failure keep you from persisting, as you’ll find very few authors who get published with their first attempt. Reading will help you find your style, yourself, everyone’s an individual and you would be as an author.

What is your target audience and what aspect of your writing do you feel targets that audience?

I believe most of my readers are women from 16 to 90+, and everyone in between. I’ve had praise for my female characters and their realism, which makes me incredibly happy as around 90% of those I write are women, of around the above age groups.

Did the cover evolve the same way, or did you work with someone to make it come together for you?

Funnily enough, my covers, for both my current series, are created by the Vice President of my publisher and as she’s in the USA (so we communicate by email) which makes communication quite slow, she does take notice of what I believe the covers should look like. I can’t draw a beer, let alone a book cover!

What are you working on now? Can we get a peek, an excerpt?

Well, my second Lumberjills book is going through the editing process with my publisher at this moment, and will be titled, ‘The Lumberjills Take a Stand’. Currently, I’m writing the Air Transport Auxiliary Mystery Club book 7, so I’m back to my first love.

Any last words before we wrap things up?

Only, thank you very much for having me on your blog, Mary, it’s been a lot of fun. All my very best to you and your readers, take good care.

You are welcome!

Deception, Danger & Doris…oh my!

Tagline:
Few things are what they appear to be as Doris Johnson finds herself on her own and out of her comfort zone.

Blurb:
Air Transport Auxiliary pilot Doris Johnson is sent on a solo trip, escorting a British General on a secret mission to Scotland, vital to the success of D-Day, the forthcoming invasion of Nazi occupied France.

Her natural inquisitiveness means her life is in put in great danger and she’ll need more than her superb flying skills to survive.

Doris has to trust her own instincts, and those of the new friends she makes, so that everyone comes through their adventures in one piece. Not everything is as it seems, sometimes by design, as she faces whatever is thrown at her with a determined smile and the spirit to stand fast for what is good and right.

Logline:
On a solo mission to Scotland, Doris Johnson finds herself embroiled in an undertaking vital to the success of D-Day which, if it fails, would mean certain death for many of those about to embark upon the greatest invasion history would see and which brings out strength of character she never knew she possessed.

Author Bio:

Mick is a hopeless romantic who was born in England and spent fifteen years roaming around the world in the pay of the late HM Queen Elisabeth II in the Royal Air Force, before putting down roots and realising how much he missed the travel. This, he’s replaced somewhat with his writing, including reviewing books and supporting fellow saga and romance authors in promoting their novels.

He’s the proud keeper of two Romanian Were-Cats bent on world domination, is mad on the music of the Beach Boys, and enjoys the theatre and humouring his Manchester United-supporting wife. (Please don’t mention this last to her!)

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Social Media Links:

facebook.com/MWArnoldAuthor

Twitter – mick859

Instagram – Mick859

YouTube Channel –tinyurl.com/bde2rajj

Buying links – Doris Flies Solo:

Amazon Universal – mybook.to/DFS

iBooks – tinyurl.com/uuv55yps

Nook – tinyurl.com/4sjcdwxy

Chick Lit video link – https://www.facebook.com/live/producer/840888174701567/

Meet JP MacDougall

Jan27

Please welcome JP MacDougall to my blog. Hello James. James wrote the Pangean Chronicles series. Shall we chat about this series?

Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post.

Hi, I’m James MacDougall from the UK and I am the author of the Pangean Chronicles series. Over the past twenty years I’ve written the Pangean Chronicles series which is made up of five books: A main trilogy and then two prequels.

Has writing always been part of your life and when did you “know” that it was time to start writing your first book?

I always loved creative writing as a child and it was always a strength of mine at school. It wasn’t until I was about 19 and I was going through a bad patch and went off the rails a little – the writing really kicked in then and it acted as a coping mechanism. To begin with I just wrote poetry (really badly!) but then this idea started to form and I just started writing what would later become Awakenings, which is the first of the Pangean Chronicles. For the past 20 years I have dipped in and out of the story, adding things, changing things and it became a hobby that never left. I don’t think I was aware that this was going to be my first book and I certainly never imagined that it would be published!

How difficult was it writing your first book?

I didn’t find it difficult – or maybe I did – it took twenty years for the main trilogy to be in any state where I was happy for other people to read them. I think I would have moments when I just ran out of ideas and so I’d park it and sit on it for a few years before coming back to it again. But really, the whole writing process is so pleasurable and rewarding and as I said it also helped with times when my mental health was not as good as it should have been.

Have you ever wanted to give up and what stopped you?

No, I’ve never wanted to give up writing. Even when I got to a point where the ideas weren’t flowing, I always knew that something would come to me eventually – I was never in a rush to get it finished.

Who is the most supportive of you and your dream to be a writer?

My wife is amazing and it was she who told me a few years ago that I should get my stories published. She is very patient as well – I tend to disappear off into my own little world and she handles that very well. My dad has also been an incredible supporter, he has read all my books and always gives me very honest feedback!

What is the best advice given to you (book or otherwise), and by whom?

Be patient! I am the most impatient and knee jerky person and the whole publishing game is designed for very patient people. I made some silly mistakes at the beginning of this whole thing purely down to my impulsiveness, but I think I have learnt some lessons and have accepted that things just don’t happen overnight!

What is your target audience and what aspect of your writing do you feel targets that audience?

My writing is quite fast paced and there is always something going on. I’ve always felt that it would appeal to tweens and teens but I know a number of older readers who have also very much enjoyed the stories.

Did the cover evolve the same way, or did you work with someone to make it come together for you?

For Awakenings I had a cover designer working with me to come up with the front cover and it was her idea to have a character on the front cover. I’m really pleased with the result people say it is quite an enticing front cover. I think I only began thinking about the front cover when I was close to publishing – it’s a bit corny but the writing has always been my priority.

What are you working on now? Can we get a peek, an excerpt?

Having now finished the Pangean Chronicles series, I am now working on an origins series. Throughout the five books, there are loads of references and back stories to my version of the time of Pangea and I thought it would be great to write that story. So, I’m beginning from the very beginning and am planning to chart the story of the Dark Lord’s first rise and the fall of Pangea into Darkness. I’m about three quarters of the way through the first one at the moment and hopefully will have that complete by March. There is a second part as well which I am scribbling away on my note pad!

Any last words before we wrap things up?

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to say hello! If you are ever considering writing a book… Do it and do it for yourself above everything else. I am not sure where I would be without my writing, it certainly picked me up when I was in some very dark places.

BIO:

James started writing at the age of 19, just 3 years after his dyslexia diagnosis. Refusing to allow his dyslexia to define him, James always had a great imagination for stories and found an endless source of inspiration through the works of J.R. Tolkein, Ian Fleming and Stephen King. It has been a 20 year labour of love to combine these genres in his own series of books, ‘The Pangean Chronicles’, which were written while working as a full time teacher in the south east. As a devoted father to three young children, James also enjoys practicing the skill of oral storytelling, a skill he credits to helping him overcome the challenges of being a dyslexic author. When he is not writing, teaching or telling stories, James loves to be outdoors, promoting outdoor learning, working in his own garden or walking on the Ashdown Forest with his family.

Author Page: www.thepangeanchronicles.com

Twitter: https://x.com/PangeanChrons

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095127045157&locale=en_GB

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepangeanchronicles/

BlueSky: @pangeanchronicles.bsky.social

Tiktok: @pangeanchronicles

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/48899277.JP_MacDougall

Nova Terra: The Secret of Galeeza

Mar2

Please welcome Garland, to my blog. Shall we have a chat?

1. Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post.

Hello everybody! My name’s Garland Redvine! I’m a pseudonymous self-published author who specializes in fantasy, science-fiction, and adventure books.

2. Has writing always been part of your life and when did you “know” that it was time to start writing your first book?

I always loved to read and write. I learned to read quickly when I was young. As for writing and storytelling, that came equally as natural to me. Even though I was pretty shy, I used to tell and write stories to entertain my family and friends. To me, hearing, telling, or writing a great story was just magical.

I’ve been practicing writing my first book ever since I knew how to write (I’m not kidding!). I knew I wanted a career in literature, movies, or video games. I had dreams of writing a successful book or series.

3. How difficult was it writing your first book?

If I’m going to be honest, calling it “difficult” would be the understatement of the century.

For the past few years, life has been stressful. I was stuck in a struggling dead-end job that hardly paid any bills. I didn’t have any connections or network. Not even an online presence. And I was totally alone.

Basically, I had little money, no friends, and virtually no control over my life.

All these things overwhelmed me and I sank into a deep, dark depression. I felt invisible and helpless. I even felt like all the pressure was making me physically sick! It was horrible.

But if I ever had anything I could rely on, it was that I loved to write. So I did.

4. Have you ever wanted to give up and what stopped you?

The stress of my situation definitely wore on me and there were times where all I wanted to do was lay there on the ground and rot. But my will was strong. I wasn’t about to let the unforgiving world stop me from doing what I loved.

I motivated myself and wrote that fantasy story that had been sitting around in my head for years. I knew that if there was anything I wanted to do in this life, it was to publish a book. I got inspiration from Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird (the creators of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) and Amanda Hocking. Their stories of success in self-publishing inspired me to try my hand at it. 

5. Who is the most supportive of you and your dream to be a writer?

My parents generally gave me moral support. My father in particular really nurtured my love of reading and storytelling. My parents were ecstatic to see that I managed to self-publish a novel given my circumstances. 

6. Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

I believe a story should not just be well-written, but exciting, emotional, and keep you turning the page. The first book in my fantasy series, Nova Terra: The Secret of Galeeza, is available on Amazon! Kindly leave a rating and review to support your new favorite fantasy author! 🙂

7. What is the best advice given to you (book or otherwise), and by whom?

“Success is a planned event.” – a random fortune cookie.

8. What is your target audience and what aspect of your writing do you feel targets that audience?

My target audience is adult fans of fantasy, science-fiction, and adventure. The aspect of my writing that I feel targets the audience is the sense of adventure, wonder, and nostalgia while also exploring complex, unique characters.

I also believe in writing a story that is never boring. I want my books to feel like a movie in your head.

If you like Legend of Zelda or Final Fantasy, you’ll enjoy my work too.

9. Did the cover evolve the same way, or did you work with someone to make it come together for you?

When making the cover, I remember I had a specific image in mind: That of my  two main characters, Deronis Narpaz and Greenstar, fighting a monster (the Chimera as its known in the story). I wanted the cover to be eye-catching so I requested my cover artist to make it vibrant. I also wanted readers to feel like they were behind the characters as if preparing to fight the monster too. It would look both ominous and interesting.

10. What are you working on now? Can we get a peek, an excerpt?

The next book in the Nova Terra series is called The Crystals of Order.

The following excerpt is a monologue spoken by Sivaldion, the God of Order to his team called the Defenders of Order:

“We have tasked ourselves with locating the six Crystals that hold my divinity. So far, we have been successful in doing that. They are in six different areas of Nova Terra: Tamas, Miktlan, the Mechanisarria, Midgard, and Ybardia.

To combat the plans of  the Tribe of Insanity and their mad god, we have carefully selected five capable, honorable warriors to get back the Crystals and restore Order to Nova Terra. Those warriors, dear friends, are all of you.”

11. Any last words before we wrap things up?

Writing a book, whether traditionally-published or self-published, is anything but easy. It requires money, commitment, passion, and creativity. My goal is to give readers a literary experience they’ll never forget. Any and all support is welcome and appreciated! Also, feel free to follow me on any of my socials!

Links needed for:  Blog, author page, website, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Amazon, Tumblr, Barnes & Noble, Instagram, etc. Give them in list form, thanks.

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Nova-Terra-Galeeza-Garland-Redvine/dp/B0C9S9QBW2

Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/garlandredvine

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garlandredvine/

X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/GarlandRedvine

The Neptune Girl

Jan5

Please welcome Nick Lloyd-Davies to my blog. Hello Nick, Shall we have a chat today?

1. Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post.

Hi everybody. I’m Nick Lloyd-Davies and I’m a self-published author of several children’s books. I live in the West Sussex countryside in England with my wife and son  – my daughter away at University (which I still can’t cope with!).

2. Has writing always been part of your life and when did you “know” that it was time to start writing your first book?

I remember being at primary school, aged 7, wanting to write in my lunch hour, somewhat in competition with a friend of mine. We also competed with reading too! I think it was more about ‘who wrote the most pages’ rather than anything else, but clearly it was something we both enjoyed.

I didn’t pick up writing fiction again until I was doing jury service in my early 40s, sitting around waiting for a case. I had by then become a dad and was telling made-up stories most nights to my kids – they loved them, often more so than the other books that had been read a million times. It was being a dad that got my imagination flowing again and, when jury service came along I started to put these stories to paper.

3. How difficult was it writing your first book?

I didn’t find it particularly difficult to write (it just flowed out), but then I had little in the way of training as an author and it was full of many flaws, which I only came to see later on. Nevertheless, it was a sweet kids’ book about bullying and being my first – and only five thousand words – I am still proud of it.

4. Have you ever wanted to give up and what stopped you?

Never. If anything, I have only ever wanted to write full time but my day job and the reality of paying the bills means that that remains a dream. On many occasions, like most authors (unless on a trad contract with deadlines!), I go through drought periods. As a self-published author (with little in the way of financial gain through sales), you need that internal fire – plus free time and good health – to come together in tandem and this has been a rarity for me recently.

5. Who is the most supportive of you and your dream to be a writer?

Firstly, I would say myself, but secondly (and more significantly) my Twitter/X writing community. It’s wonderful how authors will support authors (especially in the world of self-publishing) and how social media can, in this instance, be a very positive resource.  

6. Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

I would firstly say thank you, from the depths of my heart, for giving my books a go. If you are pondering, I would really urge you to give them a go, as I do believe they are a great read, full of silliness, adventure, imaginary worlds and important messages for children (eg around climate change, ocean pollution). Our readers are everything, especially if they can provide a glowing review!

7. What is the best advice given to you (book or otherwise), and by whom?

The best advice I have had has been from a tremendous children’s author, Bryony Pearce (@bryonypearce on X/Twitter). She taught me so much about ‘show not tell’, passive voice and world-building. With this crucial knowledge, I’ve been able to write with much more confidence and self-criticism.

The other source of advice I would say is simply through reading – some very influential authors, for their descriptive skill are Daphne du Maurier, Hardy, Margaret Atwood and Catherine McCarthy (@serialsemantic on X/Twitter).  Each of these authors manage to bring every scene to life, immersing you in their world. And as for children’s books, I especially love Ali Sparkes, Lewis Carroll and the great Roald Dahl.

8. What is your target audience and what aspect of your writing do you feel targets that audience?

I have a series of books aimed at 6-9 year olds (the Glowstone Adventures, a series of five) which have animals as the lead characters, but led by a determined twelve-year-old girl, wanting to make a positive difference to the world and its innocent creatures. These books tend to have a subtle message, about the environment, or behaviours (eg. vanity, bullying, bad manners!).

My other books are middle grade/teen novels and are unapologetic adventures filled with imaginary worlds, dastardly villains, Sci-Fi, dystopian backdrop and lashings of hope! Always (well, maybe not always!) with a happy ending or a hint of a sequel.

9. Did the cover evolve the same way, or did you work with someone to make it come together for you?

I tend to have an early idea of what I want for my cover, but to date I have worked with illustrators, and one particular part-time illustrator, Nay Wilson (@0ysterchild on X/Twitter) , to produce these. My earlier books were vanity-published and that’s another story…!

10. What are you working on now? Can we get a peek, an excerpt?

I am working on a new teen/YA novel, set on Mars in the year 2046. A new Mars colony is under threat of destruction – and only eleven-year-old Kasper has cottoned on to this and the conspirator involved. Will anyone believe him before it is too late? Is the conspirator right to try and focus human effort to saving Earth, rather than reaching for new homes? Is there life on Mars – and will it make an appearance? Here is an excerpt – I hope you like it!

 FOUR-THREE-TWO-ONE-LAUNCH PML-EIGHTEEN!

As my whole body was thrust back into the seat, I forgot everything we were taught about controlled breathing and just held my breath. For how long I had no idea, but it was unbelievable force. Before I knew it, I felt the module heating up as we began punching through the Martian atmosphere. I started to breathe again and found myself just transfixed at the yellow glow splaying out from the heat shield. The module was shaking vigorously now, non-stop, my teeth chatting involuntarily.

Don’t bite your tongue. Just don’t bite your tongue. Deep breaths. I talked to myself in my head trying to manage the million sensations going through me. Fascination. Fear. A compulsion to laugh out of sheer terror. Excitement that the journey was nearly ending and no holes found yet!

The burning glow outside was fading.

Parachute deploy T-minus ten seconds.

As it opened we were all thrust forward, straining our harnesses to their limit. Now I felt sick and beads of sweat cooling on my forehead. The module was shuddering and another jolt came as the parachutes opened fully.

Heat-shield jettison! T-minus twenty seconds.

Surface lock-on confirmed.

Dad looked to me and winked. Mum was just staring in abject terror.

TRN confirmed.

Descent rocket start-up. T-minus ten seconds.

I held my breath now. I could see the landing point really clearly now and a defined landing pad marked PM18. Martian dust was now swirling everywhere, starting to blur any view in all directions. I couldn’t see the ground anymore. I had to trust that this thing would land safely.

And then it happened. Touchdown. I could feel that reassuring jolt as the module landed. We were no longer floating in space – we were on land, actual land. Martian land. I released my breath as the dust began to settle outside and I could see shapes and movement through the windows.

‘Welcome to Phoenix Four, Mars,’ announced Control.

‘Woo-hooooo!’ screamed Dad. ‘We’ve done it! We’re on Mars!’

‘Thank God for that!’ replied Mum, a huge smile of relief on her face.

11. Any last words before we wrap things up?

Just to ask all agents and readers, on behalf of all self-published authors – give us a go, give us a chance! You will find something special! And thank you to wonderful supportive people like you, Mary, thank you, thank you!

BIO

Nick has self-published 7 children’s books to date:

– Katie Helps a Giraffe Scared of Heights

– Katie Helps a Lizard in a Blizzard

– Katie Helps a Bear with Bad Hair

– The Boy Who Saved Time

– Katie Helps a Turtle with Tummy Ache (including a foreword from TV Presenter Julia Bradbury)

– Katie Helps at Seal Sports Day (including a forewords from an IPCC Lead Author, Greta Pecl);

and more recently

-The Neptune Girl

Now he is developing his writing, with new titles aimed at the mid-grade and Teen genres. Titles including Tommy’s Escape from Amelion and his current work in progress – Kasper and the Mars Conspiracy! These are fast-paced adventures with kids leading the way.

Nick is passionate about giving children alternatives to the world of WiFi, passionate also about protecting our precious planet, climate change issues featuring frequently in his books, including The Neptune Girl and Katie Helps at Seal Sports Day!

Nick’s idea of excitement is more likely to come from buying fresh tomatoes in a paper bag or doing some DIY, but otherwise writing from his home in the countryside of West Sussex.

Oh, and he would quite like to travel to Mars if he gets the chance. If this isn’t possible, then writing about it must surely be the next best thing!

Check out more at – www.nicklloyddavies.com